Goshono-yu
A majestic onsen modeled after Kyoto's Imperial Palace, featuring serene waterfall baths and therapeutic jets.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serenity
Goshono-yu
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serenity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic onsen modeled after Kyoto's Imperial Palace, featuring serene waterfall baths and therapeutic jets.
"The gorgeous waterfall and peaceful serenity offered here was a surreal and very relaxing experience."
Bring Your Own Towels
While lockers are provided, towels are not included. Bring your own or rent them to avoid extra costs.
Shower Before Bathing
It's essential onsen etiquette to thoroughly wash and rinse yourself before entering the communal baths.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grand Imperial Palace Facade
Entrance
Admire the impressive wooden exterior, a stunning replica of the Kyoto Imperial Palace, setting a majestic tone.
Cascading Waterfall Baths
Outdoor Bathing Area
Soak in the multi-tiered outdoor pools fed by a beautiful, serene waterfall. Pure bliss!
Therapeutic Water Jets
Outdoor Bathing Area
Experience powerful water jets for a relaxing lower back massage while enjoying the waterfall views.
Artistic Touches
Interior
Discover unique art installations, like Mia Takemoto's 'Third-Cultural Space,' adding a contemporary flair.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Nude Experience
Tattoo Policy & Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Your Own Towels
While lockers are provided, towels are not included. Bring your own or rent them to avoid extra costs.
Shower Before Bathing
It's essential onsen etiquette to thoroughly wash and rinse yourself before entering the communal baths.
Embrace the Nudity
Don't let the nudity deter you; it's a core part of the authentic onsen experience. Most visitors feel comfortable quickly.
Explore Both Bathing Areas
The bathing areas often switch daily, so experience both sides for different pool layouts and waterfall views.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Your Own Towels
While lockers are provided, towels are not included. Bring your own or rent them to avoid extra costs.
Shower Before Bathing
It's essential onsen etiquette to thoroughly wash and rinse yourself before entering the communal baths.
Embrace the Nudity
Don't let the nudity deter you; it's a core part of the authentic onsen experience. Most visitors feel comfortable quickly.
Explore Both Bathing Areas
The bathing areas often switch daily, so experience both sides for different pool layouts and waterfall views.
Check for Art Exhibitions
Goshono-yu sometimes features temporary art installations, adding an extra layer of cultural interest.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Goshono-yu for its stunning architecture, particularly the grand Imperial Palace-inspired facade and the beautiful multi-tiered outdoor baths with cascading waterfalls. The therapeutic water jets are a standout feature, offering a deeply relaxing massage. The onsen's tattoo-friendly policy is also frequently highlighted as a major positive. Some visitors found the water very hot and required frequent breaks.
"Very cool Onsen. Outdoor-only with a waterfall. Gets crowded during main times (4-6pm) so better while others are at dinner or in the morning and you'll be only with a few others. I went both in the evening (7pm) and in the morning (8;30am) and they switched sides of female/male so you could experience both sides of the waterfall, which was cool!"
Thomas Wohlfahrtstätter
"We checked out a few of the local onsens and this was by far the favorite. The gorgeous waterfall and peaceful serenity offered here was a surreal and very relaxing experience. Definitely don't miss this one when here. Highly recommend!"
Hunter Preston
"This is an amazing bathhouse. The exterior is grand and the bathing areas is spectacular. They switch the bathing areas around each day, or they appeared to at least. Both sides feature water falls cascading down into the bathing pools. One side had 3 tiers of pools from a top level near the waterfall to the bottom. The other side was more of a single tier but split pools and had some spots set up with wooden logs for headrests and stretching out.
I saw a number of interesting little creatures while here. They have some neat spiders in this area, I saw a blue streaked salamander in a little side garden in on one side and when I was on the other I saw a little blue and red crab sitting just outside the gate of the waterfall that cascades down the hill. The crab was sitting there watching the bathers, naughty crab 🦀."
Bill Franklin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Goshono-yu is conveniently located in Kinosaki Onsen, about a 2.5-hour train ride from Kyoto or Osaka. Take the JR Limited Express 'Konotori' or 'Hamakaze' to Kinosaki Onsen Station. From the station, it's a short walk to the onsen.
Yes, Kinosaki Onsen is a popular day trip destination, especially from Kyoto and Osaka, offering a relaxing onsen experience. Goshono-yu is one of the main attractions.
Absolutely! Kinosaki Onsen, including Goshono-yu, is known for being tattoo-friendly, which is a significant advantage for many international visitors.
Goshono-yu typically opens around 7 AM and closes around 5 PM, but it's always best to check the official website for the most up-to-date hours, as they can vary seasonally.
While Goshono-yu is easily accessible by public transport, there are parking lots available in Kinosaki Onsen town for those arriving by car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees for Goshono-yu are typically around ¥800-¥1000 per adult. It's advisable to check the official website for current pricing.
Generally, advance booking is not required for Goshono-yu. You can purchase tickets at the entrance. However, during peak seasons, it might be wise to arrive early.
Goshono-yu primarily offers communal, gender-separated bathing areas. Private or family baths are not typically available here.
You'll need to bring your own towels (or rent them), and any personal toiletries you wish to use. All clothing must be removed before entering the bathing areas.
There isn't a strict age limit, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Very young children may require swim diapers if they are not yet potty trained.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
Before entering the baths, you must shower thoroughly. Once in the bath, avoid splashing or making excessive noise. Towels should not be submerged in the water.
Goshono-yu features a grand exterior and spectacular bathing areas, including multi-tiered outdoor pools with waterfalls and powerful water jets for massages.
Photography is strictly prohibited inside the bathing areas to respect the privacy of other bathers. You can take photos of the exterior and surrounding areas.
The onsen water is typically very hot, around 60 degrees Celsius (140°F), but it's often mixed with cooler water or you can find areas with varying temperatures. It's recommended to enter gradually.
Goshono-yu is known for its impressive waterfall feature in the outdoor bath and therapeutic water jets. It also sometimes hosts art exhibitions.
📸 📸 Photography
You can capture stunning photos of the impressive wooden facade of Goshono-yu from the outside. The surrounding Kinosaki Onsen town also offers many picturesque spots.
While photography is forbidden inside the bathing areas, there are generally no restrictions on photographing the exterior of Goshono-yu or the charming streets of Kinosaki Onsen.
Try capturing the full grandeur of the building from across the small moat, or focus on the intricate details of the wooden architecture. The surrounding greenery also adds to the aesthetic.
No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the bathing areas, including the waterfall feature, to ensure privacy for all guests.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the impressive facade. For general town shots, a versatile zoom lens will work well. Remember to be respectful of other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during off-peak hours to minimize crowds. The hot water can be intense, so take breaks and ensure children don't stay in the water for too long. The surrounding town of Kinosaki Onsen is also very family-friendly, with charming streets to explore.
✈️ Solo Travelers
Embrace the opportunity to unwind and enjoy the therapeutic waters at your own pace. The tattoo-friendly policy is a significant plus, allowing more travelers to experience this authentic Japanese tradition without worry.
💖 Couples
Consider staying overnight in a traditional ryokan in Kinosaki Onsen to enhance the romantic getaway. The town's atmosphere is perfect for a peaceful retreat.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Kinosaki Onsen Experience
Goshono-yu is considered one of the premier onsen in Kinosaki, often highlighted for its grand architecture and impressive outdoor bathing facilities. Its location makes it easily accessible for day-trippers and those staying overnight. The town's commitment to being tattoo-friendly is a significant draw for international tourists who might face restrictions elsewhere in Japan.
Beyond the baths, Kinosaki Onsen offers a glimpse into traditional Japanese resort towns. The sound of geta clacking on the wooden boardwalks and the steam rising from the hot springs create a truly immersive experience. It's a place to slow down, relax, and soak in the local culture.
Understanding Onsen Etiquette
Once clean, you can enter the hot spring baths. It's customary to keep your small modesty towel out of the water; you can place it on the edge of the bath or your head. Avoid splashing, loud conversations, and running. The goal is a peaceful and rejuvenating experience for everyone.
For those with tattoos, Kinosaki Onsen's welcoming policy is a major plus. However, it's still important to be mindful of others and maintain a respectful demeanor. Understanding and adhering to these simple rules will greatly enhance your enjoyment and ensure a positive experience at Goshono-yu and other Japanese hot springs.
Art and Architecture at Goshono-yu
Inside, the onsen continues to impress with its thoughtful design. The outdoor bathing area is a highlight, featuring multi-tiered pools that cascade down the hillside, creating a natural and serene atmosphere. The integration of rocks and lush greenery enhances the feeling of being immersed in nature.
Furthermore, Goshono-yu occasionally showcases contemporary art, such as Mia Takemoto's work, which explores themes of cultural hybridity. This blend of traditional architecture and modern art adds a unique dimension to the onsen, making it a destination that appeals to both relaxation seekers and art enthusiasts.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit