Best Hot Springs (Onsen) & Bath Houses (Sento) around Kansai Spot List

Drawing from two historic sources of water, this open air bath has a nostalgic atmosphere typical of traditional public baths

The serene atmosphere and space provide a leisurely onsen experience for travelers

This outdoor, natural bath is even popular in winter

Filled with divine blessings. A spacious, comfortable bath

Known as one of Japan’s top three beauty hot springs

Kansai's most famous dark-colored hot springs. The golden hot spring water is rich in sodium and iron

The most popular of Kinosaki’s outdoor baths. The dynamic waterfall is a favorite

Arima Hot Spring, located an hour's trip away from Osaka, is known as a retreat in the Kyoto, Osaka and Kobe areas. It is famous for being one of Japan's three oldest hot springs.

The entire place has a classic feel. This public bath is filled with unrivaled nostalgia

A bathhouse exuding old-fashioned charm

Located just one meter away from the sea, this is a public open-air bath that Shirahama Onsen is famous for. According to the ancient history books, such as the Nihonshoki (Chronicles of Japan) and the Manyoshu (Collection of Ten Thousand Leaves), Prince Arima visited this place about 1,350 years ago.

This footbath was constructed when JR Ogoto Station was renamed as Ogoto-onsen Station on March 15, 2008. Tradition says that Ogoto-onsen was discovered by Denkyo Daishi Saicho, the founder of Enryaku-ji Temple on Mt. Hiei. The building is designed to recall a hexagonal hall located in Hayao Jizoson, where stone jizo statues (guardian deities of children) allegedly made by Saicho, are enshrined.

This open-air bath is right next to Shirahama Beach. Since you can wear a swimsuit while soaking in this pool-like bathtub, it's convenient to visit after a day at the beach. The hot water that springs from its own source is constantly replenished, ensuring the water is always fresh. During the non-summer seasons, it's used as a footbath instead.