Kansai Onsen The 10 Best Hot Springs in Kyoto Osaka

Japan's Kansai region, encompassing Osaka, Kyoto, and surrounding prefectures, is a treasure trove of rejuvenating hot springs, each offering a unique blend of relaxation, natural beauty, and cultural experience. Whether you seek historic charm, coastal bliss, or mountain tranquility, the Kansai onsen have something for every traveler.

Top Onsen in the Kansai Region

1. Kinosaki Onsen

Located in Hyogo Prefecture, Kinosaki Onsen is a picturesque town with a rich history, featuring seven public onsen that are perfect for a relaxing getaway. This town is about 2.5 hours north of Kyoto by express train, making it an ideal overnight trip. Visitors can enjoy the local specialty of fresh crab from the Japan Sea, especially during winter. The onsen here are known for their therapeutic properties and offer a serene atmosphere.

2. Arima Onsen

One of Japan's oldest hot springs, Arima Onsen is situated in the mountains northeast of Kobe, about 1 hour and 45 minutes from Kyoto by train. Despite being overdeveloped with concrete hotel buildings, Arima Onsen retains its charm and offers excellent baths with high-quality hot spring water. It's a must-visit for those seeking a traditional onsen experience.

3. Shirahama Onsen

Located on the Pacific coast of Wakayama Prefecture, Shirahama Onsen is a beach resort town known for its stunning ocean views and excellent onsen. It's about 3 hours south of Kyoto and is particularly popular during the summer months. The onsen here include one built into the rocks of the shore, offering a unique bathing experience.

4. Kurama Onsen

Although currently closed, Kurama Onsen in Kyoto is worth mentioning for its natural hot springs and beautiful setting. Located in a quaint mountain village, it offers both indoor and outdoor baths, making it a great spot to relax after hiking up to Kurama-dera Mountain Temple. Check for updates on its reopening.

5. Tenzan-no-yu Onsen

In Kyoto, Tenzan-no-yu Onsen is an actual natural hot spring facility near Arashiyama. It features enormous baths and saunas, along with a restaurant serving excellent food. The facility is easily accessible, just 3 minutes on foot from Arisugawa Station on the Randen Arashiyama Line.

6. Nagahama Onsen

Situated by Lake Biwa, Nagahama Onsen offers a serene and natural setting. It's accessible from Kyoto and provides a range of hot spring baths, making it a great choice for those looking to unwind in a peaceful environment.

7. Dorogawa Onsen

A mountain hot spring town, Dorogawa Onsen is known for its natural beauty and therapeutic hot springs. It's a bit off the beaten path but offers a genuine onsen experience in a tranquil setting.

8. Wakura Onsen

Located by the Sea of Japan, Wakura Onsen is renowned for its luxurious hot springs. It's a bit further from Kyoto and Osaka but worth the trip for its high-quality baths and scenic views.

9. Kaga Onsen

In Ishikawa Prefecture, Kaga Onsen is famous for its charming townscapes and local handicrafts. The onsen here offer a mix of traditional and modern facilities, making it a great destination for those interested in both culture and relaxation.

10. Minoh Onsen

Just a short 45-minute train journey from Osaka Station, Minoh Onsen is a balance of relaxation and entertainment. The main attraction is Ooedo Onsen Monogatari, a grand hotel with various facilities including open-air and indoor baths, as well as a spa garden and entertainment options like theaters and festivals.

Access and Tips for Visiting Kansai Onsen

• Transportation: Many of these onsen towns are accessible via train, Shinkansen, and bus. For example, Kinosaki Onsen is about 2.5 hours from Kyoto by express train, while Arima Onsen is about 1 hour and 45 minutes from Kyoto.
• Booking: Advance booking is often required for ryokans and private baths, especially during peak seasons. Websites like Selected Onsen Ryokan offer detailed information and booking services for various onsen ryokans.
• Etiquette: Remember to wash before getting into the tubs, as this is a crucial part of onsen etiquette. Some facilities also offer private baths for those who prefer not to bathe nude with strangers.

Onsen Facilities within Osaka and Kyoto

For those who prefer not to leave the city, there are several onsen facilities within Osaka and Kyoto:

• Osaka:

  • Naniwa no Yu: Located near Tenjimbashisuji 6-chome Station, this facility offers natural hot springs with various baths, including those with skin-beautifying effects.
  • Solaniwa Onsen Osaka Bay Tower: This modern hot spring complex includes hotel accommodation, dining options, and entertainment facilities, offering fabulous city views.
  • Spa World Osaka: A large onsen facility near the Tsutenkaku Tower, featuring a wide range of bathing facilities inspired by spa traditions worldwide.

• Kyoto:

  • Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu: This facility sources its water from 1,200 meters underground and offers spa treatments and dining options. It's accessible in 3 minutes on foot from Arisugawa Station.
  • Mibu Onsen Hananoyu: Located near JR Tambaguchi Station, this simple hot spring facility offers several types of baths and sauna facilities.

Staying at Ryokans

Many onsen towns offer the opportunity to stay at traditional ryokans, which provide a quintessential Japanese experience. These inns typically have hot springs for guests to use, along with traditional dining, yukata wear, and futon sleeping arrangements in tatami-matted rooms. Some notable ryokans include:

• Koyasan Onsen Fukuchiin: A shukubo (temple lodging) in Koyasan with rental hot spring baths for private use.
• Kyoto Yunohana Resort Suisen: Easily accessible from Kyoto, this ryokan is surrounded by untouched nature and features gender-segregated large public baths with open-air baths.
• Yumotokan: An inn looking out on Lake Biwa, known for its seven types of large public hot spring baths.

These ryokans offer a unique and immersive experience, allowing guests to fully appreciate the culture and relaxation that onsen have to offer.