Japan's Best Onsen Town Is A Cozy And Authentic Destination Surrounded By Mountains

While there are a multitude of reasons to go to Japan — from its sublime cuisine to these spectacular sites to see the cherry blossoms — perhaps nothing beats a visit to one of the country's hot springs. Known locally as "onsen," these thermal pools are spread throughout the nation and offer visitors the chance to experience Japan in a way that celebrates tradition along with deep, natural splendor. 

Japan takes its onsen seriously, with whole settlements built up around the natural springs. These onsen towns are about more than just soaking your cares away. They also have old-school accommodations, restaurants, tea houses, izakaya pubs, and more, often utilizing traditional architectural styles. 

Situated along the Otani River in the southern part of the main island of Honshu, Kinosaki onsen is viewed by some as the best onsen town in the country. This idyllic community also has scores of ryokan, the quaint Japanese inns that usually also have their own pools. Like most places in Japan, it's also conveniently served by train, making it possible to get to there from Kyoto or Osaka in just two and a half or three hours, respectively.

The legend of Kinosaki Onsen dates back to the 7th century, when — concerned about the high level of disease suffered by the locals, a Buddhist priest is said to have chanted sutras for 1,000 days until pure hot water gushed from the ground. Today, the town boasts seven public onsen, all of which can be accessed with the purchase of an inexpensive day pass for day trippers, though ryokan guests can visit for free. There are also free hot foot baths interspersed throughout the area, guaranteeing any visitor the chance for maximum relaxation.

Japan is a country governed by very specific traditions and mores, and this is also true at onsen, where visitors are expected to adhere to basic etiquette — such as this strict rule about tying up your hair. The good news is that — while tattoos may see you turned away at some onsen in Japan — the public baths of Kinosaki are tattoo-friendly, so visitors with ink need not worry about being denied entry. That said, it still pays to do your homework about how to be a considerate tourist when visiting Japan.

Kinosaki is eminently walkable, and guests are encouraged to don a yukata (thin cotton kimono), slip into a pair of get (wooden clogs), and stroll through the town. The whole place is done up as a very old-fashioned onsen community, complete with traditional arcade games such as pachinko, smart ball, and target shooting, which are a fun way to pass the time after a soak. In addition, Kinosaki is known for its down-home "snack bars," which offer drinks, karaoke, and friendly vibes whether you roll in with a group or just on your own. 

The area surrounding Kinosaki is renowned for its scenic beauty, with mountains, ocean coastline, and vivid cherry blossoms that come alive in the spring. The mountains on the town's western edge offer plenty of opportunities for exploration by hiking or cable car, with the added bonus of a Buddhist temple where onsen bathers were once required to pray before hitting the pools.

The area is particularly stunning in the winter, when it becomes covered in pristine white snow, which just adds to Kinosaki's serene ambiance. After all, it's hard to match the joy of relaxing in a pool of pure hot water while gazing at gently falling snow. Aficionados of winter sports can also head up to the nearby Kannabe Kogen area, which is home to three ski resorts with runs ranging from beginner to expert.

For lovers of wildlife, a visit to the Oriental White Stork Sanctuary is a must. This preserve just 6 miles south of Kinosaki Onsen is dedicated to the breeding and reintroduction of the Oriental White Stork, which became extinct in Japan in 1971. There is also a Stork Culture Museum that outlines the conservation efforts to save this endangered species. While there, don't be surprised if you come across newly married couples, as seeing an Oriental White Stork is said to be good luck for those wishing to have children.