While Kurama Onsen receives many positive reviews online, there are also some negative comments.
As someone who has visited Kurama Onsen dozens of times, I will summarize both the positive and negative feedback found in online reviews and provide a fair, unbiased, and accurate explanation of what to expect.
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Positive Reviews
- This is an experience I would recommend to anyone visiting Japan.
Surrounded by nature, Kurama Onsen offers a location and open-air baths that are sure to relax both the body and mind.
From a sightseeing perspective, the area also features scenic hiking trails and attractive nearby destinations such as Kifune Shrine and Kurama Temple.
Personally, I believe there is no other hot spring location in Kyoto that offers such a well-balanced and satisfying experience.
- I enjoyed a meal there, and the food was very good.
They put great care into their food, and I highly recommend it.
I personally tried the udon and fried chicken(Karaage), and both were delicious.
On the other hand, the yuba shabu-shabu and yudofu dishes are not highly recommended for many international visitors.
This is because yuba is a soybean-based dish and may not suit those who prefer richer flavors or oilier foods.
However, it is an excellent choice for vegans.
There is also a wide variety of udon available, ranging from affordable options to more premium dishes, allowing guests to choose according to their preferences.
- I went hiking to Kurama Temple just before visiting the onsen, so my legs were quite sore. However, soaking in the hot spring helped me relax, and the pain gradually eased.
Hot springs are ideal for soothing a tired body after traveling.
One of the best routes is to hike from Kifune Shrine to Kurama Temple, then walk about five minutes from Kurama Temple to Kurama Onsen.
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- A shuttle bus is available, making it very convenient.
Although the shuttle bus is convenient, it only runs to and from Kurama Station, so it cannot be denied that access from central areas such as Kyoto Station is not very convenient.
- Although the admission fee is higher than at other hot springs, it is well worth the price.
If you want to experience a truly authentic hot spring in Kyoto, Kurama Onsen is the most highly recommended choice.
- Guests with tattoos are allowed to bathe.
In a country where many bathing facilities do not allow guests with tattoos, Kurama Onsen is a rare and valuable place.
Negative reviews
- Slightly lacking in cleanliness
Kurama Onsen has been operating for many decades, so some of its facilities are understandably outdated.
However, cleaning is well maintained, and I do not believe this is a major issue.
- It can be quite bright in the late afternoon due to the setting sun.
I agree with that. However, since the open-air baths are covered, it is generally not something to worry about during the daytime.
- The hot spring is somewhat overhyped.
The experience may fall slightly short of expectations compared to the photos shown in articles and advertisements.
However, you are still very likely to be satisfied with the open-air baths and their sense of openness.
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- Some guests did not follow proper Hot springs bathing etiquette.
If you notice someone not following proper bathing manners, it is best to inform the staff immediately.
Discussing the issue directly with other guests can sometimes lead to conflict, so leaving it to the staff is the safest approach.
If you would like to learn more about Hot springs bathing etiquette, please click here.
Summary
Although some parts of the facilities are aging, this sense of history adds to the charm and becomes one of the factors that make the experience truly special.
In addition, hiking from Kibune Shrine to Kurama Temple is an ideal route for those who want to explore beyond Kyoto’s classic tourist spots or who simply love nature.
I highly recommend adding Kurama Onsen to your Kyoto travel itinerary.
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