Kurama Onsen: Day-Use Hot Spring Baths & Prices (Kyoto)

North of Kyoto City, in the hills of Kurama, Kurama Onsen is a precious natural spring reachable from the city center by train. Its signature is an open air bath set on high ground a little apart from the main building, where you soak while gazing at the mountain seasons spread before you. Many visit alongside prayers at Kurama Temple or Kifune Shrine, spending quiet hours embraced by nature. It is appealing too for offering day bathing every day of the year.

Highlights

• A hillside open air bath with a sweeping view of the mountains
• Natural water containing sulfur that warms the body from within
• A fine location near famous sights like Kurama Temple and Kifune Shrine
• Day plans to choose from, such as open air only or full facility use

Enjoying the Seasons

In the season of fresh greenery the whole mountain is wrapped in vivid green, and in autumn fiery foliage colors the open air bath. In winter you may enjoy a snow viewing bath, and steam rising over a silver world is exceptional. Summer is cooler than the city, and pairing a visit with the riverside dining of Kifune is recommended. The autumn foliage season in particular draws crowds for its stunning views.

Access and Basic Information

• About 10 minutes on foot from Kurama Station on the Eizan Railway
• A free shuttle bus meets each train arriving at Kurama Station, no reservation needed
• The spring is a natural type containing sulfur
• Open from around 10 in the morning until about 9 at night, every day of the year
• Day use lets you choose open air only or full facility use, the latter around 2500 yen for adults and the open air only option more affordable

Practical Travel Notes

• Open air only use can be enjoyed in a short visit, while full facility use with the indoor bath and sauna allows a longer stay. Choose the plan to suit your aim.
• The Kurama and Kifune area is a popular autumn foliage spot, and fall weekends are especially crowded. To avoid the crush, weekdays or early mornings are best.
• Riding the Eizan Railways panoramic Kirara train to enjoy the scenery through the windows is part of the fun.
• Combining it with a hike along the mountain path from Kurama Temple to Kifune Shrine makes a full day, soothing the fatigue of walking in the water.
• Being in the mountains, nights grow cold, so a jacket is reassuring even in spring and autumn.

A Quick Tip

The Kurama and Kifune area is a popular spot for autumn leaves and is especially busy in fall. Stopping by after praying or hiking lets the water soak into tired limbs. The fee changes depending on whether you choose open air only or full facility use, so pick to match your budget and plans. Being in the mountains, nights grow cold, so a jacket is reassuring.