japan onsen day trip

Onsen for a day visit

An introduction to hot springs for day visits

Rest on the Old Tokaido Road. Outdoor Hot Springs for one day visits

Hakone Lake Hotel

A Great Experience in the Outdoor Hot Spring Open-air bath / Steam sauna

Yumoto Fujiya Hotel

Hakone kowakien yunessun.

Hakone`s Hot Spring Theme Park

Hakone Pax Yoshino

Enjoy their Day tip plan comes with a private room and special lunch and ONSEN!

Yoshiike Ryokan

This unique hotel is highly reputed for its large rooftop open-air communal baths which feature an abundant sense of openness and its garden with its natural waterfalls and shrine.

Hakone Kowakien MORINOYU

A Traditional Japanese Bathing Experience

Yazikitanoyu

A New Fresh and Resonable option for the discernable Traveler

Hakone Izumi

Traditional Hot Springs overlooking Hakone`s oldest hot spring source. Enjoy the flowing water of 7 natural hot springs.

Hakone Onsen Sanso Nakamura

Enjoy Hakone's secret hot spring

MAMANEYU-Masutomi Ryokan

Masutomi Ryokan features open-air hot spring baths, spacious guest rooms and free Wi-Fi. Guests can reserve the rooftop bath at an additional fee.

Tonosawa Ichinoyu Honkan

Founded in 1630 as a pioneer of the hot spring hotel industry in Hakone

KAKUINOYADO SHIUNSO

Great scenery all year round

RYUGUDEN onsen

The superb view hot spring which looks at Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji from a country registration tangible cultural property

Yunosato Okada

Mountain Views from the Hot Springs of Hakone

Kappa Tengoku

Fuji hakone guesthouse.

Comes directly from the Owakudani Volcano　 Opaque and white in color！

Hakone Yuryo

A hot spring resort that's easily accessible from Tokyo as a day trip

Hakone Travel Ideas

"SHIUNSO is a Japanese inn in a true traditional style. Located 5 minutes from Hakone Yumoto station by bus or Tonosawa station on foot. "

History of Hot Springs in Japan

Hakone is well known for the abundance of hot springs in the area, also known as onsen. Japanese people have loved hot springs since ancient times. This is because onsen heals the body and soul. In this article, we will discuss the relationship between hot springs and the Japanese people, and introduce the beauty and anti-aging benefits of hot springs.

EXPLORE HAKONE

Hakone fontaina bleau sengokutei.

Former Imperial Hotel chef "Atsuo Saito" thought about how to stay in a relaxed atmosphere in Sengokuhara.

HOTEL MUSASHIYA

Hakone attractions.

• INFORMATION

Plan and Enjoy your visit to the area

Find special moments

THINGS TO DO

There is a lot to discover and experience

PLAN YOUR TRIP

Information for a wonderful trip

© hakone tourist association, All rights reserved.

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10 best onsen destinations in Japan

Warm up as well as rejuvenate your body and mind at these scenic hot spring resorts, easily accessible from Tokyo

Hot springs, or onsen , are a big deal in Japan. Not to be confused with sento, which are usually public baths using heated tap water, onsen are comprised of volcanic spring water that's full of natural minerals, giving health benefits like clearer skin, detoxification and better blood circulation, among others.

As winter descends, these onsen resorts become desirable destinations for day trips and weekend breaks, so we've rounded up ten of the best. If you're a first-timer, be sure to check out our onsen etiquette  guide.

RECOMMENDED: The best places to go glamping in Japan

Weekend trips

Kurokawa Onsen, Kumamoto

Popular for being one of the most picturesque hot spring destinations in Japan, this town in Kyushu features nearly 30 onsen baths for visitors to hop between. Kurokawa Onsen has a special system for using the baths, where you can purchase a charming wooden tegata pass (¥1,300) for access to three different baths of your choosing. 

As for the town itself, Kurokawa Onsen has a history stretching back at least 300 years, with stories of feudal lords stopping by for respite on their journeys between cities. Today, the town still exudes the spellbinding spirit of its bygone days with shops and ryokans lined across the river, which is lit up each night with warm glowing lanterns. 

How to get there:  There aren’t any direct trains to get to Kurokawa Onsen, so you’ll have to catch a bus from Fukuoka Airport. The journey is roughly two-and-a-half hours long and costs ¥3,150 for a one-way ticket. 

Kinosaki Onsen, Hyogo

Tapping into traditional onsen culture can sometimes be intimidating for non-Japanese speakers, where signboards aren’t always translated into other languages and no-tattoo policies mean the hot springs aren’t open to everyone. Kinosaki Onsen is a happy exception, where locals and overseas visitors alike can mill about in colourful rented yukata without feeling out of place. All seven of the natural hot springs here are tattoo-friendly and English maps come with a page for marking off all your stops with stamps. 

That’s not to say the area is touristy by any means – the town simply wants to make authentic experiences accessible for everyone. Aside from hot springs, there’s an abundance of activities to partake in the area ranging from guided zazen meditations to green tea picking, all with English-speaking guides available. 

How to get there:  Two-and-a-half hours via limited express train from Kyoto or three hours by train from Osaka. 

Beppu Onsen, Oita

Known as the hot spring capital of Japan, Beppu is made up of a cluster of eight onsen areas. It's a bit of a trek to get there, but it's worth a visit for its variety of baths including mud, steam and even sand baths.

Speaking of which, be sure to try the Beppu Beach Sand Bath  on Shoningahama beach, where you’ll be submerged in volcanically heated sand while overlooking soft-crashing waves. Top tip: go on the ' Hell Tour ', which takes you to eight of the hottest onsen in Beppu, nicknamed 'jigoku' (burning hell). Look out for the hot-water lovin' crocs at Oniyama Jigoku.

How to get there: By air:  1 hour 40 minutes from Haneda Airport to Oita Airport, then a 45-minute bus ride to the bus stop Beppu Kitahama. By train:  Five hours by shinkansen from Tokyo Station. Take the Nozomi Shinkansen to Kokura Station, then transfer to the Sonic limited express to Beppu Station. Travel by Hikari and Sakura trains will require an extra hour and another transfer at Shin-Osaka Station.

Ginzan Onsen, Yamagata

In the hot spring area of Ginzan Onsen , wooden buildings line the Ginzan river. At night, the soothing rush of the water, lit up by flickering gas lamps, creates the atmosphere of a Japanese fairy tale.

Winter, when crisp white snow frosts the whole town, is prime season at Ginzan Onsen. It’s the perfect place to experience outdoor winter bathing. Brisk air on your upper body and face makes for a enjoyable contrast to the warmth of the water.

It’s an extremely popular winter bathing spot, so book early, as much as three months in advance. The highlight of the area is definitely the scenery. For sightseeing, you’ll have to look elsewhere in Yamagata like Zao Onsen area, which is decorated with snow sculptures in winter.

How to get there:  It’s roughly 3.5 hours from Tokyo Station to Oishida Station by Yamagata Shinkansen, and then 40 minutes by bus to Ginzan Onsen bus stop.

Kusatsu Onsen, Gunma

The water at Kusatsu Onsen  is so hot that there’s a special stirring procedure to cool it, rather than adding cold water, which would dilute the potency of the minerals (said to be able to cure any sickness except lovesickness). This stirring method is called yumomi and it's showcased as a performance at certain times.

The most popular public hot spring is Sai no Kawara Rotenburo , located in Sai no Kawara Park. It boasts pretty forest views and pure, steaming water, and the entrance fee is just ¥600. Tip: buy some Yu no Hana hot spring powder to experience the healing minerals of Japan’s hot springs at home.

If you’re looking for something else to do in the area, Mt Shirane offers pretty hiking trails in spring and summer, and in winter, skiers can take on the mountain slopes – Kusatsu Snow & Spa Resort  is open from early December to mid-April.

How to get there:  It’s about 2.5 hours from Ueno Station on the weekends-only Kusatsu limited-express train to Naganohara- Kusatsuguchi Station (otherwise take the shinkansen or Takasaki line to Takasaki Station, then change to the Agatsuma line), and then a 25-minute bus ride to Kusatsu Onsen bus terminal.

Nozawa Onsen, Nagano

Nozawa Onsen provides the best of both worlds during winter, where avid skiers and snowboarders can glide down powdery slopes before finishing the day at one of the town’s many communal hot springs. 

There are 13 communal hot springs in the town, also known as soto-yu , which are free for all visitors and don’t require passes to access. While smaller than the average onsen, each of these unique springs features stunning wooden architecture reminiscent of sets from Ghibli’s ‘Spirited Away’. 

How to get there:  From Tokyo Station, take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Kanazawa and ride approximately two hours to Iiyama Station. Get off at Iiyama Station and catch the bus bound for Nozawa Onsen. 

Day trips from Tokyo

Hakone Onsen, Kanagawa

Hakone stands out on this list of top onsen towns for its sheer variety. The mountain town has family-friendly onsen theme parks, luxurious ryokan with private hinoki baths and everything in between for the ultimate hot spring experience. 

The Yunessun spa resort is an obvious attraction, with features like coffee and wine baths, hot spring water slides and cave pools for exploring. Unlike traditional onsen, Yunessun features co-ed baths that require swimsuits, so you won’t have to be separated from friends and family on your visit.

If you’re looking for something a little more serene, check out Hakone Yuryo . The resort is surrounded by forest and – in addition to communal facilities – has 19 private onsen rooms which you can book if you want an open-air bath all to yourself. 

How to get there: It’s about 90 minutes on the Odakyu Romance Car from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station. If you’re going on an overnight trip, it’s worth getting the Hakone Freepass (adults ¥ 6,100, ¥1,500) which covers your round-trip fare and unlimited use of transportation such as trains, buses and even ropeways and boats in the area.

Atami, Shizuoka

Just a stone’s throw from Tokyo is the seaside city of Atami, which boasts more onsen than sandy beaches. As legend has it, one of history’s most notorious shoguns Tokugawa Ieyasu loved the onsen water of Atami so much that he had some of it brought to his castle in Edo (Tokyo) so he could soak in it at home. 

Because of the city’s proximity to the sea, Atami’s hot springs have a high salt content, which is thought to help soothe irritated skin. Atami isn’t far from Tokyo, so you could also make a spontaneous day trip of it. Just remember to pick up some onsen manju on your way back – the area is famous for the sweet bean snacks. 

How to get there:  From Tokyo Station, take the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen bound for Nagoya and ride four stops (45 minutes) to Atami Station. 

Yumoto Onsen, Nikko

At this hot spring area that’s part of Nikko National Park and just next to Lake Yunoko, steam rises up from vents in the ground, admittedly making the air and the water smell like stinky sulphur. However, the water at Yumoto Onsen is packed with minerals that leave skin tingling.

The entire area is dotted with ryokan featuring onsen and just north of the town you’ll find Yunodaira Marsh, where hot water actually bubbles up from the ground. On your way to Yumoto Onsen, it’s worth stopping off at Ryuzu Waterfall and making the trek through the dreamlike Senjogahara hiking trail. 

How to get there:  It’s about two hours from Tobu Asakusa Station by rapid train to Tobu Nikko Station. Leave early, because Yumoto Onsen is an 80-minute bus ride from Tobu Nikko Station (ask for details at the tourist office inside the station). Buy the Nikko Pass All Area from Tobu Asakusa Station to get discounted travel.

Niwa no Yu, Tokyo

A place where you can wear bathing suits in a designated area (good for couples who want to hang out together), Niwa no Yu is a spa/onsen in Tokyo. While the waters aren’t as mineral rich as a true onsen, since they come from drilling underground, Niwa no Yu is an easy trip for Tokyoites and the facilities are impressive. The spa is housed in a Japanese garden making for relaxing outdoor views. Note that no children are allowed.

How to get there:  From Shinjuku Station it takes about 20 minutes on the Toei Oedo line to Toshimaen Station.

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Arima Onsen Day Trip from Kobe, Osaka or Kyoto: One-day Itinerary

Arima Onsen is a historic hot spring town in the Kita Ward of Kobe City in Hyogo Prefecture. It is one of Japan’s three oldest onsen towns and is unique for its famous “Kinsen” golden hot spring water, which turns to a reddish-gold colour when it comes in contact with air, and its “Ginsen” silver spring water , which is carbonated and colourless.

Arima Onsen town was founded over a thousand years ago and it has since been rebuilt by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a military commander who unified Japan in 1590, and his wife Nene. Today, Arima Onsen is a popular day trip destination for many tourists visiting Kobe, Osaka and Kyoto.

If you want to experience one of the best onsen towns in Japan, follow my Arima Onsen day trip itinerary and spend a day sightseeing, eating delicious local snacks and soaking in the Arima hot springs.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through them, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost. Thank you for supporting this website. For more information, please read the disclosure for more info.

Arima Onsen Day Trip: things you need to know

Before you start your day trip to Arima, take a look at my post on  everything you need to know before going to Japan . I included a lot of information, including how to get around Japan and other travel tips.

Here are a few additional tips for visiting Arima onsen for the day:

• Arrive in Arima Onsen by 10:30am  so you can comfortably see all the attractions in this day trip itinerary.
• Arima is a safe city   for solo female travellers .
• The best way to see Arima is on foot.  Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes.
• Carry cash with you, as many eateries accept cash only.
• ICOCA  is the prepaid IC card for Kansai Region. It is a rechargeable smartcard where you can take public transportation, including subway, bus, train, etc. It is useful to have especially if you are taking subway and train from Kobe to Arima.
• Arima Cherry Blossom Festival (late March) – along Arima River and Cherry Tree Street.
• Arima Ryofu Kawazashiki (July 26-August 25) – see performances and geisha dances at Arima River Shinsui Park.
• Arima Summer Festival (August 4th-5th) – annual summer event along the main road.
• Arima Tea Ceremony (November 2 & 3) – at Zuihoji Park, Arima Grand Hotel, and Nenbutsuji Temple.

How to get to Arima Onsen from Kobe, Osaka and Kyoto

Train from kobe to arima onsen.

The best way to get to Arima from Kobe is by subway and train. It takes 30 minutes and costs ￥690 (buy a ticket or use your IC card).

• Kobe Municipal Subway (Seishin-Yamate Line) : from Sannomiya Station to Tanigami Station
• Kobe Electric Railway ( Kobe Dentetsu-Arima Line ): from Tanigami Station to Arimaguchi Station. Change trains to Arimaonsen Station.

Bus from Osaka to Arima Onsen

The most direct way to travel from Osaka to Arima Onsen is by taking the Hankyu Expressway Bus . It takes about 1 hour and costs ￥1,400 (book online or buy a ticket at the counter).

• Hankyu Express Bus : from Hankyu Sanban Gai (Umeda) to Arima Onsen Bus Terminal
• Note: There are multiple buses daily. For a day trip from Osaka, take the earliest express bus at 9am and take the 5:40pm bus back to Osaka.

Bus from Kyoto to Arima Onsen

Similar to taking a day trip from Osaka, the most direct way to travel from Kyoto to Arima Onsen is by taking the Hankyu Expressway Bus . It takes about 1 hour 15 minutes and costs ￥1,650 (book online or buy a ticket at the counter).

• Hankyu Express Bus : from Kyoto Station to Arima Onsen Bus Terminal
• Note: There are only two buses to and from Arima Onsen. For a day trip from Kyoto, take the express bus at 9:30am to Arima and take the 5:20pm bus back to Kyoto.

Arima Hot Springs Attractions Map

All the top things to do in Arima are pinned on the interactive map.  Red numbered pins are all the must-see Arima attractions   on your day trip ,  blue pins are other things to do in Arima  if you are staying longer, green pins are places to shop in Arima , burgundy pins are places to eat , and yellow pins are Arima accommodations if you want to stay overnight.

Arima Day Trip: Best of Arima Hot Spring in One Day

1 & 2. arima river shinsui park and nene hashi bridge.

Whether you arrive via train or bus, walk by Arima River Shinsui Park first.

This is an open-air area that was once part of Arima River but it has been rebuilt as a public gathering space. During the day, you can see how the open space looks like. Usually there isn’t but make sure to come back at the end of the day. There could be some type of festival or events here.

Also look for the red bridge, which is called Nene Hashi Bridge . Not pictured here since this photo was taken from the bridge. There’s a bronze statue of Nene , the wife of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, next to the bridge.

3. Lunch at Kutsurogiya

I know you just arrived in Arima but perhaps it’s a good time for an early lunch. I highly recommend eating at Kutsurogiya . The restaurant is in a traditional Japanese and they specialize in Kamameshi (rice cooked in an iron pot).

I got the mix Manpuku course . The rice pot comes with red snapper, salmon, octopus and mountain herbs mushroom. They also serve other Kamameshi, soba, and udon noodles.

I went there right before it opens at 11am and didn’t have to wait (the line was really long when I left). I got a really cute tatami room on the second floor and enjoy this delicious taimeshi set lunch. It was so good! So make sure you go early.

Address:  839-2 Arimacho, Kita-ku, Kobe |  Hours:  11am-3pm & 5-7:30pm; closed Tuesdays

4. Walk up the hilly Yumatozaka

Yumotozaka is the main road in Arima. If you google Arima, the images that come up are usually photos of this street. The hilly road is lined with souvenir shops, cafes and restaurants. This is where you can find some of the most famous snacks in Arima.

I really like Yumotozaka Shopping Street because of all the traditional Japanese houses. Plus, there are many good spots for taking photos (but the road is usually packed with people).

5 & 6. Arima Tenjin Shrine and Tenjin-sengen

I read somewhere that there are seven hot spring sources in Arima Onsen where the water wells up from underground. I found four and have included in this itinerary.

The first one is Tenjin-sengen which is at Arima Tenjin Shrine . The hot spring water source is a “kinsen” water which is the “gold spring” and it comes from 200m below Tenjin Shrine.

Other than the steam coming from the hot spring water source and the smell of sulfur, there isn’t much to see. But still pretty neat to know that’s where the hot spring water is coming from.

Address:  1402 Arimacho, Kita-ku, Kobe |  Hours:  24 hours |  Admission:  free

7. Uwanari-sengen

There’s another one off Yumotozaka Shopping Street. When you see a small torii gate next to a coffee shop, walk through the small alleyway and you will see Uwanari-sengen .

This hot spring water source also has the “kinsen” golden water. And the name of the hot spring source literally means “jealous spring”. It is said that the hot spring used to gush hot water out whenever a beautiful woman walk by. Ha!

Address:  Arimacho, Kita-ku, Kobe |  Hours:  24 hours |  Admission:  free

8. Tansan-sengen

Keep walking to the southeast end of Arima and Tansan-sengen is located on a hill and in Tansan Sengen Park.

This hot spring water source has colourless hot spring water that contains carbon dioxide . The water source provides hot spring water to Gin no Yu , one of the two public hot spring nearby. And this is also where Tansan Senbei wafers get their name from.

In front of the pagoda, there is faucet for carbonated spring water . I read that people used to add sugar to the water and drink it as cider. But you can try some here yourself. It has a bit of a salty flavour to it.

9. Gin no Yu

As mentioned, there are two public hot springs in Arima and one of them is Gin no Yu or Silver Hot Springs .

This hot spring facility has two varieties of colourless hot spring or silver springs : carbonated springs (rich in carbonated acid) and radon springs (which contain radium).

The silver hot springs has many health benefits including increase in blood circulation and lower hypertension. And the radium contained in the steam of the radon hot spring can increase your immune system and help with other medical issues.

For me, I skipped Gin no Yu and went for the “golden springs” instead because that is what Arima is famous for. But if you quickly see everything else in Arima, there could be enough time for both onsens.

Address:  1039-1 Arimacho, Kita-ku, Kobe |  Hours:  9am-9pm |  Admission:  ￥550 weekday ￥700 weekend

10 & 11. Gokurakuji Temple and Taiko-no Yudonokan

After the earthquake in 1993, excavation began around the collapsed areas of Gokurakuji Temple . They found ruins dating more than 400 years and these were believed to be the ruins of the bath and garden built by Taiko Hideyoshi.

Taiko-no Yudonokan , a special museum was set up to showcase the remains of Hideyoshi’s bathhouse items. There are also displays introducing Japanese hot spring culture.

The museum is small and everything is in Japanese (although they have brochures in English, Chinese and Korean). But if you are not keen, skip this part.

Address:  1642, Arimacho, Kita-ku, Kobe |  Hours:  9am-5pm |  Admission:  ￥200 for museum

12. Nenbutsuji Temple

Nenbutsuji Temple was founded in 1539 and it is built around the remaining parts of Nene’s villa.

Today, it is a Buddhist temple with a beautiful 300-year-old Sal tree . If you visit in June, you can see the flowers in full bloom. There’s even a festival held here called “Appreciation of the Sal Tree Flowers”.

Address:  1641 Arimacho, Kita-ku, Kobe |  Hours:  9am-5pm |  Admission:  free

13. Onsenji Temple

Onsenji Temple was established in 724 by Gyoki, the first Japanese Buddhist priest who tried to cure people using the hot spring. As the first temple built in Arima, it has several National Important Cultural Properties inside. Peek in and see the golden statue of Yakushi Nyorai (the healing Buddha).

Address:  1643, Arimacho, Kita-ku, Kobe |  Hours:  9am-5pm |  Admission:  free

14. Tosen Shrine

There is a flight of stairs south of Onsenji. Walk up, turn left and you’ll see many stone lanterns lining a longer flight of stairs . There’s a red torii gate with a shrine behind it halfway up. Continue until you reach the torii gate at the top.

Behind the torii gate is Tosen Shrine . This is where the guardian deities of Arima Onsen are enshrined.

Wander around the premise and see other buildings. It might be possible to see a view of Arima from above if the trees are not too tall.

Address:  1908 Arima, Kita-ku, Kobe |  Hours:  24 hours |  Admission:  free

15. Gosho-sengen

Gosho-sengen is the hot spring source for Kin no Yu, one of the public hot springs in Arima. It pumps the famous “kinsen” red-golden water that is enriched with salt and iron.

It’s not really possible to get close to the source and it’s a bit hidden. When you walk downhill on the road, peek through the fence and trees and you’ll see the rusty looking structure.

16. Try some famous Arima snacks

There are a few unique snacks in Arima that you should try before experiencing a traditional hot spring. Look for some (or all) of these Arima treats on Taiko-dori Street and Yumotozaka :

• Tansan Senbei – thin, crispy cracker made with carbonated spring water.
• Takenaka Nichten – beef and potato croquette at Takenaka Nikuten. The savoury treat is made with chunky pieces of Wagyu beef and mashed potato.
• Wild boar bun – Arima An sells steamed bun with wild boar meat and Arima Sansho pepper
• Tansan-Cider – aka Arima Cider Teppo Water, a mildly sweet soda drink made with carbonated water of Arima.
• Arima beer – made from the subterranean water of Mount Rokko and Yamada-nishiki rice (best type of rice for sake brewing).

17. Kin no Yu

Kin no Yu is a public hot spring facility that uses kinsen aka “ golden spring water ” from Gosho-sengen, which is a reddish-golden colour that has high levels of salt and iron which is incredible healing properties.

Kinsen Hot Spring is a traditional onsen which mean you go in the hot springs naked. Yup, you read that right. And many traditional Japanese hot springs typically don’t allow people with tattoos. But I can confirm that this is a tattoo-friendly facility . And make sure to bring a towel ; otherwise you can buy one there.

Obviously, I couldn’t take photos inside. But here’s the instructions on how to use the onsen at Kin no Yu:

• Put your shoes in one of the shoe lockers.
• Buy an entrance ticket at the vending machine.
• Give the ticket to the person at the counter, and you’ll get a bracelet with a key.
• Walk upstairs and find your locker inside the changing room.
• Put all your clothes and belongings inside the locker and lock it.
• Rinse yourself in the shower area before getting in one of the two hot springs (two different temperature) and enjoy.

There is a drinking fountain near the entrance of Kin no Yu. Try the carbonated water that comes outs of a gourd faucet (it was turned off when I was there).

And there is a free outdoor foot bath that uses the same kinsen hot spring water. If you don’t want to do a traditional hot spring soak, you can always dip your feet in the golden water.

Address:  833 Arimacho, Kita-ku, Kobe |  Hours:  9am-9pm |  Admission:  ￥550 weekday ￥700 weekend

18. Buy Arima souvenirs

Before you leave Arima, pick up a few souvenirs that you can only find in Arima. Many souvenir shops sell similar items. They are primarily onsen-related products like onsen towels and bath salts . Also, visit food souvenir shops and pick up some carbonated rice crackers to bring home.

These are some of the souvenir shops where you can buy unique gifts from:

• Yoshitakaya (9:30am-7pm; closed Wednesdays) – the biggest souvenir store selling all kinds of things relating to hot springs.
• Arima Craft Gallery (?) – the general store is on the ground level and sells onsen salts, towels and other trinkets. Upstairs is an exhibit area displaying an extensive collection of salt and pepper shakers when I was there.
• Hetekara (10am-5pm) – a modern contemporary store selling Japanese soap, cosmetics, household goods, bags and food.
• Mitsumori Honten (9am-6pm) – you can try the freshly made soda crackers and buy some to take home.

Other things to do in Arima Japan

Besides all the Arima attractions in the itinerary, there are other things to do in Arima that cannot fit into the day trip itinerary. If you stay overnight, you can see some of these highlights around Arima the next day:

• Arima Toys and Automata Museum (9:30am-6pm; ￥800) – a toy museum that is great for kids and adults. See rare toys, mechanical puppets (automata) and a train diorama.
• Arima Masu Ike (9am-4pm; closed Wednesdays & Thursdays; ￥1,600) – go rainbow trout fishing in Arima. And they will even cook the fish that you catch.
• Atagoyama Park – follow the hiking trail and see views of Arima.
• Zuihoji Park – see hydrangea in June and the changing colours of the 2,500 maple trees in the fall.
• Mount Rokko – take the Rokko Arima Ropeway (12 minutes, ¥1,030 one way or ¥1,850 round trip) in Tsuzumigataki Park and see a day or night view of Kobe City and Osaka from the Rokko Garden Terrace.
• Mount Ochiba – hike around the mountain south of Arimaonsen Station and see stone Buddhas and Myokenji Temple. Maps.me shows the hiking route.

Where to stay in Arima Japan

Since Arima is one of the three historic onsen towns, I highly recommend staying overnight to get the whole experience of being in a hot spring town.

However, most “affordable” Arima hotels are older and more traditional. And if you select the cheapest room, the bathroom is likely shared.

But I really enjoyed my stay at Arima Musubi no Koyado Enn , a tiny hotel with Japanese-Western-style rooms and tatami mats . I booked the mountain view double room with a comfortable bed and sitting area. Everyone in the house shares the bathrooms. This is one of the cheapest and most modern hotels in Arima .

Is Arima Onsen worth visiting?

Suppose you only have one day to spare during your travels around the Kansai Region. In that case, I highly recommend spending a day in Arima Onsen because of the quaint surroundings and unique onsen experience.

And if you can stay overnight, you can enjoy a private onsen experience and explore other parts of Arima.

I hope this is a helpful post for planning your trip to Arima. Let me know in the comments below if you are going to Arima and if you found this itinerary useful.

Thank you for reading my Arima hot spring itinerary

You might also like these other posts on solo travel in Japan:

Introduction to Japan

• Solo Travel to Japan: 17 best cities for solo travellers
• Things I wish I knew before going to Japan
• 11 Off-the-beaten-path places in Japan
• Japanese Food Culture: 11 must-try food
• One month in Japan: from Tokyo to Hiroshima

Kansai region

• Kyoto 2-day itinerary
• Where to stay in Kyoto: Best Areas & Hotel Reviews
• Kyoto Food Guide: What and Where to Eat
• Uji day trip from Kyoto
• Kurama to Kibune hiking itinerary
• Nara day trip from Kyoto or Osaka
• Nara famous food: Where and What to Eat
• Hike Yamanobe-no-Michi Trail in Nara Prefecture
• 2-day Osaka itinerary
• Where to stay in Osaka for first time traveller
• Where and What to Eat in Osaka, Japan
• Minoh Waterfalls Trail: easy day hike from Osaka
• Osaka to Kobe day trip: 1-day itinerary
• Best food in Kobe: Where and What to Eat
• Himeji day trip from Osaka

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queenie mak

Hi, my name is Queenie, and I've been a solo traveller for 20+ years and currently based in Hong Kong. Follow me on my adventures through Instagram and my blog!

Further Reading...

Where to Stay in Naha: 6 Boutique Hotels in Naha Okinawa (with Honest Reviews)

Tokyo Solo Travel Guide & 5 Day Tokyo Itinerary for first time traveller

Best Kyoto Food: Where and What to Eat in Kyoto Japan

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How to Hike Yamanobe-no-Michi Trail in Nara Prefecture: Day trip from Nara or Kyoto

Kurama to kibune hike: half-day trip from kyoto, japan, ms travel solo.

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• Hot Springs

Japanese Hot Springs

Relaxing treat - hot springs | japan travel guide.

Featured Experience on our Group Japan Tours vacation packages. Natural hot springs (onsen) are numerous and highly popular across Japan. Every region of the country has its share of hot springs and resort towns, which come with them. There are many types of hot springs, distinguished by the minerals dissolved in the water. Different minerals provide different health benefits, and all hot springs are supposed to have a relaxing effect on your body and mind. Hot spring baths come in many varieties, indoors and outdoors, gender separated and mixed, developed and undeveloped. Many hot spring baths belong to a ryokan , while others are public bath houses. An overnight stay at a hot spring ryokan is a highly recommended experience for any traveler or vacation in Japan.

How to Use the Hot-Springs Bath

Below is a description of the most common way of taking a bath in a hot spring or public bath in Japan. The actual rules may differ slightly between baths, but if you follow the instructions below, you should be alright most of the time. Typical layout of a small indoor hot spring bath: 1: Take off all your clothes in the changing room and place them into a basket together with your bath towel. Coin lockers for valuables are often available. 2: Japanese hot springs are enjoyed naked. Swimming suits are not allowed in most places. However, it is the custom to bring a small towel into the bathing area, with which you can enhance your privacy while outside of the water. Once you enter the bath, keep the towel out of the water. 3: Before entering the bath rinse your body with water from either a tap or the bath using a washbowl provided in the bathing area. Traditionally, just rinsing your body is considered sufficient (and many older baths do not even provide showers and soap), but particularly among younger bathers you will find an increasing number of people who insist on taking a shower before entering the bath these days. 4: Enter the bath and soak for a while. Note that the bath water can be very hot (typical temperatures are 40 to 44 Celsius degrees or 104 to 111 Fahrenheit degrees). If it feels too hot, try to enter very slowly and move as little as possible. 5: After soaking for a while, get out of the bath and wash your body with soap at a water tap, while sitting on a stool. Soap and shampoo are provided in some baths. Like in private Japanese bathrooms, make sure that no soap gets into the bath water. Tidy up your space after you finished cleaning your body. 6: Re-enter the bath and soak some more. After you finished soaking, do not rinse your body with tap water, for the hot spring water's minerals to have full effect on your body. For More information on how to enjoy a Japanese Hot-Springs , check out Japan Deluxe Tour's How to Properly use an Onsen Blog Post!

How to Enjoy Hot Springs?

  Types of hot springs

There are many types of hot springs to enjoy. The conventional hot spring is a hot water bath. Depending on the hot spring, different minerals are dissolved in the water, giving it different health benefits, colors and scents. Hot spring water baths come indoors, outdoors and in many different sizes. Outdoor baths are called rotenburo . While some baths are wooden or stone tubs, others are built to resemble or are actually natural hot spring pools. Some outdoor baths are spectacularly situated in the mountains, valleys or along rivers, lake or sea shores. Besides conventional hot water tubs, a popular feature of larger baths are so called waterfalls, which comfortably massage your shoulders if you sit below them. Other bath types include sand baths, where bathers are buried in naturally heated sand, mud baths and steam rooms. Ashiyu are shallow hot spring pools for bathing just your feet. They are found in the streets of many hot spring resorts and can be used free of charge. Increasing in number are modern hot spring complexes, which offer a range of baths, massage services, saunas and sometimes conventional swimming pools, water slides, etc. In Tokyo, where there is a shortage of natural hot spring water on the surface, some new hot spring complexes are retrieving their water from a depth of more than a kilometer below sea surface.

  Onsen Ryokan

The ultimate hot spring experience is spending a night at an onsen ryokan , a Japanese style inn with hot spring baths. This is not only one of the most popular holiday activities among the Japanese, but is also highly recommended to any foreign visitor of Japan. Onsen ryokan are found in various sizes in hot spring resorts across Japan. A typical onsen ryokan visit starts with a bath before dinner. The beautifully arranged Japanese style dinner , featuring local specialties, is either served in your tatami room or in a dining hall. Many guests like to take another bath before sleeping and before breakfast in the next morning. You do not need to stay overnight at a ryokan in order to enjoy its baths. Many ryokan open their baths to the general public, typically during daytime only and against an admission fee of a few hundred yen. Besides ryokan, most hot spring resorts also have some public bath houses with hot spring water.

  Nudity and Tattoo Issues

Hot springs in Japan are enjoyed naked, even though there are a few exceptions. While a majority of baths are gender separated, some are mixed. Mixed baths are usually found in more remote areas. Furthermore, some establishments have both, gender separated and mixed sections, for example, in the case that there is just one spectacular outdoor bath, which the owner wants to make accessible to both genders. For obvious reasons, many Japanese women, especially younger ones, avoid mixed hot springs, and it is not unusual that mixed pools are almost exclusively used by men. If you do not feel comfortable naked in front of other people, you should inquire about "kashikiri" (private) baths , which are available at some ryokan. Private baths are sometimes also known as "kazokuburo" , lit. family baths. Tattoos are also a big issue when it comes to entering a public hot spring. Although hot springs in the bigger cities are loosening up their restrictions, there are still many places that will not allow those with tattoos to enter the hot springs. The alternative option, if available, would also be to use the "kashikiri" bath or "kazokuburo" mentioned earlier. This way, travelers will still be able to enjoy the hot spring water without worrying about other guests.

 Onsen Stays Available on our Best-Selling Japan Tours

As a standard on all of our fully-guided Japan tours packages and holiday vacations between Tokyo & Kyoto , immerse yourself in Japanese culture with an authentic hot-spring onsen trip. Enjoy a Japanese-style hotel with a hot-spring for you to enjoy during your vacation. For guests with tattoos, some hot-springs may offer private rooms you can use during your travels. Experience a quintessential part of Japanese culture with a visit to a hot-spring in Hakone , Matsuyama , Tokyo, Kyoto, or along the way on a custom Japan tour package.

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Japanse hot spring ranking best 10,    1. kusatsu onsen | gunma.

#1 for 19 years The amount of natural hot springs is the largest in Japan. The spring quality is strongly acidic and has high bactericidal activity. The famous hot spring stirring (Yumomi) was devised to lower the temperature without diluting the efficacy of the hot spring.

   2. Gero Onsen | Gifu

One of the 3 famous springs in Japan The quality of the spring is an alkaline simple spring, which is characterized by a smooth feel. You can enjoy the scent containing sulfur.

   3. Beppu Hachiyu Onsen | Oita

Number of sources and amount of springs are the largest in Japan Beppu Hachiyu is a general term for hot spring areas in Beppu City. With good transportation access centered around JR Beppu Station, you can enjoy a day trip bath.

   4. Dogo Onsen | Ehime

The stage of the Japanese famous novel "Bochan" One of the three ancient hot springs in Japan. It is also depicted in Natsume Soseki's novel "Botchan" and is a typical tourist destination in Ehime prefecture.

   5. Hakone Onsen | Kanagawa

17 large and small hot springs The amount of hot water in "Hakone 17-yu", which has different spring qualities, is one of the best in Japan. One of Japan's leading hot spring towns, blessed with tourism resources such as Lake Ashi.

   6. Noboribetsu Onsen | Hokkaido

Jigokudani that raises the eruption is the symbol A hot spring area with 9 types of spring qualities and many spring sources. The largest source, Jigokudani, can also be walked along the promenade.

   7. Arima Onsen | Hyogo

One of Japan's three largest old hot springs A brown hot spring called "Kinsen" that contains iron is characteristic to this area. A famous hot spring resort that is recorded in the Nihon Shoki and is one of the three largest old hot springs in Japan.

   8. Ibusuki Onsen | Kagoshima

Famous "Sand Bath" One of the prefecture's leading tourist destinations consisting of hot springs such as Ibusuki Onsen, Surigahama Onsen, and Nigatsuden Onsen. The sand bath also has a detoxifying effect.

   9. Yufuin Onsen | Oita

A popular hot spring resort at the foot of Mt. Yufu There are many fashionable shops and restaurants. In recent years, many tourists from overseas such as Asia have visited.

   10. Wakura Onsen | Ishikawa

Spring quality with abundant salt "Sea hot spring" containing abundant salt. Their unique hot spring "Teyu" is popular among women. The "Shio Ontama (salty egg)" is also a popular speciality.

Hot Spring in Hokkaido

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Noboribetsu

Collection of the world's most exceptional Hot Springs

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A classic Japanese hot spring spa village in Tohoku Region.

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The collocation of ryokan in the mountain. Tsurunoyu has over 300 years history.

Hot Spring in Kanto | Kanagawa. Gunma, Tokyo

Part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and famous for Hot Springs

Ikaho Onsen

A Japanese traditional hot-spring town in Gunma famous for its high-iron water content

Kusatsu Onsen

Known as a hot spring of high-quality milky-white water in Gunma

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Kinosaki Onsen

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Scenic Hot Springs Town in Oita

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• Ryokan Stay in Kinosaki
• Kinosaki's Community with Tourism
• Kinosaki Onsen's Brief History
• Strolling the Town in Yukata
• The 7 Mystic Onsen
• Tattoo Friendly Onsen of Kinosaki
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True Japanese Cultural Experience KINOSAKI ONSEN

In the spotlight.

NEW Rural Homestays: Minshuku in the Kannabe Highlands

Kinosaki Onsen's Lantern Festival

Family Onsen Trip

About Kinosaki

Famous for its 7 tattoo friendly natural hot spring baths, Kinosaki Onsen is a classic Japanese town steeped in 1,300 years of culture and tradition.

7 Public Hot Springs All Tattoo Friendly

Stroll to all 7 tattoo friendly hot springs with ease in this completely walkable town.

Strolling in Yukata

Kinosaki Onsen's claim to fame may be its 7 hot springs, but the ability to stroll through this atmospheric town in a yukata is just as praiseworthy.

Specialty Gourmet

Savor Kinosaki Onsen gourmet with daily catches from the Sea of Japan and melt in your mouth Tajima beef.

Izakaya (Japanese Pubs)

Locally Brewed Beer

Tajima Beef

Izushi Soba

Ryokan Stay

A ryokan, a traditional Japanese style inn, is more than just a hotel and a place to sleep. Ryokan are a way to experience pure Japanese tradition, lifestyle, and hospitality.

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Kinosaki Onsen

Dragon Palace

Izushi Castle Town

Arikoyama Inari Shrine

Onsenji Temple

Izushi Eirakukan - Kabuki Theater

Genbudo Park

Experiences & Activities

Yukata Rental in Kinosaki Onsen

Private Car Oriental White Stork Tour (with English-speaking guide)

Kinosaki Marine World Access Pass with Fishing Experience

Kinosaki Must-Visits Pass

Kinosaki Onsen Town Tour (with English-speaking guide)

Takeno Beach

Nekozaki Hiking Tour with Geopark Guide

Tanto Farming Village

Tulip Festival

Onsen Festival

Izushi Monthly Market

Takeno Umi Machi Market

Toyooka Music Festival

Areas Near Kinosaki Kinosaki Plus 1

Takeno Beach One of Japan’s TOP 100 beaches

Kannabe Mountains Hike an old lava flow

Izushi Castle Town Kansai’s oldest kabuki theatre

Toyooka Stork sanctuary, shopping & cafes

Coastal Kinosaki

Coastal Kinosaki Aquarium & camping beach

Farming Village Japanese countryside experience

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Kinosaki Onsen by Night: Embark on 5 Evening Adventures

Kinosaki Plus 1: A Day in Izushi

Kinosaki Onsen for Bookworms

Meeting Toyooka’s Mascots

Kinosaki Plus 1: A Day at Takeno Beach

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• A Day Trip From Kobe...

A Day Trip From Kobe: How To Explore Arima Onsen

Sitting outside Kobe’s city limits is a town that couldn’t be more different. Welcome to Arima Onsen, the millennia-old, deity-hosting, bubbling onsen hub – a place for rest, relaxation and rejuvenation.

Arima Onsen is tucked behind Mount Rokko, an imposing 931-metre-high (3,054-foot-high) giant that acts as a barrier between the heavily urbanised region of Hanshin – home to Kobe and Osaka – and a lush and volcanic landscape that’s long produced some of the best hot springs in Japan.

As the Arima legend goes, this is one of Japan’s longest-running hot spring hubs and a tranquil escape from inner-city living. With luxury resorts, plenty of day-trip activities and a historical ambience entirely its own, Arima Onsen is a place you’d be remiss to skip.

A brief history

Between the seventh and 12th centuries, Buddhist monks began developing the area. Regularly visiting the site during pilgrimages in Hyōgo, they set up a temple in the lush mountain surrounds. The reputation of Arima’s mineral-rich ‘golden water’ grew, and soon, emperors, samurai and other members of Japanese nobility started visiting the area, turning it into an early incarnation of the spa resort of today.

The term ‘golden water’ – known as kinsen in Japanese – isn’t just an analogy for the onsen ’s healing qualities. The water that pumps out of Arima is tinted gold, a side effect of the rich iron deposits in the ground, which reportedly alleviates muscle pain. Arima also has impressive ginsen (silver water), which contains high levels of radium and carbonate, the qualities of which are said to soothe various muscle and joint ailments.

The royal love affair with Arima is one that has continued throughout the ages. In the 16th century, influential political figure Toyotomi Hideyoshi was an advocate for the onsen, regularly visiting with his wife and tea master Sen no Rikyu. A king of modern Japanese literature, Jun’ichirō Tanizaki, also frequented the baths, and he wrote his iconic novel A Cat, a Man and Two Women (1936) while visiting. Despite its popularity among Japanese royalty, the onsen is still a relatively overlooked destination for international visitors.

What to see

The town of Arima is relatively compact, making it a comfortable place to cover in a short period of time. However, if you want to make the most of Arima’s water, there are probably only so many baths you can visit in one day, so try to stay a few nights in the area.

To dip your toes into the world of Arima’s hot springs, make your way to the open and free public foot bath located just outside the Kin no Yu bathhouse. Here, you can try the dark golden water for free before getting prepared for a full-body bathing experience.

Just opposite the foot bath is Arima Toys & Automata Museum , which is dedicated to retro toys and is worth a visit if you’re a collector or child at heart. The area also has plenty of snack-food stands and stylish stores selling elegantly displayed Japanese gifts.

One particular highlight on the shopping route is Arima Koushindou (有馬香心堂) – a store selling traditional Japanese incense, as well as more modern aromas and styles. The pieces on offer are very comprehensive and affordable, so no matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find some excellent gifts here. It’s also worth noting that for overseas visitors, this store – like many in Arima – offers tax-free shopping. Simply show your passport at the register.

Where to bathe and stay

If you’ve trekked all the way to Arima, of course, you’ll want to experience some of the area’s beautiful onsens. Kin no Yu is the biggest of all the public onsens and a great place to start. Situated in the centre of town, behind the public foot bath, this facility features two indoor iron-rich baths of varying temperatures.

If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, then consider booking a few nights at Arima Grand Hotel . Positioned on a hilly incline, complete with stunning views of the town centre, this sprawling luxury ryokan complex features open-air, indoor and private baths. There’s also a large public pool area that guests can admire from their hotel balcony.

To get a better view of the area, it’s worth making the short detour en route to Arima Onsen via the Sumaura Ropeway. This much-loved local hangout is just a 30-minute journey towards the Seto Inland Sea, and at the top you’ll find a retro arcade and amusement park, not to mention sweeping views of Kobe and Osaka.

How to get to Arima

The most direct way to get to Arima from Kobe is from the Shin-Kōbe Station. Take the subway to Tanigami Station, and then switch to the Shintetsu Arima-Sanda Line to Arima-guchi before making the transfer to the Arima Line to Arima Onsen Station. There are a few stops, but the trip takes between 30 and 40 minutes.

Alternatively, there are local buses that run via Hankyu Bus and Shinki Bus companies. They typically depart once or twice an hour from Shin-Kōbe Station and Sannomiya Station.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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Kinosaki Onsen: The Ultimate Travel Guide to Japan's 1300-Year-Old Hot Spring Town

Kinosaki Onsen is a hot spring town in Hyogo Prefecture that can be reached from Osaka or Kyoto in about 2 hours and 30 minutes by train. This makes it a great day trip option for anyone visiting Osaka or Kyoto, especially if they're tired of exploring all the main cities of Japan. This article covers everything you need to know about Kinosaki Onsen, from the best places to stay and food you should eat to what kind of activities you can do there. Keep reading to learn more!

This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

What is Kinosaki Onsen?

Kinosaki Onsen is an area in Hyogo Prefecture with 7 public bath houses placed along a river lined with willow trees. These bathing facilities are filled with 42°C (107.6°F) hot spring water that is known for helping with nerve, muscular, and stomach pain. Surrounding them are several traditional inns ("ryokan" in Japanese) where people can stay overnight and enjoy traditional Japanese meals.  

Don't Miss out on the Sotoyu Meguri

Generally, visitors take a stroll along the river to visit all 7 of the public bath houses in Kinosaki Onsen, as it is believed this will grant them good luck. This practice is called "Sotoyu Meguri", literally "strolling around the outer baths". A single pass is all you need to get access to all the bath houses, and if you stay overnight at one of the beautiful inns in the area, you can get this pass for free!

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JR Pass for Whole Japan

Explore Japan in the most convenient and economical way with a Japan Rail Pass! It is valid for the majority of railways and local buses operated by JR. 

Hot Spring Drinking Fountains and Foot Baths

Who said hot spring waters are only good for bathing? You can find drinking fountains in front of the train station and Ichino-yu (one of the 7 bath houses) that are filled with drinkable hot spring water! Go ahead and take a sip, especially if you suffer from chronic digestive issues!  

As you wander throughout the town, you should eventually stumble upon this landmark. Named "Shirosaki Onsen", this is actually the oldest hot spring source of the whole area. The temperature of its waters reach a stunning 80°C (176°F)!  

Both inside the bath houses and outside, you will find hot spring baths for your feet, called "ashiyu" in Japanese. They're great for warming your feet up on a cold day!

Stroll Around Town in a Yukata

Unless you don't mind feeling like a fish out of water, you're going to need a yukata for your Sotoyu Meguri. A yukata is the light version of a kimono, and it comes in equally beautiful colors and designs. Most facilities in Kinosaki Onsen allow you to either rent or buy your yukata set, which includes the robe, the obi (belt), a pair of wooden sandals called "geta", and sometimes even matching accessories. Don't worry if you don't know how to wear it - a staff member will usually help you put it on!

Enjoy Some Street Food While You're Here

Kinosaki sweets main branch.

There's nothing quite like wandering around town all dressed up while snacking on various foods. One of the best places for snacks is Kinosaki Sweets Main Branch. As you might guess from its name, it makes desserts like ice cream, parfaits, and baked sweets with local ingredients.

Their Kinosaki Gelato is an incredibly popular treat among Sotoyu Meguri participants. Made with all-natural ingredients, this dessert comes in a variety of flavors - matcha, raspberry, mango, and so on - and will perk you right up.

Seasonal Events in Kinosaki Onsen

Danjiri festival.

While you can visit Kinosaki Onsen any time of the year, it is recommended to plan your trip around one of its seasonal events. The picture above shows a glimpse of the Danjiri Festival, which is the biggest event in town. Held on October 14th and 15th every year, it is meant to bring in good luck.

A "danjiri" is a decorated wooden cart, like the one you can see above. During this festival, several danjiri are paraded around town. It's a stunning sight that will remain in your memory even after you leave Japan!  

Another one-of-a-kind experience can be had with the Kani Okoku, a festival dedicated to crabs ("kani" in Japanese) that coincides with the crab season in Japan, which is from November to March. Kinosaki Onsen is home to ridiculously good snow crab thanks to its proximity to the Sea of Japan, and during the crab season, visitors get to sample this crab in restaurants and ryokan all across town! There's even an award ceremony for the best crab caught in that time period!

Recommended Ryokan

If you want to fully experience all of Kinosaki Onsen, it is recommended to spend at least one night there. Not sure which ryokan or hotel is the best to stay at? Check out the article below for some ideas!

Must-Buy Souvenirs

Rice flour cheesecake at kinosaki sweets main branch.

Mentioned before for its delicious gelato, Kinosaki Sweets happens to also be the best place to buy souvenirs for your family and friends! The little treats in the photo above are artisanal baked cheesecakes made with rice flour. They come in several flavor variations, such as chooclate, matcha, and vanilla, and are the perfect size to satisfy your sweet tooth without overeating!

What makes these little cheesecakes even more special is that the rice used for the flour are grown in fields inhabited by storks. These birds are considered to be symbols of happiness, and it is this happiness that the patissiers of this shop aim to transmit to their customers. A wonderful sentiment, no?

Now that you know what to do, what to wear, places to eat, and even where to stay, consider visiting Kinosaki Onsen the next time you have some days off or just feel like having a relaxing weekend! You may enjoy the experience so much that you'll repeat it multiple times.

If you want to give feedback on any of our articles, you have an idea that you'd really like to see come to life, or you just have a question on Japan, hit us up on our  Facebook  or  Twitter !

Thumbnail: Rei Imagine / Shutterstock.com

The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.

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Arima Onsen Day Trip - Top 3 Recommended Hot Springs

Arima Onsen is a historic hot spring town is filled with amazing onsen. We introduce three of Arima Onsen's best hot springs you can enjoy even if you are just on a day trip, from those with golden waters to centuries-old baths. Come here for a relaxing time experiencing Japan's bathing culture.

Kousuke DEKI

Arima Onsen - Spend the Day in a Historic Hot Spring Town

Arima Onsen  is one of the leading hot spring resorts in the Kansai area . By highway bus, it is just an hour away from Osaka and 75 minutes away from Kyoto. It is very conveniently situated and the town itself has an elegant, historic charm.

Arima Onsen’s Golden Springs

You can find various kinds of hot springs in Arima Onsen but we highly recommend the  golden hot spring , also known as kinsen. It gets its name from its  reddish-gold water. While the water that runs from its source is clear, its high iron content causes it to change color when it comes in contact with oxygen. The water is also said to have one of the highest salt concentrations in the world. Its effective heat retention and antibacterial properties are believed to help with hypersensitivity due to cold and muscle pain.

Arima Onsen has many hot spring facilities, but we’ll introduce you to three in particular that you can easily enjoy on a day trip! For more general information, check out our onsen etiquette guide.

Table of Contents:

1. kin no yu - an iconic arima onsen hot spring.

• 2. Enjoy Water Straight from the Source at Kanpo no Yado Arima
• 3. A Different World at Arima Onsen’s Most Ancient Spring, Goshoboh

First, let’s check out Kin no Yu , which is often called one of Arima Onsen’s landmarks. Located close to the resort town entrance, it is visible to everyone who enters Arima Onsen. Kin no Yu is open to the public, so anyone can enter. This makes it a very popular onsen for visitors, including people on day trips.

Picture courtesy of Kin no Yu

This is the Kin no Yu bathhouse.

Let us explain the process from entering the bathhouse until getting into the water. After you go through the entrance, put your shoes in a locker . Take the key with you and enter.

Next, you buy a ticket at the vending machine (all prices are plus tax). The displays are also available in English, Korean and Chinese (traditional and simplified). Admission is 650 yen for adults and 340 yen for elementary school students. You can also buy a combined pass for Kin no Yu’s sister spring, Gin no Yu , for 850 yen. A ticket at Gin no Yu is 550 yen, so you save 350 yen if you are planning to go there anyway.

Once you’ve bought your ticket, give it to the person at the reception desk. The bathing area is on the 2nd floor.

If you don't have a towel, you can buy towels  with the Kin no Yu logo. A large towel is 500 yen and a face towel is 200 yen.

There are informational pamphlets available in English, Korean and Chinese (Traditional and Simplified), so please use them as a reference.

The changing area is also on the 2nd floor. After you get undressed, take your towel with you into the bathing area. After you placed your belongings in the locker, don’t forget your key ! It has a rubber strap, so you can wrap it around your wrist in order not to lose it.

Now you can enjoy the golden waters! Take a shower and use body soap to get rid of any dirt, then you can enter the onsen. The color may stain your clothes and towel, so we recommend taking another shower before getting changed.

Head to this rest area  if you want to take a break after you get out of the onsen. It’s in front of the reception desk on the first floor. You can buy a drink at the vending machines or at the reception which sells Arima local beer, carbonated beverages, and cider.

Kin no Yu also has a foot bath located next door, which you can use for free. Make sure to bring a towel to dry off your feet. As mentioned before, the golden water might stain towels, so use something you don’t mind getting dirty. 

Arima Onsen Kin no Yu

2. Kanpo no Yado Arima - Hot Spring Water Straight from the Source

Head up the winding hill road to find  Kanpo no Yado Arima , this hotel's hot springs are also open to people on day trips. Hot spring water is directly pumped from the source into the facility, making the hotel very popular.

First, buy a ticket from the vending machine just inside the hotel entrance. Admission is 800 yen (tax included) for guests older than 12, 400 yen for children six to 11, and free for children five and below.

Additional charges may be applied during the weekends, public holidays, the New Year’s holiday, Golden Week, Obon and other times of the year. Please check the information section for more.

After you’ve bought a ticket, change into slippers on the first floor and take the elevator to 4F. Once you arrive, give your ticket to the staff member at the entrance to the bathing area (pictured above).

Picture courtesy of Kanpo no Yado Arima

Kanpo no Yado Arima is unique for having its own hot spring source, which flows directly to the public baths in the hotel. It is said to have the highest quality water among all of the hot springs at Arima Onsen.

We were allowed to get close to the hot water source. This is the Atagoyama spring, the fountainhead for the public baths located inside the facility. Normally you can’t enter, but you can see it from the corridors of the guest room floors on the 3rd and 4th floor.

This single narrow pipe pumps up water from 300 meters below ground! Because of the water’s extremely high concentration of salt and iron, this pipe needs to be changed once every ten days or it will start to rust.

This is the spring water soon after it wells up. Since it has begun to oxidize, it has developed a faint color. 

Through steady exposure to air, the water continues to oxidize, creating its beautiful golden color.

Kanpo no Yado Arima (operated by MyStays Hotel Group)

3. Goshoboh - A Different World at Arima Onsen’s Most Ancient Hot Spring

The last onsen we’ll introduce is the oldest one in Arima,  Goshoboh . Goshoboh is said to have been founded in 1191! This particular building has been standing for up to a century.

Entering the lobby feels like stepping into a different world, with the atmosphere created by the building’s warm wooden tones and soft lighting.

If you’re on a day trip , you pay at reception. English speaking staff is available. The day trip special runs from 11:00 to 14:00 and costs 1,695 yen after tax, which includes admission fees for the facility and a hand towel.

Goshoboh partially allows  co-ed bathing , which is rather unique. Only a narrow barrier separates the men’s side from the women’s side. This is why the golden spring’s color is extremely dark. You might feel a bit nervous, but once you sit and enjoy your bath it will surely be fine. The entrance is designed in a way neither side can see the other, so don’t worry about being seen. It could even be fun to go as a couple!

Once you relieved your fatigue in the hot spring, we recommend relaxing in the salon . The salon has been used as a dance hall for guests until a century ago.

The parquet wood floors, French-made stained glass, and other interior features are unchanged from those long-gone days. A truly enjoyable sight. 

The salon also operates as a coffee shop. The bookshelves are lined with art and travel-themed photo books, so read some books as you relax.

As you walk through Goshoboh, it feels as though you’re in an art museum. The design of the building was conceived by the artist Hirosuke Watanuki. You can encounter his works as a designer, writer, sculptor, and potter all throughout the building.

These works are nonchalantly hidden all over Goshoboh. How about trying to find a place inside which appeals to you most.

Tao Quan Imperial Palace

Have an Exceptional Time at Arima Onsen

Bath Culture In Japan: What Every Visitor Should Know Ahead Of Time

MATCHA Editer.

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10 Best Onsen Towns near Tokyo!

Going to an onsen is one of the most exciting and relaxing experiences that you can have in Japan. It has been an essential part of Japanese culture for centuries, and visiting an onsen allows you to refresh and get rid of exhaustion from a hard days or weeks work. Japan boasts a large number of onsen resorts that can be found everywhere, and a number of them are conveniently located near Tokyo. Taking a weekend trip to a relaxing onsen town will help you unwind while exploring tourist attractions and take in the impressive scenery around as well. Here is a list of the best onsen towns near Tokyo !

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What is an onsen?

How to get to hakone yumoto onsen, how to get to kusatsu onsen, how to get to ikaho onsen, how to get to nasu onsen, how to get to kinugawa onsen, how to get to gora onsen, how to get to ito, how to get to shuzenji, how to get to manza onsen, how to get to shima onsen, japan wonder travel tours in tokyo, other articles you might like.

In Japanese the word onsen is written as 温泉, and the two kanji that are translated as ‘hot’ and ‘water’, which is basically the definition of an onsen. The water of onsen must be at least 25°C at the source and the water must meet one of the 19 criteria related to the mineral content of the water. Going to an onsen is a very important and cherished part of Japanese culture and this tradition has been in place for many centuries.

Throughout Japan there are countless onsen resorts, each with their own health benefits and characteristics. Some are located in the mountains , in cities , near beaches or really anywhere else. There are many different rules, of which the most important one is never to use soap or shampoo inside the shared bath. Before entering an onsen, always wash and rinse yourself first! Read more about how to take an onsen in the article below.

1. Hakone Yumoto Onsen (Kanagawa) 90 minutes

Hakone is widely known as one of the most popular onsen towns in Japan. In fact for many people, the natural hot springs are the first thing that come to mind when thinking of Hakone. There are 17 hot spring sources in the area of Hakone, also known as Hakone Ju-nana-yu (Hakone 17), including the most famous Yumoto, Kowakudani and Sengoku. Each onsen area offers different water quality and subsequent health and/or beauty benefits. Some require bathing suits and others allow tattoos .

Located in the west part of Kanagawa prefecture , Hakone attracts numerous tourists all year round with a range of tourist attractions and scenic spots around. Because Hakone is easily accessible from Tokyo, it takes only 1.5 hours to get to the area from Tokyo by train, it is a popular day trip destination as well! 

Popular attractions around Hakone Yumoto Onsen

• Lake Ashi : a large crater lake offering a peaceful cruise with the stunning views of Mt. Fuji. 
• Hakone Shrine : a sacred shrine dating back around 1,300 years that stands in the peaceful forests by the lake.
• The Hakone Open-air Museum : Beautiful museum with a variety of unique exhibits displayed inside and outside of the museum in harmony with nature around.

Take the Odakyu Romancecar from JR Shinjuku Station and get off at Hakone Yumoto Station (1.5 hrs, ¥2,330).

2. Kusatsu Onsen (Gunma) 3-4 hours

Kusatsu is a traditional onsen town that is located in Gunma prefecture . The town is famed for its high quality water and especially for its health benefits which are said to cure any kind of illness, except for lovesickness. The hot water field known as yubatake is the symbol of Kusatsu Onsen. A total of 32,000 liters of hot water gushes out of the hot spring per minute, and yubatake in the center of the town is the place where the piping hot water is cooled down. There are over 100 Japanese ryokan offering relaxing onsen experiences around the city. It also produces the largest amount of hot spring water as a solo onsen resort in Japan. Once you step into the city, you will soon realize the unique smell of sulfate that embraces the entire city! 

Popular attractions in Kusatsu Onsen 

• Kusatsu Yubatake : The symbolic spot known as the “hot water field” that is situated in the center of the city. It looks like a giant pool storing a large amount of hot spring water and is especially beautiful when illuminated at night!
• Nishinokawara Park : This is a nice quiet park with a number of hot spring sources, free foot baths, and seasonal plants around.
• Yumomi (Netsunoyu) : Enjoy traditional performances to cool down the hot spring water!

Take the limited express Tokkyu Kusatsu from JR Ueno Station. Get off at Naganohara Kusatsuguchi Station. It takes 20 min to get to Kusatsu Onsen by bus (3-3.5 hrs, ¥5,450).

3. Ikaho Onsen (Gunma)

Gunma Prefecture is also home to another famous hot spring destination called Ikaho . It is located on the foot of Mt. Haruna and is known for the 365 symbolic stone steps running through the main district of the village. On each side of the steps, you can find a variety of attractions such as traditional Japanese inns, gift shops, restaurants, and other entertainment spots.

Explore the peaceful town along the stone steps until you finally reach Ikaho Shrine standing at the top. The colors of water of Ikaho also make it unique: golden and silver water that deliver different types of health benefits!

Popular attractions in Ikaho Onsen 

• Ikaho Shrine : An iconic and historical shrine offering a panoramic view of Mt. Haruna & other surrounding peaks!
• Kajika Bridge : The perfect spot to enjoy stunning autumn leaves from the bridge beautifully painted in red.

Take the limited express Tokkyu Kusatsu from JR Ueno Station and get off at Shibukawa Kusatsuguchi Station. From there it takes 30 min to get to Ikaho Onsen by bus (2–2.5 hrs, ¥4,200)

4. Nasu Onsen (Tochigi)

Nasu is a famous hot spring resort in Tochigi Prefecture that draws almost 5 million visitors every year. The first hot spring facility is said to be founded around 630, and Nasu Onsen has since then developed as a popular onsen destination with its beautiful natural surroundings. It consists of 7 separate areas with different hot spring sources, scattered across the mountainside. Visitors can try each of them while receiving a range of benefits and effects!   

Popular attractions in Nasu Onsen:

• Mt. Nasu : A scenic mountain offering panoramic views.
• Killing Stone : A large rock that vents poisonous gasses.
• Minamigaoka Ranch : Admission-free ranch with a range of outdoor activities and interaction with animals.

Take the Tohoku Shinkansen to Nasushiobara Station (70 min, ¥5,390). From there switch to local buses from there, depending on which hot spring facilities you want to visit it will take about 40-60 min (¥300).

5. Kinugawa Onsen (Tochigi)

Kinugawa is another onsen resort in Tochigi Prefecture , near the popular Nikko area. It was discovered in the Edo period about 260 years ago and at the time only notable monks and feudal clans visiting Nikko were granted permission to enjoy the hot spring. It was later opened to the public, and developed as one of the most famous onsen resorts in the Kanto region . In the 1970’s tourism was booming here and many large ryokan facilities were built. After the recession in the 1990’s some went out of business and the abandoned buildings give an interesting vibe to the area. The water is relatively mild and safe even for those who have sensitive skin, and effective to treat a range of health problems such as fatigue and neuralgia.

Popular tourist attractions Kinugawa Onsen

• Nikko Toshogu Shrine : The famous UNESCO World Heritage Site which enshrines Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogunate of the Tokugawa Shogunate.
• Kinugawa river : An iconic river where you can join memorable river rafting! 
• Tobu World Square : Unique theme park with a number of 1/25 scale reproductions of famous buildings and architectures from all over the world.

Take the Tobu Nikko Kinugawa train from JR Asakusa Station to Kinugawa-Onsen Station (2 hrs, ¥2,890)

6. Gora Onsen (Kanagawa)

Gora Onsen refers to the hot spring area that covers the area around the Gora Station on Hakone Tozan Railway. It is sometimes considered as a part of Hakone Onsen, and welcomes visitors with luxurious inns and different types of hot spring sources. In the early 19 th century, the area experienced rapid development as a holiday villa area for celebrities along with the opening of Gora park. It currently boasts 46 hot spring sources which allows visitors to enjoy different colors of onsen classified into 5 types.  

Popular attractions near Gora Onsen 

• Hakone Ropeway : Symbolic transport system in Hakone area taking you to the popular tourist attractions such as Owakudani Hell Valley (大涌谷).
• Hakone Gora Park : French-style garden with a range of seasonal flowers, cozy cafes, and unique experiences.

Take the Odakyu Romancecar from JR Shinjuku Station to Hakone Yumoto Station. Transfer to Hakone Tozan Railway and get off at Gora Station (2 hrs, ¥2,720)

7. Ito (Shizuoka)

Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Prefecture is a preferred holiday destination because of its easy access from Tokyo (less than 2 hrs) and rich nature. Ito is a coastal city located in the north eastern part of Izu Peninsula along with other famous onsen resorts such as Atami . Ito boasts the third largest output of onsen water per minute with more than 750 sources that can be found around the city. The large volume of onsen water allows visitors to enjoy the 100% natural hot springs directly from the sources without any additives at a number of inns and hotels in the area.      

Popular attractions near Ito: 

• Jogasaki Coast : Enjoy the stunning coastline scenery and enjoy a refreshing hike.
• Mt. Omuro : A 580 meters extinct volcano offering a panoramic view of Mt. Fuji!

Take the limited express JR Odoriko from Shinagawa Station. It takes you directly to Ito Station without transfer (1.5 hrs/ ¥4,200). You can also take the Shinkansen to JR Atami Station and transfer to JR Ito Line.

8. Shuzenji (Shizuoka)

A 1.5 hour train ride east from Ito city takes you to Shuzenji, another hot spring resort situated in the mountainous area of Izu Peninsula. Shuzenji is known as the oldest onsen resort on the Izu peninsula, it is said to date back to the early 9 th century. The peaceful area has also been visited and is loved by many famous novelists and writers such as Mori Ogai and Natsume Soseki. 

Popular attractions near Shuzenji: 

• Shuzenji Bamboo Path : Walk through the beautiful bamboo grove while immersing yourself in the sacred atmosphere.
• Shuzenji Temple : Pay a visit to the symbolic temple located in the heart of the city.
• Joren Waterfall : The perfect spot for a refreshing stroll along with the scenic waterfall.

Take the limited express JR Odoriko from Shinagawa station that will take you to Shuzenji Station without transfer (2 hrs, ¥4,800). You can also take the Shinkansen to JR Mishima station and transfer to the Izu Hakone Railway. 

9. Manza Onsen (Gunma)

Located at 1,800 meters above sea level, Manza Onsen welcomes visitors with some of the most fascinating landscapes that you can enjoy from an onsen. Manza Onsen is a part of Joshinetsu-Kogen National Park that covers vast areas including Gunma, Nagano, and Niigata prefecture across borders. The milky-white water contains a large amount of sulfur, which has a positive effect on your blood flow and metabolism. It is also known as a perfect ski destination during the winter season !  

Popular attractions near Manza Onsen 

• Manza Onsen Prince Ski Resort : Enjoy an exciting ski experience and refreshing hot springs!
• Manza Onsen Nisshinkan : Treat yourself to the open-air hot spring and buffet-style dishes! 

Take the bus, Shinkansen, or local train to Karuizawa Station or Kazawaguchi Station. Transfer to the Seibu Kanko Bus and get off at Manza Bus Terminal (3-4 hrs, ¥5,000- ¥9,000, depending on your mode of transportation).

10. Shima Onsen (Gunma)

Shima is a nostalgic onsen resort stretching about 4 km along the Shima river running through Gunma prefecture. It consists of 5 districts that each feature unique tourist attractions and traditional Japanese ryokans.

Sekizenkan is one of the most famous and renowned ryokan offering amazing services. The main building is known as the oldest wooden onsen facility in Japan and is designated as a Important Cultural Property. It is also said that the bath house of Spirited away , the world-famous Ghibli movie, is modeled after the building and the iconic red bridge in front! 

Popular attractions near Shima Onsen 

• Okushimako : Take a refreshing stroll around the beautiful artificial lake while exploring the surrounding nature that changes for each season! 
• Shima no Oketsu : Naturally created potholes that can be spotted in the crystal-clear flow of Shima river.

Taking the highway bus is the easiest and cheapest way to get to Shima Onsen from Tokyo (3.5 hrs, ¥3,150).

It can be a little bit challenging to take a public bath if you have no onsen experience before. You may feel embarrassed in the beginning, but gradually get used to it and start to feel comfortable as you soak your body in the relaxing hot water. It is also enjoyable to combine your onsen trip with exploring the surrounding area and trying local food or visit famous tourist attractions. You might think winter is not suitable for onsen because of the cold weather, but it is actually the perfect season to enjoy it as the temperature of onsen is generally higher than usual bath. Let yourself unwind in the natural-heated hot springs while enjoying the stunning sceneries created by the white snow!

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10 Beautiful Mountain Onsen in Japan For Outdoor Lovers

A lot of Japan’s best and most beautiful  outdoor hot springs  and onsen towns are located  high up in the mountains . Once you start looking for a  beautiful mountain onsen  you will literally find hundreds of them. So it can be really hard to decide which one you should give a try.

To help you with your choice I have spent more than a week checking and comparing all the major and remote  mountain onsen  and onsen ryokans in Japan. No matter if you are looking for a nice  onsen after a long hike through Japan’s Alps  or if you are looking for a nice  hot spring to warm you up after hitting the piste , you will find the right  mountain onsen  below.

Each hot spring and onsen ryokan has its very own charm and they are in beautiful outdoor regions all over Japan. But all of the  onsens  are either  high up in the mountains  or have  breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains . I have also tried my best to include  mountain onsens  that you can visit as a  day trip from  major tourist destinations like  Tokyo ,  Osaka ,  Kyoto , and Nagoya.

Beautiful Mountain Onsen For a Day Trip

1. hakuba highland hotel (near nagano).

Location:  Hakuba, Nagano, Nagano Prefecture

General Information:  Hakuba Highland Hotel (白馬 ハイランド ホテル) is all the way up in the north of Nagano Prefecture, near Niigata Prefecture and Toyama Prefecture. The village was the main venue for the Winter Olympics 1998 and is now a popular and internationally renowned ski resort.

From Nagano city, there is a direct bus to Hakuba Station. It takes about 90 minutes and costs 2,000円 (about $20 or 20€). Or you take the Hokuriku-Shinkansen and the JR Oito Line. It will take longer, 2.5 hours, but it is covered by the JR pass. If you take the Shinkansen to Nagano you can go there as a day trip from Tokyo.

Mountain Onsen:  From 11:00 – 20:00 o’clock the onsen also opens its doors for non-staying guests. The onsen is located 700 meters above sea level and offers a magnificent mountain view of Japan’s Northern Alps. You can see them from both, the 10 meters wide outdoor pool with a lie-down bath and the indoor bath.

In winter you will be able to take a bath being surrounded by snow, while in spring you will have the beautiful snow-covered mountains in the back. What’s also special about this onsen is that you can often see the mountains being reflected on the surface of the outdoor bath which looks insanely beautiful.

Private Onsen:  The hot spring spa also has a private onsen for rental, but only for guests staying overnight. The fee is 3,000円 (about $30 or 25€) for 50 minutes. You can make a reservation for the same day at the front desk.

Access:  15 minutes from Hakuba Station

Price:  700円 (about $7 or 6€), each month on the 26th just 400円

Website:   www.hakuba-highland.net  (Japanese)

2. Yama no Hoteru Musouen (Near Beppu)

Location:  Yufuin Onsen, Oita Prefecture

General Information:  Yama no Hoteru Musouen (夢想園) is a tranquil hot spring ryokan surrounded by mountains. It is located in the southern part of Yufuin, a popular hot spring resort. Beppu, one of Japan’s most famous onsen towns , and its scorching but colorful Hells (Jigoku) are just around the corner too.

So this ryokan is the perfect base to explore Japan’s beautiful southern island Kyushu. From Beppu, you can come here in about 1 hour and from Hakata Station (Fukuoka) it will take you a bit more than 2 hours via the JR Kyudai Line Limited Express.

Mountain View Onsen:  Musouen has extremely spacious open-air baths with one of the best panoramic views in Yufuin. Kukai no Yu, the women’s open-air bath measures 273.6 square meters. Gomuso no Yu, the men’s rotenburo is about 182.4 square meters large.

From the hot tubs, you can overlook the Yufuin Basin and on clear days you can see the twin peaks of Mt. Yufu. Besides the awesome view, you can also enjoy and feel the long history of this traditional and beautiful onsen ryokan. Their oldest outdoor bath Kobo no Yu enshrines a Kobo stone with ties to Gomuso Onsen, a hot spring that has been flowing for 600 years.

As a non-staying guest, you can bathe here from 10:00 – 15:30 o’clock. On certain days certain baths are unavailable, though. So check before you come or you won’t be able to enjoy the view. Monday, Tuesday, and weekends seem best.

Private Onsen:  The onsen has two private family baths. One open-air bath, and one indoor bath. You don’t need to reserve them. As long as the door is open and they are unoccupied, you are welcome to use them. However, they can only be used by families and groups.

Access:  19 minutes from Yufuin Station, 7 minutes by taxi from Yufuin Station

Price:  900円 (about $9 or 8€)

Website:   www.musouen.co.jp

3. Hottarakashi Onsen (Near Tokyo)

Location:  Yamanashi, near Kofu, Yamanashi Prefecture

General Information:  Hottarakashi Onsen (ほったらかし温泉) is a famous hot spring with superb views of Mt. Fuji and is also known for its scenic sunrise and beautiful night view. You can get here in 2 – 3 hours from Tokyo by JR Limited Express train on the Chuo Line towards Kofu.

The train ride is covered by the JR Pass but after getting off at Yamanashishi Station you have to take a taxi since there is no public transportation to the onsen. Taxis are quite expensive in Japan and the 10 minutes to the onsen will be 2,400円 (about $24 or 20€). You can also combine the onsen visit with a trip to Kawaguchiko (Fuji Five Lakes).

Mt. Fuji View Onsen:  The natural hot spring water comes from an alkali hot spring that isn’t too strong and therefore good for people with sensitive skin. From the outdoor bath, you can overlook the countryside northeast of Kofu and see Mt. Fuji in the distance. The view is spectacular during the day when you can see Japan’s iconic volcano and at night when you see the sparkling lights of the city below you.

Hottarakashi Onsen’s view is so beautiful that it has been featured in the anime Yuru Camp△. You can soak here from as early as 4:30 or 5:30 (1 hour before sunrise) until 22:00 o’clock

If you have a tattoo you can still come here for a soak. It’s a tattoo-friendly onsen !

Access:  10 minutes by taxi from Yamanashishi Station

Price:  800円 (about $8 or 8€)

Website:   www.hottarakashi-onsen.com  (Japanese)

4. Hotel Associa Takayama Resort (Near Nagoya)

Location:  Takayama, Gifu Prefecture

General Information:  Hotel Associa Takayama Resort (飛騨高山 ホテルアソシア高山リゾート) is a refined hot spring resort located in the mountainous Hida region of Gifu Prefecture. When I traveled through all 47 prefectures, Takayama was by far one of the most beautiful cities of my entire trip. But not only the city itself the whole region is just gorgeous.

Gifu’s hot spring towns Okuhida and especially Gero Onsen in the south are renowned for their natural onsen baths, special water quality, and traditional ryokans. Charming Shirakawago is also just a day trip away and let’s not forget about Hida beef, which is even better than Kobe beef, in my opinion!

From Nagoya Station, you can take the JR Hida Line all the way to Takayama Station. The one-way trip takes about 2.5 hours.

Mountain View Onsen:  As a guest, you can use the hotel’s onsen facilities for free. Non-staying guests can use the free shuttle service to the hotel and enjoy the onsen spa from 12:00 – 21:00 o’clock. The hotel has 1 bathing area for each gender, Ten no Yu on the 7th floor, and Bou no Yu, on the 5th floor. They change on a daily basis, so when you are staying overnight you are able to enjoy all baths.

From both outdoor baths, you have a mountain view and can see the Northern Alps, though, so you don’t have to worry. But, of course, the view from the higher floor is a bit nicer. In total, the spa has 10 different outdoor baths, 2 indoor baths, a jacuzzi, and a low-temperature sauna.

Access:  35 minutes from Takayama Station, 8 minutes by free shuttle bus from Takayama Station

Price:  1,200円 (about $12 or 10€)

Website: www.associa.com

5. Spa Resort Ryokan Hakone Ginyu (Near Tokyo)

Location:  Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture

General Information:  Spa Resort Ryokan Hakone Ginyu (箱根吟遊) is an attractive 4-star Onsen Ryokan located in the mountains of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. The whole region is a true nature paradise but especially Hakone is famous for its hot springs, Lake Ashinoko, and beautiful views of Mt. Fuji. It is a popular destination for Japanese and international outdoor lovers and counts as one of the best hot spring resorts near Tokyo.

It just takes 90 minutes to get here from Japan’s capital. Just hop on the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen towards Odawara and transfer to the local network of buses, trains, cable cars, and ropeways. Together with Nikko, it is probably the most popular day trip from Tokyo.

Mountain Onsen:  Before you get too excited about this ryokan there is one thing you need to know, though. Non-staying guests can only use the onsen in combination with a treatment at the day spa. And the treatments start at 10,000円 (about $95 or 85€) and need to be booked beforehand.

But if you decide to turn your onsen visit into a full spa day you will be rewarded with one of the most beautiful and colorful mountain views of all the mountain onsens mentioned in this post. From an altitude of 420 meters, the onsen ryokan is offering close views of the Hakone Mountains and the Hayakawa ravine. In summer you will be surrounded by lush green. In autumn you can enjoy the hot onsen bath and the red autumn leaves.

Private Onsen:  If you want to spend a romantic evening with a special someone this might be one of the most romantic onsens you can find. They have a private onsen that can be booked at night from 21:00 – 23:00 o’clock for just 12,000円 (about $112 or 100€). You can bring your own CD and you will have a bartender serving you drinks. For a little extra you can even get champagne, a birthday cake, flowers, or candles. Perfect for an anniversary or honeymoon. In case you decide to stay here you will have a private onsen on the open terrace of your room.

Access:  5 minutes from Miyanoshita Station, 30 minutes by bus from Odawara Station

Price:  10,000円 (about $95 or 85€)

Website:   www.hakoneginyu.co.jp

6. Maguse Onsen (Near Nagano)

Location:  Kijimadaira, Near Nagano, Nagano Prefecture

General Information:  Maguse Onsen (馬曲温泉) is about 45 kilometers further north of Nagano city in the middle of the mountains. By Shinkansen it will only take you 11 minutes to Iyama Station but after that public access is extremely limited and you probably need to get a taxi for the 15 minutes up to the hot spring.

The extremely foreigner-friendly ski resort and hot spring town Nozawa Onsen is in the same region less than 30 minutes away.

Mountain Onsen:  This Onsen was rated as one of the top hot springs in Eastern Japan. It is also one of Japan’s most traditional onsens and its baths have been around since 1987. The spring is 100% natural and can ease nerve pain, and muscle pain, and it has a lot of beauty benefits for your skin , too.

The gender-separated bath features an indoor bath and a spectacular rotenburo surrounded by nature and mountains. On clear days you can see Japan’s Northern Alps in the distance. In winter it will turn into a snow onsen and in autumn you can see beautiful fall colors. You can take a bath from 8:00 – 21:00 o’clock except for Wednesdays and irregular holidays.

Access:  15 minutes by taxi from Iyama Station

Price:  500円 (about $5 or 5€)

Website:   www.maguse-onsen.com

7. Okame Hot Spring (Near Osaka, Kyoto)

Location:  Soni Kogen, Nara Prefecture

General Information:  Okame Hot Spring, also known as Soni Kogen Onsen Okame no Yu (曽爾高原温泉 お亀の湯) is an unexplored area in the tranquil Soni River basin. It is located at the northeastern end of Nara Prefecture and next to Mie Prefecture. The area is well known for the most beautiful sunset in Japan, Soni Highland’s golden and green pampas grass, and the mountain that looks like the back of a turtle, Mt. Kame. You can also see some of the latest cherry blossoms in the Kansai region.

From Nara or Ise you can get here in 90 minutes. While from Kyoto, Osaka, and Nagoya you can get here in about 2 – 3 hours.

Mountain View Onsen:  Okame Hot Spring’s water quality was ranked as No. 1 in Western Japan. The onsen features two gender-separated types of bathrooms with relaxing open-air baths. A Stone Bath and a Wood Bath are alternated on a weekly basis. From the rotenburo in the Wood Bath, you can see Mt. Kabuto and Mt. Yoroi. From the open-air tub in the Stone Bath, you can see Soni Highland. Spring is the most recommended season for a soak at this onsen.

From April until the end of November, the bath is open from 11:00 – 21:00 o’clock (last admission 20:00). And from December until the end of March the business hours are from 11:00 – 20:30 o’clock (last admission 19:30). On Wednesdays and the day after a national holiday, the bath is usually closed.

Access:  45 minutes by bus from Nabari Station, 2 hours by bus from Osaka, 2.5 hours by bus from Nagoya

Price:  750円 (about $7 or 7€)

Website:   www.soni-kogen.com  (English PDF available)

8. Manza Onsen Nisshin Kan

Location:  Manza Onsen, Gunma Prefecture

General Information:  Manza Onsen Nisshin Kan (万座温泉 日進舘) is a 4-star hotel located on the slopes of Mount Shirane in Gunma Prefecture. This onsen town’s excellent hot spring water is one of the most sulfuric in all of Japan and provides various health benefits. The town naturally produces 5.4 million liters of hot spring water. From Tokyo, you can come here in about 3 hours.

Another very famous onsen town in Gunma Prefecture, Kusatsu Onsen, is also just around the corner.

Mountain Onsen:  Nisshinkan’s gender-separated hot spring bath is at an altitude of 1,800 meters with a magnificent panoramic view of the surrounding mountains during the day and a sky filled with countless stars at night. In total, the bath features 8 outdoor and indoor baths. Gokuraku-Yu is one you can see in the picture above.

Mansa Onsen is also one of the closest and best winter onsen towns near Tokyo to enjoy an outdoor bath in the snow. The indoor pool is really beautiful, too, with beautiful wooden architecture that’s actually best to admire in the summer months.

Private Onsen:  This onsen has a private indoor hot spring that can be rented for 2,000円 (about $20 or 18€). You can reserve it for 45 minutes from 7:00 – 22:00 o’clock. Reservations are only accepted for the same day.

Access:  40 minutes by bus from Manza-Kazawaguchi Station, or 1:40 hours from Karuizawa Station

Price:  1,000円 (about $10 or 8€)

Website:   www.manza.co.jp

9. Ryounkaku (Hokkaido)

Location:  Tokachidake Onsen, Near Furano & Biei, Hokkaido Prefecture

General Information:  Ryounkaku (凌雲閣) is a relaxed hot spring located in Tokachidake Onsen in the south of Daisetsuzan National Park. The park is Hokkaido’s largest national park and a paradise for hikers and outdoor lovers. Asahidake, Hokkaido’s highest mountain, is the first place to see autumn leaves and snow in Japan.

Tokachidake Onsen is a small hot spring town with four different onsen ryokans halfway up the active volcano Mount Tokachidake. From Furano, the onsen is about 1 hour, from Asahikawa it will take about 2.5 hours. In summer you can combine the trip with a lavender farm visit. Biei’s famous Shriogane Blue Pons is also nearby.

Mountain Onsen:  Ryounkaku’s onsen and rotenburo are at an elevation of 1,280 meters above sea level, about halfway up the mountains. It offers spectacular views of the volcano and the rest of the Tokachidake Mountains. The view will be the best in late September and early October when the autumn colors are at their peak. Even though this is a very simple and small onsen, it is kinda special because of its reddish-brownish water.

The unique color of the water comes from the acidic nature of its two natural hot springs. Like other onsen water, this one has a lot of health and beauty benefits, too, and it can even help with chronic skin diseases. However, if you have sensitive skin make sure to shower after the onsen. Day guests are welcome and can use the gender-separated hot spring spa from 8:00 – 20:00 o’clock.

Access:  40 minutes by bus from Kami-Furano Station

Price:  800円 (about $8 or 8€)

Website:   www.ryounkaku.jp

10. Hotel Kazubarashi (Iya Valley)

Location:  Iya Valley, Tokushima Prefecture

General Information:  Hotel Kazubarashi (ホテルかずら橋) is a 2-star hotel nestled in the remote mountains of the Iya Valley in Tokushima Prefecture (Shikoku Island). The valley is famous for its adventurous vine bridges “Kazurabashi” (only for the brave) and the azure blue waters of the Oboke Gorge. From Takamatsu, Tokushima, and Okayama, you can come here in about 2 – 3 hours. If you use the Shinkansen you could even come here on a day trip from Osaka, Kobe, or Himeji.

Mountain Onsen:  Kazubarashi Onsen’s special feature is that you will reach its high-altitude outdoor baths by cable car. The bath has a gender-separated indoor bath and a gender-separated outdoor bath. You can also enjoy an Ashi-yu (hot spring footbath). After the special ride with the cable car up to the outdoor baths, you will have stunning views of Iya Valley’s steep mountain slopes and rocky gorges. In the fall, this is also a really good place to see Momiji – the beautiful autumn foliage.

Day visitors can use the onsen facilities from 10:30 – 16:00 o’clock.

Private Onsen:  The hotel has a private bath and also a rentable Goemonburo, but only for staying guests.

Access:  20 minutes by bus from JR Oboke Station

Website:   www.kazurabashi.co.jp

Bonus: Beautiful Mountain Onsen

Takamine Onsen Hot Spring  – One of the highest onsens in Japan. It is located in Nagano at an altitude of 2,000 meters above sea level. Compared to other secret hot springs it is fairly easy to access. If you are into hiking and outdoors you will love the wooden rustic bathtubs as much as I do.

Kurikoma Sanso  – A beautiful onsen at an elevation of 1,126 meters in the mountains in Akita Prefecture. Spectacular views of the nature surrounding Mt. Kurikoma, but information on the website and in English is very, very limited…

More Onsen and Hot Springs You Might Like

• 10 beautiful beach and ocean view onsen
• 10 beautiful river onsen and waterfall-view hot springs
• 5 snow onsen near Tokyo
• 8 romantic onsen for couples
• 8 onsen for families with children
• 32 tattoo-friendly onsen and hot spring ryokan in Japan

Hey. I'm Alex. I've been living in Japan since 2015. Before moving to Tokyo, I traveled through Japan for 7 months to visit all 47 prefectures. Traveling and living in Japan has been so much fun and such an incredible experience that I decided to write about it. Hopefully, my articles help you to get the most out of your trip and to fully enjoy your time in Japan! Feel for free follow me on Twitter and/or Instagram .

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• Yamagata City & Around

Ginzan Onsen 銀山温泉

Ginzan shinhata, Obanazawa-shi, Yamagata-ken

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Unwind, relax and step back in time

Founded on the site of a former silver mine in rural Yamagata, Ginzan Onsen Hot Spring caters to discerning guests with a taste for old-world atmosphere.

Traditional inns line the river to create picturesque scenes more evocative of a Taisho period (1912-26) novel than a modern resort. It's a long way from big city life and well worth the trip.

• Stroll along Ginzan River and the town's pedestrianized streets in your yukata
• Visit Shirogane Park and cool yourself by its waterfalls
• Stay overnight and dine at one of Ginzan Onsen's many hot spring inns
• Take an outdoor rotenburo bath or enjoy a private kashikiri soak

How to Get There

Ginzan Onsen can be accessed by a combination of JR trains and buses.

Visitors traveling by car are required to park at a designated parking area outside the town center. Many inns offer a shuttle service into town from the lot.

Get to know the onsen-kyo

Popular among Japanese travelers, the term onsen-kyo is associated with small, quaint towns and cozy inns that offer accommodation, food and hot spring bathing. As weekend retreats, they are popular with all age groups, from young families to retirees. This cherished aspect of travel in Japan often goes unnoticed by foreign visitors, so live like a local and dive into onsen-kyo culture.

The area is a car-free town center with no modern buildings in sight.

Having checked into one of the town's many inns, visitors walk the streets without the usual concern of cars zipping past to beat the traffic light.

In the proud tradition of Japanese inns, Ginzan Onsen's ryokan offer up sumptuous local dishes to meet the standards of their mostly Japanese clientele.

Such stuff as dreams are made of

Beautiful buildings surrounded by an unspoiled rural setting ensure that Ginzan Onsen is pleasant all year round. Long summer days are perfect for lazy strolls down idyllic streets in a yukata. In winter, the town really works its magic. The sight of the buildings blanketed in snow and illuminated by the soft glow of gaslights leaves a lasting impression.

The finer points of hot spring bathing

Rotenburo are outdoor baths-usually hidden from outside view-which allow you to take in the surrounding scenery from the comfort of a hot spring. Another attractive option is arranging a kashikiri session in a private bath, whereby you and traveling companions can have a tub all to yourselves for a short time.

Silver everything

Unsurprisingly for a town founded on a silver mine, Ginzan Onsen takes both its name (literally, Silver Mountain) and iconography from the element. The popular Shirogane Park boasts an impressive 22 meter tall waterfall, and you'll also find an illuminated cave which is well-lit and ideal for taking pictures.

Old meets new meets old

Ginzan Onsen's one notable concession to modernity is the Fujiya ryokan, a striking building designed by famed architect Kuma Kengo. With a blend of modern and traditional elements, including the incorporation of bare timber and white plaster, it stands out from its surroundings while also keeping one foot firmly in the past.

* The information on this page may be subject to change due to COVID-19.

• Hot Springs (Onsen)

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14 Best Onsen in Kyoto | Natural Hot Springs in a Historical City

Published on 2022-09-13 by Sakura Mobile

Photo courtesy of Rurinohama

Are you looking to relax in an onsen after a day of exploration in Kyoto?

There are many ryokan (Japanese-style inns) and sento (public baths) in the city where you can really take in the culture of Japan while bathing in a natural onsen.

In this article, we will be covering spots where you can enjoy a day trip to an onsen, lodges with onsen where you can stay overnight, as well as facilities that offer private onsen. Going to a hot spring can be an indispensable part of a visit to Kyoto, so we hope that this helps you in planning your trip.

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Table of Contents

• Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu
• Funaoka Onsen
• Kyoto Hot Springs Hatoya Zuihokaku Hotel
• KURAMA ONSEN
• Ohara Sanso
• Minshuku Oohara-no-sato
• dormy inn PREMIUM Kyoto Ekimae
• Sumiya Kiho-an
• Syoenso Hozugawatei
• Arima Onsen
• Kinosaki Onsen
• Shirahama Onsen

Onsen you can visit on a day trip

If you are only spending a day in Kyoto or have plans to stay somewhere without an onsen, you might want to try out hot springs that are meant specifically for day trips.

The following are locations where you can experience a natural onsen without having to rent a whole hotel room.

Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu (さがの温泉 天山の湯)

Located about 30 minutes by both train and car from Kyoto Station, Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu is what is known as a “super sento,” which is a public bathing facility that offers multiple different types of baths. Note that Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu is quite strict about body art, so those with tattoos should look for a different place.

Here, you can try out a variety of saunas, indoor and outdoor baths, and even onsen just meant for you to dip your feet in. Every weekend in the summer and winter there are light projection shows in the outdoor bath; the visuals differ depending on the season.

In addition to the baths, there are multiple options for spa treatments such as massages and aroma therapy.

The establishment is open from 10:00 am to 1:00 am, giving you plenty of time to try out everything Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu has to offer.

Information

• Price : 1,010 JPY/adult, 500 JPY/child, admission for infants free
• Address : 55-4-7 Saganomiya no Motocho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8315 ( Google MAP )
• Tattoo Friendly : No
• Visit Official Site

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Funaoka Onsen (船岡温泉)

Funaoka Onsen is what is called a “sento.” These establishments are more meant for the bath than the relaxation aspect and have a very local and old-fashioned feel to them. Although it is quite uncommon to find in this day and age, people who live in housing without a bath would frequent the sento.

Funaoka Onsen was the first in Japan to install an “electric bath,” which emits low-frequency waves of electricity, causing your muscles to contract and helping blood flow. Some people find these baths uncomfortable, but it is definitely worth trying out at least once.

Funaoka Onsen also has a guest house that is rented out to one party per day. It is the most affordable if you stay with more people, so it is recommended for those who are traveling with a large party.

Thanks to the low prices of the bath, this is the perfect place for those who want to try out an onsen for a cheap price while also getting the true local experience.

• Price : 430 JPY/adult, 150 JPY/child, 60 JPY/infant
• Address : 82-1 Murasakino Minamifunaokacho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8225 ( Google MAP )
• Tattoo Friendly : ?

Kyoto Hot Springs Hatoya Zuihokaku Hotel (京湯元 ハトヤ瑞鳳閣)

Kyoto Hot Springs Hatoya Zuihokaku Hotel is, as the name suggests, a hotel and not just a public bath. However, they offer special plans for those who want to just dip in the hot springs on a day trip.

The onsen features an extremely spacious indoor area, as well as all kinds of amenities for before, during, and after your bath. Kyoto Onsen is a hot spring with thousands of years of history, and also contains loads of minerals that are said to have healing effects on the skin.

If you want to take advantage of the day trip onsen, you will have three plans to choose from. The price changes depending on the meal that you order, with a traditional Japanese meal being the most expensive.

The time slots are decided for you (starting at 11:30 am for food and then ending at 3:00 pm with the bath), so Kyoto Hot Springs Hatoya Zuihokaku Hotel may be a good choice for those who want some structure to their day. On the flip side of that, you may want to choose more of a sento-like establishment if you want a bit more freedom.

• Price : Between 3,000 JPY and 5,000 JPY per person
• Address : 8802 Minamifudodocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8234 ( Google MAP )

Ryokan and hotels with onsen for overnight trips

This section is for those who are looking to spend the night somewhere with a natural hot spring.

These lodges come in all shapes and sizes, from traditional Japanese ryokan to more modern and western-style hotels. You will be sure to find one that fits your needs as well as your budget.

KURAMA ONSEN (くらま温泉)

KURAMA ONSEN is located north of the city in a secluded area; it will take you about an hour using local trains and buses. The guest suites are all Japanese-style with a great view of the surrounding forest.

Every year, the local city hosts the Kurama Fire Festival, which is one of the biggest festivals in Kyoto. Men carry huge torches that burn deep into the night and chants can be heard throughout the city as they proceed toward the shrine.

KURAMA ONSEN becomes extremely crowded and reservations become decided lottery style. Note that during this event the prices will increase as well, but the festival is undoubtedly an event worth seeing.

The public outdoor bath is both spacious and scenic, making KURAMA ONSEN one of the best places to experience the nature that Kyoto has to offer. You will also be able to enjoy traditional Japanese food made with local ingredients.

KURAMA ONSEN is temporarily closed as of now (September 2022), but as travelers start to enter Japan again we are hopeful that they will reopen their doors soon; we hope that you will give them a visit when the time comes.

• Price : Starting at around 15,000 JPY per person
• Address : 520 Kuramahonmachi, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 601-1111 ( Google MAP )
• Tattoo Friendly : Yes for internationals, Japanese people with tattoos not allowed

Ohara Sanso (大原山荘)

Ohara Sanso is what is referred to as a “minshuku,” which is a local, smaller-scale inn. They are usually run by families and are much less formal than a ryokan. This may give you the impression of a hostel or a bed and breakfast, but the rooms at Ohara Sanso are all very modern and clean.

There are both indoor and outdoor baths, all filled with natural hot spring water. The water is easy on the skin and will help with nerve pain and blood circulation. If you want more privacy, there is also an indoor bath that is available to rent for 2,000 JPY an hour.

For those looking for a place to relax in the afternoon on the weekends, Ohara Sanso has a café where you can enjoy a drink while dipping in an “ashiyu,” an onsen meant for only your feet.

Ohara Sanso also offers a pottery painting experience where you can paint your own piece and take it home with you. These pieces are called “rakuyaki,” a specific type of Japanese pottery which is hand-shaped and fired at lower temperatures.

The pottery shop is currently closed as of September 2022, but this is certainly something to check out when it is available again. The experience is very affordable, costing between 1,100 and 2,800 JPY depending on what kind of pottery you choose.

• Price : Starting at around 11,000 JPY per person
• Address : 17 Oharakusaocho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 601-1248 ( Google MAP )
• Tattoo Friendly : Small tattoos OK, those with visible tattoos should use the private onsen

Minshuku Oohara-no-sato (大原温泉 大原の里)

Minshuku Oohara-no-sato is another lodge that features an at-home atmosphere and cheaper prices than your average ryokan. It is located about an hour by bus from Kyoto station, making it a good getaway location from the city.

When staying here, you can expect to have an authentic Japanese cultural experience. In the winter the rooms are equipped with a heated table (called a “kotatsu”) and you can expect to be sleeping on the tatami floors in a futon. The outdoor bath is large (fitting up to four people) and is surrounded by the inn’s beautiful garden.

The sister store of Oohara-no-sato is a miso shop that has been making homemade miso for over 100 years. With hot pot being one of the local dishes of Oohara, it just makes sense to serve miso hot pot. Minshuku Oohara-no-sato does not serve the traditional Japanese course meal but instead has a variety of hot pots to choose from.

Minshuku Oohara-no-sato is accommodating to all kinds of guests, so we recommend this lodge for anyone’s first stay at a Japanese-style inn. They are aware of religious restrictions so there are cases where you can wear a swimsuit in the bath and there are also vegetarian options for food.

• Price : Starting at around 15,500 JPY per person
• Address : 41 Oharakusaocho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 601-1248 ( Google MAP )
• Tattoo Friendly : OK if covered

dormy inn PREMIUM Kyoto Ekimae (ドーミーイン PREMIUM 京都駅前)

dormy inn PREMIUM Kyoto Ekimae has the best location for anyone who wants to stay directly outside of Kyoto Station. You will have some of the best access to Kyoto’s most popular tourist spots.

This lodge belongs to a chain of hotels all around Japan that are well-used by many travelers to the country due to their good locations and reasonable prices. Be sure to take advantage of the food, as they serve free noodles at night.

You might not expect to find a hot spring in the middle of the city, but dormy inn PREMIUM Kyoto Ekimae has a large public bath on the 9th floor with natural onsen water. The bath is open starting at 3:00 pm and stays open until the next morning so you can even enjoy a late-night bath.

Because dormy inn is a hotel and not a ryokan, you will not be looking to stay in a guest suite with a whole lot of Japanese culture or tradition. We recommend dormy inn for those who are traveling on a budget but still want to experience a natural onsen.

• Price : Starting at around 6,000 JPY per person
• Address : 558-8 Higashishiokojicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8216 ( Google MAP )

Related Article

• 11 Best Ryokan in Kyoto | Ryokan Near the Center of the City

Tattoo-friendly, private onsen

It is known to many that Japan is not very accepting of tattoos for cultural and historical reasons.

However, various establishments are becoming more welcoming to those with tattoos. Below are a few that you can find in Kyoto.

Sumiya Kiho-an (湯の花温泉 すみや亀峰菴)

Sumiya Kiho-an is a ryokan located on the east side of Kyoto deep in the mountains. It is an hour’s drive from both Kobe and Osaka as well, making it a good location for people living in the neighboring prefectures of Kyoto.

Sumiya Kiho-an is a luxury ryokan, which means its rooms, baths, and service are all up to par with the price. The most expensive suites have a private outdoor onsen attached.

The public bath is huge with both an indoor and outdoor area; the outdoor bath is surrounded by nature and looks very pretty on a sunny day. There is also a spa with various options for treatments that might just be the cherry on top to a relaxing onsen experience.

This ryokan happens to provide the most Australian wine out of any other ryokan in Japan. Known for going well with food, we recommend that any wine lovers have a glass or two while enjoying the high-quality seasonal Japanese food that Sumiya Kiho-an has to offer.

• Price : Starting at around 50,000 JPY per person
• Address : Miyanooku 25, Hiedanocho, Kakihana, Kameoka, Kyoto 621-0036 ( Google MAP )
• Tattoo Friendly : Private bath OK

Hanaikada (嵐山温泉 彩四季の宿 花筏)

Hanaikada is a ryokan located close to Arashiyama, one of Kyoto’s most famous tourist spots. The lodge emphasizes hospitality, hoping to give guests a taste of the beauty of Kyoto through all five senses.

The public onsen is located on the top floor of the building, giving you a great view of the neighboring river and the surrounding forests. You can choose to rent a room with a private onsen as well.

The food at Hanaikada is made with ingredients taken daily from a market in central Kyoto. The staff are flexible, and the menu changes occasionally according to the requests of the regulars to the ryokan. Unlike other ryokan that only serve one specific course of traditional Japanese food twice a day, you can find a lunch menu and multiple options for dinner.

Hanaikada also puts lots of effort into its guests’ special celebrations with a different menu, flowers, and original drinks. If you are celebrating a birthday or a special occasion, be sure to tell the hotel staff in advance.

• Price : Starting at around 38,000 JPY per person
• Address : 57 Arashiyama Nakaoshitacho, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-0004 ( Google MAP )
• Tattoo Friendly : Yes

Syoenso Hozugawatei (松園荘 保津川亭)

Syoenso Hozugawatei is a ryokan where you can experience the beautiful seasonal weather of Kyoto. It is located about a 30-minute drive from Kyoto Station and you can get there in around the same time using the train as well.

There are eight types of rooms that you can choose from, with three types having a private onsen. Depending on what you are looking for, reserving one of these nicer rooms may be better than renting the private onsen in the public bathing area, which is a bit pricey (5,000 JPY for 50 minutes). This way you can have the freedom to use the bath at whatever time and for however long you want.

The public bath features many different types of baths including a jacuzzi and even a manmade waterfall. The “ashiyu,” an onsen for your feet, is designed to look like a traditional Japanese stage where dance is performed.

• Price : Starting at around 17,000 JPY per person
• Address : Yunohana Onsen, Kameoka, Kyoto, 621-0034 ( Google MAP )

Rurinohama (天然温泉＆プライベート SPA瑠璃浜)

Rurinohama is a hotel that could be considered more like a group of villas by the sea. Those who have not seen the oceans of Kyoto may be interested in staying at this hotel to do it in a high-quality hotel such as this one.

All the rooms at Rurinohama are small separate buildings, all equipped with a private onsen as well as a pool. The bath is spacious (1.3 meters on each side) and the onsen water is filtered so that it is always fresh.

Rurinohama offers barbeque plans for those who want to cook in their rooms. You can borrow a grill and all the other things you will need to cook and the hotel will provide you with the meats and vegetables. If you want to eat at a restaurant, there are options for Japanese food and Italian food as well.

Fireworks are a symbol of summer in Japan, and Rurinohama even allows small-scale fireworks. You can borrow buckets, lighters, and garbage bags from the hotel if you need them. After a barbeque, ending the day lighting fireworks with friends and family is a perfect way to end the night.

• Address : 3100-8 Hioki, Miyazu, Kyoto 626-0225 ( Google MAP )
• 15 Best Private Onsen in Kyoto | Luxury Ryokan with Amazing Views

Onsen town around Kyoto

Although there are many options for onsen in Kyoto, there are also amazing onsen towns to explore if you venture a just bit outside the prefecture.

Below is an introduction to some of the best onsen towns around Kyoto.

Arima Onsen (有馬温泉)

Arima Onsen is located in Hyogo Prefecture, about an hour’s drive from Kyoto Station. If you are taking trains, you can take the bullet train part way or just go by local trains.

There are many onsen in Japan that feature “gold” waters, all of them having large amounts of iron giving them an orange-ish color. Arima Onsen’s golden onsen contains lots of salt, said to be even greater than the ocean.

Arima also has thousands of years of history, and is known as one of the “three great onsen” of Japan. The others include Kusatsu Onsen in Gunma Prefecture and Gero Onsen in Gifu Prefecture.

If visiting Arima Onsen, you can expect to take in retro townscapes, great mountain views, and historical buildlings. There are shopping districts that are perfect for buying small foods and walking around while eating; definitely try out the local pastry shops if you have the chance.

Kinosaki Onsen (城崎温泉)

An onsen town located in the northern region of Hyogo Prefecture, Kinosaki Onsen is the perfect place to visit for those who really want to get a taste of hot spring culture in Japan.

Kinosaki Onsen is known for its “7 sotoyu,” which are a series of public baths that are all in walking distance from each other in the town. They are all different in their designs and most are connected to some sort of old Japanese legend.

Many ryokan in the area will have package tickets that will let you try them all out for free; otherwise, tickets are very inexpensive.

Aside from the baths, you can enjoy the onsen town by stopping at the local cafes or riding a cable car up to the top of the nearest montain.

Kinosaki Onsen a fairly convenient trip from Kyoto, at about a two and a half hour train ride. This is a great location to go for a quick weekend trip from the city.

• Kinosaki Onsen Guide: 7 Sotoyu, Ryokans, and Foods

Shirahama Onsen (白浜温泉)

Shirahama Onsen is a great getaway for those who are staying in the Kansai area of Japan. The beaches are beautiful at Shirahama and you can even go diving or take a long bike ride around the ocean.

Many of the ryokan and hotels in this area are situated around the beach; it would be a great experience to stay at a hotel with an ocean view from an outdoor bath.

Shirahama puts lots of effort into their tourism, with beachside events and amusement parks. However, do not let this modern appearance fool you; Shirahama Onsen is in fact one of the three oldest onsen in Japan with the most history. You can see this by visiting the nearby shrines and old shops.

Shirahama Onsen is the furthest away from Kyoto on our list at about a three hour train ride. It is also surprisingly easy to get to from Tokyo, as Shirahama has an airport that you can fly to directly from the city.

What did you think?

In this article we covered the many different types of establishments where you can experience a natural onsen in Kyoto.

Whether you are just heading to Kyoto for a day trip or are looking for a real getaway, we hope that there was something on this list to fit your needs.

Kyoto is a beautiful place and we hope you have fun exploring!

• Onsen Etiquette | The Best Way to Enjoy Japanese Public Onsen Baths

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Ginzan Onsen

Ginzan Onsen (��R����, lit. "Silver Mountain Hot Spring") is a secluded hot spring town nestled in the mountains of Yamagata Prefecture . The area originally developed around a silver mine; however, these days it is better known as one of Japan's prettiest onsen towns with historic ryokan lined up along the river.

Ginzan Onsen's traditionally styled ryokan occupy beautiful three and four story wooden buildings that, with their exposed woodwork and white plaster walls, evoke nostalgic feelings of a bygone era. There is one exception, however, in the Fujiya ryokan at the center of town, which was recently rebuilt by famous modern architect Kuma Kengo. Although purists may find it out of place, its unique modern design incorporates many of the traditional design elements of the surrounding buildings, such as the same exposed wood and white plaster.

The town center of Ginzan Onsen is a pedestrian-only zone due to the narrow streets and lack of parking. It is particularly nice in the evenings when the ryokan are all lit up and the streets and bridges are illuminated by gas lights. In winter, the scenery is enhanced by heavy snow that clings to the rooftops and walkways, while during the warmer months the ryokan guests are more likely to be out strolling about town in their yukata .

Two public baths (500 yen each) and a foot bath (free of charge) can be found around the town center. One of the public baths, the Shiroganeyu, was also designed by Kuma Kengo. Further available is the Omokageyu, a public bath for private use (2000 yen per 50 minutes). In addition, many of the town's ryokan open their baths to non-staying guests during daytime for typically 500 to 1500 yen. Most feature historic indoor baths.

A spectacular, 22 meter tall waterfall rushes constantly at the back of the town. Not far from its base is one of the entrances to the historic silver mine that was built here over 500 years ago and served as the town's lifeblood during the early Edo Period . Visitors can enter the lit-up tunnel, although they cannot go very far in as it is only accessible for about twenty meters.

Tourists can see a little bit more of the mines by following a nature trail up into the valley for about 10-15 minutes past the waterfall. There, they will find a slightly longer section of the former mine for people to enter. Note, however, that the nature trail is not passable in winter and early spring due to snow.

Getting there and around

Take the JR Yamagata Shinkansen from Tokyo to Oishida Station (about 200 minutes, around 12,500 yen one way), from where buses depart roughly every two hours for Ginzan Onsen (35 minutes, 720 yen one way). The train portion of the journey is fully covered by the Japan Rail Pass , JR East Tohoku Area Pass and JR East South Hokkaido Pass , but the bus ride is not.

A rental car can be convenient for exploring the area. Rental car outlets are available at stations along the Yamagata Shinkansen such as Murayama, Shinjo and Yamagata stations, as well as at Yamagata Airport. Parking is available at parking lots a 5-10 minute walk outside the town center. Many ryokan will pick up their guests from the parking lot.

There are two bus round trips per day between Yamagata Airport and Ginzan Onsen (75 minutes, 1500 yen one way) that require no prior reservations.

Questions? Ask in our forum .

Links and Resources

Hanagasa bus, yamagata airport bus.

13 BEST Day Trips from Kyoto, Japan 

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From the stunning cherry blossoms in Nara to the amazing food scene in Kobe and Osaka, these are the best day trips from Kyoto!

There’s no doubt about it, Kyoto is one of the most beautiful cities in Japan. In fact, it’s pretty much on most people’s itinerary when travelling around the country.

If you’re thinking about visiting Japan, basing yourself in the historic centre of Kyoto is a great idea. From here you can easily visit some of Japan’s most beloved attractions nearby before retreating to the city each evening.

Some of the best day trips from Kyoto involve travelling to nearby cities and towns to experience classic Japanese culture and history, and even exploring the stunning landscape during the famous cherry blossom season.

Personally, I love checking out experiences where I can get in touch with local food culture, so having Kyoto tours that go to foodie hotspots like Kobe and Osaka is a huge plus for me! 

Whether you want to check out the historic Ishiyama-dera Temple, relax in the onsen heartland of Kinosaki, or travel further afield to the stunning Miyajima Island, these Kyoto day trips are sure to tick all your Japan travel bucket list boxes!

The vast majority of these destinations are accessible from Kyoto station using a Japan Rail Pass , so you don’t even need to hire a car for a lot of these trips. Personally, I would always recommend by taking advantage of the Japan Rail Pass. It’s by far the easiest way of travelling around Japan in my opinion, especially on a holiday.

But where are you going? We’re about to find out now!

Best day trips from Kyoto, Japan

Nara is famous for a few things. You’ve probably seen photos and videos of wild deer bowing to tourists, and this is a major draw for Nara. There’s also the amazing Todai-ji temple which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Want to get one of the best views of the cherry blossoms? Hike up Mount Yoshino in the Nara prefecture and experience sweeping panoramic views. If you’re short on time, I’d recommend taking a tour of Nara . Then you get to see everything with a guide.

The ancient capital of Nara is probably the most popular Kyoto day trip due to its super close proximity. While you can get a fast private train from Kyoto to Nara in just 35 minutes, if you want to use your Japan Rail Pass you’ll need to jump on the JR Kyoto Nara line which can take between 45 and 75 minutes depending on the route. 

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

Even though it’s a tough visit, I’d really recommend visiting the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum . Following the horrific impacts of the Atomic Bomb during WWII, people come from all around the world to this site and to the museum to learn more about the people who lived here and the long-lasting ramifications. 

As I said, it’s a tough visit but you get so much from the day here. One of the best ways of seeing the Peace Memorial is on a walking tour . Then you get to learn all about the history of the place from your local guide.

On the Nozomi Shinkansen, you can get to Hiroshima from Kyoto in one hour and 37 minutes. Alternatively, you can also use your JR Pass on the Hikari Shinkansen which gets to Hiroshima directly in one hour and 45 minutes. There are other options where you can change trains that take around two hours. 

Kinosaki Onsen

Commonly referred to as the best onsen town in Japan, a day trip to Kinosaki Onsen is a must for anyone spending time in Kyoto. Relax in some of the best hot springs, enjoy the amazing architecture all around you, and let nature do its thing. With seven onsens and plenty of ryokans (traditional Japanese houses to stay at), you can have your pick of the bunch.

To get to Kinosaki, you’ll need to take a two-and-a-half-hour train from Kyoto all the way to the Japan Sea Coast. It’s one of the furthest day trips from Kyoto on this list, but it’s absolutely worth the early start to spend the day in this historic spa town! 

Looking for a day trip out to the seaside? Head to the fishing villages that make up the beautiful Kyotango area. Head up to the Bridge to Heaven, check out the panoramic vistas, and make sure you treat yourself to some of the freshest seafood in Japan. It’s seriously good here.

To get to Amanohashidate (the other name for Kyotango), you need to take a 75-minute train from Kyoto to Fukuchiyama and then swap onto another train to Amanohashidate which takes around 40-60 minutes. 

Osaka 

Another amazing day trip from Kyoto is to the bustling Japanese city of Osaka. Known around the world for its awesome food and nightlife scene as well as its historic buildings like Osaka Castle and Shitennoji Temple, there’s a little something for everyone here. 

It’s definitely a busy vibe here, with tons of awesome markets, streets filled with vendors, and amazing restaurants. So, to find the best spots, maybe hire a local guide and go on a walking tour of the city. With Osaka only being a 28-minute train ride away from Kyoto, it really is the perfect day trip!

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

You’ve probably seen photos of the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Groves on Instagram, and going to visit them on a Kyoto day trip couldn’t be easier. Explore the bamboo groves, check out the UNESCO World Heritage Tenryuji Temple, and experience ultimate tranquility.

To get to the bamboo groves from Kyoto, you can get a JR Sagano line train directly to the Saga-Arashiyama Station and it takes less than an hour. This gives me serious Japanese vibes!

Who doesn’t love a day trip out to a picturesque lake? Well, Lake Biwa has a ton of towns and villages all around it. I’d recommend heading to Takashima, which is home to the mystical floating Shirahige Shrine. It’s a beautiful place to visit before heading to Otsu and the incredible Ishiyama-dera Temple. 

It only takes around 45 minutes to get from Kyoto to Takashima, but for a quicker entry to Lake Biwa, head to Otsu which is just a 15-minute train ride from Kyoto. 

Himeji Castle

Okay, I love a good castle and I’ve seen plenty of impressive ones during my travels, but the UNESCO World Heritage Himeji Castle is on another level. In fact, it’s one of only 12 original Japanese castles that are still standing and it’s a masterclass in Japanese Feudalist architecture.

There are plenty of direct trains between Kyoto and Himeji that take just under an hour, but a few require a change at Shin-Osaka so watch out for those! From Himeji, it’s a 20-minute walk to the castle itself.

Home to one of the world’s most famous kinds of beef, Kobe is a foodie hotspot that’s also super well-known for its sake breweries and production. This is definitely the place for a food tour with a local as there are quite a few places that are selling low-quality meat to tourists and pass it off as high-end Kobe. Local guides will help you find the hidden gems and leave you happy and full!

From Kyoto, you can take the Shinkansen bullet train to Kobe in under 30 minutes, but if you want to use a JR Pass it’ll take you around 50 minutes. 

If you love history and old-world architecture, you’re going to love a day trip from Kyoto to Nagoya. With the rebuilt Honmaru Palace being completely reconstructed with traditional methods, it needs to be seen to be believed. The attention to detail is insane! 

Love cars? Well, Nagoya is also the home of Toyota and a handful of car and automotive museums that are the perfect excursion for any petrolhead. To get from Kyoto to Nagoya, you can jump on the bullet train for 35 minutes or, if you’re using a Japan Rail Pass, you’ll need the Hikari or Kodama Shinkansen lines which take around 55 minutes in total. 

Ishiyama-dera Temple

Located in Otsu City right next to the stunning Lake Biwa, the Ishiyama-dera Temple is one of the most popular Buddhist temples in the area. It’s influenced writers and is known as the Temple of the Flowers thanks to the heaps of foliage in the autumn months! 

It’s a super quick day trip from Kyoto with the train ride only lasting 15 minutes. You can easily combine a visit to the Ishiyama-dera Temple with a day out on Lake Biwa, so you can have outdoor exploration and history all in one go!

Miyajima Island

If you don’t mind traveling a little further afield, you should definitely take a Kyoto tour to Miyajima Island. Located in Hiroshima Bay, the island is probably best known for the Itsukushima Shrine, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The island is full of stunning ancient forests and woodlands as well as plenty of temples to explore. 

Want to shop until you drop? Head to Omote Sando Shotengai, the main shopping street, where you can enjoy delicious local sweet treats and novelties. To get to Miyajima Island you need to first get the train to Hiroshima and then swap onto a 28-minute train to JR Miyajima Guchi station and then hop a 15-minute ferry to the island.

So there you have it, the best day trips from Kyoto. Which ones are your favourite, or have you been to any of these before? Let me know in the comments below!

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About the Author

Rebecca Crowe is a freelance writer who specializes in writing about travel, food, and outdoor adventure. She is often found holding a taco, in an airport, or halfway up a climbing wall.

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4 Soothing Onsen Day Trips from Tokyo

www.jinya-ryokan.jp

Kanagawa Prefecture, Tokyo’s southern neighbor, abounds with beautiful vistas and natural hot springs. While these Kanagawa onsen and their surrounds are certainly worth an overnight stay, each works equally well as a day trip from Tokyo. Just be sure to check each one's tattoo rules before you go to avoid ending up in an awkward situation!

4. Hakone Yuryo (Hakone)

http://www.hakoneyuryo.jp/english/image/hotsprings/img_keyvisual_01.jpg

The town of Hakone is an overwhelmingly popular sightseeing spot in Kanagawa’s southwestern mountains, an area known for its onsen and stunning vistas of Mount Fuji. Hakone Yuryo has indoor baths, open-air baths, pottery baths, aromatic saunas and a smattering of private rooms with their own baths available to rent by the hour. Visitors are also invited to enjoy soft-serve ice cream, relax with a massage or stroll through the traditionally styled interior courtyard.

- www.hakoneyuryo.jp

3. Enoshima Island Spa (Fujisawa)

http://enoshimaislandspa.com/enoshima-island-spa/

Enoshima is a small island just off the Shonan coast in Fujisawa city, and there’s one location that’s got the island's upscale spa treatments covered. Enoshima Island Spa pumps hot water 1,500 meters (4,920 ft) from beneath the sea for use in its various onsen . The spa also offers massage and skin care packages, and its restaurant boasts impressive seaside views of Mount Fuji. While the spa doesn't have overnight accommodations, its website provides recommendations for nearby ryokan (traditional Japanese inns) and hotels.

- www.enospa.jp

2. Hakone Kowakien Yunessun (Hakone)

http://www.yunessun.com/enjoy/yunessun/gods.html

Lest Hakone take itself too seriously, the area also has one of Japan's most creative onsen resorts: Hakone Kowakien Yunessun. Billed as a “Hot Springs Amusement Park,” the resort has 25 themed water attractions. But what brings most people to Yunessun are the onsen infused with various beverages. Jet lagged? Soak in the coffee spa. Feeling Zen? Take a dip in the green tea pool. Time for a pick-me-up? Try the wine bath. And if you're wishing you had more than the usual modesty towel to cover up with, bring your swimsuit: some of the pools are co-ed, with bathing suits allowed.

- www.yunessun.com

1. Jinya Ryokan (Hadano)

http://www.jinya-ryokan.jp/

Rich in history and natural beauty, Jinya Ryokan in the oft-overlooked city of Hadano has been welcoming travelers for centuries since its opening during the Kamakura Shogunate. The ryokan sits upon Tsurumaki Onsen, a spring said to have one of the world's highest concentrations of calcium, which Jinya claims can relieve rheumatism and neural pain. While the ryokan has several types of rooms to choose from for an overnight stay, Jinya also welcomes day-tripping visitors to reserve a washoku lunch, and its picturesque 3.3-hectare (8.2-acre) garden is open to all visitors.

- www.jinya-inn.com

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Best Itinerary for Onsen in Japan for 2 Weeks With a JR Pass

Travel on 11 Apr, 2024

Fourteen days may sound like a lot of time to explore all the different onsen in Japan. However, considering the vast amount there is, in reality, it is not a lot of time if you are planning on doing other stuff. Luckily, with the JR Pass, you have unlimited access to almost all train lines, including the bullet train, which will save you a lot of time and money in the long run. The Japan Rail Pass , better known as the JR Pass, can initially seem quite expensive. Still, the cost of travel for individual tickets can add up to an excessive amount before you know it, so you are better off using the JR Pass for long-distance travel around Japan. With the incredible technological feat of bullet trains that connects the entire country seamlessly, you can reach places up and down the nation in a matter of hours. So, it is always a good idea to take full advantage of the rapid transport available with the JR Pass by visiting as many places as possible. Hopefully, this itinerary can give you a good idea of what can be possible with some planning and coordination.

The base price of the JR Pass is set to experience a significant price increase starting October 2023. This increase is said to be due to the yen’s value relative to other currencies, inflation of energy costs, and rising maintenance and operational costs for the railway network.

To the dismay of locals, the JR Pass is only available to foreign visitors, and there are two different types to pick from. The ‘Standard’ version costs roughly ¥80,000 for fourteen days, and the ‘Green Pass’ comes with the added benefit of sitting in first class, offering more comfortable and spacious seats. That costs roughly ¥111,000 for fourteen days as of writing. Time lengths of seven and twenty-one days are also for sale, but the fourteen-day pass will be an example of this two-week itinerary.

Before we delve into the deep and rich adventure of onsen in Japan, it is probably necessary to explain precisely what onsen is to people unaware. Onsen is a natural hot water spring many Japanese bathes in, but for other reasons than just a simple wash as you would in a shower. As onsen are hot springs that the Earth naturally heats, it contains a slew of minerals that many people believe contributing to healthier skin, blood circulation and healing properties. Visiting an onsen to unwind physically and mentally is such an integral part of Japanese culture and is a tradition that has been preserved for generations. With Japan’s placement on the globe, it lands on top of and closes to four tectonic plates, making it a paradise for geothermal activity. The country has onsen dotted around the nation, including volcanoes such as the iconic Mount Fuji.

Table of contents

Day 1 – arriving in tokyo, day 2 – tokyo somei onsen sakura, day 3 – exploring tokyo, day 4 – relaxed day in tokyo, day 5 – kusatsu onsen, day 6 – tenzan onsen, day 7 – hakone onsen, day 8 – osaka, day 9 – dogo onsen, day 10 – beppu, day 11 – ibusuki onsen, day 12 – lazy day in beppu onsen, day 13 – journey back to tokyo, day 14 – sad farewell, total savings.

This guide will be an itinerary designed for the ultimate Japanese onsen experience, and there will be a modest amount of travelling. Still, because of the rapid technology of the bullet train that conveniently connects the country, it will only be a few hours journey. However, constant travelling will be tiring for anyone, so a couple of cities will be used as ‘ home bases ’ to stay at, while short day trip excursions can be made to nearby places to visit and explore. The JR pass will cover most of the travelling in the initial cost, so that is one less worry off your shoulders when embarking on this adventure. Also, this itinerary has been created with Tokyo; specifically, the area of Shinjuku is the starting point as that is the best area and most common city to arrive in Japan. However, if you enter the country in a different city like Osaka, the itinerary can still be helpful from where you will visit that city. 

After arriving at Narita Airport after a long time sitting on a plane and on transport to reach your accommodation, there is nothing better to do than rest your legs. Therefore, please relax and hold your onsen trip in Japan for the first day. However, if there are public bath facilities at your accommodation or even a ‘sentō’ bathhouse nearby, that will be a great choice. A sentō and an onsen are pretty similar, but the difference is that the latter uses hot spring water heated by the Earth, while the former is man-made and artificially heated by a boiler.

Waking up bright and early for your first morning in Japan, take a 13-minute train ride from Shinjuku Station, take the Yamanote Line and get off at Sugamo Station. A short walk from the station, stroll your way towards the ‘ Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street ’. You can spend the day wandering this bustling shopping street where they sell everything from traditional Japanese snacks and classic street food to clothes and charms. There are also some temples to discover close to the surrounding neighbourhood, such as ‘ Shinshōji Temple ’ and ‘ Togenuki Jizoson Koganji Temple ’.

Once you are done and tired out, take a short 8-minute walk towards ‘ Tokyo Somei Onsen Sakura ’ for soothing relaxation. This modern onsen provides plenty of opportunities and facilities to help soak in hot water and unwind. As the name subtly suggests, the onsen experience is only heightened in the spring when the sakura cherry blossoms bloom, surrounding the area in a pink paradise.

Even though onsen is the main priority for this travel plan, going to an onsen daily can quickly become laborious, so it is important to sprinkle in a few days of rest and non-onsen exploration. On top of that, it would not be a trip to Japan without visiting some iconic spots and places.

From Shinjuku Station, board the train and head down to Akihabara Station. Roam the streets of this electric technological paradise and prepare to be amazed. You could easily spend hours here popping in and out of each store, but if you prefer something closer to nature, head back to Akihabara Station and follow the line to Ueno Station . 

Directly outside, you will be greeted by the extensive stomping grounds of ‘ Ueno Park ’, which even hosts a zoo and a shrine. Another place you could sink hours of your day into. After your park wandering, you can head back to the same station and take a 7-minute train to Asakusa Station to arrive at ‘ Sensō-ji Temple ’. However, the JR Pass does not cover this station, so it will cost ¥170 to use. If you want to avoid spending the extra yen, you can walk it instead for 23 minutes.

As the day winds down and the sun sets, you can take a 17-minute walk across the river towards ‘ Tokyo Skytree ’ or a 3-minute train ride on the Kita-Senju Line with some walking for ¥150. Once you reach the observation deck, you will be awed by the beautiful city skyline lit up in the evening sky.

After a long day of exploring, this will be a more relaxed day where you can sleep a little bit more and head out to the ‘ Meiji Jingu ’ shrine nearby in the afternoon. Hop on at Shinjuku Station, get off at Yoyogi Station and take a 15-minute walk before reaching your destination. Head down the avenue of towering trees as you are engulfed in peace and tranquillity.

Head back to Yoyogi Station and travel down the line to Shibuya Station so that you can witness the insanity of ‘ Shibuya Crossing ’ yourself. There is also the famous ‘ Statue of Hachikō ’ there, so you can take a selfie with the monument of the nicest pet doggy.

A full day of relaxation is on the schedule, but a train journey to get there is needed first. From Shinjuku Station, head to Ōmiya Station , to Takasaki Station , and then Naganohara-Kusatsuguchi Station . Finally, you will need to take a bus outside the final station and get off at the Kusatsu Onsen stop. Unfortunately, the JR Pass does not cover the last bus ride, so you must pay ¥710.

Iconic across Japan as one of the top must-visit hot spring resorts, the geothermically heated onsen water is believed to be some of the best quality in terms of healing properties. Due to where the place is located geographically, it is encircled by stunning mountains that provide hiking and skiing routes depending on the season.

Today the ‘ home base ’ in Tokyo will be moving to the beautiful hot spring town of Hakone, so pack all your things as you head down to Shinjuku Station . Starting there, get to Tokyo Station and then Odawara Station . Unfortunately, from this point, the JR Pass is not applicable where you need to take the Hakonetozan Line to Hakone-Yumoto Station and then take the bus from there, getting off at the Okuyumoto Bus Stop . It will cost ¥550 for this final portion of the journey.

After settling into your accommodation, head towards ‘ Tenzan Onsen ’ for pure relaxation. Architecturally designed in an old-fashioned traditional style, it perfectly matches the calm, stoic energy in the area. As you walk through the sliding doors with the soft tatami beneath your feet, you will eventually find yourself by the various onsen they offer in this part of Japan. They have an indoor and outdoor bath, where you can gaze at the gorgeous natural backdrop. There is even one that goes into a cave, so you are spoilt for choice here. 

On this day, you can take it slow and explore the area of Hakone. If the weather is not too bad or cloudy, you should be rewarded with a grand view of the almighty Mount Fuji . You could even take a scenic railway ride meandering through wooded valleys and rivers, finishing off with a ropeway that gives you overhead views of the surrounding area.

On the move again, Osaka will be the next temporary home until tomorrow. From the Okuyumoto Bus Stop, take the bus to Sammaibashi. Get off and take a bus from the Sammaibashi bus stop across the street, moving opposite. Get off once you reach Odawara Station. This part will cost ¥610, which the JR Pass does not cover. Luckily, the remainder of this journey is included as part of the JR Pass. Take the bullet train from Odawara Station to Shin-Osaka Station in 2 hours and 20 minutes.

After dropping your luggage off at the accommodation, you are free to explore the city of Osaka. Sadly, it is not as much time as this city deserves, but you will still be able to visit the legendary ‘ Dotonbori ’ district with all the neon lights radiating the night.

Back on the road, head to the starting point of Shin-Osaka Station, travelling to Okayama Station. From there, get off at Matsuyama Station . Check into your place of accommodation and head to the JR Matsuyama Ekimae bus stop, hopping off at Dogo Onsen Station. This bus route does not apply to the JR Pass, which costs ¥300.

Dogo Onsen is an alluring onsen in Japan built in 1894 and is the centrepiece of this area. Boasting lavish and opulent details, it partially served as inspiration for the esteemed bathhouse that appears in the admired Studio Ghibli film “Spirited Away” .

Heading to the trip’s final ‘ home base ’, go to Matsuyama Station and get off at Imabari Station . You will take a non-JR Pass bus from the front of the station, getting off at the Fukuyama Ekimae bus stop costing ¥2,600. The rest of this journey is free due to the JR Pass, first boarding at Fukuyama Station to Kokura Station and finally arriving at Beppu Station .

The city of Beppu has seven essential geothermal hot springs, often called the ‘ Hells of Beppu ’. These natural wonders are unique in Japan, and some even have red boiling water. What sets these hot springs apart from others is that they are for viewing rather than bathing. The scorching temperatures can rise to make it a hazard for anyone to bathe in it safely, hence the name ‘ Hells of Beppu ’.

However, if you are looking to bathe in an actual hot spring, the ‘ Takegawara Onsen ’ offers not only regular hot spring baths but also sand ones.

We will head down to the country’s south for the final day trip. Get on at Beppu Station , travel to Kokura Station , towards Kagoshimachuo Station , and end at Ibusuki Station .

In the almost tropical area of Ibusuki Kagoshima, where palm trees pattern the coastline and the sun blazes over the beaches, what is interesting here are their unique hot sand baths called ‘ sunamushi ’. Sunamushi is a form of onsen in Japan where you lay into a slightly dug area in the sand and can immediately feel the heat from the Earth. The staff then shovels sand on your body until only your head is exposed, allowing your body to soak in the heat and pressure from the sand. The geothermal activity in this area is so present that the sand is naturally heated, causing it to turn a darker colour than the usual golden-white most are used to.

The final day to lay in and take it a bit slower before a lot of travelling back to Tokyo and the airport. You can spend this day discovering all the exciting and fun-looking areas of Beppu Onsen , with possibly a final session at a local onsen or sentō (communal bathhouse in Japan) to detox one last time.

The 6-hour and 40-minute travel back to Tokyo begins at Beppu Station to Kokura Station, then to Shinagawa Station, and finally reaching Shinjuku Station. With a distance of over 1,120 kilometres between the starting and ending stations, 6 hours and 40 minutes is quite impressive and a testament to the bullet train’s feat.

You could spend the extra few hours in Tokyo before getting ready for the morning by exploring the city, doing some last-minute shopping, or getting in a couple more hours of sleep. Whatever works for you is fine, but make sure you do not miss your flight tomorrow!

The ultimate onsen in Japan adventure comes to a close. You make your way towards Shinjuku Station , switching from Hamamatsuchō Station to the Tokyo Monorail, riding towards Haneda Airport . Having spent the last two weeks travelling up and down the country experiencing all different types of onsen, you will wear even some of the biggest onsen lovers. But as soon as that feeling fades away and the itch to jump into a Japanese onsen comes back again, you can always go and do it all again. 

After adding the cost of all the individual JR Pass valid tickets used for transport with this itinerary, it roughly comes out to ¥145,720. With the price of a standard 14-day JR Pass being ¥80,000, it comes down to a saving of ¥65,720! 

The above saving does not consider any extra travel you could do on any day, especially for those where you were free to plan the day however you wanted. In reality, the saving could be even more significant. While the JR Pass can seem like a high starting price, taking full advantage of it proves you can make some massive savings if you can use it as much as possible.

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Shibu Onsen Day Trip

Mid-week visit offers a unique perspective

Why just for the day?

Depending upon where you happen to be based, a day trip to Shibu Onsen just to walk around a people-less town may not sound appealing. However, given the famous Nagano snow monkeys are almost literally around the corner and the various ski resorts (winter) and hiking (the rest of the year) available nearby, there are plenty of reasons to visit.

Granted, much of the perceived appeal of a visit to an onsen town is strolling around in a yukata, checking out omiyage shops while onsen hopping and then relaxing in your ryokan with a grand gustatorial and visual work of art known as a kaiseki feast. There are ryokan available if that's what you're chasing and, even if you struggle to make a booking in Shibu Onsen, Yudanaka is right next door. Most people visit on the weekends; however, a visit to Shibu Onsen to stroll the streets when nobody else is around is an entirely different yet worthy experience. So if you can make it mid-week, you may just find yourself in another world.

We were day-tripping from Myoko in Niigata Prefecture but it would be just as easy from Nagano city or anywhere else within a reasonable distance. We wandered the streets for a couple of hours and, apart from one delivery truck (a sign that there is indeed a time when these laneways of shops and ryokans see action) which seemed to navigate the tight turns way too easily, we saw not a soul on the street.

As the images show, we visited during the greener, warmer months but as the snow monkeys will attest to, Shibu Onsen sees its share of snow which many will tell you only makes for a more storybook scene.

History, Skiing and Monkeys

Next to Yudanaka Onsen, below the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park on the lazy Yokoyugawa River, Shibu Onsen is a small maze of narrow paved laneways lined with omiyage shops and ryokans, some of which have existed for 400 years. Over this time, Shibu Onsen's quaint setting and the onsen themselves have attracted samurai, poets and, more recently, a growing number of tourists from the West. And these days during winter, it's not uncommon for guests to stay in Shibu Onsen or Yudanaka and take the bus up to Shiga Kogen for skiing or snowboarding.

The Sounds of Quiet Streets

Back to that mid-week world where there is very little open, which may turn some folks off visiting but, if nothing else, it allows for photography without the intrusion of other people. I’d also argue that it’s nice to stroll around with the only sounds being the birds, water running from the foot onsens and the echo of your own shoes upon the bricked streets.

It also presented a perfect opportunity to explore Osenji and the other smaller temples, affording the place a reverent solitude. There is perhaps one potential downside to a day trip; the onsens themselves. Of the nine in town, eight are only accessible to those staying at one of the town’s ryokans. However, simple maths tells us that we still have an option. It just so happens that O-yu lives up to its name and is the largest of the onsens. It is in the center of town and open to day-trippers.

Modern Day Peace

Perhaps the coronavirus and all that goes with it has taught us by necessity that it’s perfectly okay to spend time by yourself or with only your partner. Usually, you’d have to go hiking up into one of the many glorious mountains this country boasts in order to find that peace but, in mid-week at Shibu Onsen, not only can you find peace but also a myriad of interesting corners and paths to follow while you imagine all the interesting samurai, priests and artists who walked them in years gone by. Oh...we also managed to play a game of table tennis!

Getting there

By car from Nagano; 35-40-minute drive

By car from Tokyo; 3-3.5-hour drive (Shinjuku)

By train from Nagano Station; (about 70 minutes in total) Nagano-Dentetsu Line towards Shinshu-Nakano to Shinshu-Nakano Station. From there, Nagano-Dentetsu Line Local towards Yudanaka to Yudanaka Station. From the station, it's a nice walk through Yudanaka (also a ryokan-filled village but perhaps not quite the same level of wonder) to Shibu Onsen.

By train from Tokyo; add a 90-110-minute shinkansen ride to the above

5-minute drive to Jigokudani Monkey Park

15-minute drive to Shiga Kogen

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By Nathan Eden

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Explore nearby

The Bathhouses of Shibu Onsen

By Linka Wade

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Yudanaka Shibu Onsen

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Hotel Housei in Yudanaka

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Information

2112-1 Hirao, Shimotakai District, Nagano 381-0401 ( Directions )

shibuonsen.net

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Sapporo_Aomori Trip during Autumn - Japan Forum

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Please help me on my trip planning, as follows:

Day 2 Sapporo (visit Hokkaido Uni and Nakajimi Park)

Day 3 Sapporo (visit Jozankei Onsen ).

Day 4 Take domestic flight to Aomori. Stay in Aomori. (visit aomori-museum, wa rasse, a-factory)

Day 5 Aomori (visit Hirosaki)

Day 6 Aomori (help needed.... where to go)

Day 7 Aomori to Oirase Gorge. Stay in Lake Towada

Day 8 Aomori (should i visit Akita?)

Day 9 Sapporo

Day 10 Return home

Please help me. Did I plan too many days in Aomori? Do I have enough time to visit Akita, Tazawako and Dakigaeri Valley? My main purpose for this trip is to visit Oirase Gorge.

Please kindly advise me.

12 replies to this topic

Peak koyo for Hoheikyo dam is in early to mid-Oct. (10月上旬～10月中旬 期間は例年の見頃。)

https://koyo.walkerplus.com/detail/ar0101e12982/data.html

My visit in mid-Oct 2008 - slightly late in that year when koyo has past peak.

https://japantravelinsights.com/jp-2008-oct-hokkaido-part-2/

Thank you for replying.

Garlic, I am surprised to know that it is famous other than apple. Will certainly eat and try to buy some fresh one home :)

Will go find out more about Hirosaki apple festival...........so glad to be able to attend one.....finger cross the date matches my itinerary.

For ferry from aomori to hakodate, will either ask the tourist information or just buy return tickets to Sapporo . I am scared to take the undersea shinkansen.

I may just skip hakodate and insert Morioka.

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Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

The Perfect 7-Day Japan Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Japan captured my heart from the moment I firs visited. The delicious food, the rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, vibrant history, and the very friendly and polite people – it all blew my mind.

But Japan often feels impenetrable, especially to first-time visitors. While I think Japan deserves a minimum of 10 days, I get that some people might only have a week, so I wanted to write this, my ideal seven-day itinerary for Japan for a first-time visitor.

With only a week, there’s not much you can see unless you really rush it. And I don’t think you should do that.

So this itinerary only focuses on Tokyo and Kyoto (the most popular destinations) as well as some day trips from each. If you wanted to rush things a little, you could add in Osaka (more on that at the end).

(Note: If you purchased a Japan Rail Pass , activate it on arrival. That way, you can take advantage of the free JR trains throughout the city.)

Table of Contents

Japan Itinerary Day 1: Tokyo

Japan itinerary day 2: tokyo, japan itinerary day 3: tokyo, japan itinerary day 4: kyoto, japan itinerary day 5: kyoto, japan itinerary day 6: nara, japan itinerary day 7: tokyo, an alternative itinerary.

Tsukiji and Toyosu Fish Markets Cure your jet lag with some food! In 2018, Tokyo’s main fish market moved to Toyosu. It is now twice the size of Tsukiji (the old one), making it the largest such market in the world. Here you can eat fresh sushi for breakfast, just a few feet from where it was hauled in from the sea, while marveling at the chaotic atmosphere.

You can still head to the old market in Tsukiji to eat, shop, and wander as well. I like it a lot, because there are more food options! Food and drink tours of the Tsukiji Outer Market are available for around 15,000 JPY.

Toyosu Fish Market is open Monday-Saturday 5am-5pm, though most shops don’t open until 7am. Admission is free, but you have to pick up a visitor’s pass when you enter. Tsukiji Fish Market’s hours vary by shop (usually 5am-2pm). Admission is free.

teamLab Planets This digital art installation is a multi-sensory and immersive experience in which you become part of the artwork, walking barefoot through the four exhibition spaces and gardens as you interact with the installations’ elements in unique ways. It’s really fun! TeamLab is generally sells out in advance, so I recommend getting your tickets online ahead of time .

Take a walking tour Walking tours are a great way to get the lay of the land while connecting with a local guide. I always go on one or two when I arrive somewhere. Tokyo Localized offers many free tours, including a classic overview and ones of both the famed Harajuku and Shinjuku neighborhoods. Its Imperial Palace tour would be the most convenient one after teamLab.

The Imperial Palace Formerly Edo Castle, the Imperial Palace was built in the 15th century, and some of the walls and moats from that time are still in use to this day. When the emperor moved from Kyoto to Tokyo in 1869, he took Edo for his new palace and renamed it. While you can’t go inside, it is surrounded by beautiful grounds, a moat, and a park worth wandering through. You can also see the changing-of-the-guard ceremony (though it’s relatively low-key and unassuming). Admission to the grounds is free.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden This park is over 144 acres and home to some 20,000 trees. Most of the original park was destroyed in World War II but was rebuilt and reopened in 1949. During spring, it is one of the best places to see cherry blossoms. My favorite area is the landscape garden, which has several ponds with bridges and islands. It’s a peaceful oasis away from the urban hustle and bustle.

Depending on how you feel relative to your jetlag, you could fit a few more activities before you end your day. Check out this post for suggestions .

• Senso-ji – This is Tokyo’s most popular and famous temple. Beautifully painted, it sits in a scenic spot near a pagoda and the lovely Kaminari Gate. There’s a huge statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, inside the main hall. It’s very busy during the day, so maybe check out the grounds in the evening.
• Asakusa Shrine – This nearby Shinto shrine is much more peaceful, with fewer visitors, but with people praying, meditating, or performing traditional rituals. It was built during the Edo period (1603–1868) and survived the air raids of World War II.

Afterward, head to Ueno Park . Spanning over 133 acres, Ueno Park was established in 1873 on land formerly owned by a 17th-century Buddhist temple. It gets super busy in cherry blossom season, as there are over a thousand trees here. Throughout, you’ll find various stalls and vendors selling snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. On weekends, there are usually cultural events or festivals showcasing traditional arts, music, and dance. Four of Tokyo’s main museums are here:

• Tokyo National Museum – Established in 1872 on the north end, this massive building is the oldest and largest art museum in Japan. It houses one of the world’s largest collections of art and artifacts from Asia, particularly Japan.
• Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum – This museum showcases rotating exhibitions of contemporary and traditional Japanese art.
• National Museum of Nature and Science – This museum features a wide range of permanent and temporary exhibitions covering natural science and history.
• Tosho-gu Shrine – This beautiful 17th-century Shinto shrine has carved gold doors and other ornate carvings. It’s worth seeing up close!

Afterward, walk down to Akihabara to explore the video game parlors, arcades, and anime shops. This very buzzy area is ground zero for all things electronic, and it’s fun to play many of the games. This is where you’ll find the famous maid cafés, where servers dress up as maids and serve you food and drinks. These range from big touristy ones to holes-in-the-wall (the girls on the street are promoting the latter, which are a lot more culturally fun). They aren’t cheap, though, as you have to buy drink packages and pay a fee, but they’re kitschy and fun.

In the evening, visit Shinjuku and then drink in Golden Gai . In Shinjuku, you’ll find a plethora of cool bars, bright lights, and tiny hole-in-the-wall eateries. Be sure to wander down Memory Lane (aka Piss Alley) for tiny izakaya joints and bars. Afterward, head over to Golden Gai, a warren of narrow alleyways with a bit of a red-light-district feel, flanked by diminutive backstreet bars. It’s quite touristy but also a lot of fun. I’ve had some wild nights here!

With Arigato Tours , you’ll learn about the neighborhood while stopping to sample Japanese classics like sushi, yakitori, and ramen. The 23,900 JPY cost includes a drink and dishes at four stops.  

Kamakura Here you can see a 13-meter (43-foot) bronze statue of Buddha that was built in 1252. It was initially constructed within Kotoku-in Temple, but that has since been washed away by several storms, so it now sits in the open air. Admission to enter the temple grounds is 300 JPY, while it’s 20 JPY to go inside the statue. The journey there — around an hour — is free with a Japan Rail Pass .

Tokyo Disneyland I’m a sucker for Disney. You’ll find many of the same classic rides from Disney World here, like Splash Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain, The Haunted Mansion, and everyone’s favorite teacup ride, The Mad Tea Party. But there are several unique attractions as well, like Pooh’s Hunny Hunt and Journey to the Center of the Earth.

Ticket prices vary depending on the day and time, but full-day admission begins at 7,900 JPY for adults and 4,400-6,200 JPY for children. It’s best to book in advance .

Mount Fuji Mount Fuji is located an hour outside of Tokyo. An active stratovolcano (which last erupted in 1708) and covered in snow for almost half of the year, it stands an impressive 3,776 meters (12,389 feet) and provides one of the most iconic views in the country. One of the Three Holy Mountains of Japan, Mount Fuji is both a Special Place of Scenic Beauty and a UNESCO Cultural Site. In the summer, the mountain is open to hikers, who take 5-12 hours to reach the summit (traditionally, they depart at night to arrive at the top for the sunrise).

If you don’t want to hike, you can simply visit on a day trip. There are buses that can take you partway up, where you’ll be offered sweeping vistas of the surrounding area. Guided day tours from the city cost around 12,000 JPY.  

Wander the Bamboo Forest For a relaxing break, head to Arashiyama and let the dense and towering stands of bamboo envelop you. Located near the famous Tenryu-ji temple, it’s one of the most beautiful places in the entire country. It’s not that big, but there are some hidden areas to explore. Just make sure to arrive early if you want to enjoy it without the crowds (it fills up fast after sunrise).

While there, I would also recommend visiting the Okochi Sanso Garden, which (along with the home) belonged to the famous Japanese actor Denjir? ?k?chi (1898–1962). It’s not free (it’s 1,000 JPY), but it’s really nice and has some wonderful views.

Visit the Golden Pavilion Originally built in the late 14th century as a retirement villa for the shogun (military governor), this iconic structure was later converted into a Zen Buddhist temple. The present-day edifice dates only to the 1950s, however, when a monk attempting to kill himself burned the historic original to the ground. The rebuilt temple is covered in brilliant gold leaf, symbolizing purity and enlightenment. Each of the three stories exhibits a different architectural style. Completing the scene are the serene reflecting pool and traditional Japanese gardens that contain lush foliage, manicured trees, and scenic walking paths.

1 Kinkakuji-cho, Kita-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, +81 075-461-0013, shokoku-ji.jp. Open daily 9am-5pm. Admission is 500 JPY.

Admire Ryoan-ji Temple This is my favorite temple in Kyoto. Originally established in 1450 as a residence for a high-ranking samurai, it was soon converted into a Zen temple and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a mausoleum that houses the remains of seven emperors. Its traditional rock and sand garden is considered one of the best in the country. There’s also a teahouse where you can experience the traditional Japanese tea ceremony ( chanoyu ) as you overlook the Kyoyochi reflecting pool.

There are other temples in the area to check out as well:

• Daitoku-ji Temple – This massive complex dating back to 1315 covers almost 60 acres. It contains several dozen temples and is a good place to see a variety of Zen gardens and architectural styles. It’s also deeply linked to the Japanese tea ceremony, as several of the country’s most noteworthy masters studied here.
• Toji Temple – This is home to Japan’s tallest pagoda (five stories high). Founded in 796, just after Kyoto became the capital, it was one of only three Buddhist temples allowed in the city.

Go on a sake brewery tour Kyoto has a sake (rice wine) brewing tradition going back 400 years and is known for some of the best in the world, due to using the area’s pure natural spring water in the brewing process. Arigato Tours offers an excellent three-hour tour of Fushimi (the brewing district) for 23,320 JPY, including stops at several breweries, a guided tour of the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum, and tastings.  

See the Fushimi Inari Shrine This mountainside Shinto shrine, dating back to 711, is dedicated to Inari, the god of rice and prosperity. It’s known for its thousands of vibrant orange torii gates that form a network of trails leading up Mount Inari. You can hike the trails on your own while enjoying panoramic views of Kyoto below or join a guided hiking tour , on which you’ll get off the paved paths and into hidden bamboo groves. Get here as early as possible to avoid the crowds.

68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, +81756417331, inari.jp. Open 24/7. Admission is free.

Walk around Higashiyama Spend an afternoon walking along the narrow streets of one of the oldest and best preserved districts on your own or on a walking tour . The traditional machiya buildings (traditional wooden townhouses) are filled with small shops selling local specialties and handicrafts, as well as restaurants and teahouses. It’s a popular area in which to participate in a tea ceremony . Another nice place to stroll in this neighborhood is the Philosopher’s Path, which follows a cherry-tree-lined canal that’s beautiful and meditative even when the blossoms aren’t in season.

Visit Kiyomizu-dera One of a number of UNESCO sites in ancient Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera (meaning “pure water temple”) is located in the foothills of Mount Otowa in the eastern part of the city. It’s one of the most famous temples in all of Japan. It was established in 778, but most of the existing buildings date to the 17th century. There’s not a single nail used in the construction, which becomes all the more impressive once you see how large the temple is, which is best known for its wooden terrace that juts out over the hillside. The temple’s name comes from the nearby waterfall whose waters (from which you can still drink today) are said to have wish-granting and healing powers.

1 Chome-294 Kiyomizu, +81 75-551-1234, kiyomizudera.or.jp. Open daily 6am-6pm. Admission is 400 JPY.

Explore Shorin-ji Temple This small temple dates back to the 16th century. What makes it worth visiting is its meditation classes. You’ll get to tour the temple and then be instructed in zazen , the Japanese style of meditation. It’s a very unique experience and something that I think will add a lot of depth and nuance to your visit (especially if you’ve seen a lot of temples). Just make sure to dress comfortably.

15 Chome-795 Honmachi, +81 75-561-4311, shourin-ji.org. Open daily 10am-4pm. Admission is 800 JPY.

Wander the Nishiki Market Nishiki Ichiba is now one of the biggest indoor markets in town. Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen” and spanning over five blocks, it is full of vendors selling traditional dishes from the region, classic Kyoto souvenirs, and really just about anything else. There are over a hundred stalls here, many of which have been in the same family for generations. Opening hours depend on the shop but are typically from 9am to 6pm.

To dive deeper into Japanese food culture, you can take a food tour of the market . It’s the best way to learn about all the food you’ll see, as well as the market’s history.

Explore Gion Gion, the historic geisha district, is renowned as being one of the most iconic and atmospheric areas of town. It’s known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, narrow alleyways, cobblestone streets, and preservation of geisha (known locally as geiko) culture. Lining the main street are ochayas (teahouses where geishas entertain), small shops, and many restaurants, ranging from upscale kaiseki restaurants serving traditional Kyoto cuisine to casual eateries.

To really learn more about this amazing party of town and its past, take a walking tour of Gion . You’ll learn a ton and get a lot of context. They cost around 1,800 JPY.

At night, go to the Pontocho Row , a narrow street lined with restaurants, hole-in-the-wall bars, and jazz clubs. It’s one of the more lively areas in Kyoto.  

Nara was the capital of Japan in the eighth century, so there are lots of buildings and temples here that are upwards of a thousand years old (which is rare in Japan, due to the prevalence of fires and earthquakes, as well as World War II). Some things to do:

• Frolic with deer – The real draw in Nara are the deer. Since the 17th century, those in and around the city have been considered sacred. You can buy crackers to feed them or just watch them stroll around carefree.
• See the Buddha – Don’t miss a visit to Todai-ji, the world’s largest wooden building, home to a 16-meter (52-foot) Buddha statue. It was built in 738 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Take a walking tour – This guided half-day walking tour for 11,500 JPY includes all of Nara’s highlights as well as a traditional lunch.

Ryogoku Kokugikan, Japan’s most famous sumo wrestling arena, hosts tournaments three times each year, in January, May, and September. Tickets sell out quickly, so book online in advance. Prices vary but start around 3,200 JPY for arena seats. You can book a ticket online here (you’ll be accompanied by a guide too, so you can learn more about the tradition as it unfolds before your eyes).

To learn more about the sport in in the off-season, book a tour of a sumo stable .  

So, if you want to add another city to this itinerary you can follow this breakdown:

• Days 1 & 2: Tokyo
• Days 3 & 4: Kyoto
• Day 5: Nara
• Days 6 & 7: Osaka

Tokyo, Kyoto, and Nara are all covered above. As for Osaka, some of my favorite things to see and do:

Take a food tour Known as “the Kitchen of Japan,” Osaka boasts a diverse culinary scene. Mouthwatering sushi and sashimi, Kobe beef and Japanese BBQ, and flavorful ramen can all be found here in abundance. Plus, there are local specialties like okonomiyaki (a savory pancake with egg and vegetables) and kushikatsu (kebab skewers). You can take a food tour for around 13,000 JPY, a ramen and gyoza cooking class for 9,500 JPY, or just wander and eat.

Osaka Castle One of the most famous landmarks in the country, the castle was originally built in the late 16th century by Toyotomi Hideyoshi and played a pivotal role in the unification of Japan during the Sengoku period (1467-1615). Over the centuries, it has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times due to wars, fires, and natural disasters. The current version dates to 1931. The castle is situated amid sprawling grounds and surrounded by a moat. It’s also home to a small but insightful museum and an observation deck that offers some picturesque urban views.

Dotonbori This is arguably Osaka’s most iconic district, known for its vibrant nightlife (bars, clubs, theaters, and music venues), colorful signage, and delicious food. It’s best seen at night due to the plethora of huge neon lights and signs lining both the canal and streets, which have become symbols of Osaka’s nightlife. A guided walking tour that includes Dotonbori as well adjacent neighborhoods is 6,500 JPY.

Shitennoji Temple This temple is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan, founded in 593. The architecture is a blend of traditional Japanese and East Asian styles, featuring impressive pagodas, gates, and shrines set amid serene gardens. Stroll through the tranquil grounds, admire the beautiful architecture, and learn about the temple’s historical and cultural significance at the museum. The temple is 300 JPY to enter, the garden is 300 JPY, and the museum is 500 JPY.  

Japan is one of my favorite countries. While it’s relatively small, it offers an amazing array of things to see and do (as well as some of the best food in the world). With seven days, you can easily see a good number of the main highlights and get a taste for the incredible history and culture. It will be a busy week, but this itinerary ensures you’ll still have some time to slow down, relax, and take in the local pace of life.

Just make sure you get a Japan Rail Pass before you go. While it’s not as cheap as it used to be, it will likely save you time and money!

Book Your Trip to Japan: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . They are my two favorite search engines, because they search websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know no stone is being left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the most comprehensive inventory so they are best for booking a hostel. If you want to stay in a hotel or guesthouse in Japan, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancelations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel — and I think they will help you too!

Be sure to check out the Japan Rail Pass if you’ll be traveling around the country. It comes in 7-, 14-, and 21-day passes and can save you a ton of money!

Looking for More Travel Tips for Japan? Check out my in-depth Japan travel guide for more ways to save money, information on costs, tips on what to see and do, suggested itineraries and reading and packing lists, and much, much more!

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