Nestled quietly at the foot of Mt. Rokko in northern Kobe, Arima Onsen is one of Japan’s three oldest hot springs, with a history that spans centuries. Although many travelers opt for a day trip due to its convenient location—just 30 minutes from Kobe or Osaka—the true essence of Arima reveals itself only through an overnight stay. In this short journey lies a world apart, where time slows and comfort deepens.
Arima’s most unique feature is its rare combination of two distinct types of hot springs. Kinsen, or “gold spring,” is a reddish-brown mineral-rich bath known for its high iron and salt content, providing deep warmth and revitalization. In contrast, Ginsen, or “silver spring,” is a clear, carbonated or radium-infused bath praised for improving circulation, relieving fatigue, and enhancing the skin. Many inns offer access to both, allowing guests to experience the full healing potential of Arima without the pressure of time—an indulgence reserved for overnight visitors.
After check-in, slip into a yukata and take a leisurely stroll through the old hot spring town. Along the stone-paved streets, you’ll find traditional sweet shops, souvenir stores, and small galleries that radiate a calm, nostalgic charm unique to Arima. Savor handmade carbonated rice crackers or a chilled amazake after your bath, and let the gentle ambiance guide your pace. As evening falls and the day-trippers fade, the town becomes quieter, enveloped in a timeless atmosphere that feels like stepping back into the past.
For dinner, a traditional kaiseki meal served at your inn is highly recommended. Featuring seasonal ingredients from the mountains of Tamba and Sasayama, as well as fresh seafood from the Seto Inland Sea, each dish is artfully prepared and presented with care. This refined dining experience, which allows you to taste the essence of the season with both eyes and palate, is another compelling reason to stay overnight in Arima.
Later in the evening, soak in the kinsen (golden spring) in an open-air bath under the stars—a moment of peace and wonder rarely found in the city. The warmth of the mineral-rich water combined with the quiet night sky creates a memory that lingers far beyond your stay.
The next morning, rise early for another soothing bath. As you stroll leisurely along the river in the soft morning light, the sounds of birds and the scent of rising steam gently extend the serenity of your journey. A traditional Japanese breakfast awaits, often featuring local specialties such as tofu, yuba (tofu skin), and gently simmered yudofu. It’s a nourishing way to align body and spirit before checkout.
Arima Onsen is a destination that proves the power of staying, not just passing through. Its charm lies not in its distance, but in the depth of experience it offers. Without rushing, you can surrender to the natural rhythm of hot spring life—where culture, nature, and tranquility come together in harmony. There’s a richness and quiet lingering beauty here that simply cannot be captured in a day trip.