Onsen, Sento, Ofuro, Daiyokujo and Super Sento
There are lots of ways to get into hot water in Japan: onsen, sento, ofuro, daiyokujo and super sentos. What is the difference?
Onsen, Sento, Ofuro, Daiyokujo and Super Sento
There are lots of ways to get into hot water in Japan: onsen, sento, ofuro, daiyokujo and super sentos. A lot of foreigners call any large bathtub in Japan an onsen, but that’s not correct. Let’s see if we can straighten out the terms here, so you know just what kind of hot water you’re getting into.
How To Purchase Shinkansen Tickets from Ticket Machines
Here’s exactly what you need to know about purchasing Shinkansen tickets from automated machines in Japan using a credit card, with walkthrough instructions.
Kyo Yunohana Resort Suisen
If you’d like to try a good countryside ryokan without having to head up into the Japan Alps or northern Honshu, you’ll like the Kyo Yunohana Resort Suisen ryokan in Kameoka, which is 20 minutes by train from Kyoto. It’s got real onsen baths and serves great food.
Kamiji Kakimoto (Fuyacho Branch)
Kamiji Kakimoto is one of the best washi (traditional Japanese paper) stores in Kyoto. For a limited time, you can check out their products in this beautiful machiya on Fuyacho-dori.
Len Kyoto Kawaramachi
Len Kyoto Kawaramachi is one of the coolest and most sociable hostels in the city. It’s a short walk of downtown in a very interesting neighborhood with some great restaurants and bars. It’s a great choice for backpackers and solo travelers.
Kyoto Vacation Checklist
For all the essentials, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
For ideas on how to structure your trip, see my list of Kyoto Itineraries
Here’s a comprehensive list of Things To Do In Kyoto for inspiration and to book ahead where necessary
Do you want help planning your Japan trip? My team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help
See my one page guide on Where To Stay In Kyoto
You can buy a Japan SIM card or an unlimited data pocket wifi router online before you arrive in Japan for collection on arrival
View my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
See if the Japan Rail Pass can save you money during your trip
Why it's essential to have travel insurance for Japan
Travellers to Japan no longer need to supply proof of Covid vaccination or a negative test. We have all the latest news on visiting Japan
Visiting Tokyo or Osaka too?
Don't forget my companion websites InsideOsaka.com and TrulyTokyo.com for in-depth guides to these fascinating cities.
Happy travels!
Chris Rowthorn