Goko-yu — Attraction in Kyoto

Reasonably priced. Towel rentals available at a refundable fee. Soap & Shampoo up for purchase. Friendly service. Basically, you could just do a walk-in without having to worry about bringing your grooming kit.

Fairly mid-sized 2-storey space with about 8 types of pools to choose from, with various heat levels. Including an ice cold bath tub & electric bath pool. (I dare not enter that pool)

There's an outdoor heated pool placed with some mineral stones & a sauna that could cater for up to a sitting crowd of 10.

I don't read Japanese, but I'm guessing there's a pool with sulphuric content. The liquid's slightly milky white. The other tub has some "red wine" treatment. Mind you, that's just the color of the bath. I really don't know what's in the water. (I don't read Japanese)

Shoe cabinet and lockers are provided at no extra fee.

There's a 3-speed table fan in their changing room for those who would like to cool down.

Plastic chairs & buckets available. If you've got OCD, you might wanna give them a good scrub prior to your relaxing hot bath.

Will I re-visit? Of course...

They are tattoo friendly, and foreigner friendly. You pay for tickets that you then give to the front desk. It’s really easy, and literally such a good idea if you’re wanting both a traditional sento experience and a relaxing time.

Updated entry is now ¥510, with rental towels, soap and shampoo being available for ¥40-¥60 each! Literally so good, I cannot recommend it enough.

One of the older ladies there (a local I believe) will boss you around if you don’t do everything right, so make sure you read the rules before going in. I thought I was doing well, but I am glad I now know not to leave my seat there. They also, additionally, have instructions on how to bathe properly in both Japanese and English when you arrive.

The electric bath is STRONG so be prepared, and don’t let your kids in there as it’s not too safe for them (said the older Japanese lady).

10/10...

Excellent Onsen, very clean and I was the only westerner in there. Lots of Japanese older men who were friendly enough to make me not feel unwelcome.

Good selection of hot baths but the real big hitter is the cold one upstairs after a sauna.

I have a full upper shoulder to elbow colour tattoo sleeve showing some really detailed star wars stuff and no one batted an eyelid. It's it's first time out in public too.

Don't forget to take your shoes off when entering, as I walked on the tatami mat but the lady was kind enough to not scold me. Also weird recommendation but absolute game changer is the small bottle of ice cold milk afterwards. Don't miss that, re-energises you perfectly.

Top experience, loved it. Arigatou...