A famous hot spring destination for over a millennium. The sight of tourists wearing yukata (light cotton kimono) and clacking geta (traditional wooden sandals) as they walk through the city has been shared on social media, attracting attention both domestically and internationally.
The Toyooka Theater Festival takes place at various venues, including artist-in-residence facilities specializing in performing arts at the Kinosaki International Arts Center (KIAC) and local ryokan (Japanese-style hotels), such as the one frequented by the literary master Naoya Shiga. Additionally, there are plenty of highly recommended activities, such as touring shrines and riding the Ropeway.
Located in the Kinosaki Onsen district, this artist-in-residence facility specializes in performing arts and hosts artists from around the world. It opened in 2014 after renovating the former Kinosaki Conference Hall. The facility includes a hall, studios, a residence accommodating up to 22 guests, and a kitchen.
1062 Yushima, Kinosaki-cho, Toyooka City
Located in the southwestern part of Kinosaki Onsen Town, this temple is known for its beautiful dry landscape garden “Seikan-tei,” as well as its impressive main gate and sliding door paintings in ink wash. The natural spring “Dokkosui” is believed to bring good health and protection from illness. With a reservation, visitors can also experience a sermon by the head priest and a zazen (seated meditation) session.
801 Yushima, Kinosaki-cho, Toyooka City
Founded in 738 by the Buddhist monk Dōchi Shōnin, who is said to have discovered Kinosaki Onsen in 720, this historic temple has long been a place of prayer and healing. At the Yakushidō Hall, you can see walking sticks and other offerings left by past visitors who recovered from illness after hot spring therapy. The temple’s main hall also houses a hidden statue of the Eleven-Faced Kannon, which is revealed to the public only once every 33 years.
985-2 Yushima, Kinosaki-cho, Toyooka City
With over 300 years of history, Mikiya is a ryokan (traditional inn) designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property. It is famously known as the lodging where renowned author Naoya Shiga regularly stayed and wrote his short story At Kinosaki. Guests can enjoy reading in the book library while overlooking the very garden featured in the novel.
Toyoshima 487, Kinosaki-cho, Toyooka City
Renovated and reopened in 2016, this facility features a permanent exhibition on authors connected to Kinosaki Onsen, as well as special exhibitions curated by the local NPO Books and Onsen, showcasing books they’ve published. On the first floor, you’ll also find a shop where you can purchase Books and Onsen publications and original merchandise.
357-1 Yushima, Kinosaki-cho, Toyooka City
Guests staying in Kinosaki Onsen are provided with geta sandals and yukata robes, allowing unlimited visits to the seven public baths. After soaking, enjoy the fun at the shooting galleries and souvenir shops nearby. What truly sets Kinosaki Onsen apart is how the entire town functions like one big inn. Be sure to experience the charm of the public bath tour during your visit.
Located at the western edge of the hot spring town, the ropeway takes you up to the summit via Onsenji Station, midway up Mount Daishi. It allows visitors to reach the main temple without climbing the stone steps. From the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of Kinosaki town and the Sea of Japan. There is also a café where you can relax and take in the scenery.
806-1 Yushima, Kinosaki-cho, Toyooka City
A bookstore located in the heart of Kinosaki Onsen town. Here, you can find books from the publishing label “Books and Hot Springs,” launched by the Kinosaki Onsen Ryokan Management Association. The attached café offers craft beer and smoked delicacies, transforming into a cozy café bar in the evening. This spot also kindly serves as a meeting spot and staff rest area during the Toyooka Theater Festival.
605 Yushima, Kinosaki-cho, Toyooka City
With the concept of being “more than just an aquarium,” Kinosaki Marine World attracts many visitors from both inside and outside the prefecture. Home to one of Japan’s largest giant salamanders, charming penguin walks, and exciting dolphin and sea lion shows, this attraction is packed with experiences that will keep you entertained all day long.
1090 Seto, Toyooka City
Located in the heart of Kinosaki Onsen town, this facility brings together 10 shops under the theme of “Japanese Hospitality.” You’ll find a variety of dining options, souvenir and craft shops, and even an esthetic salon. With plenty of benches around, it’s also a perfect spot to take a relaxing break.
391 Yushima, Kinosaki-cho, Toyooka City
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