Recommended onsen in Kyoto

Discovered in 1992, Kumihama Onsen, drilled from 1500m underground, emerges in the scenic Kumihama Bay area of northern Kyoto Prefecture, facing the Sea of Japan. Its colorless, transparent, and mild waters are renowned for a gentle, skin-enveloping veil of salt. This unique quality delivers restorative warmth deep into the body's core, ensuring a lasting sense of comfort long after you leave the bath. It's an ideal retreat for those seeking deep relaxation and a profound escape from daily life amidst stunning rias coastlines.

Opened in 2004, Ohara Onsen in Kyoto's Ohara district offers a colorless, transparent spring nestled in a mountain village near renowned temples like Sanzen-in and Jakkō-in. Its signature feature is a gentle, soft texture that delicately envelops the skin. Immersing yourself in this weakly alkaline, smooth water amidst the ancient capital's tranquility will slowly release tension from your stiff body and mind. This onsen is perfect for those seeking serene moments surrounded by abundant nature, far from the daily hustle.

The Izumi Gōi Gensen is the vital source supporting Onneyu Onsen, a renowned hot spring in Hokkaido, whose name translates to "large hot water" in the Ainu language. Since its establishment in 1899, this region has been cherished as a "skin-beautifying spring." The thick, highly alkaline water from this source gently envelops the skin, leaving it remarkably smooth and silky after bathing, as if adorned with a delicate veil. It is an ideal spring for those wishing to experience nature's blessings and enhance their skin's condition.

This precious hot spring emerges from deep underground in Shijo Kawaramachi, Kyoto's premier downtown district. Its hypertonic chloride spring water, with a richness akin to the blessings of the sea, gently envelops the skin, providing a restorative warmth that lingers long after bathing. It offers a deep relaxation, helping travelers forget the city's hustle and gently soothe bodies tired from exploration. This spring is highly recommended for active travelers seeking authentic healing conveniently located in the heart of the ancient capital.

Emerging from a tea field near the gate of Kurama-dera Temple in Kyoto's "inner parlor" during the late Meiji era, this rare and esteemed hot spring offers subtly sulfur-scented waters. Its gentle, weak alkaline touch smoothly envelops the skin, leaving it with a silky feel. After bathing, a refreshing lightness of body and mind promotes rejuvenation. It provides deep relaxation, helping to relieve pain from journeys exploring Kifune Shrine and Kurama-dera Temple, allowing visitors to deeply refresh amidst the beauty of nature through the four seasons.