Kinosaki Onsen in northern Hyōgo Prefecture beside the Sea of Japan is one of the top onsen resorts of the Kansai Region. Built along the willow-lined Otani River are numerous traditional ryokan, most of which have their own hot spring baths.

Legend has it that the springs were discovered in Kinosaki around the 8th century when storks would bathe in the marshes to heal injuries. Bathhouses were built over the springs. The town retains much of the atmosphere of the Shōwa period, with guests strolling the streets in yukata and geta, dropping into the public baths and entertainment haunts, where you can try various vintage games.

In addition to the baths in the ryokan, Kinosaki has seven public bath houses, each with its distinctive architecture, as well as many footbaths.

In the middle of Kinosaki is a museum devoted to literary figures who stayed at Kinosaki. A cable car goes halfway up Mt. Daishi to Onsen-ji Temple from which you can hike up to the top to enjoy the view. Other attractions include an aquarium park and a stork sanctuary.