Discover the Timeless Beauty and Healing Waters of Arima Onsen
As one of Japan’s oldest hot spring resorts, Arima Onsen has long been cherished—even by the famous warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The town offers two distinct types of springs known as Kinsen (gold spring) and Ginsen (silver spring), along with charming streets, delicious local food, and historical landmarks.
In this article, I’ll share a one-day itinerary based on my personal visit to Arima Onsen. From sightseeing and hot springs to local cuisine and souvenir spots, this guide covers everything you need to enjoy the very best of Arima.
Whether it’s your first time or you’re a returning visitor, I hope this helps you make the most of your trip to this beautiful onsen town. ♨️
Arima Onsen Day Trip Itinerary (One-Day Plan)
10:30 Arrive at Arima Onsen Station 🚶♂️
Coming from Kobe’s Sannomiya Station, I took the train to Arima Onsen.
Along the way, I noticed many international travelers—one of them even asked me for directions!
As soon as you step off the train at Arima Onsen Station, you’re instantly immersed in the hot spring atmosphere.
Even the benches outside the station are designed like bathhouse washing areas, complete with mirrors!
It’s the perfect way to start soaking in the onsen mood right from arrival. ♨️
10:45 Viewing the Taikō Statue — Honoring Toyotomi Hideyoshi
Toyotomi Hideyoshi played a major role in the history of Arima Onsen.
The Taikō Statue, which honors his legacy, was built in 1982 to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Arima Lions Club. It was created by Eiko Shintani, a respected sculptor from Kobe.
The Shintani family is well-known in the world of Japanese sculpture and often described with the phrase, “If it’s sculpture in Kobe, it’s by the Shintanis.”
Eiko’s father, Hideo Shintani, and her siblings are also established artists, and their work has shaped Kobe’s artistic landscape—including the *Green Tower Kumpū* monument in Sumaura Park.
This statue of Hideyoshi stands as a proud symbol of Arima’s deep cultural heritage.
When I visited in April, the cherry blossoms were in full bloom.
The soft pink petals surrounding the statue created a peaceful and picturesque spring scene. 🌸
I was especially struck by how the Taikō Statue appears to look across at the Statue of Nene, standing nearby at the base of Nene Bridge.
11:00 Photo Spot at the Statue of Nene and Nene Bridge
Just a short walk along the Arima River from the Taikō Statue brings you to the Statue of Nene and Nene Bridge.
Nene Bridge is a striking vermilion bridge named after Nene, the wife of Toyotomi Hideyoshi.
At the base of the bridge, you’ll find the gentle figure of Nene quietly gazing in the direction of her husband’s statue.
This is one of Arima Onsen’s best photo spots—beautiful in every season, with cherry blossoms in spring, colorful foliage in autumn, and snowy scenes in winter.
The view from the bridge is also stunning, with the Arima River and the surrounding townscape creating a picture-perfect memory. 📸
Address: 790-3 Arimacho, Kita Ward, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture
11:15 Take a Break at Shinsui Hiroba (Riverside Plaza)
Just past Nene Bridge, you’ll find Shinsui Hiroba—a spacious, open plaza along the Arima River.
A peaceful walking path runs beside the stream, letting you enjoy the soothing sound of flowing water as you stroll at your own pace.
There are benches and resting spots around the plaza, making it the perfect place to rest your feet between hot spring visits.
When I visited, the cherry trees were in full bloom, creating a breathtaking and calming spring landscape. 🌸
Surrounded by the gentle river and fresh greenery, it’s the ideal spot to enjoy a slow, peaceful moment unique to a traditional onsen town.
11:30 Time for a Tansan Senbei Tasting 🍘
When it comes to Arima Onsen, you can’t miss its signature snack—tansan senbei (carbonated rice crackers)!
Here, I got to enjoy a local-only tasting experience with some delicious surprises.
- Fresh Tansan Senbei from Yunohanado Honpo
Served straight from the iron mold, this “5-second shelf life” treat is crispy and full of roasted flavor. A must-try for texture lovers! - Traditional Tansan Senbei from Mitsumori Honpo
A historic shop offering mild sweetness and a soft, nostalgic taste—perfect as a souvenir too. - Local Beer, Fish Cakes, and Croquettes
Not just senbei—Arima also has craft beer and hot street food like croquettes and fish cakes. Nothing beats a cold beer after a hot bath!
Each shop’s senbei has its own unique texture and flavor, so tasting around becomes a fun mini adventure.
This was a perfect moment to pause and enjoy the gourmet side of the onsen town.
11:45 A Wholesome Stop at the Arima Toy Museum
If you’re exploring Arima Onsen, don’t miss the Arima Toy Museum—a relaxing and heartwarming spot that’s perfect for a short break.
Inside, you’ll find a charming collection ranging from nostalgic old toys to finely crafted wooden toys from Europe.
There are also displays of karakuri (mechanical dolls) and music boxes, which are so intricate they easily captivate adults as well.
Whether you’re visiting with kids or on your own, there’s plenty to enjoy here.
Located right in the heart of the onsen town, the museum offers a quiet, calming atmosphere where you can reconnect with your inner child.
It’s a lovely place to stop when your legs need a rest and your spirit needs a gentle lift.
Hours & Holidays
- Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last admission at 4:30 PM)
- Closed: Irregular holidays (check for April/May closures)
Admission
- Adults (Junior high school and older): ¥1,000
- Children (Ages 3 to elementary school): ¥500
- Infants (Under 3): Free
Access & Contact
- Address: 797 Arimacho, Kita Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 651-1401
- Phone: 078-903-6971
- Website: https://arima-toys.jp/
12:15 Relax at the Free Foot Bath Next to Kin no Yu ♨️
Right next to Kin no Yu, one of Arima Onsen’s most famous public baths, you’ll find a free foot bath area.
It’s a popular spot where bathers and tourists can take a break and soak their feet in the warm spring water—a perfect way to rest and refresh.
It’s especially convenient for a quick stop during your walk around town, and it offers a casual way to experience Arima’s legendary hot springs.
Bringing your own towel is recommended, but you can also pick one up at a nearby souvenir shop if needed.
12:30 Sweet Break at Geiko Cafe Ito 🍡
Geiko Cafe Ito blends beautifully into the traditional streetscape of Arima Onsen, offering a stylish and relaxing place where you can enjoy matcha and Japanese sweets while immersing yourself in the atmosphere of geiko (traditional female performers) culture.
The interior features a calm, modern Japanese design, and displays of authentic geiko costumes and accessories are one of the highlights.
Recommended items include their seasonal wagashi (Japanese sweets) plate and matcha latte, perfect for a relaxing break during your Arima stroll.
The geiko staff were welcoming, and it felt like a truly luxurious moment to connect with Arima’s cultural traditions in such an intimate space.
How to Get to Arima Onsen
- By Train: From Osaka Station → JR Kobe Line to Sannomiya Station → walk to Sannomiya Subway Station → Hokushin Express Line to Tanigami → Kobe Electric Railway to Arima Onsen Station
- By Car: From Chugoku Ikeda IC → Chugoku Expressway → Nishinomiya Yamaguchi JCT → Hanshin Expressway Kobe North Route → Exit at Arima-guchi (approx. 3 km from the exit)
- By Bus: About 55 minutes from Osaka Umeda Station (direct highway bus available)
- By Air: Haneda Airport → Kobe Airport (approx. 1 hour 15 minutes)
- By Shinkansen: From Shinagawa Station → Shin-Osaka Station → Local train and transfer to Arima Onsen Station (approx. 3 hours and 5 minutes total)
Basic Information – Geiko Cafe Ito
- Admission: ¥1,500 per person (Please note that the fee includes seating and photography privileges only—any food or drinks are charged separately.)
- Address: 821 Arimacho, Kita Ward, Kobe 651-1401
- Phone: 078-904-0197 (available on weekends only)
- Opening Hours: Saturdays & Sundays, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM / Evening hours by reservation only (until 12:00 AM)
- Open Days: Saturdays and Sundays only
- Website: https://arimageiko.com/
*Please note: Evening service is available by reservation only.
13:00 Visit to Onsen-ji Temple
Onsen-ji Temple sits quietly on a hill above the hot spring town and is known as the guardian temple of Arima Onsen.
It is said to have been founded in the Nara period by the Buddhist monk Gyōki, and many people visit to pray for the safety and prosperity of the hot springs.
To reach the main hall, you’ll need to climb a set of stairs—but the panoramic view from the temple grounds is well worth the effort, especially with Arima’s seasonal scenery all around.
Although I didn’t have time to go inside this visit, I spent a peaceful moment taking in the view and expressing gratitude for the blessings of the onsen.
Address: 1643 Arimacho, Kita Ward, Kobe, Hyogo
13:45 Strolling Through Zuihoji Park (Fresh Greenery in Spring 🌿)
Zuihoji Park is well known as a top spot for autumn foliage, but it’s just as stunning in the season of fresh greenery.
Surrounded by vibrant trees, the park offers a peaceful and healing atmosphere that invites you to slow down.
Long ago, this site was home to Zuihoji Temple, which Toyotomi Hideyoshi is said to have visited. Though the temple no longer remains, the area has been preserved as a public park where you can enjoy nature in every season.
I visited in late April—not during the fall colors—but the lush spring leaves were incredibly soothing, and it turned into a calm and mindful walking experience.
It’s a perfect place to step away from the busy tourist areas and spend time in quiet connection with nature.
- Address: 1749 Arimacho, Kita Ward, Kobe 651-1401
- Access: About a 15-minute walk from Arima Onsen Station (Kobe Electric Railway)
14:00 Tansan Gensen Park (Note: Spring Was Inactive During Visit ⚠️)
Tansan Gensen Park is one of the most iconic spring sources in Arima Onsen.
In the past, natural carbonated spring water bubbled up here, making it a famous spot with both historical and scientific interest.
This spring is also known as the origin of the carbonated water used to make Arima’s signature tansan senbei.
Visitors could even drink the water directly from the source—something quite rare in Japan.
Unfortunately, the spring was not flowing during my visit and the area was closed off.
Still, the park retains its historical charm, and just walking around gives you a sense of Arima’s connection to nature and tradition.
- Address: Arimacho, Kita Ward, Kobe 651-1401
- Access: About a 7-minute walk from Arima Onsen Station (Kobe Electric Railway)
14:15 Quick Stop at Uwanari Gensen
Uwanari Gensen is one of the many hot spring sources in Arima Onsen, and it has a rather unique and playful name origin.
Legend has it that when a beautiful woman walked past, the spring would become “jealous” and erupt with hot water—hence the name “Uwanari,” which refers to jealousy in old Japanese.
Even today, you can still see steaming hot water bubbling up from this small spring, making it a fascinating little power spot worth a quick visit.
If you’re touring Arima’s various springs, this is a charming stop you won’t want to miss.
14:30 A Proper Soak at Kin no Yu ♨️
Time to enjoy a full hot spring experience at Kin no Yu, one of Arima’s most iconic public baths.
The water here is a rich, tea-colored iron and sodium chloride high-salinity spring known as *Kinsen* (gold spring). It’s famous for warming you to the core and keeping that cozy heat long after your bath.
- Soak deeply and let your fatigue melt away.
- After the bath, treat yourself to a bottle of the local specialty, Arima Cider—its gentle sweetness and carbonation are perfect for a post-bath refreshment!
This is the perfect way to relax and recover after walking around town—a moment of pure onsen luxury.
- Hours: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Last entry 9:30 PM)
- Closed: 2nd & 4th Tuesdays (or following day if a holiday), and January 1st
- Website: https://arimaspa-kingin.jp/
Admission:
- Adults: ¥800 (¥650 on weekdays)
- Children (Elementary/Middle school): ¥350
- Infants: Free
Also, at the sister bath facility Gin no Yu, you can enjoy bathtubs with carbonated and radium spring water—offering a different kind of healing experience from Kin no Yu.
A special combo ticket for both baths (Kin no Yu + Gin no Yu, ¥1,200) is available, and on weekdays, you can even get a towel-included version.
Address: 833 Arimacho, Kita Ward, Kobe, Hyogo
15:45 Soba Lunch Finale at Zenshuan Gon Soba 🍜
To wrap up my Arima Onsen stroll, I stopped by Zenshuan Gon Soba to savor their specialty 100% buckwheat soba noodles.
This time, I ordered the “Juwari Nori Set,” which lets you sample two types: Tartary Soba and Shinano Juwari, half and half.
- The chef first recommends tasting the soba plain with just a pinch of Akō salt to enjoy the pure flavor of the noodles.
- The Tartary soba (pictured on the right) has a hint of bitterness and a distinct taste, but the smooth texture is surprisingly light for a 100% buckwheat noodle.
- The Shinano variety is milder, with a naturally sweet and fragrant aroma, using stone-milled buckwheat flour from Yatsugatake-grown Shinano No.1.
The dipping sauce isn’t the typical Kanto-style with strong bonito flavor—instead, it’s a rich, layered broth made with Rausu kombu and Sodabushi (high-grade dried bonito). A subtle sweetness from the kelp adds depth.
To finish, I enjoyed a cup of creamy, golden soba-yu (soba water)—so smooth and sweet that it brought the meal to a perfect close.
It was the ideal lunch to end my Arima Onsen journey. Truly delicious!
- Address: 1F, Arima Kobo, 1019 Arimacho, Kita Ward, Kobe 651-1401
- Hours: Weekdays 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM / Weekends & Holidays 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Closed: January 1st and the 4th Tuesday of each month
- Tel/Fax: 090-9098-1480
- Website: http://www.gonsoba.com/
Heading Home
As I walked through the retro-style streets of Arima Onsen, I felt a warm sense of contentment all the way home.
The cobblestone paths and old-fashioned shops created the perfect ending to my day, rich with charm and nostalgia.
- For souvenirs, I picked up the classic tansan senbei and sansho-flavored rice crackers.
- I also found some unique matcha and spicy sansho pepper versions—lightly toasted and surprisingly addictive! 🎁
With soothing hot springs, delicious food, and the perfect souvenirs, my day trip to Arima Onsen was everything I had hoped for—and more.
Other Recommended Spots in Arima Onsen
Gin no Yu｜Refreshing Radium Hot Spring ♨️
In contrast to the iron-rich waters of Kin no Yu, Gin no Yu features a clear radium spring with a light, refreshing feel.
It’s perfect for those who prefer a more gentle, non-heavy onsen experience.
- Spring type: Simple radioactive spring (carbonated spring)
- Benefits: Helps relieve nerve pain, muscle soreness, joint pain, and sensitivity to cold
Facility Information
- Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM (last entry at 8:30 PM)
- Closed: 1st and 3rd Tuesdays (or the following day if it’s a holiday), and January 1st
- Adults: ¥700 (¥550 on weekdays, except during peak seasons like New Year’s, Golden Week, and Obon)
- Children (elementary/middle school): ¥300
- Infants: Free
- Two-bath combo ticket (Kin no Yu + Gin no Yu): ¥1,200
*On weekdays, a towel-included version of this combo ticket is also available. - Website: https://arimaspa-kingin.jp/en-02.htm
Tsuzumigataki Park
Just a short walk from central Arima Onsen, Tsuzumigataki Park offers a peaceful escape into seasonal nature.
The park’s name comes from the sound of water splashing into the basin—it’s said to resemble the beat of a traditional Japanese tsuzumi drum.
In summer, the cool sounds of the waterfall are soothing, while in autumn, the surrounding trees turn brilliant shades of red and gold. 🍁
The waterfall itself is small, but the walking paths surrounded by nature create a relaxing atmosphere.
If you’re looking to step away from the busy onsen streets and enjoy a quiet moment, this is a perfect spot.
- Address: Tsuzumigataki Park, Arimacho, Kita Ward, Kobe 651-1401
- Access: About a 20-minute walk from Arima Onsen Station
- Highlights: Fresh greenery in spring, cool retreat in summer, and colorful foliage in autumn
Zenpukuji Temple
Founded during the Nara period by the monk Gyōki and later restored in the Kamakura era by Ninsai, Zenpukuji Temple is a Soto Zen Buddhist temple with deep historical roots.
Climbing the stone steps in front of the Hankyu Bus Information Center, you’ll be greeted by a graceful temple gate.
Within the grounds, you’ll find a statue of Prince Shōtoku from the Kamakura period (a nationally designated Important Cultural Property) and a 200-year-old weeping cherry tree (Itozakura) that showcases seasonal beauty.
Also worth seeing are the Amidado kettle, which is tied to a legend about Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and the tea ceremony offering held during the Arima Grand Tea Gathering (November 2).
Temple Information – Zenpukuji
- Address: 1641 Arimacho, Kita Ward, Kobe, Hyogo
- Access: About a 10-minute walk from Arima Onsen Station (up the stone steps near the Hankyu Bus Info Center)
- Admission: Free
- Highlights: Prince Shōtoku statue (Important Cultural Property), Itozakura cherry tree, Amidado kettle, Arima Grand Tea Gathering (Kencha Ceremony)
Nenbutsuji Temple｜The Former Retreat of Lady Nene and the Shara Garden
Perched on a hillside above Arima Onsen, Nenbutsuji Temple belongs to the Jōdo (Pure Land) sect and is said to stand on the former site of Lady Nene’s villa, the wife of Toyotomi Hideyoshi.
Located near Onsen Zen Temple and Gokurakuji, it also offers sweeping views over the hot spring town.
The main hall, built in 1712 (Shōtoku 2), is one of the oldest remaining structures in the area.
Inside, you’ll find Seiryo Bosatsu—one of the 13 Buddhist figures in the Kobe Pilgrimage—and Jurōjin, one of the Seven Lucky Gods of Kobe.
Behind the temple lies a peaceful garden with a stunning Shara tree (Japanese stewartia) believed to be over 300 years old.
This garden, known as the Shara-en Garden, reaches its floral peak in late June, when the shara blossoms bloom.
During the blooming season, a special event is held: *“Shara Flower and One-String Koto Appreciation Gathering”*—a quiet moment of beauty and sound.
You can also enjoy tea or a limited curry meal at the temple’s tearoom, CITTA, located in a tatami room facing the garden. The tranquil setting is perfect for a relaxing break. ☕
In recent years, Nenbutsuji has also opened its Houondō Ossuary, further deepening its ties to the local community.
Temple Information
- Address: 1641 Arimacho, Kita Ward, Kobe, Hyogo
- Access: About a 10-minute walk from Arima Onsen Station (Kobe Electric Railway)
- Highlights: 1712 main hall, Shara Garden, Tearoom CITTA
Kutsurogiya
[Hyogo/Arima/Kutsurogiya] This local restaurant near Kin no Yu serves delicious kamameshi (rice cooked in an iron pot). The lunch menu includes different courses—this one features sea bream, salmon, and octopus, all packed with flavor. pic.twitter.com/EB8Pi7SKHR
— 奈良・大阪グルメの鹿@すずお。 (@Shika_moushigo) December 23, 2018
Kutsurogiya is a cozy, renovated traditional house serving kamameshi (rice cooked in a pot) with fragrant seasonal ingredients like sea bream and octopus sourced from Awaji Island.
All seating is traditional tatami-style, making it a perfect spot for those who want to enjoy a leisurely meal.
Each kamameshi is cooked from raw rice after your order, so it takes time—but the flavor is well worth the wait.
The menu also features seasonal and limited-time offerings depending on the time of year.
- Hours: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Lunch from 11:00 / Dinner from 5:00 PM, closes when sold out)
- Closed: Tuesdays and irregular holidays
- Address: 839-2 Arimacho, Kita Ward, Kobe
- Access: About a 5-minute walk from Arima Onsen Station (Kobe Electric Railway)
- Website: https://www.umemaru.net/kutsurogiya/
Arima Sakura Festival｜Cherry Blossom Celebration in Spring 🌸
Held every year in early April, the Arima Sakura Festival marks the arrival of spring in the onsen town.
The cherry trees along the Arima River reach full bloom, transforming the area into a pastel pink dream.
During the festival, Nene Bridge and the surrounding Riverside Plaza are covered in blossoms.
Visitors can enjoy daytime hanami strolls, and at night, the trees are beautifully lit up, creating a magical evening scene.
Festival Schedule
The event is usually held in early to mid-April, though exact dates may vary depending on when the cherry blossoms bloom.
Location & Access
- Venue: Arima River Riverside Plaza (Shinsui Hiroba)
- Address: Arimacho, Kita Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 651-1401
- Access:
- Just a short walk from Arima Onsen Station (Kobe Electric Railway)
- From JR Sannomiya Station: take a bus and get off at “Arima Onsen” stop
How to Enjoy the Festival
During the day, stroll through the onsen town and take in the cherry blossoms along the riverside path.
In the evening, enjoy the magical illuminated night sakura.
It’s also highly recommended to take a relaxing soak at Kin no Yu or Gin no Yu, then cool down with a peaceful cherry blossom walk. ♨️🌸
Tips for Visiting Arima Onsen
Because Arima’s hot springs contain a high concentration of salt and minerals, those with sensitive skin may find the water slightly irritating.
Be sure to apply a moisturizer or lotion after bathing to protect your skin.
Also, please note that Kin no Yu and Gin no Yu do not provide towels, so remember to bring your own or purchase one on-site.
Some ryokan (Japanese inns) that offer day-use baths may have limited hours, so it’s best to check in advance.
Arima is also known for its great street food spots, but be sure to carry your trash with you and help keep the town clean!
How to Get to Arima Onsen
- By Train: From Osaka Station → JR Kobe Line to Sannomiya Station → walk to Sannomiya Subway Station → Hokushin Express Line to Tanigami → Kobe Electric Railway to Arima Onsen Station
- By Car: From Chugoku Ikeda IC → Chugoku Expressway → Nishinomiya Yamaguchi JCT → Hanshin Expressway Kobe North Route → Exit at Arima-guchi (approx. 3 km from the exit)
- By Bus: About 55 minutes from Osaka Umeda Station (direct highway bus available)
- By Air: Haneda Airport → Kobe Airport (approx. 1 hour 15 minutes)
- By Shinkansen: From Shinagawa Station → Shin-Osaka Station → Local train and transfer to Arima Onsen Station (approx. 3 hours and 5 minutes total)
Arima Onsen Day Trip Itinerary Summary
This article introduced a one-day model course that brings together the best of Arima Onsen in a single, fulfilling visit.
From bathing in the famous Kinsen and Ginsen hot springs to sampling various tansan senbei snacks, enjoying sweets at Geiko Cafe Ito, and strolling through historic sites like Onsen-ji Temple and Zuihoji Park,
this itinerary offers not just hot springs but also delicious food, nature, and cultural heritage all in one day.
- Perfect for a fulfilling day trip
- Staying overnight is also recommended to enjoy the town at night
Of course, Arima Onsen has even more to offer beyond the places featured here, including charming ryokan inns and seasonal events throughout the year.
Next time, you might consider booking a stay and soaking in the atmosphere at a more leisurely pace.
May your journey to Arima Onsen become a truly memorable experience. ♨️
この記事を日本語で読みたい方はこちら：
➡️ 有馬温泉の観光ガイド（日本語版）
