Arima Onsen: A Perfect Day Trip Getaway!
Arima Onsen is a historic mountain hot spring town with a legacy stretching back hundreds of years, renowned for its natural thermal waters. Along the peaceful Arimagawa River, you’ll find scenic walking paths and charming bridges. Nearby, Mount Atago and Zuihoji Park are especially popular in spring for cherry blossoms and in autumn for vibrant foliage. The town is dotted with shrines and temples, and the panoramic view from Arima Inari Shrine is stunning. Don’t miss the nostalgic robot displays at the Arima Toy Museum.
Kin no Yu | The Iconic Symbol of Arima Onsen
Kin no Yu is the most famous public bathhouse in Arima Onsen. It features the signature “Kinsen” (golden spring), rich in iron and salt, which turns reddish-brown upon oxidation. This unique hot spring warms you to the core and leaves your skin feeling moisturized. The facility has a nostalgic, traditional sento-style atmosphere and is beloved by both locals and tourists. It’s the perfect spot to get a taste of Arima’s charm.
Gin no Yu | Refreshing Silver Spring in a Quiet Public Bath
Gin no Yu offers the “Ginsen” (silver spring) experience—clear, mildly carbonated or radium-infused water. It's gentler than Kinsen, making it ideal for a long, relaxing soak. Known for its beautifying and circulation-boosting effects, it’s especially popular among women. The bathhouse also features a sauna and a calm, peaceful interior—perfect for unwinding. Trying both Kinsen and Ginsen is a great way to enjoy the full Arima Onsen experience.
Taiko-no-Yu | A Hot Spring Theme Park with Kinsen and Ginsen
Taiko-no-Yu is one of the largest spa resorts in Arima, where you can enjoy both Kinsen and Ginsen. Named after Toyotomi Hideyoshi (Taiko), who helped make Arima Onsen famous, this facility offers open-air baths, sauna, food court, and a wide range of amenities. Highlights include the “Nene-no-Yu” for Kinsen, “Taiko Yumujiraku” for Ginsen, and various stone sauna rooms (some require extra fees). You’ll also find foot baths, rest areas, and restaurants, making it perfect for couples, families, or friends to spend the entire day.
Maple Arima | A Secluded Nature Retreat
Located on a quiet hillside slightly away from central Arima, Maple Arima is a resort hotel surrounded by lush nature. It’s ideal for relaxing and escaping daily life. The stylish wooden interiors, cozy lobby lounge, and seasonal kaiseki cuisine restaurant make it a popular choice for adults seeking peace and relaxation.
Arima Gyoen | Classic Inn with Both Kinsen and Ginsen, Close to Station
Arima Gyoen is a long-established inn just 2 minutes on foot from Arima Onsen Station. Ideal for day trippers, it offers both Kinsen and Ginsen—an experience rare even in Arima. The reddish, iron-rich Kinsen and the clear, gentle Ginsen provide a unique dual-spring experience.
Arima Royal Hotel | Tranquil Retreat with Kinsen & Open-Air Baths
Located just 3 minutes from the station, Arima Royal Hotel features a serene Japanese-modern style. Its day-use Kinsen bath and outdoor hot spring are ideal for a peaceful soak. The mineral-rich Kinsen helps relieve fatigue, improve circulation, and keeps you warm long after your bath.
Goshoboh | A Historic Inn with 700+ Years of Tradition
Founded over 700 years ago, Goshoboh is one of Arima’s oldest inns. With sukiya-style architecture and a serene atmosphere, it once hosted monks and nobles. The day-use Kinsen bath is available around lunchtime, offering a rare, peaceful moment to soak in history and healing waters.
Miyukiso Hanamusubi | Scenic Baths and Elegant Hospitality
Hanamusubi, perched on a hill, offers stunning views and seasonal floral decor throughout the inn. Enjoy Kinsen baths and outdoor hot springs with scenic views. Private rental baths (reservation required) are also available, perfect for couples or families seeking a quiet soak.
Kamenoi Hotel Arima | Affordable Tranquility Surrounded by Nature
Formerly “Kanpo-no-Yado Arima,” this hotel now operates under Kamenoi Hotels. It features indoor and open-air Kinsen baths in a calm, natural setting. Great for nerve pain, poor circulation, or fatigue, day-use prices are just ¥800 on weekdays and ¥1,000 on weekends—ideal for a mini getaway.
Kamiobo | 700-Year-Old Historic Inn with Kinsen
Kamiobo is a traditional inn with over 700 years of history, located in the heart of Arima. The reddish Kinsen is available for day-use (weekdays only). The nostalgic ambiance and warm waters are ideal for those seeking a classic onsen experience.
Arima Grand Hotel | Stunning Rooftop Baths and Premium Experience
Arima Grand Hotel is a top-tier resort with expansive grounds and the breathtaking rooftop bath “Unkai.” Day-use access includes Kinsen, outdoor baths, and even a ¥2,000 voucher usable for lunch or souvenirs. The facilities are pristine, with saunas and jacuzzis for a luxurious spa day. (Day-use available on weekdays only.)
Koki | Hidden Gem for Both Kinsen & Ginsen
Koki offers rare access to both Kinsen and Ginsen for day-use. The calm, Japanese-style interiors make it perfect for a peaceful soak. Kinsen warms your core while Ginsen soothes the skin. Open on weekdays and holidays only, with limited availability—be sure to check in advance!
Kozansou Hanano | Elegant Japanese Retreat with Seasonal Beauty
Hanano is a peaceful, reservation-only inn ideal for those seeking privacy and elegance. Enjoy Kinsen, Ginsen, and open-air baths in a natural setting. The ¥2,530 plan includes handmade sweets and matcha by the proprietress—an experience that soothes both body and soul.