Overview

Kobayashiya ryokan located in Kinosaki Onsen is a newly renovated inn that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into an architecture magazine. Kobayashiya is modern, contemporary and elegant, while preserving important traditional Japanese aesthetics. Rooms are decorated with washi paper and handcrafted Japanese pottery.

While it may look entirely modern, Kobayashiya has a long history, having been founded in the Genroku era (1688–1704). Kobayashiya originally started as a pottery shop, Setoya, before transitioning into a stunning ryokan.

A little-known fact about the Kobayashiya ryokan is that its sixth president, also the 19th Mayor of Kinosaki Town, was responsible for planting the first thirty willow trees along the Otani to King Bridges.

Accommodation

Kobayashiya was established as a ryokan post-Hokutan earthquake in 1925. The ryokan is a Tangible Cultural Property of Japan since 2015.

When you stay at Kobayashiya, you can choose from different rooms that best suit your travel style and budget. Each room is decorated with washi wallpapers and comes with stunning pieces of handcrafted pottery, in celebration of the ryokan’s past heritage. The best part is that every room comes with its own private onsen bath, making it great for guests with tattoos.

Dining

The dining experiene here is taking seriously, created to enhance your stay at Kobayashiya. You can expect a mix of Japanese kaiseki and teppanyaki cuisine. You will be dining in the historic dining hall.

Onsen & Wellness

Kobayashiya’s onsen draws its waters from the rich, mineral-laden waters of Kinosaki Onsen. Each of the ryokan’s rooms includes private onsen baths. When staying at Kobayashiya, you also get a pass to the town’s seven public bathhouses. All Kinosaki onsen bathhouses are tattoo-friendly!

Facilities

Some of the highlighted facilities at Kobayashiya include:

• A renovated lobby with traditional earthen walls.
• Delicious and traditional dining options emphasizing local cuisine.
• Private onsen baths sourced from Kinosaki’s natural hot springs.
• Historical elements throughout, reflecting the ryokan’s past as a noble pottery shop.

Additional Features:

• Free parking
• Hot spring bath
• 3 Private baths
• Exceptional breakfast
• Perfect for couples
• Non-smoking rooms
• Romantic stay
• Restaurant & Bar
• Facilities for disabled guests