It is said that the source of Arima Onsen is ancient seawater that was deposited on the ocean floor 6 million years ago. With its roots in seawater from ancient times, it is truly a romantic place. In this article, we will thoroughly explain the historical background of the place, beloved by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the characteristics of the Kinsen and Ginsen that warm you to the core, and even tourist and gourmet information.

Arima Onsen is located in Hyogo Prefecture! Exploring its history and charm

Arima Onsen, located in Kita-ku, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture, is one of Japan's three oldest hot springs and is loved by many people. This hot spring resort, located in the mountains north of the Rokko Mountains, has flourished as a therapeutic hot spring resort since ancient times and has deep ties to many historical figures. Despite being close to the big cities of Kobe and Osaka, its location surrounded by abundant natural scenery is another major attraction.

One of Japan's three major hot springs! The history of Arima Onsen that you should know

Records of Arima Onsen already appear in historical documents such as the Nihon Shoki and The Pillow Book. It is so old that legend has it that it was discovered in the Age of the Gods, and there are records of Emperors Jomei and Kokutoku visiting. The beneficial effects of the hot springs were recognized back then, and it seems to have fascinated aristocrats as well. From the Middle Ages onwards, the hot spring town was revived by high priests such as Gyoki and Ninsai, and Toyotomi Hideyoshi frequently visited during the Sengoku period, which led to the renovation of the hot spring facilities and made the area known nationwide.

Why did Toyotomi Hideyoshi love her so much?

It is believed that one of the reasons Toyotomi Hideyoshi loved Arima Onsen so much was the fatigue-relieving effect of its spring waters. The waters of the Kinsen, rich in iron and salt, warm the body from the inside out and were ideal for relieving fatigue from the battlefield. Another major point is that Arima was easily accessible from the political and economic centers of the time, such as Osaka and Kyoto. For Hideyoshi, Arima Onsen was like a "special hideaway" where he could refresh his body and mind and return in a short time.

Why is Arima Onsen recommended?

Refresh your mind and body in a quiet hot spring town in the mountains

Located at the foot of the Rokko Mountains, Arima Onsen is a relaxing space away from the hustle and bustle of the city, where you can enjoy the changing nature of the seasons.

Spring: Cherry blossoms bloom, brightening up the hot spring town

Summer: A popular summer resort with its deep green mountains and cool waterfalls

Autumn: The autumn leaves are spectacular, and Zuihoji Park in particular attracts many tourists.

Winter: The combination of snowy scenery and hot springs will warm your body and soul

The hot spring town itself is compact, but that means it's easy to get around to many of the spots on foot. If you stroll along the cobblestone streets, you'll come across old-fashioned buildings and back alleys, and feel as if you've traveled back in time.

The charm of enjoying gourmet food and retro streetscapes at the same time

In the center of Arima Onsen, there are many small restaurants and souvenir shops, and you can enjoy eating Kobe beef croquettes and carbonated spring rice crackers while walking around. In addition to the retro buildings, the townscape with steam rising from the hot springs is very picturesque, so we recommend taking photos as a memento of your trip.

Kobe beef dishes: A wide variety of options including beef bowls, skewers, and croquettes

A restaurant specializing in Kamameshi: Enjoy a hearty Kamameshi meal made with seafood delivered directly from Awaji Island

Carbonated Spring Rice Crackers: Crisp and slightly sweet, addictive

All of these are specialties that can only be enjoyed in Arima Onsen. This is the perfect hot spring resort for those who want to experience the fun of walking around the town and the delicious food at the same time.

Two amazing spring qualities! What are the effects of Kinsen and Ginsen?

Perfect for improving blood circulation! Features and benefits of Kinsen

Kinsen is rich in iron and salt, giving it a distinctive brown color. Its striking appearance is not only appealing, but also its excellent heat retention properties.

Expected Effects

・Relief of cold sensitivity and neuralgia

・Promotes recovery from muscle pain

- Sweat easily and have a great detox effect

A distinctive feature of Kinsen is that after bathing, your body will remain warm for a while and will not cool down easily. You can easily experience this at the public bath "Kin no Yu", and taking a break in the free foot bath space is also one way to enjoy your trip.

A must-see for women! The charms of Ginsen that promise beautiful skin

Ginsen is a clear, colorless spring that contains carbonated water and radium spring water. It doesn't look as showy as Kinsen, but the carbon dioxide gas helps improve blood circulation and the radium spring has a beauty effect.

Expected Effects

・Improved blood flow to relieve fatigue

・Skin beautifying effect that makes the skin smooth

・Prevents cold by increasing metabolism

The Gin no Yu bath offers a different kind of refreshing feeling to the Kin no Yu bath, so by bathing in both baths you can truly experience Arima's hot springs to the fullest.

Must-see sightseeing spots in Arima Onsen

Visit famous places where you can feel history and nature

Onsenji Temple: A temple founded by Gyoki, it houses the Gososhian museum, where you can learn about the history of Arima Onsen. The quiet grounds are perfect for a stroll.

Nene Bridge: A red bridge named after Toyotomi Hideyoshi's wife, Nene. The beautiful contrast with the surrounding seasonal scenery makes it perfect for photography.

Tsuzumigataki Park: A waterfall in the middle of lush nature, where you can enjoy forest bathing and a refreshing cool feeling. It is a popular spot for visitors to escape the heat in summer and to see the autumn leaves in autumn.

Recommendations for eating out and choosing souvenirs

Kobe beef croquettes: Takenaka Meat Shop's croquettes are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, attracting many repeat customers.

Carbonated Spring Senbei: A traditional Arima Onsen snack, perfect as a souvenir. Enjoy the crispy texture and light sweetness.

Arima Sansho Bread: Bread and rusks made with local sansho pepper have a unique aroma and addictive flavor.

You can spend a fulfilling time just strolling around the town while checking out these gourmet restaurants and tourist spots.

A must-read for international travelers! How to get to Arima Onsen

Smooth access from Kansai International Airport

1. Take the airport limousine bus to Osaka Station: The journey takes approximately 1 hour.

2. Direct bus from around Osaka Station: No transfers required to get to Arima Onsen - takes about 1 hour.

If you are worried about traveling by bus, you can also take a train into Osaka city and then transfer to a taxi or train, but a direct bus is easier as it has a lower language barrier and is also easier if you have a lot of luggage.

Convenient direct bus and train information from Osaka and Kyoto

Direct bus from Osaka Station: Arrive at Arima Onsen in about 1 hour. No transfers required, so it's perfect for first-time tourists.

Direct bus from Kyoto Station: It takes a little longer, but you can get there in about 1 hour and 10 minutes. Set plans with sightseeing in Kyoto are also popular.

If you use Kobe Electric Railway: It takes about 30 minutes from Sannomiya Station to Arima Onsen Station. Even if you transfer from Osaka Station, it takes about an hour, so it is recommended for those who want to enjoy a leisurely train journey.

Either way, it's not too far from the big cities, so it's perfectly possible to visit as a day trip.

summary

Arima Onsen is famous for its two rare springs, Kinsen and Ginsen, which are made up of ancient seawater from 6 million years ago. It also has plenty of elements to tickle your travelling spirit, such as its abundant nature, historical buildings, and delicious gourmet food and casual eating spots. As the story of Toyotomi Hideyoshi's frequent visits tells us, Arima Onsen has a power that never ceases to attract people.

If you're wondering "Where should I go on my next trip?", why not choose Arima Onsen? It's easily accessible from overseas, so it's perfect for your first trip to Japan or as an extension of your Kansai sightseeing. Come and experience the mysterious charm created by the ancient seawater for yourself.