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Kinosaki Onsen, located near the Sea of Japan, in Hyogo Prefecture, is a small hot spring town. However, it has a long history that stretches back around 1,300 years to 720AD when monk Dochi, who established the Onsen-ji Temple here, opened some hot springs. Kinosaki has been a favorite destination of many writers and artists. Shiga Naoya, a writer (1883-1971) who visited Kinosaki several times, wrote a best- selling novel called “Kinosaki-nite (In Kinosaki)” in 1917, based on his experiences there. Kinosaki boasts rich seafood from the Sea of Japan, and is especially noted for its crab in winter.

Visiting bathhouses is a popular pastime in Kinosaki. There are seven bathhouses here. Satono-yu is in front of Kinosaki Station. Ichino-yu, whose building resembles a kabuki theater, is located in the center of the town and is a symbol of Kinosaki. Goshono-yu was named in light of the legend that Ankamon-in, the elder sister of Emperor Gohorikawa, soaked here in the 13th century. Mandara-yu is said to have been opened by monk Dochi. Jizo-yu was a place where farmers could relax in the Edo period (1603-1867). Kono-yu was first founded in Kinosaki in 629AD and is a quiet bathhouse located in a remote area ; soaking in water after walking offers particular relaxation. Yanagi-yu is said to be beneficial for newborn babies. The rates of these bathhouses range from 300 to 800 yen. You may be given a free ticket after check-in, depending on your accommodation .

The Kinosaki Danjiri Festival at Shisho Shrine is held annually on October 14th and 15th . Danjiri (portable shrines) are carried and paraded around town. When more than two danjiri encounter, they clash and tussle. Local people join and are excited at the festival, as local companies and schools take leave on that day. The festival is dynamic and gorgeous. The sound of drums and gongs excites people. Performance by three danjiri provides the climax of the festival, which is overwhelmingly powerful. The town is also blessed with hiking courses, such as climbing Mount Kuruhi-dake, where you can see a beautiful sea of clouds in early morning.

Access: Kinosaki Onsen Station on JR Sanin Line

Inquiries: Kinosaki Onsen Kanko Kyokai
Tel: 0796-32-3663
URL (English): http://www.kinosaki-hotsprings.com/index.php

Efficacy	Neuralgia, muscular pain, hemorrhoids, bruising, chronic gastroenteropathy, and others
Address	Kinosaki-cho Yushima, Toyooka-shi, Hyogo
Link	Kinosaki Onsen Kanko Kyokai

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