Japan, the country with several volcanoes, is also well known for its numerous hot springs (onsen). Most of the hot springs in Japan are situated in remote places like Hokkaido. But if you are looking for a relaxing bath in a hot spring somewhere close to Kyoto, then Kurama Onsen can be your best choice.
If water contains certain minerals like hydrogen carbonate, sodium chloride, sulphur, iron, etc. then that flow of water is certified as a hot spring. A common belief among Japanese people is that a good soak in an onsen heals aches and pains. Features - The beautiful location of Kurama Onsen within the dense pine and cedar forest in the lap of Kyoto’s northern mountains, will take you far away from the hustle and bustle of Kyoto city.
| - The two spacious outdoor tubs in Kurama Onsen offer a spectacular view of snow-covered scenery or the outlines of black mountains standing against starlit sky. However in Kurama one can take either inside or outside bath. No doubt bathing outside (the rotenburo-style of bath), in cypress wood baths, in the midst of pine and cedar forest is more popular than bathing inside.
- The way of bathing in onsen resembles that of public bath. There are separate tubs for women and men. While taking the relaxing bath in hot springs people generally do not wear bathing suits.
- While visiting Kurama Onsen don’t forget the onsen etiquette. Before you take a dip into the hot spring water you have to wash your body thoroughly and you must be absolutely sure that there is no trace of soap on your skin when you soak within the tub. You can always find people scrubbing themselves raw before taking the relaxing bath in the onsen. The last point to note is that if you start feeling dizzy while taking your bath, be sure to make your exit.
- Onsen provides the visitors with soap, shampoo and rinse. If you don’t have towel with you can purchase it from the shops inside the hot spring complex.
- The outdoor bath (rotenburo) costs 1,100 Yen. The indoor bath is costlier.From a machine near the Kurama restaurant, you can get the tickets for bath.
- Besides the hot spring bath, Kurama Onsen serves the visitors with traditional Japanese-style rooms and exclusive Kyoto-style seasonal cuisine. They can also enjoy the nearby hiking trails leading towards Kurama Temple and Kibune Shrine. How to Reach You can avail the Eiden Eizan line from Kyoto's Demachiyanagi Station and get off at the last station of the route. From the station take the free shuttle bus, which will take you to the hot spring. The onsen remains open from 10 am to 9 pm daily. To make your trip to Kyoto ever memorable, don’t miss the relaxing bath in Kurama Onsen.
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