First of all, Uji Genji no Yu Onsen is a truly charming and wonderful hot spring facility. The quality of the hot spring water is excellent, and the comfortable water temperature allows even international visitors to relax and soak for an extended period of time.
I have personally visited many times, and it is without a doubt one of the hot springs I confidently recommend in Kyoto.
However, Japanese hot springs and sento have unique cultural backgrounds. For example, some people may feel uncomfortable bathing naked with others.
With this in mind, this article explains who Uji Genji no Yu Onsen may not be suitable for, from the perspective of differences in values and cultural expectations.
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Conclusion: Who Uji Genji no Yu Onsen Kyoto Is Not Suitable For
Let me start with the conclusion.
Uji Genji no Yu Onsen Kyoto may not be the best choice for people who fall into the following categories:
- people with tattoos
- Those who feel uncomfortable bathing naked with others
- Couples or married partners who want to bathe together
Based on my personal experience of visiting Uji Genji no Yu Onsen Kyoto many times, I will explain why it may not be suitable for these people.
Why It May Not Be Suitable: Reasons Based on Personal Experience
people with tattoos
Unfortunately, people with tattoos are not allowed to bathe, regardless of the size of the tattoo. The same rule applies to temporary tattoo stickers.
Some visitors may feel uncomfortable or wonder, “Why are people with tattoos not allowed to enter?” However, historically in Japan, tattoos have been associated with organized crime groups. Because of this history, many Japanese people worry that if tattoos were freely permitted, it could also allow members of such groups to use the facilities.
This policy is rooted in historical and cultural concerns rather than personal discrimination.
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People Who Feel Uncomfortable Bathing Naked with Others
At Uji Genji no Yu Onsen Kyoto, bathing is separated by gender, and guests share the same bath nude with others of the same gender.
This is not unique to Uji Genji no Yu Onsen Kyoto—most hot springs in Japan follow the same practice.
If you feel uncomfortable bathing nude, consider using a private bath or staying at a hotel with a private open-air bath in the guest room.
Couples or Married Partners Who Want to Bathe Together
At Uji Genji no Yu Onsen Kyoto, bathing is separated by gender, so couples and married partners cannot bathe together.
This is not unique to this hot spring facility Kyoto—most hot spring facilities in Japan also have gender-separated baths.
However, this hot spring facility has shared spaces such as a relaxation area and a restaurant, so couples and married partners can still enjoy their time together outside the baths.
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Who Genji no Yu Onsen Kyoto Is Suitable For
If none of the points mentioned above apply to you, your experience at Kurama Onsen is likely to be highly satisfying.
If I were to recommend just one hot spring in Kyoto, Genji no Yu Onsen Kyoto would be my top choice without hesitation.
Summary
To be clear, Genji no Yu Onsen Kyoto is by no means a “bad” facility. On the contrary, it can easily be considered one of the best hot spring experiences in Kyoto.
At the same time, knowing in advance whether it matches your own preferences and goals can make your onsen or sento experience in Kyoto much more satisfying.
We hope this article helps you choose the bathing spot that’s right for you.
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