Arima Onsen Hot Springs Guide – JapanOnsenExplorer

Nestled in the forested mountains just north of Kobe, Arima Onsen is one of Japan’s oldest and most revered hot spring resorts. With a history dating back over a thousand years, it has welcomed emperors, monks, and poets seeking healing in its mineral-rich waters. Known for its two distinct types of springs—Kinsen (gold water) and Ginsen (silver water)—Arima combines traditional charm with luxurious modern hospitality.

Despite its ancient roots, the town is easily accessible from Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe, making it a perfect day trip or weekend getaway for travelers seeking a refined onsen experience.

Top Onsens in Arima Onsen

Here’s a curated list of the best and most unique onsens and public baths in Arima:

Why Visit Arima Onsen?

One of Japan’s Oldest Hot Springs

Arima Onsen is considered one of the “Three Ancient Springs” (日本三古湯) alongside Dōgo and Shirahama. With over 1,000 years of history, the town has long been associated with emperors, monks, and poets seeking rejuvenation. This deep historical significance gives Arima a sense of prestige and spiritual serenity rarely found in other onsen towns.

Two Rare and Healing Spring Types

What makes Arima truly unique is the presence of two distinct types of natural hot spring water:

Kinsen (Gold Spring): Reddish-brown, rich in iron and salt, known to relieve muscle and joint pain and warm the body deeply.
Ginsen (Silver Spring): Clear, containing radium and carbonate, said to boost circulation and metabolic health.

This rare dual spring profile makes Arima Onsen a must-visit for hot spring enthusiasts and wellness seekers alike.

Elegant Townscape & Timeless Charm

Tucked in the mountains just 30 minutes from Kobe, Arima Onsen offers a peaceful escape from city life. The narrow cobblestone streets, traditional wooden ryokan, and well-preserved historic architecture create a refined, almost timeless atmosphere—perfect for slow exploration in yukata and geta.

Traditional ryokan street in Arima Onsen

Quick Getaway from Kansai

Located just 30–60 minutes from Kobe and Osaka, Arima Onsen is remarkably convenient yet feels worlds away. It's perfect for both weekend trips and day visits, especially for travelers on tight itineraries who still want a premium onsen experience.

Best Time to Visit Arima Onsen

Spring (Mar–May): Spring brings plum and cherry blossoms to the surrounding hills and temple grounds, making it one of the most scenic times to explore Arima. The weather is pleasantly mild, perfect for strolling the town in a yukata between baths.
Summer (Jun–Aug): While the Kansai region can get hot and humid, Arima’s mountain location offers a cooler retreat. It’s a great season for combining hot springs with visits to nearby Mt. Rokko for panoramic views, hiking trails, and even outdoor concerts.
Autumn (Sep–Nov): Arguably the most beautiful time to visit, autumn in Arima is famous for brilliant red and gold leaves that blanket the hills. Many ryokan and onsens offer open-air baths with views of the foliage.
Winter (Dec–Feb): In winter, Arima transforms into a quiet, atmospheric wonderland, sometimes dusted with snow. The contrast between cold air and steaming onsen water is especially magical, and many ryokan serve seasonal kaiseki meals featuring winter specialties.

Autumn foliage in Zuihou-ji Park - Arima Onsen in November

How to Get to Arima Onsen?

By Train

From Osaka: Take the JR Tokaido Line (Special Rapid Service) from Osaka Station to Sannomiya Station in Kobe (~22 min). Transfer to the Kobe Municipal Subway and ride to Tanigami Station. Then take the Shintetsu Arima Line to Arima Onsen Station (~30 min).
From Kyoto: Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen or JR Kyoto Line to Shin-Kobe Station (~30–40 min). Then follow the subway + Arima Line route as above (~45–50 min).
From Tokyo (via Shinkansen): Take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Shin-Kobe Station (~2.5–3 hours). Transfer to subway and Shintetsu lines as above.

By Bus

From Osaka: Direct highway buses leave from Osaka Station JR Highway Bus Terminal or Hankyu Umeda to Arima Onsen (~60–80 min).
From Kyoto: Direct buses also operate from Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit, taking about 90 minutes.