If you’re looking on where to start when visiting Kinosaki Onsen during summer, we recommend these 5 quintessential experiences and activities!
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Go for an evening stroll in a yukata and watch the fireworks
The outfit of choice in Kinosaki Onsen is a yukata, also known as a light and breathable cotton kimono perfect for hot spring hopping.
Most inns offer yukata free of charge to staying guests. Borrow one from your local accommodation and hit the town for an evening filled with steaming hot springs and dazzling summer fireworks!
Fireworks are normally held every year on weekdays from late July to August at 21:00.
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Take a 10-minute train ride to Takeno Beach
Just north of Kinosaki Onsen is Takeno, a scenic beach and retro fishing town.
With stunning aquamarine waters and a claim to fame as one of Japan's top 100 beaches, no summertime visit to Kinosaki Onsen is truly complete without a day in this historic port town.
Soak in a seaside hot spring at the Kitamaekan building, savor seafood fresh from the local fisherman's catch, or hike the shore's iconic Nekozaki Peninsula.
Looking to hit the waves? Snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding can all be reserved on visitkinosaki.com.
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Rent a bicycle and visit Coastal Kinosaki
Coastal Kinosaki, also known as Hiyoriyama or Tsuiyama, is a scenic 15-minute bike ride from Kinosaki Onsen.
Bikes can be rented at SOZORO Tourist Information Center in front of Kinosaki Onsen Station.
Home to Kinosaki Marine World and the mythical Dragon Palace, the area draws families for an afternoon of kid-friendly fun in addition to majestic ocean views.
Located high up on the coastal cliffs Kinosaki Marine World is an aquarium united with nature, taking pride in its smaller facilities, as this allows visitors to interact more closely with the sea life.
The Dragon Palace can be spotted from the coast on the uninhabited Nochigashima Island.
It has been said that the island resembles the Dragon Palace from the Japanese folktale Urashima Tarō.
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Time your visit for the annual Lantern Festival
Normally held during the last week of August, Kinosaki Onsen's Lantern Festival is one of the most beautiful evenings of the year.
Held during the Obon season, a time for honoring the deceased, candlelit lanterns are released into a river or nearby body of water to symbolize the guiding of the deceased towards a peaceful afterlife.
In Kinosaki Onsen, prayers for the deceased are accompanied by the wishes of the living.
Write a wish on a lantern and float it down the Otani River!
In addition to the lovely lantern procession, the evening comes to a close with a lively display of bright fireworks painting the sky with countless combinations of colors and designs.
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Cool off with the rare ancient ritual of waterfall meditation
In Japanese Buddhism, waterfall meditation, or "takigyo," is a ritual where under a waterfall, one cleanses their mind of outside thoughts and worries, concentrating all focus on oneself, the power of the waterfall, and the guiding monk's chant resonating throughout the forest.
Under the guidance of Rev. Yoshiki, the head monk at Hokkeji Temple in Tanto Farming Village, learn about the religious traditions of "dokyo" (Buddhist chanting), "shakyo" (Buddhist sutra copying), and "takigyo" (waterfall meditation) while also trying all three for yourself.
Rev. Yoshiki offers round trip pick up and drop off in front of JR Kinosaki Onsen Station for easy access to this rural temple!
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Danielle Leveille
Junior Local Expert
Originally from Chicago in the USA. She currently works for Visit Kinosaki as a coordinator for international relations. A lover of Tajima beef and hidden sightseeing spots, she can be found either at one of her favorite restaurants or exploring a secret nook in town.