Lying two and a half hours away from Kyoto on the north sea coast of Japan, Kinosaki is well worth the journey for those seeking an immersive onsen experience. A small town has built up around the hot springs here since they were discovered in the 8th century, and today visitors still wear traditional yukata (evening gowns) and geta (wooden clogs) to stroll the willow-lined canal. There are five public baths to choose from, and the heritage inns here also have their own private onsen facilities.