Set at the foot of Mount Rokko and surrounded by towering peaks, Arima is one of the most beautiful “onsen” hot spring resorts in Japan. In the charming town centre, you can stroll along narrow alleyways lined with traditional wooden buildings. Soak your muscles in the mineral-rich hot springs, wander around ancient temples and enjoy scenic walks in the maple forest.
Things to do in Arimacho
The warm, mineral-rich waters of Arima are coveted for their therapeutic properties. In addition to two public bathhouses, the town is dotted with traditional ryokan inns where you can soak in private baths fed by the springs. The “gold” water is infused with iron deposits and is said to soothe aching muscles, while “silver” water is rich in carbonate and radium.
Arima offers plenty of restaurants where you can enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine. Hyogo rice cooked over a traditional iron stove to maximise flavour is a local specialty. You’ll also see tender Kobe beef on high-end menus, while artisan bakeries sell sweet cakes sprinkled with salt harvested from the hot springs.
Centuries-old temples and shrines dot Arima and recall the town’s ancient past. A cherry-red torii gate marks the entrance to the tranquil Tohsen-jinjya shrine. Built in the Nara period, Onsenji Temple is perched on a hilltop and commands sweeping views over the town.
A scenic walking trail starts in the town centre and takes you to a tumbling eight-metre-high waterfall in Tsuzumigataki Park. Walking along the forested trails surrounded by lush cherry blossoms and maple trees will leave you feeling relaxed.
Getting around Arimacho
Arima is compact and easy to get around on foot. Trains run Sannomiya Station in the Kobe city centre and Arima Onsen Station in around 40 minutes while driving takes approximately 30 minutes. Direct flights run between Kobe and Tokyo and Osaka International Airport is a 30-minute drive east.