Bentencho: Play to the Fullest at Kansai's Largest "Soraniwa Onsen OSAKA BAY TOWER" ♪ Part 1

● Kansai's largest hot spring theme park

Although Japan is known as a hot spring country, Osaka doesn't seem to leave much of an impression as a hot spring destination, does it?

However, in recent years, natural hot spring facilities in Osaka have been increasing, and among them, "Soraniwa Onsen OSAKA BAY TOWER," which opened in February 2019, is particularly noteworthy. This is a hot spring theme park themed around the "Azuchi-Momoyama period."

The Azuchi-Momoyama period lasted only about 30 years in Japan's ancient history. During this time, warlord Oda Nobunaga rose to prominence, and Toyotomi Hideyoshi unified the country, building Osaka Castle at the height of its splendor. Osaka Castle was naturally magnificent and imposing, and trade with Spain, Portugal, and other countries led to a brilliant and luxurious cultural flourishing, with people full of vitality.

Soraniwa Onsen has created a splendid space that blends the Japanese atmosphere of the Azuchi-Momoyama period with modern style, allowing visitors to wear kimono and have an extraordinary experience.

Located right next to the Chuo Line's "Bentencho Station," it's also conveniently accessible to the Kaiyukan Aquarium, making it very popular with foreign tourists!

Prade, from Peru, a country known for its hot springs, visited this popular Osaka spot on our behalf.

● Depart! Into the world of Azuchi-Momoyama

Following the walkway from Bentencho Station, we soon spotted a curtain with the words "Soraniwa Onsen" in large letters! It was the first time I had seen such a luxurious hot spring just from the entrance lobby, so I was a bit nervous going in.

First, you put your shoes in a locker. The locker key is a wristband that can be used for payments throughout the facility, so be careful not to lose it!

At the reception, staff members dressed in kimono greeted us with smiles, and my nervousness disappeared, leaving me in a pleasant mood. After listening to a series of explanations, I began choosing a yukata to wear inside the facility. There were so many patterns to choose from, it was really fun.

After changing into my yukata, I walked through a lantern-lit path that was perfect for photos, and immediately embarked on a time-travel journey to the Azuchi-Momoyama period ♪

● Healing Moments in Natural Hot Springs

Since we came to Soraniwa Onsen, first thing is to soak in the natural hot springs! Head to the large bath area called "Benten-yu Town."

Pass through "Benten Street," which looks like a set from a period drama, and take the elevator to the 5th floor.

The entrances to the men's and women's baths are marked with curtains. So there's no mistaking them!

The hot spring water, gushing from 1,000 meters underground, is weakly alkaline and is said to be called "beauty skin water."

There are various baths here, such as an open-air bath, carbonated spring, sauna, and the garden-view bath, which is especially wonderful for enjoying the Japanese garden scenery! There are also reserved private baths separate from the main bathing area, so it's recommended for families too.

Soaking slowly in the bath warms both body and mind. After all, hot springs are the best ~.

You can also take a short rest in the tatami waiting room.

● Endless Fun: Sake, Festival Stalls, and Shows!

The "Soraniwa Honmachi" area is for dining and shopping, recreating the brilliant and luxurious world of the Azuchi-Momoyama period. Inside, there is an impressive drum bridge and Soraniwa Tenjin, perfect photo spots. If you look closely, even the ceiling features intricate gold decorations, very detailed.

Since we're here, let's play at the festival stalls! Shooting games and masks are rare and fun!

This is Japan's festival culture.

Across from the festival stalls is the food district "Bokura Yokocho," with izakayas and Japanese restaurants. My favorite was "Kakudaki Yamazentei," where you can try various types of sake.

I ordered a tasting set consisting of three selected sake and three appetizers that pair well with each!

There are more than 20 other types of sake, so ask the staff to recommend one that suits you.

Also, various shows and events are held within the facility, so check them out!

Who knows, you might even encounter residents of the Azuchi-Momoyama period!?

There's still a long way to go to fully enjoy Soraniwa Onsen, so Part 1 ends here!

In Part 2, I'll introduce the Japanese garden with foot baths, the manga corner with over 10,000 manga, new attractions, and more. Stay tuned ☆

>> Part 2 has been released! See the continuation here ♪

※ Information as of January 17, 2020. Please note that details may differ from current conditions.

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