The Guide to Relaxation in Kinosaki, Japan

    LOS ANGELES, CA, June 29, 2022 /24-7PressRelease/ -- 2 Days & 1 Night of Blissful Relaxation
Being a cozy hot spring town with over 1,300 years of history, it's no wonder Kinosaki is the ultimate destination for a relaxing hot spring getaway. There are lots of activities to do, ranging from cultural experiences like zen meditation and straw craft (Kinosaki's traditional art form), to adventurous pursuits like hiking up Mount Daishi and Mount Kuruhi, which are sure to excite visitors of all interests and ages. Check out our hand-picked suggestions for your next trip to Kinosaki.

Day 1: Getting Acquainted
After arriving at Kinosaki Onsen Station from either Kyoto or Osaka, drop off your luggage at the Kinosaki Onsen Ryokan Service Center and be on your way to discovering one of Japan's oldest hot spring towns. Enjoy lunch at one of the countless locally acclaimed eateries such as Off, a hip café serving Tajima beef burgers, or Orizuru, Kinosaki's premier sushi restaurant. Start your trip with a visit to Onsenji Temple via the Kinosaki Ropeway. Once at Onsenji Temple, a local monk will be happy to teach you the traditional way of paying respects to Kinosaki Onsen's guardian temple before entering the town's mystic hot springs. Afterwards, check into your inn, savor yet another filling Japanese meal in the comfort of your own room, and head to the hot springs.

Day 2: Crafts and Baths
After a hearty breakfast served in your accommodation's room and checking out, wave goodbye to your hosts and walk over to Kamiya Mingei, the workshop of one of only 4 craftsman who practice the art of straw craft. Exclusively found in Kinosaki Onsen, straw craft involves cutting colored pieces of wheat straw and cutting them into shapes to create unique and detailed works of art. Mister Kamiya, the owner of Kamiya Mingei, will be there to guide you through creating your very own designed keepsake box. After creating your straw craft box, enjoy one last round of soaks in Kinosaki's hot spring baths. In addition to the seven public hot springs, it is also recommended to try soaking your feet in some of the town's free footbaths while waiting for your train back to Osaka or Kyoto.

KINOSAKI ONSEN: A COZY HOT SPRING TOWN FOR THE MOST AUTHENTIC JAPANESE EXPERIENCE
Kinosaki Onsen is a town of time-honored hot springs dating back 1300 years ago. It is home to seven public bathhouses, all located within walking distance of each other and the train station. Guests are encouraged to wear yukata and geta, stroll through the town, and go onsen-hopping.

Toyooka is a downtown area home to the Oriental White Stork, a bird that was revived from extinction in this very town. The city's efforts restored the Oriental White Stork population, and now over 260 fly the skies of Japan. Toyooka is also known for the Genbudo Caves.

Izushi is the resident castle town, popular for its nostalgic atmosphere of Edo-era Japan. It is home to many interesting attractions such as castle ruins, a samurai house, a kabuki theater, and a clock tower. The town's specialty is Izushi Sara Soba, buckwheat noodles served in small portions on small plates.

Kannabe is a mountainous area with fun activities year-round. In the winter, one can go skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and sledding. In the warm months, one can go camping, paragliding, fishing, tree climbing, and more. Kannabe is the perfect destination for adventurers.

Takeno is a quaint fisherman town that is a hidden gem among the northern coast of Hyogo Prefecture. The beach has clear, blue waters while the mountains surrounding it offer great hiking opportunities. It is encouraged to stroll through the peaceful town, where one can find small shops and traditional landscapes.

Tanto is a quiet countryside town with magnificent nature—including a giant field of tulips in the spring and brilliant red-leaved trees in the fall.

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