It is the central station of Osaka.
We will meet here and board the 8:00 a.m. KOUNOTORI limited express train.

This station is convenient for access to the San'in Kaigan Geopark and Kinosaki Onsen. We will get off the train here, scheduled to arrive around 12:30 p.m. We will pick up a cab and head for Genbudo.

Nestled within the vast expanse of the San'in Coast Geopark, a designated UNESCO Global Geopark, lies the intriguing Genbudo Cave. The Geopark, stretching along the coast of the Sea of Japan, is a treasure trove of natural wonders, showcasing the Earth's history and the geological processes that have shaped the region.

Genbudo Cave stands as a testament to this rich history. Formed over 1.6 million years ago, Genbudo offers a captivating glimpse into the Earth's past. While it's technically not a cave in the traditional sense, Genbudo is renowned for its stunning basalt columns, formed from the rapid cooling of molten lava. These hexagonal columns provide a unique window into volcanic activities of ages past.

Visitors to Genbudo can marvel at these formations and gain an appreciation for the dynamic forces that have shaped not only this unique site but the entire San'in Coast Geopark. Whether you're a geology enthusiast or simply someone seeking to connect with nature's ancient artistry, Genbudo Cave is a must-visit within the Geopark's many offerings.

Japan is renowned for its plethora of hot springs, each offering a unique blend of relaxation, culture, and history. Among these, Kinosaki Onsen stands out in both tradition and experience.

What sets Kinosaki Onsen apart from other hot spring towns is its distinctive 'Sotoyu Meguri'. Unlike the typical onsen experience where visitors stay and bathe within a single ryokan or facility, Kinosaki encourages a kind of "hot spring pilgrimage". The town boasts seven public bathhouses or 'sotoyu', and guests are invited to wander from one to another, immersing themselves in different waters and atmospheres at each stop. This offers a dynamic experience, allowing visitors to feel the varying therapeutic benefits and architectural styles each bathhouse provides.

Further elevating the Kinosaki experience is the town's cultural ambiance. Guests are often seen strolling the charming streets in traditional 'yukata' (light cotton kimonos) and 'geta' (wooden sandals), lending an air of timelessness to their journey. The backdrop of willow-lined canals and historical wooden buildings makes the experience all the more enchanting.

Where many hot springs in Japan offer a retreat into nature or a luxurious stay in a ryokan, Kinosaki Onsen intertwines the bathing experience with the cultural fabric of the town itself. It's not just about the rejuvenating properties of the water but about being part of a living, breathing tradition.

In essence, a visit to Kinosaki Onsen is both a sensory delight and a cultural journey, setting it distinctly apart from other onsen destinations.