If you need some food before soaking in the springs, there are several eateries nearby. Located right in front of the sea of Japan is the fishing port of Uotsu, where you can set out a gourmet food hunt at Sushi-kama. This Kamaboko (fish cake) store has been in business for 60 years and they serve more than a hundred kinds of Kamboko.

Next, head to Komasa Sushi house which has been running for more than 30 years. The owner of this local favourite has served customers for 40 years. Customers are recommended to try the uni and glass shrimp sushi (glass shrimp being a Toyama special). Other popular dishes include the red squid and yellowtail as well as the sweet shrimp and rock oyster.

Next, take the Toyama Local Line to the Unazuki-onsen. From there, hop onto the special train which will take you to the hot springs hotel. It is a 25-minute trip accompanied with the fabulous sceneries of Kurobe Canyon.

The hidden hot spring at Kurobe Canyon was founded in the 19th century by the old Kaga Domain. The hotel was built to cope with the natural slope of the mountain, and therefore, many steep stairways can be found inside and around the hotel. A Japanese room with a view of the canyon costs around 9450 yen (S$135) per night. However, this hotel is only opened from early May to late November.

The hotel offers a list of sumptuous dishes you should tempt your taste buds with – especially their signature aromatic fish and fresh vegetable tempura. Other dishes on the menu include sasu sashimi, also known as spearfish and kelp. In the morning, catch a morning bath while enjoying the beautiful views from the hot spring with a cup of coffee specially made of water from the spring.

For your next stop, take the bullet train from Tokyo and arrive at Yonezawa Station. Yonezawa is a 15th century castle-like city owned by the Uesugi family. Take a walk around the city and visit Lord Uesugi's house. The house covers a vast area of 10890 square metres and was originally built in 1896. Try out Yonezawa's famous hiyashiru - a cold soup with stock made with scallops, clams and vegetables. The rice accompanying with the soup is made from ukogi, a vegetable introduced by a respectable Uesuki Lord.

From here, head to one of the most hidden hot spring resorts in Japan. It sits at the source of the Mogami River, located deep in the mountains. Odaira hot spring was discovered in the year 860 BC. Try out the outdoor hot spring located right next to the river, where you can enjoy the clear views of the Kaen-no-taki (flame) waterfal. During dinner time, enjoy a lavish meal consisting of tama-konnyaku, yaname carpaccio, Yonezawa beef hotpot and more.

Proceed to your next destination, Tengendai Plateau, where the plantation changes with the seasons.

The next trip begins at Ueno. Hop on the express train and travel for 2.5 hours before reaching Kusatsu. Head to the next hot spring resort which has been said to contain very nourishing minerals for your body. The hot spring is located in the mountains of Joushu, and is reachable by bus.

The next stop is Kosame and the name means 'small shower'. In the mountains of the Gunma province lies a very famous bean curd house. Remember to stop by there and try out the smooth and aromatic hand-made bean curd.