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Arima Onsen | Introduction
Arima Onsen is one of Japan's oldest and most famous hot spring resorts, located on the northern side of Mount Rokko in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. With over a thousand years of history, it holds a special place in Japan’s onsen (hot spring) culture. Historically, Arima Onsen has been favored by the Imperial family and nobility, and it is recognized as one of Japan's "Three Ancient Springs" (alongside Dogo Onsen and Shirahama Onsen).
This article mainly outlines a one-day trip to the key attractions in Arima, but if you have more time, staying overnight at one of the many traditional ryokan (Japanese inns) is highly recommended. Not only will you be able to enjoy the onsen, but you can also indulge in a luxurious kaiseki meal, making for a truly relaxing experience.
Looking for a stay in Arima?
Arima Onsen | Transportation
From Kobe
Arima Onsen is located on the northern side of Kobe and is easily accessible via several transportation options.
- Arima Express Bus: You can take a direct bus from Kobe Sannomiya Station to Arima Onsen in about 45 minutes. The bus runs frequently and offers scenic views of Mount Rokko during the ride.
- Rokko Cable Car: For a more scenic route, take a train from Kobe to the Rokko Cable Car station, ride the cable car to the top of Mount Rokko, then transfer to a bus bound for Arima Onsen. While this option takes a bit more time, it offers beautiful views, especially during the autumn foliage season.
- Hanshin Electric Railway + Kobe Electric Railway: From Sannomiya Station, take the Hanshin or Hankyu Railway to Shinkaichi Station, then transfer to the Kobe Electric Railway. The entire journey takes about an hour.
From Osaka
Traveling from Osaka to Arima Onsen is also convenient, making it a great option for a day trip or a short overnight stay. With several transportation methods available, you can reach Arima in under an hour A popular option for a day trip is to purchase the Hanshin Taiko no Yu package. This includes transportation from Umeda Station on the Hanshin Railway to Shinkaichi Station, a transfer to the Kobe Electric Railway, and a ride to Arima Onsen Station. The total journey takes 88 minutes, and the package includes discounted admission to the Taiko no Yu onsen.
Taiko-no-Yu + Hanshin Electric Railway Ticket
Transportation in Arima
Once you arrive at Arima Onsen Station, you can take a shuttle bus to Taiko no Yu if you plan to visit this facility first. Alternatively, you can explore the onsen town on foot before heading to the hot springs. Arima Onsen is a small town, and most of its attractions and hot spring facilities are within walking distance.
Arima Onsen | Attractions
The heart of Arima’s attractions is centered around the onsen town itself, located between the Rokko River and Taki River. The area is small, and you can explore the temples, shrines, and shops in about two hours. As you walk through the town, you’ll notice the distinct sulfuric aroma of the onsen in the air, and both sides of the streets are lined with shops and ryokan. Be sure to try the local specialty, Arima's famous carbonated rice crackers.
Taiko Bridge
Taiko Bridge spans over the Arima River and is one of the town’s landmarks. Below the bridge is the Arima River Park, a lovely spot to take a stroll. The bridge is an excellent photo spot, especially during the fall when the surrounding trees burst into vibrant colors, creating a picturesque backdrop.
The bridge is named after Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who was instrumental in Arima’s development. Before his era, the onsen was primarily visited by aristocrats and intellectuals. After Toyotomi Hideyoshi unified Japan in the 16th century, he became fond of Arima Onsen and frequently visited to enjoy its waters. His influence greatly promoted the onsen town, and he even personally oversaw the construction of the luxurious Yuyama Palace, a private villa with multiple hot spring baths. Although only ruins remain today, it’s said that without Hideyoshi’s support, Arima Onsen would not be the popular destination it is today.
Gokuraku-ji Temple
There are several old temples and shrines around Arima Onsen, one of which is Gokuraku-ji Temple, founded in 594 AD and reconstructed in the 11th century. The temple enshrines Amida Buddha, the deity of the Pure Land, who symbolizes peaceful rest and guidance to the afterlife. The temple's name, Gokuraku, reflects its connection to the Pure Land tradition.
Onsen-ji Temple
Onsen-ji Temple, established in 724 AD, is considered the guardian temple of Arima Onsen. Legend has it that a Buddhist monk named Gyoki discovered Arima’s healing springs and, in gratitude for this gift from nature, founded the temple. The temple’s main deity is Yakushi Nyorai, the Buddha of Medicine, making it a popular place for people to pray for health and recovery from illness. Visitors often stop here to offer prayers before and after soaking in the onsen. Onsen-ji also hosts the annual Yuzen Matsuri, a hot spring festival held in the fall. Located on a hill, the temple offers great views of the town below.
Kin no Yu and Gin no Yu
Arima Onsen is famous for its mineral-rich springs, with over seven different types of water sources. Two of the most well-known public bathhouses are Kin no Yu and Gin no Yu.
Kin no Yu features reddish-brown water rich in iron and sodium, reputed for its healing properties. It's said to be effective for treating external wounds and has moisturizing benefits for the skin. The legend of Arima’s discovery tells of three injured crows who were healed after bathing in the waters, hence its longstanding reputation for healing.
Gin no Yu is a clear, carbonated spring that is lower in temperature but rich in natural carbonation. It is believed to improve circulation and help with cardiovascular and skin issues.
Both bathhouses are public facilities, and visitors need to bring their own towels.
Taiko no Yu
Taiko no Yu is the largest and most popular onsen complex in Arima, with extensive facilities perfect for day-trippers. It offers both of Arima’s famous spring waters—Kin no Yu and Gin no Yu—as well as a variety of themed baths, including open-air baths, steam rooms, and stone saunas. The facility also has restaurants, relaxation areas, and spa treatments, making it a great option for families or anyone looking to unwind for a full day.
Taiko no Yu is highly popular, and even with a reservation, you may have to wait a while to enter. It’s recommended to sign in at the reception, then explore the town while waiting for your entry time.
Taiko-no-Yu + Hanshin Electric Railway Ticket
Although Taiko no Yu can get crowded, the facility controls the number of visitors, ensuring a relaxing atmosphere. After checking in, you can choose your yukata (in various colors), receive a locker key and wristband, and head to the changing rooms. The changing rooms are fully equipped, so you don’t need to bring anything with you.
Photography is not allowed inside the facility to maintain privacy, but you can check out photos of the baths on the official website. The open-air baths are especially beautiful, and I particularly enjoyed the kama-yu, or kettle bath, which was incredibly soothing. The package also includes access to a 30-minute stone sauna session, which requires advance registration. The sauna was extremely relaxing and is highly recommended.
Further reading
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