Arima Onsen Kobe
Arima, Japan
- Location
- Arima, Japan
- Water type
- sodium chloride
- Temperature
- 44 °C
- pH
- 6.8
Water profile
Thermicity
Sedative
LowHigh
Relaxing — deep, immediate muscle release.
Mineralisation
Restorative
LowHigh
Loaded with major ions — the essential minerals (Ca, Mg).
Buoyancy
Effortless float
LowHigh
Dense, salty water — you float without effort.
FerSodiumChlore (Kinsen)RadonCOCalcium (Ginsen)
Widely regarded as one of Japan's oldest hot spring towns, Arima Onsen is mentioned in texts dating back to the 8th century and ranks among the country's three historic thermal springs. Warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi ordered major renovations after the 1596 earthquake. What sets Arima apart is its two distinct waters: Kinsen, golden and iron-rich, and Ginsen, clear and carrying traces of radium and carbonates.
Insider tip — Arima offers two completely different springs: the 'kinsen' (gold) — an opaque reddish-brown iron-and-salt water — and the 'ginsen' (silver) — clear and lightly carbonated. Wander the narrow lanes of this ancient village before or after your soak. It makes an ideal half-day trip from Osaka or Kobe, both less than an hour away.
Nearby
Frequently asked questions
How hot is the water?
The water runs quite hot here, around 44 °C — a sedative water that brings immediate muscle release.
What type of water is found here?
This spot features sodium chloride water.
What is the best season to visit?
The most favourable period for this spot is: Toute l'année.