Onsenji Temple, located in Kinosaki Onsen, is, as its name suggests, a historic temple with a deep connection to hot springs. The temple is said to have been founded by a high priest named Gyoki in the first year of the Nara period. When Gyoki visited the area, he saw the sight of steam rising from the mountains. When Gyoki learned that the local people were suffering from illness and injury, he realized that the hot spring water had healing powers, so he dug it up and offered it to the people. In honor of his achievements, Onsen-ji Temple was built as a temple to watch over the hot springs. Onsenji Temple is located halfway up Mt. Daishi, 231 meters above sea level, overlooking the town of Kinosaki Onsen. Worshippers can either climb the stairs from the foot of the mountain to the temple or take the ropeway. The view from the temple is beautiful, and the scenery changes with the seasons. In the main hall of Onsen-ji Temple, Yakushi Nyorai is enshrined. Yakushi Nyorai is believed to be a Buddha who heals illness and protects health, symbolizing Onsen-dera's character as a “healing temple. Onsen-dera has also been well known throughout its long history to the local people and travelers visiting the onsen. In particular, as Kinosaki developed as a hot spring resort from the Edo period onward, Onsen-dera played an important role as a center of faith and tourism. Even today, Onsenji Temple is visited by many worshippers and tourists as a place that symbolizes the fusion of hot spring culture and Buddhist faith. With its historical architecture, natural environment, and deep connection to the hot springs, Onsenji Temple is an integral part of Kinosaki Onsen's appeal.