About 7 kilometers west of downtown Kyoto lies Yunohana Onsen (hot springs), which sits in the tranquil mountainravines of Kameoka City. Legendhas it that duringtheageof Japan's provincialwars (1467-1615), an injured militarychieftain visited the baths and was cured of his wounds.

Onsen are best enjoyed while staying at a ryokan, or Japanese-style inn. Many ryokan offer their onsen facilities to non-staying guests as well, and some even serve lunch, so call ahead and ask. Of course, if you have the time, staying overnight at a ryokan is a wonderful experience. There is even a booth that sells 200 liters of natural spring water for just 100 yen to bring back home!

Besides hot springs, Yunohana offers many attractive spots where you can enjoy a stroll. There are severalhistorical sites dotting in the area, including Kokushoji, a temple where the grave of the famous samurai Mitsuhide Akechi is located. From October 23-25, the Kameoka Festival, similar to Kyoto's famous Gion Festival, is celebrated.

The easiest and the fastest way to travel to Yunohana Onsen from Kyoto is by a JR train. However, there are more fun ways to reach the area. If you want to enjoy the scenery in a peaceful way, try the 25-minute "Torokko Romantic Train." It follows the course of the Hozu River through the idyllic canyon. If you want a thrill back to Kyoto, why not try a river boat? The Hozu River Boat Ride offers passengers a 16-kilometer tour on a traditional watercraft through the green mountains of Kyoto!

Yunohana Onsen is a peaceful and historical hot spring surrounded by nature where you can sit back and relax. It would be the perfect side trip during your next visit to Kyoto!