Things To Do
in Shin'onsen
Shin'onsen is a picturesque town located in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, known for its natural hot springs. Visitors can relax in traditional Japanese ryokan accommodations or outdoor onsens while surrounded by beautiful scenery. The town also offers hiking trails, lush forests, and tranquil rivers for nature enthusiasts to explore.
Shin'onsen's peaceful atmosphere and therapeutic hot springs make it a popular destination for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a peaceful soak in the outdoor onsen, enjoying the sounds of nature. Take a moment to breathe in the fresh mountain air and set your intentions for the day.
Explore local shops that offer unique souvenirs and products made from regional materials. Stop by a cozy café for a light lunch while enjoying the stunning scenery.
Indulge in a traditional kaiseki dinner, savoring each carefully prepared dish. After dinner, stroll through the quiet streets, allowing the ambience to soothe your soul.
Embark on a guided nature hike to uncover the beauty of nearby trails. Encountering scenic viewpoints and perhaps a hidden waterfall will make for a memorable experience.
Take a break at a mountain lodge for a hearty lunch, fueling up for the rest of your adventure. Afterward, try your hand at some outdoor activities like fishing or bird-watching.
Return to Shin'onsen and unwind in the onsen again, washing away the day's exertions. Reflect on your adventure over a casual dinner at a local izakaya.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including mountains and hot spring areas.
- Rich cultural heritage and traditional Japanese architecture.
- Variety of hot spring baths with different mineral compositions.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing.
- Hospitality and service excellence in ryokans (traditional Japanese inns).
- Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons, affecting the experience.
- Limited English-speaking services may pose challenges for some travelers.
- Transportation to Shin'onsen may take time and require transfers.
- Higher costs associated with some ryokan stays and onsen facilities.
- Access to certain hot springs may be restricted to specific times or guest types.
Best Activities in Shin'onsen
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails and scenic views of the Chugoku Mountain range nearby, suitable for various skill levels.
Relax on the sandy shores, enjoy the ocean breeze, or participate in beach activities like swimming and beach volleyball.
Experience the therapeutic benefits of the natural hot springs, with options for outdoor baths surrounded by nature.
Rent a bicycle and ride through the picturesque rural landscapes, enjoying the serene atmosphere and local flora.
Try your luck fishing in the clear rivers around Shin'onsen, where you can catch various local fish species.
Join local festivals that often feature outdoor activities, traditional music, and food stalls showcasing regional cuisine.
Tours
Uncover the best of Shin'onsen with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Shin'onsen
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its picturesque architecture and serene surroundings, the hot springs offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, especially during sunrise and sunset.
A short drive from Shin'onsen, this mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views from its summit and is a perfect spot for capturing stunning landscape photos.
This location provides a beautiful coastal view at dawn, with colorful fishing boats and the gentle waves, ideal for capturing stunning waterfront photos.
The river area is famous for its tranquil scenery, with lush greenery and the mountains in the background, making it a perfect spot for nature photography.
Though not in Shin'onsen, it's nearby and known for its traditional ryokans and charming streets, offering picturesque views that are great for photography.
Located on the outskirts of Shin'onsen, these fields create a beautiful pattern throughout the landscape, especially during the rice-growing season.
This observation deck provides a great vantage point over Shin'onsen village and the surrounding nature, perfect for skyline and landscape photography.
Food in Shin'onsen
Shin'onsen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Indulge in the succulent and sweet Matsuba crab, a local delicacy best savored in traditional kaiseki restaurants like Yumoto Fujiya Hotel.
Must-Try!
Try dishes featuring Matsutake mushrooms, such as Matsutake Gohan (rice) or Matsutake Dobin-mushi (soup), at specialty restaurants like Kinosaki Matsubaraya.
Don't miss out on Izushi soba, a regional noodle dish served cold with a flavorful dipping sauce, available at eateries like Honke Bankyu.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore Myoken Food Market to savor local street food like grilled squid skewers, takoyaki (octopus balls), and fresh seafood brought in daily from the Sea of Japan.
Stroll through Kinosaki Onsen's charming streets and try street food delicacies like imagawayaki (sweet filled pancakes), soft-serve ice cream, and yaki-imo (roasted sweet potatoes).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Before entering the onsen (hot spring), it is important to wash and rinse your body thoroughly. Ensure that you have removed all clothing, as onsen bathing is typically done in the nude.
Shin'onsen, like many traditional onsen towns, values tranquility. Speak softly and avoid loud conversations to maintain a serene environment for all guests.
Take time to learn and understand local customs, such as bowing as a sign of respect or expressing gratitude. Acknowledging local traditions helps foster better relationships with residents and enhances your experience.
Safety
Tipping in Shin'onsen
Ensure a smooth experience
In Shin'onsen, Japan, tipping is generally not a common practice and is often considered unnecessary. Japanese culture emphasizes hospitality, and service providers, such as waitstaff and hotel employees, take pride in their work without expecting extra gratuity. Instead, excellent service is seen as part of the job. If one does want to express appreciation, a small gift or card may be more appropriate than cash.
Payment in Shin'onsen typically involves using cash, as many establishments, including traditional ryokan (inns), may not accept credit cards. ATMs are available, but it's advisable to ensure they accept foreign cards. It's also common to pay for services at the end of the meal or stay, rather than immediately after ordering.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring, specifically from March to May, is one of the best times to visit Shin'onsen. The cherry blossoms bloom around late March to early April, creating stunning landscapes. The weather is mild, making it ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying hot springs. Expect festivals celebrating cherry blossoms and vibrant nature.
Summer in Shin'onsen lasts from June to August. The weather can be hot and humid, perfect for those who enjoy warmth. This season also brings festivals, fireworks, and local seafood delicacies. However, be prepared for occasional rain and increased crowds during peak vacation times.
Autumn, from September to November, showcases beautiful foliage with vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. The weather is comfortable, and it is an excellent time for hiking and soaking in the hot springs surrounded by fall colors. Expect harvest festivals and local food experiences during this season.
Winter from December to February offers a unique experience in Shin'onsen with snow-covered landscapes. The area is less crowded, providing a serene atmosphere to relax in the onsens. Skiing and snow activities are available nearby. Expect winter festivals and delicious seasonal foods like hot pot and grilled fish.
Shin'onsen at Night
Hiking in Shin'onsen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking spot with pathways that lead to beautiful vistas of the surrounding countryside and mountainous terrain.
Offers various trails ranging from beginner to advanced levels, providing breathtaking views from the summit.
Features family-friendly hiking trails amidst lush greenery, suitable for all ages, with picnic areas available.
A serene hiking route winding through a tranquil forest, showcasing local flora and fauna, ideal for nature lovers.
A stunning park along the coast that features various trails with ocean views, cliffs, and unique geological formations.
Aiports
How to reach Shin'onsen by plane.
The main international airport serving the Kansai region, located in Osaka Prefecture, approximately 120 km from Shin'onsen.
An international airport located in Okayama Prefecture, roughly 90 km from Shin'onsen.
An international airport serving Hiroshima Prefecture, located about 150 km from Shin'onsen.
An international airport in Niigata Prefecture, approximately 150 km from Shin'onsen.
An international airport located in Miyazaki Prefecture, around 170 km from Shin'onsen.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Individuals aged 65 and older, comprising a significant portion of the population in Shin'onsen.
Individuals aged 20 to 64, who are typically employed or seeking employment.
Individuals aged 0 to 19, including preschool-aged children and students.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is extremely popular in Japan, including the Shin'onsen area, with many local teams and a strong following for professional leagues.
Soccer has a significant fanbase in Shin'onsen, with local clubs participating in various leagues and tournaments.
Sumo wrestling is a traditional sport with cultural significance, and while not as widespread as baseball or soccer, it has a dedicated following.
Basketball enjoys popularity among youth and local communities, with school teams and community leagues actively participating.
Tennis is favored by sport enthusiasts in Shin'onsen, with access to public courts and local tennis clubs providing opportunities for play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shin'onsen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine heavily features seafood, several restaurants like Mandaraya offer vegetarian and vegan options, including tempura, tofu-based dishes, and seasonal vegetable preparations.
Diners with gluten sensitivities can find options like rice-based dishes, sashimi, and gluten-free soba noodles at various eateries in Shin'onsen, with some offering customizations to cater to specific dietary needs.