Walking through the streets of Kyoto, you occasionally come across chimneys that rise straight up into the depths of alleyways. Kyoto has a long-established public bath culture, and even today, numerous public baths can be found scattered throughout the city. According to one theory, this is rooted in a long history of bathing culture that dates back to the "seyoku" (public bathing) practiced at temples in the past.

Even today, many buildings retain the retro charm of the Taisho and Showa eras, and the area is blessed with high-quality groundwater, earning it the nickname "the sacred land of public baths."

In such a town, there is a public bathhouse that has preserved its traditional appearance while continuing to adapt to the times. It is "Kyoto Tamano-yu," located very close to "HOTEL RESOL TRINITY KYOTO." Since its founding in 1894 (Meiji 27), it has been loved by many people as a place of relaxation where people of all generations and social standings can gather side by side.

A space that is refined to suit the times.

This place, which has been in operation since the Meiji era, was taken over by the current owner's grandfather, who had come from Ishikawa Prefecture to work, in the early Showa period. His diligent and patient work ethic earned him trust, and through fortunate circumstances, he came to own this historic public bathhouse. In an era when most homes didn't have baths, it was a beloved place of relaxation in the town, with people lining up at the end of the day to enjoy a bath.

From its opening in the Meiji era through the Taisho, Showa, Heisei, and now the Reiwa era, Kyoto Tamano-yu has walked hand in hand with the changing town for over 130 years. Currently, major renovations are carried out every 30 to 40 years, the lifespan of the baths, and it continues to evolve little by little to keep up with the times.

Then, in 2009, the current owners, Hideo and Harumi Nishide, took over the bathhouse as the third generation. It all started when Hideo began helping out at the bathhouse after work due to his mother's poor health. Initially, he only intended to help out temporarily, but through repeated discussions with his family, he gradually solidified his resolve to "protect this place myself."

After taking over the property, the first thing we tackled was renovating the space. While preserving its traditional charm, we refreshed it into a bright and clean atmosphere by updating the plumbing, lighting, and tiles.

"In order to continue running the public bathhouse, we can't keep it the same as it used to be," Hideo said, conveying his desire to gradually create the necessary environment so that visitors can relax.

Furthermore, thanks to Harumi's idea, the traditional counter was removed, and privacy was also taken into consideration. Female customers have commented that they "feel safer using the facility now," and the place has evolved into one where everyone can feel comfortable.

A bathhouse that is close to the town and its people

At Kyoto Tamano-yu, various efforts are made to ensure that all visitors have a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

One example is creating a child-friendly space. Based on their own parenting experiences, the Nishide couple have set up a reading area and prepared small gifts. These efforts to bring smiles to children's faces are gradually spreading, and they say that more and more people are saying, "It's become easier to go to the public bath with children."

Another attraction is the baths that cherish Kyoto's seasons and customs. By collaborating with local bathhouse associations and holding seasonal event baths such as yuzu baths and eupatorium baths, a connection with the local community is naturally fostered.

Furthermore, in order to create opportunities to convey the charm of public bathhouses, we have been working on collaborations with other industries and the production of original goods, starting from our hometown of Kyoto. Currently, we are nurturing a place where people involved can warmly connect through our goods, based on the themes of "being able to empathize with each other's feelings" and "creating connections with the local community."

Harumi is in charge of all the design work, from the tiles in the bathhouse and on the exterior to the original merchandise. "I'm so happy when people say they're cute," she says with a smile. Her expression reflects the joy she feels when the feelings she put into her work reach people.

Connections that are formed at public baths

Public bathhouses offer a value that you can't experience in your own home bath. It's the natural connection people make through the water. People who come almost every day exchange greetings like "Good evening," and a sense of familiarity gradually builds up. Such scenes are alive and well in everyday life.

Hideo says, "This bathhouse exists because of the people of the community." From local regulars to travelers, conversations are born through the hot springs, and gentle connections are formed. Kyoto Tamano-yu is filled with the warmth that only a neighborhood bathhouse can offer.

To maintain that warmth, Mr. and Mrs. Nishide prioritize "safety and security." They have installed bright, warm-colored lighting in the changing room, like the sun, and have carefully reviewed each piece of equipment to create an environment where everyone can feel at ease.

Harumi says, "I want this to be a place where people of all generations can spend precious time." For those who visit alone, it's a time to get away from electronic devices and compose themselves. For families, it's a time to talk while soaking in the bath. For the elderly, it's a time to talk with someone and warm their hearts.

Hideo also said, "It makes me really happy to see customers chatting happily with each other, or parents and children laughing together." Their expressions conveyed their deep affection for the people they meet every day.

A time to soak in the bath and soothe your mind and body.

Spending time at "Kyoto Tamano-yu" is more than just warming your body. A diverse group of people naturally gather, their expressions softening beyond the rising steam. You can feel the warmth unique to a neighborhood bathhouse, where you can relax and let go of any tension.

Soaking in the hot springs naturally helps to unwind, allowing you to take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. A moment at Kyoto Tamano-yu might just be a small luxury that allows you to rejuvenate both your mind and body.

As a place where every visitor can feel safe and secure, we continue to heat the water every day to warm both body and soul.

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京都 玉の湯
電話：075-231-2985
住所：京都府京都市中京区押小路通御幸町西入ル亀屋町401 
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*For details regarding business hours and regular closing days, please check the link above.
*The store will be temporarily closed from June 21, 2026 for renovations.