Kinosaki Yamamotoya

The Onsen experience is definitely something to do if you go to Japan, in particular visiting a hot spring town and leaving behind the chaos of Tokyo and the crowded temples of Kyoto for a while. We chose to visit Kinosaki Onsen, an adorable town a couple of hours from Kyoto; I will not dwell on its description, but I recommend you visit it. For our overnight stay, we chose a 350-year-old ryokan with a half-board package (breakfast and dinner), and it was a magnificent experience! We were welcomed with great kindness and courtesy; the place was very elegant and central. Upon arrival, they gave us a yukata and some geta (wooden sandals) to wear around town, as well as a pass with which we could enter any onsen. After visiting a couple of hot spring baths, we returned for the kaiseki dinner, many courses featuring Matsuba crab, which is the region's specialty, and Tajima beef as the absolute stars. Everything was excellent and prepared on the spot. Breakfast was also excellent, but I warn you that it is the traditional Japanese one, so it is based on fish, rice, and other specialties (I found this excellent too). Our room was traditional Japanese, with a small veranda overlooking the river where you could sit and relax. Upon returning after dinner, we found the futons ready for sleeping (and after that dinner and the hot spring baths, we slept very well!). If I had to find a flaw in this magnificent experience, it is that they give you only one towel that you have to carry to the hot springs and also use in the room; perhaps I would provide a couple more. In any case, a highly recommended place.

The staff are very friendly. It was an amazing experience from onsen, public bath, dinner, breakfast to wearing yakata! The room, the crab, the beef! Goodness! The best!

The outdoor hot water is conveniently close. The food was delicious and old but comfortable. We also enjoyed the local beer. The building is a little old.