Background

Funaoka Onsen: A Retro Bathhouse Experience

Experience a nostalgic journey at Kyoto's Funaoka Onsen, a historic public bathhouse with stunning architecture and unique bathing traditions.

4.3

Funaoka Onsen is a historic public bathhouse (sento) in Kyoto, dating back to 1923. Known for its stunning retro design, intricate wood carvings, and Majorca-style tiles, it offers a unique glimpse into Japan's bathhouse culture. Despite the name, it is not a natural onsen but a mechanically heated bathhouse with a variety of baths, including Japan's first electric bath.

A brief summary to Funaoka Onsen

  • Monday 3 pm-11:30 pm
  • Tuesday 3 pm-11:30 pm
  • Wednesday 3 pm-11:30 pm
  • Thursday 3 pm-11:30 pm
  • Friday 3 pm-11:30 pm
  • Saturday 3 pm-11:30 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-11:30 pm

Local tips

  • Bring your own towel, soap, and shampoo, or purchase them at the front desk for a small fee.
  • Be mindful of bathhouse etiquette. Wash thoroughly before entering the baths.
  • Note that the bathing sections for men and women switch daily.
  • Funaoka Onsen is popular with tourists, so expect it to be crowded, especially in the evenings.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Kyoto Station, take Kyoto City Bus Route 206 to the Senbon-Kuramaguchi bus stop. The ride takes approximately 30 minutes. From the bus stop, it is a 5-minute walk to Funaoka Onsen. The bus fare is ¥230.

  • Subway

    Take the Karasuma Subway Line to Kuramaguchi Station. From there, it is a 20-minute walk to Funaoka Onsen. Alternatively, from Kyoto Station, take the subway to Kitaoji Station, then transfer to bus 205 to Daitokuji Temple; from there, it's a short walk. Subway fare is between ¥240-¥280. Bus fare is ¥230.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from downtown Kyoto takes approximately 15 minutes and costs around ¥1500-¥3400. Tell the driver you want to go to "Funaoka Onsen" (船岡温泉).

Unlock the Best of Funaoka Onsen

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Funaoka Onsen

Funaoka Onsen, nestled in Kyoto's Kita Ward, is more than just a public bath; it's a step back in time. Established in 1923 as part of the Funaoka-ro restaurant and inn, it transitioned into a public bathhouse after World War II. The building itself is a designated Tangible Cultural Property, boasting a unique blend of architectural styles. The entrance features a *karahafu* gable, an undulating curve typically reserved for temples and aristocratic gateways, hinting at the bathhouse's prestigious past. Inside, the changing rooms showcase elaborate wooden carvings depicting mythological scenes, crafted by artists who once worked for the Imperial Court. These carvings reportedly took over a decade to complete. The bathing area is equally captivating, adorned with colorful Majorca tiles, a rare and now-discontinued style of Japanese-made relief tiles. Funaoka Onsen is also known for housing Japan's first electric bath, installed in 1933. In addition to the electric bath, visitors can enjoy a variety of other baths, including herbal baths, jet spas, and saunas. An outdoor bath area features rocks that change color when wet, adding to the unique bathing experience. Funaoka Onsen provides an authentic glimpse into the local Kyoto lifestyle, offering a relaxing and visually stunning experience for both locals and tourists.

Popular Experiences near Funaoka Onsen

Popular Hotels near Funaoka Onsen

Select Currency