The 9 Best Onsen in Kyoto: Everything You Want to Know
Japan's ancient city, Kyoto, is a haven for those seeking to immerse themselves in the traditional onsen experience. Popular for their therapeutic properties, these natural hot springs have become an integral part of Japanese culture. Kyoto, home to some of the best onsens in Japan, offers a diverse range of hot spring baths - from public baths in bustling downtown Kyoto to private onsens nestled in tranquil landscapes.
Each onsen in Kyoto provides a unique experience, often characterized by a blend of local customs and modern comforts. You can find onsens with outdoor baths overlooking beautiful scenery, indoor baths that offer a serene escape, and even facilities with both. The city's onsens are renowned for their healing hot spring water, drawn from deep beneath the earth's surface. Whether you're after a relaxing soak in a famous hot spring or a more intimate dip in a lesser-known onsen, this guide will help you navigate the best onsen in Kyoto.
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9 Best Hot Springs (Onsen) You Must Visit in Kyoto
1. Funaoka Onsen
Funaoka Onsen, standing tall since 1923, is the oldest onsen in Kyoto. This traditional Japanese bathhouse is renowned for its unique bathing options, such as the rock-lined rotenburo (outdoor bath) and an 'electric' bath that provides a light electric current. The wooden interiors and Showa-era architecture lend an air of authenticity that transports you back in time.
While visiting Funaoka Onsen, expect to immerse yourself in a piece of Japan's history. The variety of baths also means that you can choose the experience that suits your preferences the best. However, it's worth noting that Funaoka Onsen is not tattoo-friendly, so if you have tattoos, be prepared to cover them up.
Address: 82-1 Murasakino Minamifunaoka-cho, Kita-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto.
Admission Fee: Approximately 490 yen, payable only in cash.
Facilities: Funaoka Onsen offers a variety of bathing experiences including a main bathtub, shallow and deep baths, jet bath, electric bath, cold bath, aroma bath, open-air bath, and a sauna. Rental towels and other bathing necessities are available for purchase.
Access: The onsen is accessible by taking the Kyoto City Bus Route 206 and getting off at the Senbon-Kuramaguchi Bus Stop, followed by a short 5-minute walk.
2. Tenzan no Yu Onsen
Tenzan no Yu Onsen is a comprehensive wellness facility that goes beyond being just a hot spring. Its wide range of features includes a radium-rich natural hot spring bath, a silk bath infused with silk proteins, and a carbonated bath known for its skin-beautifying properties. The facilities extend to saunas, relaxation rooms, and a massage center, ensuring a holistic wellness experience.
The onsen operates from 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM daily, providing ample time for guests to unwind. Prices are slightly higher over weekends and holidays, but the experience it offers is well worth it. Whether you're looking for a relaxing dip in the natural hot spring or a therapeutic massage, Tenzan no Yu Onsen has got you covered.
Address: 55-4-7 Saganomiyanomotocho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto 616-8315, Kyoto Prefecture.
Hours of Operation: The onsen is open daily from 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM.
Access: The onsen is located near the Arashiyama area and can be accessed via a short walk from the train station through a residential area, offering a glimpse into local life.
3. Kurama Onsen
Nestled amidst the mountains to the north of Kyoto, Kurama Onsen is a retreat that combines stunning scenic beauty with soothing hot springs. The onsen features both indoor and outdoor baths filled with sulfur-rich hot spring water, known for its health benefits.
Getting to Kurama Onsen is part of the experience. The journey starts with a train ride on the Eizan Railway from Demachiyanagi Station in Kyoto to Kurama Station. From there, it's a short walk to the onsen. The train ride offers beautiful views of the countryside, setting the tone for the tranquil experience that awaits at the onsen.
Address: 520 Kurama Honmachi, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto-city.
Opening Hours: Kurama Onsen operates from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, but it's important to note that outdoor baths close earlier, at 8:00 PM, during the winter season (from December 15 to March 31).
Access: The most convenient way to reach Kurama Onsen is by taking the Eizan Electric Railway from Demachiyanagi Station in Kyoto, a journey of around 30 minutes. Once at Kurama Station, the town can be explored on foot, with the main attractions being within walking distance from the station.
4. Arashiyama Onsen
Arashiyama Onsen is a hot spring destination that perfectly complements the serene beauty of the Arashiyama area. Nestled among the scenic mountains and rivers, the onsen offers a tranquil retreat that allows you to connect with nature while soaking in the therapeutic waters.
The baths at Arashiyama Onsen are filled with sodium chloride spring water, known for its warming properties and health benefits, including improving blood circulation and relieving muscle pain. Whether you choose to soak in the indoor bath or the open-air bath, the experience promises total relaxation amidst stunning natural beauty.
Address: 5-4 Nishiichikawa-cho, Arashiyama, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto.
Access: Approximately a 1-minute walk from Hankyu Arashiyama Station.
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5. Katsuragawa Onsen
Katsuragawa Onsen is a hidden gem located along the banks of the Katsura River. Its location provides a peaceful ambiance, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a quiet retreat away from bustling city life.
This onsen offers a variety of baths, each designed to provide a unique experience. The open-air baths offer a fantastic view of the surrounding landscape, while the indoor baths provide a serene space for relaxation. The hot spring water here is rich in minerals, providing therapeutic benefits to the skin and body.
Find the picturesque Katsura River and see the majestic Togetsukyo bridge.
6. Sumiya Kiho-an Onsen
Sumiya Kiho-an Onsen is part of the Sumiya Kiho-an Ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn located in the mountains of Kyoto. This onsen offers a luxurious bathing experience, with both private and communal baths available.
The baths at Sumiya Kiho-an Onsen are filled with natural hot spring water sourced directly from the ground. The water is said to have healing properties, offering relief from stress and fatigue. With its beautiful surroundings and high-quality facilities, this onsen provides a truly indulgent hot spring experience.
Address: Yunohana Onsen, Hiedano-cho, Kameoka City, Kyoto Prefecture.
Access: Accessible by bus from JR Kameoka Station or by car via the Kyoto Jukan Expressway. Pick-up service is available from Kameoka Torokko Station and JR Kameoka Station with prior reservation.
7. Ohara Sanso Onsen
Ohara Sanso Onsen is a mountain retreat located in the rural area of Ohara. This onsen is surrounded by lush greenery and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making it a great option for those seeking a peaceful hot spring experience.
The onsen features both indoor and outdoor baths filled with natural hot spring water. The water is known for its high mineral content, which is said to have numerous health benefits. After a soak in the baths, you can relax in the rest area or enjoy a meal at the onsite restaurant, rounding off a truly rejuvenating experience.
Address: 17 Kusao-cho, Ohara, Sakyou-ku, Kyoto City 601-1248.
Access: A 15-minute walk from Ohara Bus Stop or a 15-minute drive from Kokusai Kaikan Subway Station. The Ryokan also offers a free shuttle service from Ohara Bus Stop.
8. Ryoanji Yudofu Seigenin Onsen
Ryoanji Yudofu Seigenin Onsen is a quiet oasis located near the famous Ryoanji Temple. This onsen offers a unique bathing experience in a serene and tranquil setting that embodies the essence of Japan's onsen culture. It's the perfect place to unwind after exploring the temple grounds.
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The onsen features a variety of baths, each filled with mineral-rich hot spring water known for its therapeutic benefits. The indoor bath offers a peaceful space for relaxation, while the open-air bath allows you to soak in the natural beauty of the surrounding garden. The onsen also features a restaurant where you can enjoy a traditional yudofu (tofu hot pot) meal, making it a must-visit destination for any onsen enthusiast.
Address: The onsen is situated inside Ryoan-ji, located at 13 Ryoan-ji Goryonoshita-cho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto.
Opening Hours: The establishment is open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM all year round.
Access: It is accessible with a 7-minute walk from Ryoanji Station on the Randen Kitano Line.
9. Gekkoan Onsen
Gekkoan Onsen provides a luxurious hot spring experience nestled in the heart of Kyoto. This onsen is part of the Gekkoan Ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn, offering guests an authentic taste of Japanese hospitality along with the soothing benefits of an onsen.
The baths at Gekkoan Onsen are filled with natural hot spring water known for its healing properties. The indoor baths provide a tranquil space for relaxation, while the outdoor baths offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. After enjoying the baths, you can indulge in a traditional kaiseki meal at the ryokan, making your visit to Gekkoan Onsen a truly indulgent experience.
Address: The Gekkou-an is located at Nishinokyo Nishigekko-cho 18-17, Nakagyo-ward, Kyoto-city, Kyoto.
Access: It's conveniently situated within a 10-minute walk from both JR Nijo and Subway Nijo Stations. This makes it quite accessible to major sightseeing spots and the downtown area of Kyoto.
Visit the nearby Nijo Castle with this tour.
The Etiquette of Using an Onsen
Visiting an onsen requires adherence to certain rules and manners. This ensures that everyone’s experience remains pleasant and respectful. Here are some key etiquettes to keep in mind:
1. Cleanliness: Before entering the onsen, it's customary to clean your body thoroughly. Shower areas are usually provided for this purpose. Remember, the onsen is for soaking and relaxing, not for washing.
2. Modesty: While most onsens require nudity, modesty is still valued. Use your towel as a privacy shield when walking around but do not put it in the water.
3. Quietness: Onsens are places of relaxation. Keep conversations at a low volume and avoid splashing or swimming.
4. Consideration for others: Rinse off any sweat or lotion before entering the onsen. Also, if you have long hair, tie it up to prevent it from touching the water.
5. Tattoos: Traditionally, tattoos are not allowed in onsens due to their association with the Yakuza (Japanese mafia). If you have tattoos, check beforehand if the onsen allows them or if they can be covered.
Soaking in Kyoto: The Onsen Experience
As we wrap up our exploration of the 9 best onsens in Kyoto, one thing is clear - each onsen offers a unique and enriching experience. They are not just about soaking in hot springs, but also about embracing the calm, understanding tradition, and experiencing rejuvenation.
Kyoto's onsens cater to a variety of preferences, whether you're seeking a luxurious retreat, a dip into history, or a serene communion with nature. So, pack your bags and let the healing waters of Kyoto's top onsens become part of your unforgettable Japanese journey.
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