Kinosaki Onsen Kouno-yu

Kouno-yu is the oldest hot spring site in Kinosaki, founded when a local legend described an oriental white stork (kounotori) bathing in the water to heal its wounded leg. It is located at the far end of the village, away from the central bustle, offering a more tranquil and nature-focused experience. The bathhouse features a large, well-designed outdoor bath surrounded by greenery and mountain scenery. It is highly regarded by those who prefer a quiet soak in natural surroundings over the architecturally grander baths in the town center. It follows the village-wide policy of allowing tattoos in the bath.