Where to Stay in Kinosaki, the Idyllic ‘Onsen’ Town

The seaside town of Kinosaki is very popular with the Japanese thanks to its seven public onsen and multiple private baths, high-quality restaurants known for their crab dishes and traditional inns. There are no big hotel chains to break its enchanting sense of calm; just 74 ryokan that promise visitors an exceptional stay. Here is a selection of inns where you can head off to dreamland after a satisfying day in the onsen.

Nishimuraya Honkan

Run by the same family for over seven generations, this luxurious inn represents the culmination of a stay in Kinosaki. Its intimate atmosphere, private art gallery, gastronomic dishes and, of course, its 34 rooms, all of which open onto a private garden, encapsulate the very nature of a ryokan. Nishimuraya Honkan even has two private onsen, elegant jewels to create an exquisite stay.

€500-900/night.

Onishiya Suishoen

As well as the spa, sauna and onsen in the Onishiya Suishoen inn itself, little bonfires are lit at dusk to announce a Noh performance, a form of theatre which involves music, dance and drama.

€125-470/night.

Tsubakino Ryokan

This inn with a typically Japanese atmosphere could also serve as an art gallery: the walls are adorned by images of Ksitigarbha, a Buddhist saint, drawn by the previous owner. Tsubakino Ryokan has a cosy corner where visitors can relax while reading a manga, and a liquor house that offers spirits and plum liqueur. Perfection lies in every detail, from the floral arrangements to the private onsen. It’s refinement in its purest form.

€100-110/night.

Hanakouji Saigetsu

With just nine rooms, it goes without saying that this inn is a haven of calm. Travellers can choose between a traditional or western-style room, with immaculate, elaborate décor. A small place for a great stay in this ryokan with a plush atmosphere.

€130-450/night.