Strolling the Path of Hot Springs in Yukata and Geta
Kinosaki Onsen, a hot spring resort that has long healed the hearts and bodies of people, is one of the most famous hot springs in the Kansai region.
In the quaint hot spring town, seven unique public baths are scattered, and “Sotoyu Meguri” (visiting the public baths) while wearing yukata and geta is a special experience that can only be enjoyed here.
With a history of 1,300 years, this hot spring resort offers not only the blessings of hot springs but also a townscape filled with the scent of literature and the beauty of nature in all four seasons.
So, why not spend a blissful time in Kinosaki Onsen, refreshing both your mind and body?
Table of Contents
This article is part of the “Japanese Onsen: Exploring Healing and Culture Wrapped in Steaming Mist“ series.
Kinosaki Onsen’s Spring Quality and Benefits: Soaking in Healing Waters
The waters of Kinosaki Onsen are mainly of the “Sodium-Calcium Chloride Spring” type, known as a “warming bath” that warms the body from the core.
A characteristic of this spring quality is that you don’t get cold easily after bathing, so even if you stroll through the night breeze in yukata and geta, your body will stay warm.
Another feature is its slightly salty taste.
This hot spring is expected to have various benefits, including relief from neuralgia, muscle pain, bruises, chronic digestive diseases, hemorrhoids, and fatigue recovery.
Looking at it in more detail, it is also said to be effective for cuts, dry skin, chronic pain and stiffness in muscles and joints, muscle stiffness in motor paralysis, sensitivity to cold, peripheral circulatory disorders, decreased gastrointestinal function, hemorrhoid pain, autonomic nervous system instability, various symptoms due to stress, recovery from illness, fatigue recovery, and health promotion.
In particular, chloride springs are said to give the skin firmness and have high moisturizing properties, thus offering beauty benefits.
The water has a smooth texture and is gentle enough for babies. Some ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) also have sulfate springs, which are said to help prevent arteriosclerosis, have a warming effect, and are effective against acne.
In Kinosaki Onsen, you can not only bathe in the hot springs but also take in the power of the springs from the inside through “drinking the spring water” (onsen). Drinking the spring water is said to be effective in improving the digestive system and relieving chronic constipation. There are three drinking fountains in the Kinosaki Onsen town: one in front of JR Kinosaki Onsen Station, another in front of Ichino-Yu in the center of the hot spring town, and the third in front of Yakushi-Yu, located a little further in. Cups are provided at each drinking fountain, but if you are concerned about hygiene, it is recommended to bring your own cup or tumbler. Be sure to try the slightly salty hot spring water.
Access to Kinosaki Onsen from Osaka: A Detailed Guide by Train and Bus
There are two main ways to access Kinosaki Onsen from Osaka: by train and by express bus.
Let’s take a closer look at the travel time, fares, and whether transfers are required for each option.
Access by Train: Fares, Time, and Transfers
When traveling from Osaka to Kinosaki Onsen by train, the most common route is to take a limited express train.
Direct Route using the Limited Express “Kounotori”
If you take the Limited Express “Kounotori” from JR Osaka Station, you will arrive at Kinosaki Onsen Station in approximately 2 hours and 35 to 40 minutes without any transfers.
The regular fare for a reserved seat during the standard season is about 5,700 to 6,140 yen one way.
A round-trip discount is available, costing approximately 11,400 to 12,480 yen.
The advantage of the limited express train is that it offers a more comfortable ride with less shaking compared to the express bus.
On the other hand, the disadvantages are that you may not be able to get a seat in the non-reserved section and that the fare is slightly higher than the express bus. The “Kounotori” also has Green Car (first-class) seating available.
Route Involving Transfers using Local Trains
If you want to save on costs, you can also travel by transferring between local trains.
In this case, you will take a JR train from JR Osaka Station to Fukuchiyama Station, then transfer to the JR San’in Main Line to Kinosaki Onsen Station, taking approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes to over 4 hours. The one-way fare is about 3,410 yen, which is significantly cheaper than the limited express train.
However, since transfers are required, this option is recommended for those who have plenty of time.
You should also consider that you may not be able to get a seat if it’s crowded, and transfer waiting times may be long depending on the time of day.
There are also other local train routes that require multiple transfers, such as routes via Kyoto Station.
Access by Bus: Comfortable and Economical Travel
Taking an express bus is also a convenient and affordable way to travel from Osaka to Kinosaki Onsen.
Mainly Hankyu Kanko Bus and Zentan Bus operate this route.
Express Buses by Hankyu Kanko Bus, Zentan Bus, etc.
Express buses mainly depart from Osaka Umeda (Hankyu Sanbangai Bus Terminal) and arrive at Kinosaki Onsen Station in approximately 3 hours and 13 to 56 minutes.
Some buses also depart from Shin-Osaka and Senri-Chuo.
The fare is about 2,840 to 4,150 yen for adults one way, and round-trip discounts are also available.
Student discounts may also apply.
The advantages of express buses are that the fares are lower than trains, and many buses are equipped with toilets, free Wi-Fi, and charging outlets.
Introduction to the “Sun and Moon Kinosaki Onsen Go”
The “Sun and Moon Kinosaki Onsen Go” is an express bus that connects Namba OCAT and Osaka Umeda directly to Kinosaki Onsen.
The travel time is approximately 3 hours, and the one-way fare for adults is about 3,500 to 3,600 yen, and about 7,000 yen for a round trip.
The appeal of this bus is that it provides direct access to the hot spring town without any transfers.
Furthermore, all seats are reserved, allowing you to relax comfortably, and the bus is equipped with a toilet, free Wi-Fi, charging outlets, and a mineral water service, ensuring a comfortable journey. The fare being almost half that of the train is also attractive.
Seven Public Bath Tour: Unique Hot Spring Experiences
The greatest charm of Kinosaki Onsen is the “Sotoyu Meguri,” a tour of the seven public baths scattered throughout the hot spring town.
Wearing yukata and geta, you stroll through the hot spring town with the clatter of your footwear, enjoying the different atmospheres of each public bath.
It’s a unique bathing culture where the entire town feels like one large ryokan.
Detailed Information on Each Public Bath
SATONO-YU
Station Hot Spring, Diverse Baths and Saunas Located right next to Kinosaki Onsen Station, Satono-Yu is the newest and largest of the public baths.
It has Japanese-style and Western-style bathrooms, and the genders alternate daily, so it’s recommended to visit twice.
Its attractions include a rooftop open-air bath overlooking the Maruyama River, a high-temperature dry sauna, a mist sauna, and a hammam rest area, offering a variety of baths and facilities.
- Admission Fee: Adults 800 yen
- How to Bathe: Bring your own towel (rental or purchase available). Lockers are available.
- Review: Highly rated for its cleanliness and the variety of hot springs available. Its convenient location near the station is also a plus.
- Note: It is recommended to check the operating hours in advance.
JIZO-YU
Lantern-like Exterior, Family Baths Also Available Jizo-Yu is named after a legend that a Jizo statue emerged from the hot spring source in ancient times.
It features a modern exterior resembling a lantern and hexagonal windows representing the Genbudo Cave.
It is popular as a “hot spring for household safety, memorial services for stillborn children, and saving all living beings.” In addition to a spacious indoor bath, it also has a children’s bath, which is rare for public baths, as well as family baths and a tatami-mat rest area.
- Admission Fee: Adults 800 yen, Children 400 yen.
- How to Bathe: Bring your own towel. Coin lockers and free hair dryers are available.
- Review: Some say it’s spacious and easy to use, while others find the water too hot or lacking in unique features. It is also popular among locals.
- Operating Hours: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Last admission 10:30 PM). Closed on Mondays.
- Phone Number: 0796-32-2228
YANAGI-YU
Willow Tree Landmark, Hot Spring for Conception The name comes from the fact that hot spring water sprang from under a willow tree transplanted from West Lake, a famous scenic spot in China.
It is a small and quaint bathhouse, the smallest among the public baths, but it is atmospheric and popular.
It is known as a “hot spring for conception and safe childbirth.”
There is only one bathtub, but it is deep and hot. There are also foot baths at the front and back entrances.
Some information suggests that there is also a cypress wood ultrasonic bath.
- Admission Fee: Adults 800 yen, Children 400 yen.
- How to Bathe: Bring your own towel. Some bathing areas may not have washing facilities, so washing hair may be difficult.
- Review: A hot spring with a pleasant atmosphere where you can feel the warmth of wood. Recommended for those who like hot water.
- Operating Hours: 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Last admission 10:30 PM). Closed on Thursdays.
- Phone Number: 0796-32-2097
ICHINO-YU
Kabuki Theater Style, Popular Cave Bath Located in the center of the hot spring town, near Oobashi Bridge, Ichino-Yu’s striking building resembles a Kabuki theater.
It is known as the “hot spring for good luck and fortune <passing exams, traffic safety>.” Its famous feature is the cave bath, created using the natural rocks of the mountainside, which is semi-open-air.
In addition to a spacious main bath, it also has family baths, a rest room, and a foot bath. If you’re unsure which public bath to visit first, Ichino-Yu is a good place to start.
- Admission Fee: Adults 800 yen, Children 400 yen.
- How to Bathe: Bring your own towel. Coin lockers and free hair dryers are available.
- Review: The unique cave bath is popular. Its central location in the hot spring town also makes it easily accessible. However, some people mention a chlorine odor.
- Note: Operating hours are 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Last admission 10:30 PM). Closed every other Wednesday.
- Phone Number: 0796-32-2229
GOSYONO-YU
Beauty Bath, Open-Air Bath with a Waterfall View Goshono-Yu features an elegant building reminiscent of the Kyoto Imperial Palace.
Known as the “beauty bath,” it is particularly popular among young women.
It has a high ceiling and an open design where the indoor and outdoor baths feel integrated, allowing you to view the powerful waterfall in the open-air section from anywhere in the bathroom.
There are also reclining jet baths where hot water flows from above and a hot spring mist sauna, allowing you to fully enjoy the hot springs.
- Admission Fee: Adults 800 yen, Children 400 yen
- How to Bathe: Bring your own towel. Coin lockers and free hair dryers are available.
- Review: The luxurious atmosphere and the open-air bath with a waterfall view are popular. Many say it’s open and relaxing.
- On the other hand: Some point out that the water is circulated and disinfected.
- Operating Hours: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Last admission 10:30 PM). Closed on Thursdays.
- Phone Number: 0796-32-2230
MANDARA-YU
Temple-style Roof, Unique Barrel Baths Mandara-Yu features a unique temple-style roof inspired by Buddhist connections.
It is known as the “hot spring for one wish in a lifetime <business prosperity, good harvest>.”
The indoor bath is on two levels, and you can enjoy a bubble bath while doing a half-body soak in the shallower section.
A popular feature here is the ceramic barrel bath in the open-air area, where you can bathe while enjoying the view of the mountainside. The facility has a barrier-free design for easy access.
- Admission Fee: Adults 800 yen, Children 400 yen.
- How to Bathe: Bring your own towel. Coin lockers and free hair dryers are available.
- Review: The ceramic barrel baths are unique and popular for their scenic views. Some say it is relatively less crowded than other public baths. However, the number of barrel baths is limited, so there may be a wait during busy times.
- Operating Hours: 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Last admission 10:40 PM). Closed on Wednesdays.
- Phone Number: 0796-32-2194
KONO-YU
Oldest Hot Spring, Garden Open-Air Bath Discovered about 1400 years ago when a stork was healing its leg wound, Kouno-Yu is the origin of Kinosaki Onsen.
It is popular as the “hot spring that brings happiness such as marital harmony and longevity.”
The garden open-air bath, where you can bathe while viewing azaleas and pine trees, is popular, and you can especially enjoy snow viewing in winter.
There is also a place nearby where you can make hot spring eggs.
- Admission Fee: Adults 800 yen, Children 400 yen.
- How to Bathe: Bring your own towel. Coin lockers and free hair dryers are available.
- Review: The charming garden open-air bath is popular. The historical atmosphere is also attractive. Some say it can get crowded.
- Operating Hours: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Last admission 10:30 PM). Closed on Tuesdays.
- Phone Number: 0796-32-2195
Fully Enjoying the Public Bath Tour: How to Enjoy and Useful Information
Flow of the Public Bath Tour: Strolling the Hot Spring Town in Yukata and Geta
The basic way to enjoy the Sotoyu Meguri in Kinosaki Onsen is to stroll through the hot spring town in yukata and geta, stopping by any public bath that interests you. Each public bath has a different spring quality, atmosphere, and benefits (good fortune), so it’s fun to research them beforehand and plan your tour.
If you visit early in the morning, you may receive a commemorative tag called “Ichiban Fuda” (first tag) as the first bather of the day.
Let’s Utilize the Common Bath Ticket “Yumepa”
To enjoy the public bath tour more conveniently and affordably, it is recommended to use the common bath ticket “Yumepa.” By purchasing this one-day pass, you can enter all seven public baths as many times as you like for 1,500 yen for adults and 750 yen for children.
If you plan to visit two or more public baths, it is more economical than paying the individual entrance fees.
“Yumepa” can be purchased at the ticket window of each public bath.
Also, if you stay at a ryokan in Kinosaki Onsen, you will generally be provided with a “Yumepa” that you can use for free from check-in to check-out.
After check-out, you may be able to use the public baths at a discounted rate, so be sure to check with your ryokan.
Currently, “Yumepa” has been digitized and can be used with mobile wallets, IC cards, or barcodes.
Distance Between Public Baths and Transportation: Walking is the Basic Way to Explore
The Kinosaki Onsen town is relatively compact, and the seven public baths are located within walking distance of each other.
It takes about 10 to 15 minutes to walk from Jizo-Yu to Kouno-Yu, which are located at opposite ends of the hot spring town.
Moving between the public baths is basically done by strolling and enjoying the atmosphere of the hot spring town.
Some ryokans also operate shuttle buses to the public baths.
There are also several foot baths in the hot spring town that you can easily use, so it’s a good idea to rest your tired feet during your stroll.
Bathing Manners and Precautions to Know
When enjoying the public bath tour, there are some manners and precautions to keep in mind.
Basically, you should bring your own towel (rental or purchase is possible).
Before entering the bath, pour hot water over yourself (kakeyu), do not put your towel in the bathtub, tie up long hair, and avoid washing clothes or your body in the bathtub.
These are basic manners to follow.
Also, please be quiet in the bathtub and avoid running or making noise.
In the washing area, return the used buckets and chairs to their original places and do not leave shampoo or soap behind.
When using the sauna, wipe off sweat before entering. When returning from the bathroom to the changing room, it is customary to wipe your body well before getting out.
Whether shampoo and soap are available may vary depending on the public bath, so it is a good idea to check in advance.
Charm of the Hot Spring Town: More Than Just Bathing
The charm of Kinosaki Onsen is not limited to its hot springs.
Strolling through the quaint hot spring town is also one of the unique pleasures of this place.
Strolling Through the Quaint Townscape: Souvenir Shops and Restaurants
The hot spring town along the Otani River is lined with beautiful willow trees, creating a charming atmosphere.
In the souvenir shops, you can find various products such as local specialties and hot spring goods.
There are also many restaurants, where you can enjoy the seafood and mountain delicacies of Tajima, stylish cafes, and restaurants where you can enjoy local craft beer, allowing you to fully savor the gourmet scene.
In the evening, the lights of the hot spring town are lit up, creating a fantastic atmosphere that is different from the daytime.
Savoring Local Cuisine: Crab, Tajima Beef, Craft Beer
When it comes to winter in Kinosaki Onsen, crab dishes are a must-try.
Ryokans and restaurants offer a variety of dishes using fresh crab.
Tajima beef is a local brand of Wagyu beef with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
There are many restaurants in the hot spring town that serve dishes using Tajima beef.
For a drink after bathing, local craft beer is also recommended.
Next to Yanagi-Yu, one of the public baths, is the craft beer restaurant “Kinosaki Machiya Beer Restaurant Gubi Gabu.”
Don’t Forget Foot Baths and Drinking Fountains
There are several foot baths in the hot spring town where you can easily stop by.
They are perfect for taking a short break during your stroll.
Also, as mentioned earlier, there are three drinking fountains where you can drink the hot spring water, so be sure to try them.
Kinosaki Onsen is a hot spring resort full of various attractions, including the hot spring experience of visiting seven unique public baths, as well as a quaint townscape, abundant nature, and delicious local cuisine.
Strolling through the hot spring town in yukata and geta and enjoying the hot spring tour to your heart’s content will surely refresh both your mind and body.
Access from Osaka is also convenient, making it a great option for weekend trips or day trips.
Please visit Kinosaki Onsen and find your own special hot spring experience.
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