Kinosaki Onsen - Discovering Japan

Travelling to Kinosaki Onsen

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kinosaki Onsen, a pretty good destination in Japan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kinosaki Onsen and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kinosaki Onsen, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Japan, here's everything to know about Kinosaki Onsen for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kinosaki Onsen

Kinosaki Onsen is a town located in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. It is famous for its hot spring baths which have been in use for over a thousand years. The town has seven public bathhouses, or sotoyu, which are free to use with the purchase of an admission ticket. The town also has numerous ryokans, or traditional Japanese inns, which provide lodging and private hot spring baths to guests. Kinosaki Onsen is also known for its charming streets lined with willow trees, traditional architecture, and delicious local cuisine. Additionally, the town has a rich history and cultural heritage, with festivals and events held throughout the year to celebrate its traditions.

What to visit in Kinosaki Onsen

Sure, here are some of the popular tourist attractions that Kinosaki Onsen has to offer: 1. Kinosaki Onsen Ropeway: Kinosaki Onsen Ropeway is a cable car that takes visitors to the top of Mt. Taishi. From the top, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the sea, the town, and the surrounding mountains.
2. Kinosaki Onsen Temple: The Kinosaki Onsen Temple is a Buddhist temple founded in 738 AD. It is home to a beautiful garden and several statues of Buddha.
3. Kinosaki Onsen Street: Kinosaki Onsen Street is a charming street lined with traditional Japanese buildings, shops and restaurants. Visitors can try local delicacies, souvenirs, and enjoy the traditional Japanese atmosphere.
4. Kinosaki Marine World: Kinosaki Marine World is an aquarium located near Kinosaki Onsen. It is home to a variety of marine life, including dolphins, seals, penguins, and fish. Visitors can also enjoy a dolphin show and other performances.
5. Onsenji Temple: Onsenji Temple is located at the top of a hill and offers a stunning view of the town and the surrounding mountains. The temple is also known for its beautiful garden and its history.
6. Izushi Castle Ruins: Izushi Castle Ruins is the remains of a castle built in the 17th century. Visitors can walk through the grounds and learn about the castle's history.
7. Genbudo Park: Genbudo Park is a geological park with unique rock formations that were created by lava flows. Visitors can hike through the park and take in the beautiful scenery.
Kinosaki Onsen is truly a unique destination that offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty to its visitors.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Japan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Kinosaki Onsen

The best time to visit Kinosaki Onsen is during the winter months from November to February. During this time, the onsen town is covered in snow and yukata (summer kimono) is exchanged for warm, comfortable winter robes called happi. The hot springs provide the perfect opportunity to take in the stunning wintry scenery while enjoying a relaxing soak. Additionally, Kinosaki Onsen holds a series of winter festivals during this time, including the famous Onsen Matsuri (Hot Springs Festival) in January, which is a lively celebration of the town's hot springs culture.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kinosaki Onsen

There are a few ways to get to Kinosaki Onsen in Japan: 1. By train: The most convenient way to get to Kinosaki Onsen is by train. Take the JR Sanin Main Line from Kyoto or Osaka to the Kinosaki Onsen Station. The journey takes around 2.5-3 hours.
2. By bus: You can take a bus from Osaka or Kobe to Kinosaki Onsen, but it takes longer than the train (around 3.5-4 hours).
3. By car: If you're driving, take the Chugoku Expressway or the Maizuru-Wakasa Expressway to the Kinosaki Onsen IC.
Once you arrive at Kinosaki Onsen, you can easily explore the town on foot. The hot springs and ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) are located within walking distance from the train station.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kinosaki Onsen, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kinosaki Onsen

Here are a few typical foods of Kinosaki Onsen in Japan: 1. Tajima beef: This is a type of wagyu beef that comes from Tajima area, the same place where Kobe beef comes from. It's a high-quality cut of meat that's known for its marbling and tenderness.
2. Matsuba crab: This type of crab is a delicacy in the region and is often eaten as sashimi or grilled. It has a sweet flavor and a soft texture.
3. Izushi soba: This is a type of soba noodle that's made from buckwheat flour. It's a local specialty and is usually served cold with a variety of toppings like grated daikon, green onions, and soy sauce.
4. Onsen tamago: These are eggs that have been boiled in the hot springs of Kinosaki Onsen. The water is rich in minerals that give the eggs a unique flavor and texture.
5. Kinosaki beer: This is a local beer that's brewed using water from the hot springs. It has a light and refreshing taste and is perfect for a hot summer day.
You can find general info about typical foods in Japan here.

Is Kinosaki Onsen an expensive destination for tourists?

Kinosaki Onsen is considered a relatively expensive destination for tourists due to its popularity and reputation as one of Japan's best hot spring towns. Accommodation prices can be higher than average, especially during peak seasons, and the cost of dining and activities can also be relatively expensive. However, there are also budget-friendly options available, such as staying in a ryokan or guesthouse outside of the town center or participating in free activities like walking tours or visits to public baths. It all depends on your budget and preferences, but overall, Kinosaki Onsen can be a bit on the expensive side.

Where to find accomodation in Kinosaki Onsen

Kinosaki Onsen is a popular tourist destination in Japan known for its hot springs. The best areas to find accommodation to visit Kinosaki Onsen are: 1. Kinosaki Onsen Station area: This area has many ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) and hotels that are conveniently located near the train station and the hot springs.
2. Yushima area: This area is a little further away from the train station, but it is still within walking distance to the hot springs. There are also several ryokans and hotels in this area.
3. Mandara-yama area: This area is located on a hill and offers great views of Kinosaki Onsen and the surrounding mountains. It is a bit further from the hot springs but it still has several ryokans and hotels to choose from.
Overall, wherever you stay in Kinosaki Onsen, you will be able to enjoy the hot springs and the beautiful scenery of the area.
You can check hotel prices at Kinosaki Onsen here:
Booking.com

Is Kinosaki Onsen a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Kinosaki Onsen in Japan is generally a safe place for tourists. Japan in general is known for being one of the safest countries in the world, and Kinosaki Onsen is no exception. The local police and tourist authorities are proactive in maintaining the safety and security of tourists. However, as with any destination, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings, take precautions, and follow local customs and laws.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Japan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kinosaki Onsen.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kinosaki Onsen the most?

Kinosaki Onsen is a wonderful destination for couples and families who are looking for a relaxing and traditional Japanese experience. It is well-known for its numerous hot springs and traditional ryokans where visitors can stay and immerse themselves in Japanese culture. The romantic atmosphere and tranquil setting make it a great destination for couples seeking a romantic getaway.
Families with children can also enjoy Kinosaki Onsen as there are plenty of activities and attractions suitable for children, such as visits to the nearby zoo, aquarium, and a ropeway that takes you to the top of a nearby mountain for stunning views.
Young people looking for fun might find Kinosaki Onsen a bit too quiet as the town mainly caters to those looking for a peaceful and relaxing experience. However, those looking for outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and hiking will enjoy the nearby mountains and ski resorts.

How to get around Kinosaki Onsen

Kinosaki Onsen is a small town in Japan that is best explored on foot or by renting a bicycle, as most of the attractions and hot spring baths are located within walking distance of each other. Additionally, the town also offers a traditional rickshaw ride for visitors who want to experience the old-world charm of the place. However, if you need to travel outside the town, you can use the local train services or hire a taxi.

What to see around Kinosaki Onsen

Certainly! Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Kinosaki Onsen: 1. Izushi Castle Town: This charming town is known for its preserved castle ruins and traditional Edo-style houses, as well as delicious soba noodles that are a local specialty.
2. Toyooka City: Just a short train ride from Kinosaki Onsen, you’ll find Toyooka City which is home to the famous Tajima cattle, some of the highest quality beef in Japan. Here, you can also visit the Kinosaki Marine World aquarium, or hike in the beautiful surrounding mountains.
3. Amanohashidate: Amanohashidate is one of Japan's three most scenic spots. Amanohashidate is a sandbar that stretches across the mouth of Miyazu Bay, creating a narrow land bridge between the bay and the Sea of Japan.
4. Miyazu City: Just beyond Amanohashidate lies Miyazu City, a small fishing town known for its beautiful beaches, delicious seafood, and historical sites like the Urashima-ya Tea House.
5. Fukuchiyama City: Finally, Fukuchiyama City is another charming destination that offers hiking, historical sites like the ancient Tanba-Kameyama Castle (one of the few remaining hilltop castles in Japan), and a traditional market full of local food and crafts.
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