Arima Onsen: the Japanese hot springs resort that’s much more than a winter spa town
- One of Japan’s oldest spa towns, Arima is famous for its mineral-rich waters said to be excellent for alleviating muscle pain and joint ailments
- But unlike many hot springs hotspots which people only visit in winter, Arima is a wonderful place to visit all year round, especially in summer
On the cusp of Kobe’s city limits is Arima Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest spa towns. Set amid mountains dotted with patches of green, Arima is where the gods would bathe, according to legend.
In contrast to Kobe’s fast-paced rhythm, Arima is dedicated to relaxation and preserves traditional Japanese culture.
The town is on the northern side of Mount Rokko, a mountain that separates the heavily urbanised Kansai region – which encompasses the cities of Kobe and Osaka – from a lush, volcanic region that has some of the best hot springs in Japan.
Although it is a popular site for domestic tourists, the area is not yet on the radar of international visitors. Visits to hot-spring resorts, or onsen, are usually associated with winter, when people head there to thaw their bones and tame body chills. However, Arima is an excellent place to visit year-round, especially in summer – the town’s altitude and the lush surrounding foliage make it perfect for escaping the steamy cities below as the temperature rises.
If you are passing through Hyogo prefecture, or seeking an escape from Kyoto or Osaka, Arima is a worthy addition to your itinerary.