Discover the Charm of Kinosaki Onsen

6 things to do at Kinosaki (YouTube link)

KINOSAKI ONSEN: A Serene Journey Through Japan's Hot Spring Paradise (YouTube link)

Onsen pilgrimage (Sotoyu Meguri or "Wander the hot spring trail") is a unique Japanese cultural experience.  It can offer numerous health benefits, including relaxation, stress relief, improved circulation, and pain relief. It's also a great way to connect with nature and experience traditional Japanese hospitality.

Kinosaki Onsen is a charming traditional onsen town in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, renowned for its Onsen Pilgrimage (Sotoyu Meguri). This unique experience involves visiting seven public bathhouses, each with its distinct architectural style and ambiance. Visitors can rent a yukata (traditional Japanese robe) and geta (wooden sandals) and wander through the town, immersing themselves in the tranquil atmosphere. Each bathhouse offers a different bathing experience, from open-air baths surrounded by nature to indoor baths with soothing mineral waters. Kinosaki Onsen is a popular destination for those seeking relaxation, rejuvenation, and a taste of traditional Japanese culture.

Public baths (Sento 銭湯)

• Public baths are segregated by gender, and swimsuits are not worn (read more on bathing rules).
• Some sento, typically in hot spring resort towns, utilize natural hot spring water for their baths.
• More commonly, however, public baths simply use heated tap water instead.

Kinosaki Onsen's seven public baths (sotoyu), each with its unique charm:

• Goshono-yu: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM, except on Thursdays.
• Ichino-yu: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM, except on Wednesdays.
• Kounoyu: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM, except on Tuesdays.
• Mandara-yu: Open daily from 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM, except on Wednesdays.
• Yanagi-yu: Open daily from 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM, except on Thursdays.
• Jizo-yu: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM, except on Fridays.
• Satono Yu Onsen: Temporarily closed

Scattered throughout the town are also beautiful foot baths (ashiyu) and drinking fountains.

The best way to explore the area is to don a yukata (light kimono) and stroll leisurely among the many traditional ryokan. When visiting the public baths, it's recommended to bring your own towel or use one provided by your accommodation, although towels can also be purchased or rented at the bathhouse. Soap and shampoo are provided in the baths.

In essence, Kinosaki Onsen offers a unique opportunity to experience traditional Japanese bathing culture. With its seven distinct public baths and charming atmosphere, it's a must-visit destination for anyone seeking relaxation and cultural immersion.

Local Foods

Kinosaki Onsen offers a variety of foods including local specialties like matsuba-gani (snow crab season: November 6 to March 20), Tajima beef, izushi sara soba (buckwheat noodles; Mikura), and local sake. Enjoy fresh seafood such as konoshiro, a fatty fish from Kumihama Bay. 

References

1. Kinosaki Onsen Bathing in Tradition NHK WORLD
2. Akiu In the footsteps of a legendary warlord NHK WORLD
3. Japanese Public Bathing Exposed: The Naked Truth 日本の銭湯と熊鍋
4. Sento (銭湯) Guide (Kyoto)
• Kurama Onsen
• Tenzan No Yu
• http://www.day-onsen.com/area26.aspx (in Japanese)
• http://www.chikara-u.com/ (in Japanese)
5. Shigisan Hot Springs
6. Visit Kinosaki official site (link)
7. Goshono-Yu (Scroll down to the bottom to see the occupation rate at each Onsen.)
8. Takenohama Beach (YouTube link)