Relax in the hot springs of Japan’s ancient capital.

Kyoto has a special place in Japanese history as the ancient Heian capital, and every year over 5o million visitors come to Kyoto in search of the traditional culture of Japan - the temples, shrines, festivals, Japanese handicrafts, cuisine and geiko (Kyoto’s geisha). But did you know that you can also enjoy onsen - Japanese hot spring baths - in Kyoto?

Whether visitors spend the day sightseeing, shopping or hiking, many agree that there is no better way to relax afterwards than at an onsen. Going to onsen has been a popular pastime in Japan since the Edo period - the minerals contained in onsen waters are said to be good for the health, and bathing towns like Kansai’s Arima Onsen and Kinosaki Onsen remain popular destinations for those wishing to unwind and soak their troubles away with a spa weekend.

While bathing in an onsen may take a little getting used to, by following the appropriate procedures and etiquette foreigners and Japanese alike can enjoy a trip to the hot springs with no worries!

The Kyoto Hot Spring Hatoya Zuihokaku Hotel is situated close to Kyoto Station (the city’s main transport hub) meaning that even those staying for a short time can visit the hot springs without having to go far. The hotel provides a real Kyoto experience for guests, with modern and elegant rooms influenced by traditional Japanese style, as well as deluxe suites featuring private hot spring baths in addition to our natural hot spring baths on the top floor.

The onsen water is heated naturally and drawn from 910 metres underground. What makes the hotel’s onsen special is that the top floor bath is semi open-air, allowing guests to relax in the steaming water whilst enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city, from nearby Kyoto Tower to the surrounding mountains.

Kyoto Hot Spring Hatoya Zuihokaku Hotel also collaborates with several of Kyoto’s most picturesque and culturally important temples to provide unique sightseeing opportunities. The hotel provides delicate and beautifully presented Japanese kaiseki cuisine, and for groups or larger parties dinner and drinks with a geiko can also be arranged.

By giving guests the chance to try out the quintessential Japanese experience of bathing in an onsen, as well as providing sightseeing opportunities and Japanese cuisine, the Kyoto Hot Spring Hatoya Zuihokaku Hotel hopes to attract more overseas visitors to the hotel, and to promote the excellent culture and hospitality that Kyoto has to offer.

Learn more about onsen at the Hatoya Zuihokaku Hotel

http://www.kyoto-hatoya.jp/en/