Japan Train Trip #Episode4

Kinosaki Onsen: A Delightful Destination Awaits

Kinosaki Onsen, a charming town nestled in the mountains of Japan, offers a unique and rejuvenating experience. Let's explore what makes this destination so special.

This city boasts a rich history spanning over 1,300 years. Renowned as a popular onsen destination, particularly among samurai during the Edo period, it reached its peak popularity during this era. In those times, Kinosaki Onsen was known as "Kai Dai Dai Ichisen," considered the finest onsen in Japan. This reputation stemmed not only from the exceptional therapeutic qualities of its hot springs but also from its status as a thriving leisure and tourist district, offering a plethora of accommodations, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Following the Edo period, Kinosaki Onsen experienced continuous development, evolving into one of Japan's premier onsen destinations as it is known today. The discovery of hot springs led to the town's expansion, and its historical charm has been meticulously preserved to this day.

Stepping out of the train station, one is greeted by the iconic symbols of this city. The first to catch the eye is the Matsuba crab, a seasonal delicacy available only during the winter months. Both fresh and steamed, pre-shelled crabs are readily available for immediate enjoyment. This iconic sight is a must-capture for every visitor.

The symbol of Matsuba crab, a delicious crab from the city of

Looking to the right, you will see a large number of Japanese geta sandals, befitting a hot spring town. These are located near one of the city's seven hot springs, Satono Yu. This footbath is conveniently situated near the train station.

The shoes on display

You can soak your feet in the Satono Yu pond.

A short walk from the train station, you'll find a Hot Spring Free Drinking Water dispenser. Consider it a welcome drink from the locals.

The city boasts seven hot springs, each with unique sizes and decorations, scattered throughout its boundaries. Their opening hours vary, with some closed on Mondays and others on Wednesdays. It's crucial to check the specific schedules beforehand. Visitors can obtain maps and information from the tourist office near the train station.

We strolled through the town center, where shops selling fresh seafood, restaurants, cafes, souvenir shops, and guesthouses lined both sides of the street. Many tourists choose to stay overnight to enjoy all seven onsen baths. The stone bridge in the heart of the town is a symbol of the city.

Shop across from the train station

A walkable city center

Small canals, the city's hallmark.

It's cold like this, you have to eat ice cream. It melts slowly.

In this city, it is common to see people walking around in yukata and geta sandals. This is because hotels and guesthouses often provide these garments to their guests. However, even if you are not staying overnight and would like to wear one, there are shops that offer rentals. Seeing people in yukata adds to the charm of this city.

Walking around town in this outfit.

This city is perfect for health enthusiasts and onsen lovers, as it boasts the best onsen in the country. However, for us, as travelers who are just getting acquainted with the city, we hope to return one day to fully experience both the onsen and the delicious crab dishes, which we unfortunately missed this time around.

The only shrine in the city

Goshono Yu, the largest and most beautiful hot spring by the waterfall, is located further inside.

The front of Goshono Yu

A small canal flows through.

A unique bridge

Yanagi Yu Footbath: The water in this footbath is relatively hotter than other baths.

After spending a full day exploring the city, soaking our feet in the hot springs, enjoying delicious meals, and indulging in ice cream in the hot spring town of Kinosaki Onsen, it was almost time for our return train. We decided to take a leisurely stroll around the train station while waiting for our departure.

Satano Yu Pond is visible in the background.

As our departure time approached, the train that would take us back to Osaka pulled into the platform. This time, we would be riding the Konotori 26 Limited Express.

The name Konotori, meaning "stork," is derived from the fact that this bird is the symbol of Hyogo Prefecture. This particular journey will take you on a long ride from Kinosaki Onsen to Osaka, with a total travel time of 163 minutes. It's a lengthy journey, so be prepared for it to be dark by the time you arrive.

We won't be able to go out clubbing anymore. It seems like we'll have to crawl back to our accommodation. Which is how it should be, because tomorrow we have a fun day of sightseeing that Little Mouse is eagerly looking forward to. Let's get some sleep.

Let's continue our journey of exploration…

Feel free to visit and greet Piyai and Noolek at https://www.facebook.com/TravelWithPiyaiAndNoolek/ when you have free time.