Arima Onsen
Soak in ancient golden waters at one of Japan's three most celebrated hot spring towns
Arima Onsen is one of Japan's three oldest hot springs (along with Dogo Onsen and Shirahama Onsen), with a recorded history spanning over 1,300 years. According to legend, the springs were discovered by two Shinto gods in the age of myths, and later officially established when Buddhist monks Gyoki and Ninsei developed the area in the 8th and 12th centuries respectively. The town became particularly famous during the reign of Toyotomi Hideyoshi in the late 16th century, who frequently visited Arima with his wife and undertook major reconstruction of the town's infrastructure and temples.
The hot springs are unique for having two distinct types of water: Kinsen (golden water) which is iron and salt-rich, rust-colored, and excellent for skin conditions and circulation; and Ginsen (silver water) which is clear, carbonated, and beneficial for digestion and overall wellness. This rare combination of spring types in one location is scientifically unusual and highly prized. The town developed a distinctive architecture with traditional ryokan climbing steep hillsides, narrow winding streets, and public bathhouses that have served bathers for centuries.
Today, Arima Onsen maintains its traditional atmosphere while offering modern amenities. The compact town center features approximately 30 ryokan ranging from affordable to ultra-luxury, several public bathhouses including the historic Kinno-yu and Ginno-yu, temples, shrines, shops selling local crafts and carbonated crackers (tansan-senbei), and restaurants. Despite being only 30 minutes from Kobe and 60 minutes from Osaka, Arima feels like a remote mountain retreat. It remains one of Japan's most prestigious onsen destinations, frequently rated among the country's top hot spring towns.
Key Highlights
- One of Japan's three oldest hot springs with 1,300+ year history
- Unique Kinsen (golden) iron-rich waters and Ginsen (silver) carbonated waters
- Traditional mountain town atmosphere 30 minutes from Kobe
- Public bathhouses: Kinno-yu (golden water), Ginno-yu (silver water) for day visitors
- Approximately 30 traditional ryokan from budget to ultra-luxury
- Historic temples including Zen's Zuihoji Temple
- Local specialty tansan-senbei crackers made with spring water
- Ropeway to Mount Rokko for additional mountain activities
Access Information
Location
Arima-cho, Kita-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 651-1401
Nearest Stations
- • Arima Onsen Station (Kobe Electric Railway) - Town center 5-minute walk
Opening Hours
Town accessible 24 hours. Public baths: Kinno-yu & Ginno-yu 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM (closed 2nd & 4th Tuesday monthly). Most shops: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM. Ryokan day-use bathing typically 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM (reservation recommended).
Admission Fee
Public bath Kinno-yu or Ginno-yu: ¥650 each, combination ticket ¥900. Ryokan day-use bathing: ¥1,000-¥3,000. Overnight ryokan stay: ¥15,000-¥80,000 per person with two meals. Budget guesthouses from ¥8,000. Walking the town: Free.
How to Get There
From Kobe Sannomiya
Take Kobe Electric Railway (Shintetsu) to Arima Onsen Station (30 minutes, ¥700). Trains run every 30 minutes. Town center and ryokan within 5-10 minute walk from station.
30 minutes
From Osaka
Take Hankyu Railway to Sannomiya (30 min), transfer to Shintetsu to Arima Onsen (30 min). Or direct bus from Osaka Station (60 min, ¥1,400)
60 minutes
From Kyoto
Take JR to Sannomiya (55 min), transfer to Shintetsu to Arima Onsen (30 min). Or highway bus direct to Arima (90 min, seasonal)
90 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Choosing Your Bath
Kinno-yu (golden water) is rust-colored from iron content, excellent for skin and circulation. Ginno-yu (silver water) is clear, carbonated, and refreshing. Most visitors try both (combination ticket ¥900). Bring small towel - rentals available for ¥100. Traditional onsen etiquette applies - wash before entering, no swimwear.
Overnight Stay vs Day Visit
Overnight stay (¥15,000-¥80,000 with meals) allows evening and morning bathing when town is peaceful. High-end ryokan like Hyoe Koyokaku and Kosenkaku offer exceptional kaiseki and private baths. Day-visit bathing available at public baths (¥650-¥900) and some ryokan (¥1,000-¥3,000, reservation needed).
Exploring the Town
The compact town center is walkable in 1-2 hours. Visit temples, browse shops selling local crafts and snacks, try foot baths (ashi-yu) at public squares. Narrow winding streets have traditional atmosphere. Pick up town map at tourist information near station. Steep hills - wear comfortable shoes.
Dining & Specialties
Many restaurants serve Kobe beef and kaiseki cuisine (¥2,000-¥10,000). Tansan-senbei crackers (carbonated crackers made with spring water) are local specialty - watch live demonstrations at shops. Cafes offer matcha and sweets. Day visitors should plan lunch as options limited compared to larger towns.
Souvenirs & Local Products
Tansan-senbei crackers are must-buy souvenirs (¥500-¥1,500 per box). Handmade bamboo crafts, wooden toys, and local sake available. Beauty products using spring water popular with women. Shops concentrated along main streets near Kinno-yu bath. Most shops close by 6:00 PM.
Best Times to Visit
Autumn (October-November) for surrounding fall foliage. Spring pleasant with cherry blossoms. Winter offers authentic hot spring atmosphere with possibility of snow. Summer can be humid but less crowded. Weekdays significantly quieter than weekends. Avoid major holidays when ryokan book out months ahead.
Mount Rokko Connection
Ropeway connects Arima Onsen to Mount Rokko summit (12 minutes, ¥1,020 one-way). From summit, access hiking trails, gardens, and views. Popular to combine onsen with mountain activities. Return same way or continue to Kobe city side via different ropeway. Allow full day for combined trip.
Day Trip vs Multi-Day
Day trip from Osaka/Kobe possible (3-4 hours including travel and bathing). However, overnight stay recommended to fully experience the town's atmosphere and enjoy multiple baths. One night sufficient, two nights for very relaxed pace. Easy to combine with Kobe sightseeing (30 minutes away).
FAQ
What makes Arima Onsen special compared to other hot springs?
Arima is one of Japan's three oldest hot spring towns with 1,300+ years of history. It features two distinct water types: gold water (kinsen) rich in iron turning reddish-brown, and silver water (ginsen) which is clear and carbonated. This rare combination in one location makes Arima unique among Japanese onsen.
Can I do day-trip bathing without staying overnight?
Yes, several public bathhouses and many ryokan offer day-use bathing (higaeri nyuyoku). Kin-no-yu and Gin-no-yu are affordable public baths featuring gold and silver waters respectively. Many ryokan allow day visitors for 1,000-3,000 yen. However, staying overnight provides the full traditional ryokan experience.
What is the tattoo policy at Arima Onsen?
Policies vary by facility. Many traditional ryokan and public baths prohibit visible tattoos. Some properties offer private baths (kashikiri-buro) for guests with tattoos. Larger hotels may be more lenient. Always inquire when booking if tattoos are a concern. Cover-up options may be available at some facilities.
How long should I spend in Arima Onsen?
Day trips are possible for bathing and walking the small town (3-4 hours minimum). Overnight stays allow multiple baths, kaiseki dinners, and experiencing the town's quiet evening atmosphere. Two nights provide a truly relaxing escape. The compact town can be fully explored in 2-3 hours of walking.
What should I do besides bathing?
Stroll the charming streets lined with shops selling local crafts and carbonated crackers (tansan senbei). Visit Zuihoji Park for seasonal views. Try the free foot baths scattered around town. Ropeway to Mount Rokko is nearby. The Toy Museum appeals to families. The compact size encourages wandering and discovery.
When is the best season to visit?
Each season offers appeal. Autumn (November) brings stunning foliage to surrounding mountains. Spring offers cherry blossoms and comfortable temperatures. Summer can be hot but mountain location is cooler than cities. Winter bathing in outdoor baths while snow falls is magical. Hot springs are enjoyable year-round.
How do I get there from Osaka or Kyoto?
From Osaka, take a train to Sannomiya (Kobe) then bus or train to Arima Onsen (total 60-90 minutes). Direct buses from Osaka run on some routes. From Kyoto, buses or train via Sannomiya take 90-120 minutes. Many ryokan offer pickup from Arima Onsen Station with advance notice.
Are there budget accommodation options?
While Arima is known for upscale ryokan, some more affordable guesthouses and small ryokan exist. Public bathhouses allow budget travelers to experience the waters without expensive accommodation. Day trips from Kobe or Osaka are the most budget-friendly option. Weekday stays are cheaper than weekends.
What local food specialties should I try?
Sansho pepper products are Arima's speciality. Tansan senbei (carbonated crackers) are the iconic souvenir, made with the spring water. Many ryokan serve elaborate kaiseki featuring local mountain vegetables and Kobe beef. Several shops sell sansho-flavored items. Street food includes nikuman (meat buns) and sweets.
Do I need to book ryokan far in advance?
For popular ryokan and peak seasons (autumn foliage, cherry blossoms, New Year, Golden Week), book 2-3 months ahead. High-end properties may require even earlier booking. Weekdays have better availability. Last-minute bookings are possible mid-week outside peak seasons but choices are limited. Day-use bathing rarely requires reservations.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Akashi Kaikyo Bridge & Maiko Park
World's longest suspension bridge spanning 3,911 meters with walking bridge interior tours, observation facilities, and waterfront park views.
Himeji Castle
Japan's most spectacular castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site known as the 'White Heron Castle' for its elegant white appearance and magnificent architecture.
Kobe Harborland
Modern waterfront shopping and entertainment district featuring illuminated Ferris wheel, harbor cruises, and dining with spectacular night views.
Mount Rokko
Mountain resort area overlooking Kobe featuring hiking trails, gardens, observation decks, and Japan's most famous night views known as the '10-million-dollar night scene.'
Nunobiki Herb Gardens & Ropeway
Japan's largest herb garden accessible by scenic ropeway, offering 200 herb varieties, mountain views, and panoramic Kobe city vistas.