Best Time to Visit Kinosaki Onsen
- Spring (Mar–May): Cherry blossoms along the canal
- Summer (Jun–Aug): Fireflies and festivals
- Autumn (Sep–Nov): Colorful fall foliage in the nearby hills
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Snowy scenes and fresh crab season
Welcome to Kinosaki Onsen, a picturesque onsen town in Hyogo Prefecture where visitors stroll along willow-lined canals in yukata, hopping from one traditional bathhouse to another. Known for its seven public baths and timeless charm, Kinosaki Onsen is a must-visit destination for any hot spring lover in Japan.
Top Onsens in Kinosaki Onsen
Here’s a complete list of Kinosaki Onsen’s legendary bathhouses. Most ryokan provide a “yumepa” pass for free entry to all of them.
Goshonoyu Onsen
Hyogo, Kansai
4.3
Outdoor baths
·Chloride water
Tattoos accepted
From 800 yens
Satonoyu Onsen
Hyogo, Kansai
4.0
Waterfall baths
·Chloride water
Tattoos accepted
From 900 yens
Mandarayu Onsen
Hyogo, Kansai
3.8
Indoor baths
·Chloride water
Tattoos accepted
From 800 yens
Jizoyu Onsen
Hyogo, Kansai
3.8
Indoor baths
·Chloride water
Tattoos accepted
From 800 yens
Yanagiyu Onsen
Hyogo, Kansai
3.8
Indoor baths
·Chloride water
Tattoos accepted
From 600 yens
Ichinoyu Onsen
Hyogo, Kansai
4.0
Outdoor baths
·Chloride water
Tattoos accepted
From 800 yens
Kounoyu Onsen
Hyogo, Kansai
4.1
Outdoor baths
·Chloride water
Tattoos accepted
From 600 yens
Why Visit Kinosaki Onsen?
Yukata Culture
One of the joys of Kinosaki is strolling from bath to bath in a traditional yukata (light kimono) and geta sandals provided by your ryokan. It’s a relaxed, immersive way to enjoy Japanese culture.
Canal-Side Scenery
Picturesque willow-lined canals run through town, creating an incredibly photogenic and peaceful atmosphere—especially at dusk when lanterns light the streets.
Convenient for Onsen Hopping
Unlike many onsen towns, Kinosaki’s public baths are all within walking distance of each other, making it ideal for a full day of soaking and exploring.
Ryokan Hospitality
Many ryokan here have been family-run for generations and offer exceptional hospitality, seasonal kaiseki dinners, and traditional tatami rooms.
How to Get to Kinosaki Onsen?
Kinosaki Onsen is accessible by train from major cities:
- From Kyoto or Osaka: Take the Limited Express “Kinosaki” or “Konotori” (approx. 2.5–3 hours)
- From Tokyo: Shinkansen to Kyoto or Himeji, then transfer to a limited express
Kinosaki Onsen Map
Links and Resources
English
Visit Kinosaki Onsen Kinosaki Onsen Official Website
Visitor's Guide Kinosaki Onsen Tourism Association Guide
Japanese
Visit Kinosaki Onsen Kinosaki Onsen Official Website
