Hyogo (Kobe / Himeji)

Kinosaki Onsen, on the Sea of Japan coast in Hyogo Prefecture, is one of the most welcoming hot spring towns in Japan for first-time visitors. This complete guide covers the seven public bathhouses (soto-yu), what to expect from a traditional ryokan stay and kaiseki dinner, how to wear a yukata, essential onsen etiquette, what to eat from snow crab to Tajima beef, how to get there from Kyoto, Osaka and Tokyo, seasonal advice, costs in yen and US dollars, a one-night itinerary, the Mount Daishi ropeway, nearby side trips, and a detailed FAQ. Everything you need to plan a relaxing, lantern-lit night in this willow-lined canal town.

Arima Onsen is the oldest hot spring in Japan and one of the most accessible from Kobe, Osaka and Kyoto. Famous for its dual mineral waters — rust-red iron-rich kinsen and fizzy carbonated ginsen — the town has been welcoming bathers for over 1,300 years. This complete first-timer’s guide covers how to get there, the best ryokan, public bathhouses Kin no Yu and Gin no Yu, where to eat including Kobe beef and tansan-senbei, full onsen etiquette, autumn foliage timing, suggested itineraries, and answers to the most common questions about visiting one of Japan’s three great ancient hot springs.