Kinosaki Onsen
Kinosaki Onsen : A Timeless Town of Seven Hot Springs
Tucked along the peaceful Maruyama River in Hyogo Prefecture, Kinosaki Onsen feels like it belongs in another era. With its willow-lined canals, snow-dusted rooftops, and warm glow from lantern-lit streets, it’s easy to slip into a slower rhythm of life.
This charming hot spring town is home to seven public bathhouses, each with its own personality — from serene open-air pools to traditional tiled interiors. Slipping into a yukata and strolling from one bath to the next isn’t just fun, it’s part of a centuries-old way of relaxing that locals still cherish today.
Embracing Heritage Through Sotoyu Meguri
Kinosaki’s connection to hot spring culture stretches back over 1,300 years. The town’s unique sotoyu meguri tradition — hopping between bathhouses while dressed in yukata — is more than just sightseeing. It’s a living ritual that blends local legends, wellness, and hospitality.
Each of the seven baths reflects a part of Kinosaki’s identity. Some are said to have spiritual blessings. Others are known for architectural beauty. Seasonal festivals like the Kinosaki Onsen Festival bring the town to life with traditional music, lanterns, and rituals that link past and present.
Local Cuisine & Scenic Attractions
Taste the Region, Feel the Land
Kinosaki isn’t just about baths — it’s a feast for the senses. Taste the richness of Tajima beef, one of Japan’s top wagyu brands, or enjoy seasonal seafood like matsuba crab in winter. For something sweet, try onsen manju, a classic snack perfect after a hot soak.
Beyond the food, the surrounding landscapes offer their own beauty. Ride the Kinosaki Ropeway for sweeping views of the sea and mountains, or explore the volcanic rock formations of Genbudo Cave. Together, the flavors and sights create a journey as satisfying as the baths themselves.
Top 5 Souvenirs from Kinosaki Onsen
1. Onsen Manju（温泉まんじゅう）
Soft steamed buns filled with smooth sweet bean paste, often enjoyed fresh from local shops. A classic treat representing the warmth of Kinosaki.
2. Crab Delicacies（カニ加工品）
Kinosaki is famous for its “matsuba crab” during winter. Packaged crab dishes and snacks, such as crab rice crackers, make excellent souvenirs.
3. Tajima Beef Jerky（但馬牛ジャーキー）
Premium beef jerky made from local Tajima cattle. Rich flavor and tender texture make it a favorite for meat lovers.
4. Kinosaki Sweets（城崎スイーツ）
Handcrafted sweets like “Kinosaki pudding” and seasonal cakes made from local ingredients are perfect gifts.
5. Local Craft Goods（地元工芸品）
Traditional items such as “Kinosaki geta” (wooden clogs) and yukata accessories, ideal for keeping a piece of the onsen spirit at home.
Top 5 Must-Visit Spots in Kinosaki Onsen
- 1. The Seven Public Baths（城崎七湯めぐり）
Experience all seven historic bathhouses, each with unique designs, healing properties, and local legends.
MAP(ichinoyu)
MAP(jigokuyu)
MAP(kounoyu)
MAP(mandarayu)
MAP(gosyonoyu)
MAP(yanagiyu)
MAP(satonoyu) - 2. Kinosaki Ropeway（城崎ロープウェイ）
Ride to the summit of Mount Daishi and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the town and Sea of Japan.
MAP - 3. Kinosaki Onsen Temple (Onsenji)（温泉寺）
A serene temple dedicated to the guardian deity of Kinosaki’s hot springs, accessible via a peaceful uphill path or ropeway.
MAP - 4. Genbudo Cave（玄武洞公園）
Marvel at the natural basalt formations created by volcanic activity over 1.6 million years ago.
MAP - 5. Kinosaki Straw Craft Museum（城崎麦わら細工伝承館）
Explore traditional straw art unique to Kinosaki, showcasing delicate craftsmanship and history.
MAP
Recommended Ryokan & Hotels in Kinosaki Onsen
Nishimuraya Honkan（西村屋本館）
A prestigious ryokan with over 160 years of history, Nishimuraya Honkan epitomizes refined Japanese hospitality. Guests are welcomed with elegant kaiseki dinners featuring seasonal delicacies, and can relax amid beautifully maintained traditional gardens. English-speaking staff ensure that international guests feel at ease while experiencing authentic Japanese luxury.
Review:
“The staff were incredibly attentive. The food and room were flawless. A once-in-a-lifetime experience.”— Booking.com (UK)
Kinosaki Onsen Nishimuraya Hotel Shogetsutei（西村屋ホテル招月庭）
Set within lush forest grounds, Shogetsutei offers a luxurious yet relaxed ryokan experience. Guests can enjoy private open-air baths overlooking greenery and savor exquisite kaiseki meals. English menus are available, and some staff can assist in English, making it accessible to overseas travelers seeking a serene retreat.
Review:
“Peaceful and elegant. The private bath overlooking the forest was magical.”— Agoda (US)
Morizuya Ryokan（森津屋）
A charming, family-run ryokan offering heartfelt hospitality and a truly local experience. Guests can borrow yukata for free and receive personalized recommendations for exploring the town. While English support is partial, the owners’ warm care makes communication easy and memorable.
Review:
“They treated us like family. The breakfast was authentic and delicious!”— Expedia (Australia)
Tsutaya Ryokan（つたや旅館）
A historic ryokan combining traditional architecture with unbeatable location near several public baths. Though English communication is limited, its classic ambiance and the convenience for bath-hopping make it a favorite among visitors seeking authenticity.
Review:
“Beautiful old-style ryokan with excellent location near the baths.”— Rakuten Travel (Japan)
Kinosaki Yamamotoya（山本屋）
Yamamotoya offers a simple yet comfortable stay with a focus on local cuisine, particularly prized during crab season. Its intimate atmosphere makes it ideal for travelers seeking a quiet, traditional experience. English support is limited, but the staff’s hospitality ensures a pleasant stay.
Review:
“Clean, convenient, and the crab dinner was unforgettable.”— Hotels.com (Canada)
How to Get to Kinosaki Onsen
A Step-by-Step Travel Guide for International Visitors
Kinosaki Onsen is a charming hot spring town located in northern Hyogo Prefecture. Known for its scenic riverside streets, traditional ryokan inns, and the unique “seven public bath” experience, it’s a peaceful escape from the city.
Here’s how to get there from major cities in the Kansai region after arriving in Japan.
🚄 From Osaka (After arriving via Kansai International Airport – KIX)
Step 1: From Kansai Airport, take the JR Kansai Airport Express “Haruka” to Shin-Osaka Station
⏱️ Approx. 50 minutesStep 2: Take the Limited Express “Konotori” from Shin-Osaka to Kinosaki Onsen Station
⏱️ Approx. 2 hours 30–40 minutes
✅ Total Time: About 3.5 hours
📌 Tip: Direct “Konotori” trains run several times daily. Reserved seats are recommended.
🚄 From Kyoto (Popular with tourists staying in Kyoto)
Route:
Take the Limited Express “Kinosaki” from JR Kyoto Station to Kinosaki Onsen Station⏱️ Approx. 2 hours 30 minutes
Note:
One direct train runs daily.
At other times, a transfer at Fukuchiyama Station is required.
✅ Tip: Scenic views of mountains and rivers make this ride enjoyable.
🚄 From Kobe (Especially convenient from cruise ports or domestic flights)
Step 1: From Kobe Airport, take the Port Liner to Sannomiya Station
⏱️ Approx. 20 minutesStep 2: Take the Limited Express “Hamakaze” from Sannomiya or JR Kobe Station to Kinosaki Onsen Station
⏱️ Approx. 2 hours 40 minutesNote:
Depending on the time of day, a transfer at Himeji Station may be required.
Check train schedules ahead of time as Hamakaze trains are less frequent.
✅ Total Time: About 3 hours
📌 Tip: Purchase your ticket in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
🧳 At Kinosaki Onsen Station
The entire hot spring town is walkable from the station
Ryokans (Japanese inns) often offer baggage pick-up or shuttle service
Yukata rental and public bath passes are available at most accommodations
📱 Travel Tips for International Visitors
Japan Rail Pass (including Kansai Wide Area Pass) covers most Limited Express trains to Kinosaki
Use apps like Japan Travel (NAVITIME) or Google Maps to check schedules
All major stations offer English signage and staff assistance
IC cards (like ICOCA) are not valid beyond Fukuchiyama—use paper tickets for the full trip
