Kinkiyu Hotel

Oyado Kinkiyu has a charming retro feel, an interesting history, and an extensive natural onsen complex. It was a great base for different activities around the area. We especially appreciated the complimentary local sake tasting in the evening, which was delicious. We really enjoyed our stay.

A quiet, relaxing spot for a rest, with a cozy hot spring. The rooms are dated but clean, and there’s parking around the hotel. Coin laundry has two washers and two dryers. You can also visit just to use the hot springs.

Once I got into the baths, it was very relaxing. The trouble started in the changing area: the receptionist didn’t mention towel rentals, so I was left trying to dry myself with my clothes before going out to rent towels for my family and me. Korean bathhouses had always provided towels, so it didn’t occur to me to ask. Luckily, everything dried quickly. A simple offer of towels from the staff member would have prevented all that.

This was a day-use onsen visit. I wanted to try Kawayu because I’d heard it was famous for its baths, but I was disappointed by how run-down the area felt. Half the onsens and businesses were closed. The water here had a strong sulfur smell, though it felt pleasant. There were five baths and around 6-8 showers. The onsen itself is old and worn down. I imagine it must have been beautiful in the 1990s. At 1,000 yen for adults and 700 yen for children, admission felt expensive for the location, condition, and atmosphere. I’ll probably try another onsen next time, though this one isn’t the worst choice if nothing else is open.