Kyoto > Nizaemon no Yu (仁左衛門の湯): Kyoto’s Hidden Skin-Healing Onsen
※Description:
Nestled in Kyoto’s West Ward, one of the few onsen near the city’s heart, Nizaemon no Yu (仁左衛門の湯) offers a rejuvenating escape with waters renowned for their skin-soothing properties. Boasting multiple rotenburo (露天風呂) open-air baths, this natural hot spring draws from two unique sources beneath the sacred grounds of Sannomiya Shrine “a true geothermal gift”. Savor authentic Japanese cuisine at its on-site restaurant, unwind with professional massages, or browse relaxation shops. A tranquil retreat just minutes from Kyoto’s bustle, it’s perfect for those craving wellness without the crowds.
A Brief History of Nizaemon no Yu
Nizaemon no Yu (仁左衛門の湯) taps into Kyoto’s geothermal heritage, its name honoring a local figure who aided imperial loyalists in the Edo era. Located at the foot of Sannomiya Shrine, the onsen uses pristine hot springs gushing from its own grounds. With two distinct springs—a silky simple hot spring and a warming chloride-bicarbonate salt spring—it has become a beloved day-trip destination for locals seeking healing and relaxation “a rare oasis in urban Kyoto”.
Exploring the Onsen and Surroundings
At Nizaemon no Yu (仁左衛門の湯), immerse yourself in a variety of rotenburo (露天風呂), from the cool, skin-friendly Ichi no Yu (壱の湯) to the toasty Ni no Yu (仁の湯), both fed by pure, free-flowing springs “no additives, just nature”. Alternating between them boosts metabolism, leaving your skin smooth and your body refreshed. The waters ease chronic pain, rheumatism, digestive issues, stress, and more, promoting overall health. After soaking, dine at the on-site restaurant serving classic Japanese dishes like teishoku (定食) or katsu, or indulge in a massage at the relaxation shops. With fewer tourists than central Kyoto’s attractions, it’s a calm haven, especially midweek. Nearby Muko’s hidden gems invite exploration post-soak.
Nearby Attractions
Kitchen Taro (キッチンTARO): A local diner offering affordable teishoku (定食) and fruit sando (フルーツサンド) in Muko (learn more).
Rakusai Bamboo Park (京都市洛西竹林公園): A serene bamboo grove perfect for quiet strolls (learn more).
Kinkaku-ji (金閣寺): The Golden Pavilion, a dazzling Zen temple reflecting on a serene pond.
※NTRanking: 8.0 / 10
Nizaemon no Yu (仁左衛門の湯) impresses with its skin-enhancing springs, diverse rotenburo (露天風呂), and authentic dining, all in a crowd-free setting. Its location, slightly off Kyoto’s main tourist path, ensures tranquility but requires a bit of effort to reach, keeping it just below top marks.
※How to Get There:
・From Kyoto Station (approximately 40 minutes):
Take Kyoto City Bus #73 from Kyoto Station (京都駅) to Kokudo Sannomiya (国道三ノ宮) bus stop, which takes about 35 minutes.
Walk 2 minutes to the onsen.
・From Osaka (approximately 1 hour 15 minutes):
Take the JR Tokaido Main Line from Osaka Station (大阪駅) to Kyoto Station (京都駅), about 30 minutes.
Transfer to Kyoto City Bus #73 to Kokudo Sannomiya (国道三ノ宮) bus stop, 35 minutes.
Walk 2 minutes to the onsen.
・From Ginkaku-ji (approximately 50 minutes):
Take Kyoto City Bus #17 from Ginkaku-ji (銀閣寺) to Kyoto Station (京都駅), about 30 minutes.
Transfer to Kyoto City Bus #73 to Kokudo Sannomiya (国道三ノ宮) bus stop, 15 minutes.
Walk 2 minutes to the onsen.
※Address:
5 Katagiharabonyama, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto, 615-8165
