Kinosaki Onsen

 hot spring, onsen, spa town

www.kinosaki-spa.gr.jp/global/

www.virtualtourist.com/hotels/Asia/Japan/Hyogo_ken/Toyo...

www.facebook.com/KinosakiOnsenEn?ref=stream&fref=nf - Kinosaki Onsen Tourist Information Center

Kinosaki Onsen (hot spring) is located in northern Hyogo prefecture and is famous for seafood especially crab which is best during the winter months of November through March though it is available year round. One of the most famous public hot spring bath houses, which runs along the picturesque Otanigawa River, is Ko-no-yu (hot spring of storks) that legend says was used by storks to heal their wounds. There are 6 other hot spring bath houses to enjoy. Travelers can be seen strolling along the river in yukatas (cotton kimono) and geta (wooden sandals) enjoying cherry trees and weeping willows as well of the traditional feel of the town. Onsenji Temple, believed to have been erected by Dochi-shonin in 738, was built to commemorate the founding of the onsen. You can take the ropeway halfway up the mountain to the main building of the temple or to the very top to see panoramic views of Kinosaki, the Maruyama River and the Sea of Japan. Or if you prefer to hike you can reach the top in about 40 minutes or so at a leisurely pace.

Visitors can use Yumepa - a digital ticket system that you can use for payment at many locations in Kinosaki as well as for entrance to the public hot springs. With yumepa, there is no need to carry around cash or complimentary entrance tickets. It is especially convenient if you want to experience Kinosaki in a yukata!