Ohara Onsen in Kyoto City

In Ohara, a mountain village of Kyoto known as the gate town of temples like Sanzenin and Jakkoin, Ohara Onsen wells up. Drawn from deep underground, the water is a soft spring rich in the sodium and bicarbonate ions said to benefit the skin. In the quiet setting embraced by peaceful rural scenery, you can spend a healing time as body and mind unwind.

Highlights

- Soft water close to a beauty spring, said to soften the skin - A historic mountain village dotted with fine temples such as Sanzenin and Jakkoin - Peaceful village scenery of fields and surrounding hills - Inns with open air baths where you soak to the murmur of a stream

Enjoying the Seasons

Spring brings rape blossoms and cherry trees, early summer green maples, autumn foliage that dyes the whole village, and winter a snow dressed mountain hamlet, making Ohara especially lovely as the seasons turn. After touring Sanzenin or Jakkoin, warming up slowly in the spring is recommended. A winter snow viewing bath becomes an exceptional time wrapped in quiet.

Access and Basic Information

- Take a bus to Ohara from Kyoto Station or Kokusaikaikan Station - The spring is a simple type, a low tonic weakly alkaline low temperature spring - Day bathing is possible at inns with open air baths - Major sights such as Sanzenin are within walking distance

A Quick Tip

Ohara grows especially popular in autumn as a spot for foliage. Stopping by after walking among the temples makes the bath all the more welcome. As a mountain village it is cooler than the city. In winter, come dressed warmly and slowly enjoy a snow viewing soak.