In our experience, this charming ryokan in Toyooka, Hyogo, offers a perfect gateway to Kinosaki’s famous hot springs.
Recently spruced up, it blends old-world charm with modern touches like private baths and free internet. The food is top-notch, and the service is stellar.
Getting here takes about two and a half hours from big cities, which might be a trek for some. Also, families with young kids or pet owners should look elsewhere, as the inn doesn’t cater to these groups.
But for couples or solo travelers seeking a genuine Japanese hot spring getaway, this place is a real gem. History buffs will love its past as a pottery shop, now a prized local landmark.
If you’re after a deep dive into Japanese culture, complete with soothing baths and mouthwatering meals, this spot hits the mark.
Key Points
- Kobayashiya is a ryokan located in Toyooka, Hyogo, providing easy access to Kinosaki Onsen’s seven public hot spring baths for onsen hopping.
- The ryokan has been renovated, blending traditional aesthetics with modern comforts, including private onsens and an in-house CYAN restaurant for exquisite Japanese cuisine.
- Kobayashiya has received exceptional guest ratings, with high scores for service, facilities, cleanliness, and comfort, despite a slightly lower value for money score.
- The ryokan has a long-standing history, being founded in the Genroku era, and is recognized as an important cultural asset in the region.
- Guests must be aware of the ryokan’s policies, including age restrictions for children, no pets allowed, and specific check-in/check-out times.
Excellent Location and Accessibility
Nestled within the picturesque town of Toyooka, Hyogo, Kobayashiya -Kinosaki Onsen- boasts an exceptional location that allows guests to easily access the property.
Situated just 150 minutes from Kyoto Station, 170 minutes from Osaka Station, and 110 minutes from Himeji Station via express trains, the ryokan offers unparalleled convenience for travelers.
Kinosaki Onsen, renowned for its seven public hot spring baths, is just a short walk away, providing guests with a unique onsen hopping experience.
With its prime location and excellent transportation links, Kobayashiya ensures that guests can effortlessly enjoy the beauty and traditional charm of the surrounding region.
Renovated Accommodations and Amenities
The ryokan underwent a major renovation in 2022, blending traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern comforts to provide guests with an exceptional accommodation experience.
Guestrooms feature washi wallpapers and handcrafted pottery, creating a serene and authentic ambiance. Guests can enjoy the convenience of private onsens, free high-speed WiFi, and a delectable breakfast.
The property also houses CYAN, a restaurant serving exquisite Japanese cuisine for dinner.
With these remarkable amenities, Kobayashiya offers a well-rounded hospitality experience that seamlessly combines the rich cultural heritage of Kinosaki Onsen with contemporary luxuries.
Exceptional Guest Experiences and Ratings
Owing to the attentive service, beautiful surroundings, and high-quality dining experiences, Kobayashiya has received exceptional ratings from its guests.
The ryokan boasts a staff score of 9.8, facilities rating of 9.7, cleanliness score of 9.7, and comfort rating of 9.8. Guests particularly rave about the private baths as a standout feature, and many recommend booking dinner in advance to fully enjoy the Japanese cuisine served at CYAN, the on-site restaurant.
Though the value for money score is slightly lower at 9.0, the overall experience at Kobayashiya is widely praised, cementing its reputation as a top choice for those seeking an indulgent and relaxing stay in Kinosaki Onsen.
Historical Significance and Preservation
Founded in the Genroku era (1688-1704), Kobayashiya started as a pottery shop before transitioning to hospitality.
The main building, constructed after the Hokutan earthquake (1925), is registered as a Tangible Cultural Property of Japan (2015).
The current president, Tomori Nagamoto, is recognized for his contributions to contemporary art and tea rituals.
Kobayashiya’s historical significance is evident in:
- Its origins as a pottery shop in the Genroku era
- The preservation of its main building as a Tangible Cultural Property
- The current president’s contributions to Japanese art and tea traditions
- The ryokan’s long-standing history in the hospitality industry
- Its recognition as an important cultural asset in Toyooka, Hyogo.
Policies and House Rules
What’re the key policies and house rules guests need to be aware of when staying at Kobayashiya -Kinosaki Onsen?
The ryokan has implemented several rules to ensure a comfortable and peaceful experience for all guests.
Starting April 1, 2024, children under 10 years old will no longer be accommodated. Pets aren’t allowed, and smoking is prohibited throughout the property.
Check-in is from 3 PM to 6 PM, and check-out is from 7 AM to 10 AM. Guests must inform the ryokan of their expected arrival time in advance.
Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 7 AM.
Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by accommodation type, so guests should review the details when booking.
Renowned Onsen Hopping in Kinosaki
Guests often embark on a delightful onsen hopping experience during their stay at Kobayashiya -Kinosaki Onsen-.
The ryokan’s prime location in Kinosaki Onsen grants easy access to the town’s seven public hot spring baths, each with its unique charm and therapeutic properties.
Visitors can don their provided yukata and wooden clogs to stroll through the picturesque streets, hopping from one onsen to the next.
The experience allows them to:
- Explore the history and cultural significance of each bathhouse
- Indulge in the soothing, mineral-rich waters
- Appreciate the architectural designs and natural surroundings
- Engage in the local customs and traditions
- Unwind and rejuvenate both body and mind.
Dinner at CYAN Restaurant
After seeing the town’s renowned onsen hopping tradition, guests at Kobayashiya -Kinosaki Onsen- can savor an exceptional dining experience at the ryokan’s in-house restaurant, CYAN.
The restaurant serves authentic Japanese cuisine, showcasing the finest seasonal ingredients from the region. Diners can expect an artful presentation and a harmonious balance of flavors in each dish.
The menu features a variety of set courses, allowing guests to explore the culinary artistry of the skilled chefs. Whether savoring a multicourse kaiseki meal or opting for à la carte selections, guests are sure to delight in the exceptional quality and attention to detail that defines the CYAN dining experience.
Booking and Cancellation Information
Travelers can book their stay at Kobayashiya -Kinosaki Onsen– through the ryokan’s official website or by contacting the property directly.
As of April 1, 2024, the ryokan will no longer accommodate children under 10 years old. Pets aren’t allowed, and smoking is prohibited.
Check-in is from 15:00 to 18:00, and check-out is from 07:00 to 10:00. Guests must inform the property of their expected arrival time in advance.
The cancellation and prepayment policies vary by accommodation type:
- Standard rooms: 50% charge for cancellations within 14 days
- Deluxe rooms: 50% charge for cancellations within 30 days
- Suites: 50% charge for cancellations within 60 days
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Visit the Ryokan’s Pottery Shop?
Unfortunately, the passage doesn’t mention a pottery shop at the ryokan. It states that Kobayashiya started as a pottery shop before transitioning to a hospitality business, but there’s no indication that a pottery shop is currently available for guests to visit.
What Are the Check-In and Check-Out Times on Weekends?
The check-in time is from 15:00 to 18:00 and the check-out time is from 07:00 to 10:00, regardless of whether it’s on a weekday or weekend. The ryokan enforces these standard check-in and check-out policies consistently.
Does the Ryokan Offer Any Wellness or Spa Treatments?
The ryokan doesn’t explicitly mention any on-site wellness or spa treatments. However, it’s located in the renowned Kinosaki Onsen area, allowing guests to enjoy the town’s seven public hot spring baths and the rejuvenating onsen experience.
Can I Request a Specific Type of View From My Room?
Yes, guests can request a specific type of view from their rooms, such as garden, mountain, or courtyard. The ryokan’s staff will accommodate these requests based on availability and guest preferences.
Is There a Dress Code for Dinner at the CYAN Restaurant?
The restaurant at Kobayashiya, CYAN, doesn’t have a strict dress code. Guests are welcome to dine in attire they feel comfortable in, whether casual or semi-formal. The focus is on the exceptional Japanese cuisine rather than formal attire.
The Sum Up
We recently had the pleasure of staying at this charming ryokan in Kinosaki Onsen, and it truly embodies the essence of traditional Japanese hospitality with a modern twist. As you step through its doors, you’re transported to a world where centuries-old customs meet contemporary comforts.
The location couldn’t be better for exploring the renowned hot spring town, and we found ourselves completely immersed in Japan’s rich cultural legacy. From soaking in private onsens to savoring exquisite local cuisine, every moment felt like a step back in time – but with all the amenities a 21st-century traveler could want.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable escape that rejuvenates both body and spirit, this historic gem should be at the top of your list. And here’s a tip from your frugal travel friend: click the button below to book through Booking.com. It’s our go-to for free reservations and often offers the most competitive prices. Happy travels!