Iriomote Island, 450 km southwest of the island of Okinawa, is covered in a dense sub-tropical forest. Its wild life is so varied that the island is nicknamed "The Galapagos of East Asia." Coral reefs lie under the waves.

Iriomote Onsen, Japan's southernmost hot spring, opened here in 1998.

The island's wilderness attracts tourists, and after discussions on how to add to its appeal, a hot spring was developed. When the spa opened, visitors could bathe and eat in the restaurant, but there were no overnight facilities until July 2002. Whether guests stay at the spa or not, there are activities to enjoy nearby, like touring the dense forest and diving in the sea.

At Iriomote Onsen, you will want to bathe in the hot outdoor pool during the day, when the strong rays of the sub-tropical sun beat down on the water and the green colors of the poolside plants sparkle in the air. Here, you can experience life on an idyllic southern isle.

Some years ago, if you said "hot springs," a Japanese person would probably first think of Atami. Honeymoon couples went there in droves, and after the economy began expanding in the 1960s, company trips and other group tours to Atami became common. Hordes of visitors would stay overnight, soaking in the water and partying. Hotels stand side by side, offering 100 to 200 guest rooms each and large banquet and party facilities.

These days, though, most Japanese prefer the freedom of traveling on their own. This has forced Atami to make some tough decisions.

Hoping to bring back the boom days, Atami is experimenting with a new package tour plan — therapeutic treatments offered mainly by local doctors, plus hot spring bathing and lodgings.