Kinosaki Onsen Self-Guided Tour with Hot Spring Passport

Hyogo Prefecture , Japan

Kinosaki Onsen Self-Guided Tour with Hot Spring Passport

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All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

・A self-guided program that lets you make the most of your free time before check-in and discover Kinosaki at your own pace.
・Record your journey with a Onsen Stamp Book featuring Kinosaki straw marquetry, a traditional craft with over 300 years of history.
・Store your luggage before check-in and get an overview of Kinosaki Onsen’s history, public bathhouses, and recommended local shops.
・No license required! Experience quiet, eco-friendly travel with our compact, easy-to-handle electric bikes (electric tuk-tuks also available as an option).

Available options

Standard

What's included

Additional insurance fee of JPY 500 (tax included) applies

Vehicle rental fee (including pre-ride practice session)

Original route map (including Google Maps access)

Round-trip ropeway ticket

Pre-guide orientation for route guidance and safety instructions

Liability: unlimited / Personal injury & death: up to JPY 15,000,000

Luggage storage during the rental period

Goyu-in Book (Onsen Stamp Book)

Outpatient compensation: JPY 2,500 per day

Detailed itinerary

Entrance of Ryokan Town: Kinosaki Onsen Tourist Center
Reception & Pre-Guidance
Please gather 20 minutes before your chosen start time.
Luggage storage is available, and you will receive your cultural stamp book and map, along with a brief explanation of suggested routes.

Rental Orientation
Instructions and a short practice session will be provided for riding the electric bike or tuk-tuk.

[12:50] Corridor & Shops: Kinosaki Onsen Town
Travel by electric bike or tuk-tuk.

Experience Begins
To better enjoy your town walk and public bath visits, begin with a preview ride through the onsen town using an electric bike or tuk-tuk.
Using the provided guide materials, explore the town at your own pace and learn about the townscape shaped over the past 100 years since the Great North Tajima Earthquake, along with key highlights and recommended shops suited to your interests and travel style.

[14:30] Onsenji Temple: Main Hall
Travel by electric bike or tuk-tuk → Ropeway.

Arrive by ropeway at Onsenji Temple, founded 1,300 years ago by the monk Dochi Shonin, who opened Kinosaki Onsen.
If the chief priest or temple staff are present, you may ask them about the Ancient Bathing Etiquette and the cultural meaning of the Yushaku (hot spring ladle), once essential for entering Kinosaki’s hot springs.
Yushaku are available for purchase within the temple grounds.

[15:15] Onsenji Temple :Yakushido
Travel by ropeway → on foot.

Descend back toward the onsen town by ropeway.
Relax at a foot bath fed by Kinosaki Onsen’s original hot spring source, located near the ropeway station, and enjoy making your own jiggly onsen eggs using natural local ingredients, along with Kinosaki Gelato.
Yakushido is a nationally registered tangible cultural property built in the Edo period (1804–1818) and has long been revered as the guardian hall protecting Kinosaki Onsen and its bathing guests.
Reflect on the Ancient Bathing Etiquette and stroll through the temple grounds while expressing gratitude for the hot spring waters.

[15:50] Entrance of Ryokan Town: Kinosaki Onsen Tourist Center
Travel by electric bike or tuk-tuk.

Return and drop off the electric bike or tuk-tuk.
With a deeper understanding of Kinosaki’s hot spring culture and having completed your symbolic check-in to the “town of hot springs,” proceed to your accommodation for room check-in, and begin exploring the public bathhouses.

What's not included

Onsen egg-making experience and gelato purchases at Yakushi Park

Vehicle damage compensation

Guests are responsible for the full cost of repairs in cases of dangerous or improper driving

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Items to bring: Passport

If you wish to drive an electric TUKTUK or motorcycle:A valid driver’s license with an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.

Scooters and electric bicycles that do not require a license are also available.

Clothes: Comfortable, easy-to-move clothing is recommended.

*Complimentary rental of warm clothing is available depending on the season.

Children able to ride in a slightly bumpy vehicle are welcome at any age.

License-free bikes are available for participants aged 16 and over.

Children under 13 years old can participate for free.

Tuk-Tuk / Total weight 220kg or below (up to 3 people can ride one vehicle)

Electric bicycle/100kg or below

When children 13 years old or younger join the tour, please select the TUKTUK option (optional upgrade).

－TUKTUK operation requires a valid driver’s license.

－As the TUKTUK capacity is limited to 3 passengers, families of four may be asked to have one participant ride a bike.

－For infants aged 3 and under, four passengers may ride together if the infant is seated on a lap.

【Late Arrival Policy】 If you arrive more than 30 minutes late for your reservation without prior notice, your booking will be treated as a cancellation, and a 100% cancellation fee will apply (same-day cancellation).

【In Case of Cancellation Due to Weather or Other Circumstances】 We will notify you by 3:00 p.m. on the day before the tour if the experience must be cancelled due to weather conditions or other unavoidable circumstances.

【Vehicle Selection】 Vehicle type must be selected at the time of booking. Changes may be possible after a test ride on the day, subject to availability.

【Weight Limits & License Requirements】・TUKTUK 　･Total combined weight: 220 kg or less 　･Capacity: Up to 3 passengers per vehicle 　･Valid driver’s license (International Driving Permit) required

・Motorcycle / Bike 　･Weight limit: 100 kg or less 　･Two types are available: 　　－ Bikes that require a valid driver’s license (International Driving Permit) 　　－ License-free electric bikes

Foreign visitors who wish to drive in Japan are required to hold a valid International Driving Permit (IDP).

Japan is a signatory to the Geneva Convention on Road Traffic, and visitors holding an IDP issued by a contracting country are legally permitted to drive in Japan.

【Yushaku (Hot Spring Ladle)】 The “Yushaku” is available for purchase at 3,000 yen instead of rental.

Meeting point

Meeting point：Kinosaki Onsen Tourist Center in front of JR Kinosaki Onsen Station
78, Yushima, Kinosakicho, Toyooka, Hyogo,669-6101
Access： Located across the road from the JR Kinosaki Onsen Station exit.

About Hyogo Prefecture

Hyogo Prefecture, located in the Kansai region of Japan, is a blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. Known for its historic sites, vibrant cities, and stunning landscapes, Hyogo offers a diverse travel experience that includes the iconic Kobe beef, the scenic Koko no Highwood, and the historic Himeji Castle. Whether you're exploring the bustling streets of Kobe or the serene mountains of the Kinki region, Hyogo has something for every traveler.

Top Attractions

Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle, also known as the White Heron Castle, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan's most famous castles. It is renowned for its elegant white exterior and well-preserved wooden structures.

Historical 2-3 hours ¥1,000

Kobe Beef

Kobe beef is one of Japan's most famous culinary delights. Known for its tenderness, marbling, and rich flavor, it is a must-try for any food enthusiast.

Cultural 1-2 hours ¥5,000 to ¥20,000

Koko no Highwood

Koko no Highwood is a scenic area located in the Rokko Mountains. It offers stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea and the city of Kobe, making it a popular spot for hiking and photography.

Nature 2-3 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kobe Beef

Tender, marbled beef from Tajima cattle, known for its rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Main course Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Okonomiyaki

A savory Japanese pancake made with cabbage, batter, and various toppings, often cooked on a griddle.

Main course Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Sake

Traditional Japanese rice wine, with many local breweries in the Nada district.

Drink Contains alcohol

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Rokko Mountains Mountain biking in the Kinki region Onsen (hot spring) bathing in Arima Onsen Strolling through Kobe Harborland Visiting Himeji Castle Exploring the Nada Sake District Ferry ride to Awaji Island Skiing and snowboarding in the Rokko Mountains

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

These seasons offer comfortable weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The cherry blossoms in spring and the vibrant foliage in autumn are major attractions.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English, Chinese
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hyogo Prefecture is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps to avoid scams.
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services, as they may be trying to scam you.

Getting there

By air

Kobe Airport • 10 km from Kobe city center
Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 30 km from Kobe city center

By train

Kobe Station, Sannomiya Station

By bus

Kobe Sanda Premium Outlets, Kobe Airport Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The train network in Hyogo Prefecture is efficient and covers most of the major cities and tourist attractions. The Shinkansen connects Kobe to other major cities in Japan.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Sannomiya Nada

Day trips

Awaji Island

30 km from Kobe • Full day

Awaji Island is known for its beautiful landscapes, historic sites, and the famous Awaji Puppet Theater.

Arima Onsen

20 km from Kobe • Half day

Arima Onsen is one of Japan's oldest and most famous hot spring towns, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Festivals

Kobe Luz Festival • Late January to early February Kobe Port Festival • Early October

Pro tips

Visit Himeji Castle early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the castle in the morning light.
Try different cooking methods for Kobe beef, such as steak, sukiyaki, and teppanyaki, to experience the full range of flavors.
Explore the Nada Sake District for a unique cultural experience, with sake tasting tours and traditional breweries.
Visit Koko no Highwood during sunset for the most breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea and the city of Kobe.
Stay in a ryokan (traditional inn) for a unique and authentic experience, with tatami mats, onsen (hot spring) baths, and traditional Japanese cuisine.