＊You can also read this article in Korean and Taiwanese. Please click on the links below.<ul><li><a href="https://jpneazy.com/feature/kyoto-onsen-hot-spring-kr">교토 온천: 역사, 가이세키 요리, 편안한 온천의 조화로운 조화</a></li><li><a href="https://jpneazy.com/feature/kyoto-onsen-hot-spring-tw">京都溫泉：歷史、懷石料理與放鬆熱泉的和諧融合</a></li></ul><a href="https://jpneazy.com/features/top">Go to Featured Articles Top Page</a><h1>Kyoto Onsen: A Harmonious Blend of History, Kaiseki Cuisine, and Relaxing Hot Spring</h1>Kyoto is Japan’s most famous city for culture, history, and tourism. Known as the ancient capital, "Kyoto" is located in Kyoto City, which is within Kyoto Prefecture. Although Kyoto City itself is not directly located near any hot spring resorts, the vast Kyoto Prefecture, where the city is situated, is home to several wonderful hot springs. Kyoto uniquely blends its rich history with serene hot spring experiences, offering visitors a one-of-a-kind opportunity to indulge. Not only Kyoto City but also its surrounding areas attract many visitors seeking relaxation in healing waters and immersion in Japan's traditional onsen culture. Japanese hot springs are celebrated for their ability to relax the body and mind, relieve muscle fatigue, and provide various health benefits. From ancient times, Japanese people have cherished onsen, integrating them into their daily lives. Starting in the medieval period, even emperors and samurai sought out their therapeutic effects. Kyoto is also said to be the birthplace of kaiseki cuisine, and many travelers flock to the region to enjoy onsen alongside traditional Japanese dishes. As a result, Kyoto features numerous ryokans equipped with hot springs or large public baths, catering to this demand. Discover the best of Kyoto with its relaxing hot springs, rich history, and top restaurant recommendations for an unforgettable experience blending culture, cuisine, and rejuvenation.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:5939/3000;" src="https://s3.ap-northeast-1.amazonaws.com/files.jpneazy.com/media/kyoto_winter_1_3575ee89df.jpg" alt="kyoto-winter-1.jpg" width="5939" height="3000"></figure><h2>Discover Kyoto's Hidden Onsen Gems!</h2>Although Kyoto is not home to any nationally renowned hot spring resorts, it offers a variety of captivating onsen destinations that enchant visitors.<ul><li>Fukuchiyama Onsen Located in Fukuchiyama City, this hot spring allows day-use visits. Its skin-friendly waters are beloved by both locals and tourists.</li><li>Uji Onsen Nestled among tea fields in Uji City, this onsen is known for its beautifying waters and its location in a region famous for Uji tea.</li><li>Kamiyuku Onsen Situated in northern Kyoto, this quiet hot spring area offers soothing waters surrounded by abundant nature.</li><li>Kitsu Onsen A historic onsen in Kyotango City, considered one of Japan’s oldest hot springs. It provides a relaxing and tranquil atmosphere.</li><li>Amanohashidate Onsen Located near Amanohashidate, one of Japan’s three most scenic views, this onsen boasts a luxurious setting where visitors can enjoy both sightseeing and hot springs.</li><li>Yuhigaura Onsen Famous for its stunning sunsets, this Kyotango onsen lies along the coast, offering a charming and therapeutic retreat.</li><li>Arashiyama Onsen Located in the iconic Arashiyama area, this onsen offers the rare treat of soaking while enjoying views of Togetsukyo Bridge.</li><li>Ohara Onsen This quiet hot spring in the outskirts of Kyoto City is set amidst lush nature, providing a peaceful retreat to rejuvenate the body and mind.</li><li>Izumikawa Onsen A hidden gem in a mountain village, this secluded onsen offers tranquil surroundings and the chance to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the area.</li></ul><h2>Kyoto's Hot Springs and Exquisite Cuisine</h2>Most traditional inns (ryokan) in Kyoto offer dinner as part of the stay. Kyoto's onsen ryokans seamlessly blend historical charm, relaxing rejuvenation, and exceptional cuisine, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Japan's traditions and onsen culture. While enjoying Kyoto's hot springs, guests can savor a variety of local dishes, such as the following examples:<ul><li>Kaiseki Cuisine: A traditional Japanese multi-course meal that highlights seasonal ingredients in small, artfully presented dishes. Great care is taken with the aesthetics, including the selection of tableware, to evoke a sense of season and hospitality.</li><li>Yudofu: A classic Kyoto dish featuring gently simmered tofu in a delicate broth, often garnished with green onions and freshly grated ginger for added flavor.</li><li>Duck Dishes: Duck cuisine is another specialty of Kyoto, with options like roasted duck or duck hot pot showcasing the rich flavors of this ingredient.</li><li>Matcha and Wagashi: Kyoto is renowned as a producer of high-quality matcha, often enjoyed with traditional Japanese sweets (wagashi) for a delightful pairing.</li></ul><figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:800/533;" src="https://s3.ap-northeast-1.amazonaws.com/files.jpneazy.com/media/kyoto_onsen_6151641081.webp" alt="kyoto-onsen.webp" width="800" height="533"></figure><h2>The Allure of Kyoto's Hot Springs for International Visitors</h2>Kyoto's appeal extends far beyond its historic sites, encompassing hot springs, gourmet cuisine, traditional inns, and natural beauty. In recent years, international tourists have been increasingly drawn to Kyoto's hot springs for several reasons:<ul><li>Cultural and Historical Heritage: Kyoto's ancient temples, gardens, and traditional architecture offer a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural legacy.</li><li>Onsen Experience: Kyoto's hot spring facilities provide diverse experiences, including bathing, massages, and traditional therapies, offering relaxation and rejuvenation to visitors.</li><li>Scenic Natural Beauty: Surrounded by picturesque mountains, rivers, and forests, Kyoto's hot spring areas offer tranquil settings where guests can enjoy the therapeutic benefits of onsen while immersed in nature's splendor.</li><li>Convenient Transportation: As a popular tourist destination, Kyoto boasts excellent transportation connections. International visitors can easily access Kyoto City via efficient public transit and explore hot spring areas while enjoying the city's attractions.</li></ul><h2>The Best Restaurants near Kyoto Station to Enjoy Exquisite Cuisine</h2>In the diverse and charming city of Kyoto, here are some of the best restaurants where you can enjoy an exceptional dining experience. To visit hot springs in various areas of Kyoto, it is very convenient to use trains or buses from Kyoto Station. Below is a list of recommended restaurants near Kyoto Station. As Kyoto is a popular tourist destination, it is always busy, so early reservations are essential! We look forward to your booking.

Discover the best of Kyoto with its relaxing hot springs, rich history, and top restaurant recommendations for an unforgettable experience blending culture, cuisine, and rejuvenation.

Kyoto Onsen: A Harmonious Blend of History, Kaiseki Cuisine, and Relaxing Hot Spring

Kushi Tanaka	串たなか

◆Karasuma Station◆Kushi Tanaka specializes in Kushikatsu, deep-fried skewer-prepared meals. In a crème de la crème style, customers are able to eat a variety of fried food, the 20-course Kushiage meal being the highlighted course that is called “Ippo Tsuko (oneway)”.&nbsp;

Kinobu	木乃婦

◆Shijo Station◆At Kinobu, the day begins with the chef's daily trip to the market to source seafood. Rice, citrus fruits, spring vegetables, and wild mountain plants are procured from Aomori and Nagano.

Lien	りあん

◆Shijo Station◆Lien offers a delightful selection of dishes that capture the essence of the seasons, prepared with carefully selected Japanese Black Wagyu beef, as well as fish, vegetables, and more.

Ayanokoji Karatsu	綾小路 唐津

◆Shijo Station ◆Ayanokoji Karatsu offers traditional Japanese cuisine and kaiseki dishes that make the most of the blessings of each season.&nbsp;

Sen	杦

◆Gojo Subway Station◆Fresh vegetables from Ohara’s waters and bamboo shoots from Tsukahara are some of the fresh ingredients used in that of SEN’s specialties. The food mimics the seasons outside as what guests see outside the windows of SEN can be noted in the cuisine.&nbsp;

Godan Miyazawa	ごだん宮ざわ

◆Gojo Station◆The restaurant’s dishes have their roots in “Tea Kaiseki”, a traditional Japanese multi-course meal. The rice, cooked in a clay pot, is served in three portions: just before it finishes cooking, immediately after cooking, and once it's been steamed.

Gion Nanba	祇園なん波

◆Shijo Station◆Scallops, sea urchin, bamboo shoots, and broccoli in marinade sauce. Gion Nanba is committed to providing only the finest and freshest seasonal ingredients carefully selected by owner chef Osamu Nanba.&nbsp;

Wagokoro IZUMI	和ごころ泉

◆Shijo Station◆Wagokoro IZUMI focuses on the importance of harmony in hopes of making a palatable meal for every guest. Filling each dish with the spirit of Wa (Wagokoro), he packs them full of seasonal flavors to appeal to the customer’s senses.

Jiki Miyazawa	じき宮ざわ

◆Karasuma Station or Shijo Station ◆“Jiki Miyazawa” is a progressive Kaiseki restaurant where you can indulge in the flavors of the season. It is conveniently located within walking distance from Shijo Station, making it easily accessible.&nbsp;

Iida	飯田

◆Karasuma Station ◆There is a story that emerges not only from the prepared ingredients but also from the encounter with the tableware. In addition, the experience encompasses the surrounding space.&nbsp;