Safe & Indulging: Five Fine Private Hot Spring Experiences without the Crowds

What better way to practice social distancing than by taking a private hot spring bath in a quaint countryside village of Japan? In Japan's best hot spring town, Kinosaki Onsen, you can do just that.

Known for its seven public hot springs (onsen) spread out through town, Kinosaki Onsen also has around 40 private onsen inside various accommodations. The private hot spring baths inside ryokan (traditional Japanese inns) can be used per reservation or on a first-come, first-served basis, sometimes for an extra charge.

That way, guests can enjoy a relaxing soak either by themselves or with their friends, family, or partner, away from other guests. There are three different ways to enjoy a bath privately: a private onsen in a ryokan, a private session in one of the public onsen, and a private bath inside the guest's room.

Here are five of Kinosaki's finest private hot spring experiences:

• Romantic Onsen in the Woods: Three fragrant baths are available for reservations at Yuraku, a ryokan surrounded by greenery and woods located in the backroads of town. Guests can choose between orchids & roses, oranges & limes, and apples for a relaxing dip perfect for couples.
• The Family Onsen Experience: Another ryokan in Kinosaki with private hot springs is Shinonomeso, an inn with a cosy wooden exterior and interior complimenting the ambience of the town. Here, guests can relax in a bath accented with a beautifully tiled mural and a hot tub. This spacious bath is perfect for families.
• The all-out Relaxation Experience: For an all-out relaxation experience, Nishimuraya Hotel Shogetsutei has three different private onsen spas, each complete with their own rock sauna and lounge. Guests staying at Nishimuraya (both Hotel Shogetsutei and Honkan) can reserve their desired time and bath, which is available in either a Japanese, Balinese, or Chinese style. With some complimentary sparkling wine, these open-air hot springs are perfect for those on a romantic honeymoon. The ryokan also provides various massages and aroma treatments at the Relaxation Salon Fuka.
• The Extra Private Onsen Ryokan Experience: At Nishimuraya Honkan, a traditional Japanese-style inn with over 150 years of history, some of the guest rooms have their own private bath, however, these baths do not use hot spring water. Whether staying with family or friends in a room together, one can enjoy an intimate experience in a private outdoor bath with a gorgeous view.
  
  
• The Local Onsen Experience: Additionally, for a fee, families can enjoy a private hot spring bath within one of two public baths, Ichino yu or Jizou yu, upon arrival in Kinosaki. The seven public onsen and many of the town's private onsen, including Yuraku and Shinonomeso, are also completely tattoo-friendly.

For other private onsen, please contact the ryokan in advance, as the rules differ by business. Private onsen are the perfect solution for those looking for a quiet, relaxing space to themselves at the hot springs.

Tags: kinosaki, kinosaki onsen, Visit Kinosaki, onsen, hot springs, natural hot springs, japan, Visit Japan Au, Visit Japan

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Website: visitkinosaki.com