ABOUT KINOSAKI ONSEN
Welcome to Kinosaki Onsen, one of the most charming hot spring towns in Japan.
A famous and popular hot spring destination for over a millennium. The cozy atmosphere and 7 natural hot springs draw people in from all over looking for the perfect place to relax and unwind.
3 Reasons to Visit Kinosaki Onsen
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2.5 hours
from KyotoKinosaki Onsen is conveniently located just 2.5 hours by train from Kyoto and 3 hours by train from Osaka.
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Authentic Japanese
hot spring townKinosaki Onsen has maintained its serene atmosphere and authentic old Japan allure for over 1300 years through its well-preserved architecture and onsen (hot spring) culture.
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Tattoo-friendly
public hot springsAll of Kinosaki Onsen’s seven hot springs are tattoo-friendly. Most local inns and other accommodations include a ticket that gives you access to all seven for free with your stay.
One of Japan’s most photogenic hot spring towns, filled with nostalgia and old-world charm.
The town’s intimate ambience radiates romantic old-world charm. Much of the town’s architecture is well-preserved and the traditional style of the town has been protected over the centuries.
A cozy town with great walkability and beautiful tattoo-friendly hot springs
It takes approximately 20 minutes to walk through Kinosaki Onsen from one end to the other at a leisurely pace. Along the way you will pass by several public hot spring bathhouses, each with its own charm and offering a relaxing soak.
Visitors of all ages can be found strolling leisurely throughout the town in beautiful yukata (cotton kimono) and geta (wooden sandals). This strolling is sozoro aruki, a Japanese term meaning to walk leisurely and with no apparent aim.
This is a long-standing tradition of Kinosaki Onsen. From around dusk to dawn you will see more people in yukata than not. These yukata-clad onsen goers add to the traditional atmosphere of this cozy hot spring town.
While strolling through town, you can stop at various souvenir shops, cafes, and retro arcades in between soaks in the hot springs. Have a refreshing ice cream, relax in a cafe, or try your hand at an old Japanese arcade game.
Numerous ryokan for a truly Japanese experience
Kinosaki Onsen has over 74 ryokan (traditional inns), many of which are family-owned and have been running for generations. When staying in a ryokan you will experience pure Japanese culture, tradition, and outstanding hospitality called omotenashi.
