A Traveler's Reflection: Kono-Yu Onsen and Kinosaki’s Timeless Traditions

Preserving Cultural Identity While Welcoming Tourism

On December 25, I visited Kinosaki, which presents as any other day without Christmas decorations. Despite the influx of visitors, I admire how well they preserve their culture and traditions, effectively boosting tourism without succumbing to Western influences. It makes me reflect on Vietnam, where we welcome tourists and must maintain our identity. In cities like Phan Thiet, the Russian language can be seen on billboards and menus at every corner, while Nha Trang has been filled with Chinese travelers. Even in Hoi An, known for its ancient charm, Christmas trees and decorations proliferate during the holiday season. I understand the importance of targeting specific customers in business, but it is also crucial to preserve unique identities, as Kinosaki has successfully done. Travelers who visit new towns often strongly desire to learn and immerse themselves in different cultures and customs. So, why should locals have to change or adapt to the guests' style?

Cultural Reflections

Kinosaki is one of the best examples of cultural preservation. Nowadays, many tourist destinations adapt to every visitor's preference, and Kinosaki retains its authenticity. This contrast is especially evident compared to other places in Vietnam, where foreign tourists' overwhelming influence often overshadows local cultures. Keeping the balance between welcoming visitors and preserving local traditions is essential, and Kinosaki serves as a model for those practices.

Journey to Kono-Yu Onsen

I had planned to visit Ichino-Yu, but upon discovering it was closed on Wednesday, I decided to head to Kono-Yu for my onsen journey instead. The directions to Kono-Yu were straightforward: I followed Yunosato Street, passing Goshono-Yu and heading towards the river. At the intersection, I turned right and walked an additional 150 meters to find Kono-Yu on the right side. Kono-Yu offers a spacious parking lot for those traveling by car, making it accessible.

Arrival at Kono-Yu Onsen

Here! I arrived at Kono-Yu around 3 PM when the sky was blue with some sunlight providing me with the best daytime onsen. Kono-Yu's design blends traditional Japanese elements, including a sloping tiled roof and wooden exteriors, ensuring cultural authenticity while catering to modern functionality. The beautifully landscaped garden features two stork statues and an iconic welcoming element at the healing onsen. Curious about their meaning, I learned about the local legend of the Oriental White Stork healing its wounds in the onsen. This bird has become an enduring symbol of Kinosaki's identity. For those interested in this legend, the Toyooka Municipal Museum of the Oriental White Stork is nearby, where visitors can also observe these remarkable birds.

The beautifully landscaped garden features two stork statues and an iconic welcoming element at the healing onsen. Photo by: BeanJP

The Onsen Experience at Kono-Yu

The specific construction date of the current Kono-yu building is not provided; however, the hot spring has played a significant role in Kinosaki's history for more than a thousand years. Kono-yu boasts a rich history that spans approximately 1,300 years. Kono-Yu has a long history; the building has likely undergone significant renovations or complete rebuilds over the centuries. For almost all historic bathhouses in Japan, preserving the location and spirit of the onsen is prioritized over maintaining the original structure, which would naturally degrade over time.

When I entered the bathhouse, the check-in counter was on the left to pay for my ticket by presenting my Toyooka driving license, always getting 50% off, and I left my shoes in the designated box. Initially, the indoor bath felt quite hot, but my body quickly adapted, and I began to relax. The outdoor bath, seen through a glass wall, was smaller than Goshono-Yu onsen. If it's full of people, stay calm and soak indoors until a space opens up.

Seated in the outdoor bath, I leaned against the pool's wall and rested my head on the edge. With my eyes open, I took in the stunning view: the bright blue sky and the golden leaves rustling in the woods behind the onsen. Autumn leaves floated gently on the water's surface as I let go of my thoughts and lost track of time. After enjoying the outdoor bath, I returned to the indoor one to warm up again before rinsing off.

Initially, the indoor bath felt quite hot, but my body quickly adapted, and I began to relax. Photo by: visitkinosaki

The outdoor bath, seen through a glass wall, was smaller than Goshono-Yu onsen. Photo by: visitkinosaki

Conclusion

Before leaving out of the onsen, I dried off my body carefully to enter the changing room. The bathhouse also provides a small corner for relaxation, with massage chairs and a vending machine for your post-onsen retreat.

My experience at Kono-Yu and in Kinosaki left me with a deep appreciation for the preservation of culture and tradition. It's a reminder that while tourism can enhance local economies, the people should not trade off at the cost of losing their identity. I am sure that Kinosaki continues to thrive as a unique destination that honors its history, inspiring other regions to protect their cultural heritage.

Kinosaki continues to thrive as a unique destination that honors its history, inspiring other regions to protect their cultural heritage. Photo by: BeanJP