Kurama Onsen: The Best Winter Onsen Near Kyoto

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To get there, take the subway to Demachiyanagi Station first. Then, transfer to the scenic Eizan Railway line. The train ride through the forest is very beautiful in winter. Most visitors enjoy the outdoor bath for about 2,500 yen in 2026.

The facility provides towels and robes for your convenience. You should check the Kurama Onsen winter outdoor bath reopening status before you travel. The crisp mountain air makes the hot water feel even better. It is a perfect half-day trip for nature lovers.

After your bath, explore the nearby Kurama-dera Temple. The hike between Kurama and Kibune is also very popular. Ensure you wear sturdy shoes for the snowy mountain paths. This area feels like a different world compared to downtown Kyoto.

Ohara Onsen: A Peaceful Rural Retreat

Ohara is a charming farming village located in the northern hills. It offers several traditional inns that welcome day-trip guests. The water here is known for its skin-softening properties. You will find a very quiet and peaceful atmosphere in this village.

Getting here requires a bus ride from the main station. You can learn how to take a bus to Ohara Onsen to save time. The journey takes about 60 minutes on the Kyoto City Bus. Use bus number 17 for a direct route.

Many local ryokans offer a bath and lunch package. These plans usually cost between 4,000 and 7,000 yen. You can taste local specialty dishes like miso hot pot. It is a great way to experience Japanese hospitality in 2026.

The village is also home to the famous Sanzen-in Temple. Walking through the moss gardens in winter is a magical experience. Most onsen facilities in Ohara are open from 11:00 AM. This makes it an ideal spot for a relaxing afternoon.

Arashiyama Onsen: Luxury Near the Bamboo Forest

Arashiyama is famous for its bamboo grove and Togetsukyo Bridge. It also hosts some of the best hot springs in Arashiyama Kyoto area today. You can find both luxury resorts and public bathhouses here. The area is very easy to reach from Kyoto Station.

Take the JR Sagano Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station. The train ride only takes about 15 minutes. From there, many hot springs are within walking distance. You can enjoy a bath with views of the Katsura River.

Funaoka Onsen is a historic choice for those on a budget. However, high-end hotels offer private baths for more privacy. Expect to pay around 1,000 yen for public baths. Private sessions usually cost much more and require booking.

Winter illuminations often light up the river banks in 2026. This creates a romantic setting for an evening soak. Arashiyama is busy, so visit early in the day. You will find many small shops selling local snacks nearby.

Ogoto Onsen: Stunning Views of Lake Biwa

Ogoto Onsen is located just across the border in Shiga. It sits on the western shore of Lake Biwa. This is Japan's largest freshwater lake and is very scenic. The hot spring water has a high alkaline content.

You can reach Ogoto Onsen Station in 20 minutes from Kyoto. Use the JR Kosei Line for the fastest travel time. Many hotels offer free shuttle buses from the station. This makes the trip very convenient for international travelers.

Day-use plans are widely available at the large resort hotels. You can enjoy spacious indoor and outdoor bathing areas. Some baths even look out over the blue lake waters. Prices for day entry usually start at 1,500 yen.

The resorts often feature saunas and relaxation lounges. You can spend several hours relaxing in these modern facilities. It is a great alternative if Kyoto's baths are crowded. The lake breeze is refreshing even during the cold winter.

Tenzan-no-yu: A Local Favorite Near Sagano

Tenzan-no-yu is a large, modern hot spring complex. It is located near the Sagano area of western Kyoto. This facility uses natural spring water pumped from deep underground. The water is rich in sodium and calcium minerals.

This spot is very popular with local residents in 2026. It offers a more authentic and less touristy experience. You can find many different types of baths here. There are even carbonated baths and ceramic pot tubs.

The entry fee is approximately 1,050 yen for adults. You can rent towels at the front desk for a small fee. It is easily accessible via the Randen tram line. You can also take a city bus from Kyoto Station.

The facility includes a restaurant serving high-quality Japanese food. You can also try the traditional salt sauna for detoxing. It is open late into the night for convenience. This is a great choice for a budget-friendly day trip.