ABOUT
About this spot
Located in northern Hyogo Prefecture, Kinosaki Onsen is a historic hot spring town that dates back to the Heian period. Its charm lies in the traditional idea that "the whole town is one inn." The station is the front entrance, the streets are the corridors, and the seven public bathhouses (soto-yu) scattered around town are the baths of your guest room. Visitors wrap themselves in colorful yukata lent by their inns and stroll along the Otani River, its banks lined with beautiful willow trees, to the clip-clop of wooden geta sandals. Each of the seven bathhouses is said to bring its own blessings, such as success in exams or the safety of the household, and each has its own character, from cave baths to open-air baths with waterfall views. After a soak, there is no end to the ways to enjoy the town: try your hand at a nostalgic shooting gallery, or savor local cuisine such as superb crab in winter and Tajima beef all year round. Whether you are on a girls' trip with friends, a romantic date, a family vacation, or a carefree solo journey, this is a place where you can feel comfortable in any style. From the dreamlike snowy scenery of winter to cherry blossoms at night in spring, you can feel the charm of Japan throughout the four seasons. Why not forget the hustle and bustle of the city and spend a luxurious time that soothes both body and mind?
Last updated March 27, 2026