Kinosaki Onsen, nestled in the Hyogo Prefecture of Japan, is a captivating hot spring town. Indeed, it’s a place filled with ancient traditions and peaceful scenery. Not only that, but this charming town, with its willow-lined canals and quaint wooden inns, also offers a relaxing escape from busy modern life. Moreover, it’s famous for its seven public bathhouses, called “sotoyu.” Essentially, Kinosaki Onsen invites you to relax and rejuvenate. Here, you can soak in the healing waters and enjoy an authentic Japanese onsen experience.
A Historical Haven of Healing Waters
The history of Kinosaki Onsen goes back over 1,300 years. Legend has it that a Buddhist monk found it while praying for people’s health. Ever since, the town has been a popular spot for those seeking relief in the healing waters. In addition, the seven public bathhouses are at the heart of Kinosaki Onsen. Specifically, each bathhouse has its own special look and is said to have different health benefits.
The Seven Public Bathhouses of Kinosaki Onsen
Embark on a “sotoyu meguri,” a fun tradition of trying out all seven bathhouses. To clarify, each one has a unique atmosphere and design:
- Satono-yu: This bathhouse looks like an old farmhouse. Furthermore, it has an outdoor bath with amazing views of Mount Daishi.
- Address: 429 Kinosakicho Yushima, Toyooka, Hyogo 669-6101, Japan
- Hours: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Contact: +81 796-32-3800
- Jizo-yu: This bathhouse is dedicated to the guardian deity of children. Consequently, locals believe it can help with health problems and ensure safe childbirth.
- Address: 357-1 Kinosakicho Yushima, Toyooka, Hyogo 669-6101, Japan
- Hours: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Contact: +81 796-32-2168
- Yanagi-yu: This bathhouse is known for its willow tree design. As a result, it’s said that bathing here can improve your skin and hair.
- Address: 409 Kinosakicho Yushima, Toyooka, Hyogo 669-6101, Japan
- Hours: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Contact: +81 796-32-2021
- Ichino-yu: This is the oldest bathhouse in Kinosaki. In fact, it even has a cave bath and is said to bring good luck.
- Address: 358 Kinosakicho Yushima, Toyooka, Hyogo 669-6101, Japan
- Hours: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Contact: +81 796-32-2313
- Goyu-yu: This bathhouse has a waterfall and a big outdoor bath, making it a truly refreshing experience.
- Address: 180 Kinosakicho Yushima, Toyooka, Hyogo 669-6101, Japan
- Hours: 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Contact: +81 796-32-4126
- Mandara-yu: This bathhouse is inspired by the Buddhist mandala. Similarly, it’s known for its beautiful carvings and stained glass windows.
- Address: 431 Kinosakicho Yushima, Toyooka, Hyogo 669-6101, Japan
- Hours: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Contact: +81 796-32-2523
- Kono-yu: This bathhouse has a special “drum bath.” Because of this, people believe it can help with muscle pain and tiredness.
- Address: 415 Kinosakicho Yushima, Toyooka, Hyogo 669-6101, Japan
- Hours: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Contact: +81 796-32-2914
Tips for Enjoying the Bathhouses:
- First of all, buy a “Yumepa” pass to enjoy all seven bathhouses as many times as you like.
- Next, before you get in, wash your body well.
- Also, keep in mind that you can’t bring towels into the bathwater.
- Above all, please be considerate of others and keep the atmosphere peaceful.
- Tattoos are usually not allowed in public bathhouses in Japan, but Kinosaki Onsen is more welcoming. However, it’s still a good idea to check with each bathhouse about their rules.
Ryokan: Traditional Japanese Inns
Kinosaki Onsen is known for its lovely ryokans. In other words, these are traditional Japanese inns that offer a real taste of Japanese culture. Typically, these inns are family-run and provide a warm and friendly environment. For example, inside, you’ll find rooms with tatami mats, futon beds, and delicious kaiseki meals.
What to Expect at a Ryokan:
- Omotenashi: You’ll experience the famous Japanese hospitality, with helpful staff and individual attention.
- Yukata: You can wear a traditional yukata, a light cotton robe, and walk through the town like a local.
- Kaiseki: Enjoy a special kaiseki dinner with many courses. To put it simply, it’s a beautiful way of serving food that shows off seasonal ingredients and delicate flavors.
- Onsen: Many ryokans have their own private onsen, so you can enjoy a relaxing soak in your own inn.
Ryokan Recommendations:
- Nishimuraya Honkan: This historic ryokan was built in 1861. Today, it offers luxurious rooms and amazing service.
- Address: 469 Kinosakicho Yushima, Toyooka, Hyogo 669-6101, Japan
- Contact: +81 796-32-2211
- Tsukimotoya Ryokan: This family-run ryokan feels cozy and welcoming, with traditional rooms and a pretty garden.
- Address: 710 Kinosakicho Yushima, Toyooka, Hyogo 669-6101, Japan
- Contact: +81 796-32-3121
- Yumoto Ryokan: This modern ryokan has stylish rooms and a rooftop onsen with wonderful views of the town.
- Address: 1082 Kinosakicho Yushima, Toyooka, Hyogo 669-6101, Japan
- Contact: +81 796-32-2016
Exploring Kinosaki Onsen
Besides the bathhouses and ryokans, Kinosaki Onsen has many other interesting things to see and do:
Strolling Through Time
- Kinosaki Ropeway: Take a ride up Mount Daishi for fantastic views of the town and the area around it.
- Address: 1083 Yushima, Kinosaki-cho, Toyooka-shi, Hyogo
- Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (changes with the seasons)
- Contact: +81 796-32-2002
- Kinosaki Onsen Museum: Learn about the history and culture of Kinosaki Onsen at this museum. For instance, you can find out about how the town has changed over time and why its hot springs are so important.
- Address: 400 Kinosakicho Yushima, Toyooka, Hyogo 669-6101, Japan
- Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Contact: +81 796-32-3663
- Willow-lined Canals: Go for a relaxing walk along the beautiful canals. While you stroll, admire the willow trees and traditional buildings.
Cultural Encounters
- Kinosaki Geisha District: See a geisha performance or enjoy a tea ceremony to experience traditional Japanese arts.
- Onsenji Temple: This old temple was built in 738. Overall, it’s dedicated to the god of hot springs and gives you a look into the town’s spiritual history.
- Address: 724 Kinosakicho Yushima, Toyooka, Hyogo 669-6101, Japan
- Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Local Crafts: See the amazing work of local artists. In particular, you can find workshops and shops with traditional crafts like pottery, wood carving, and cloth.
Culinary Delights
- Kinosaki Wagyu Beef: Try the very tender Kinosaki Wagyu beef, a local favorite known for its rich flavor.
- Matsuba Crab: If you’re visiting in season, enjoy the Matsuba crab. After all, it’s known for its sweet and delicious meat.
- Local Sake: Likewise, don’t forget to try the local sake, a Japanese rice wine made with pure mountain water.
Practical Travel Tips
- Getting There: It’s easy to get to Kinosaki Onsen by train from big cities like Kyoto and Osaka.
- Getting Around: The town is small and easy to walk around, so you can explore on foot.
- Currency: You’ll need Japanese Yen (JPY).
- Language: People speak Japanese, but you can often find English speakers in places tourists visit.
- Etiquette: It’s important to be aware of Japanese customs, such as taking off your shoes inside and bowing when you greet someone.
Transliteration Guide
Greetings
- Good morning: Ohayo gozaimasu (Oh-hah-yoh goh-zah-ee-mas)
- Good afternoon: Konnichiwa (Kon-nee-chee-wah)
- Good evening: Konbanwa (Kon-bahn-wah)
- Thank you: Arigato gozaimasu (Ah-ree-gah-toh goh-zah-ee-mas)
- Excuse me: Sumimasen (Soo-mee-mah-sen)
Directions
- Where is the [place]?: [Place] wa doko desu ka? ([Place] wah doh-koh des kah?)
- To the right: Migi e (Mee-ghee eh)
- To the left: Hidari e (Hee-dah-ree eh)
- Straight ahead: Massugu (Mahs-soo-goo)
Dining
- I would like to order: Chumon o onegai shimasu (Choh-mon oh oh-neh-guy shee-mas)
- Delicious: Oishii desu (Oh-ee-shee des)
- Water, please: Ohiya o kudasai (Oh-hee-yah oh koo-dah-sah-ee)
- Check, please: Okaikei kudasai (Oh-kye-kay koo-dah-sah-ee)
Emergencies
- Help!: Tasukete! (Tahs-keh-teh!)
- I need a doctor: Isha o yonde kudasai (Ee-shah oh yon-deh koo-dah-sah-ee)
- Police: Keisatsu (Kay-sah-tsu)
Shopping
- How much is this?: Kore wa ikura desu ka? (Koh-reh wah ee-koo-rah des kah?)
- That’s too expensive: Takai desu (Tah-kye des)
- Do you have something cheaper?: Motto yasui no wa arimasu ka? (Moht-toh yah-soo-ee noh wah ah-ree-mas kah?)
Unforgettable Experiences in Kinosaki Onsen
Many visitors to Kinosaki Onsen tell stories of deep relaxation and cultural experiences. For instance, imagine walking through the town in a yukata, trying out the different bathhouses, and enjoying a delicious kaiseki dinner. Later on, maybe you’ll see a geisha walking gracefully through the streets or experience a traditional festival. Ultimately, these are the special moments that create lasting memories and make people want to return to Kinosaki Onsen again and again.
Embrace the Tranquility of Kinosaki Onsen
Kinosaki Onsen offers a special mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Therefore, it’s the perfect place for those who want a truly authentic Japanese experience. Whether you want to relax in the hot springs, experience a traditional ryokan, or explore the town’s charming streets, Kinosaki Onsen promises a refreshing and exciting trip.
