Arima Grand Hotel is a landmark ryokan set in the heart of Arima Onsen, one of Japan's three oldest hot spring resorts and the closest onsen town to Osaka and Kobe. Located at 1401-1 Arima-cho in Kita-ku, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, the property operates the two distinct mineral springs for which Arima is celebrated: the reddish-brown kinsen (gold spring), rich in iron and sodium chloride, and the colourless ginsen (silver spring), charged with carbon dioxide and radium. Multiple communal and private bathing floors allow guests to experience both spring types, with outdoor rotenburo baths offering views of forested hillside. Guest rooms are furnished in classic Japanese style with tatami mats, low lacquered tables, and futon bedding laid out by attendants each evening; Western-style rooms are also available for guests who prefer a bed. Meals are served in the room or a private dining chamber and follow the kaiseki tradition — a multi-course progression of seasonal Hyogo ingredients including local vegetables, river fish, wagyu beef, and coastal seafood presented in lacquered bowls and ceramic ware. The hotel's grounds include a manicured Japanese garden particularly striking in autumn when the maple foliage turns crimson. Staff in traditional dress assist guests with geta wooden sandals and yukata robes for strolling Arima's narrow lanes between the town's seven public bathhouses. The direct bus from Kobe Sannomiya takes approximately 45 minutes; by car from Shin-Kobe Station the journey takes around 30 minutes through the Rokko Mountain road.
Room types
- Japanese-style room with meals (from ¥38,000/$255 per person)
- Western-style room (from ¥28,000/$188 per person)
Amenities
- Kinsen (gold spring) baths
- Ginsen (silver spring) baths
- Traditional kaiseki dinner
- Japanese room service
- Garden
Location
1401-1 Arima-cho, Kita-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 651-1401
34.7980, 135.2478 View on map
Highlights
- Access to both kinsen (gold) and ginsen (silver) onsen spring types within the property
- Multi-course kaiseki dinner featuring seasonal Hyogo ingredients served in-room or private alcove
- Outdoor rotenburo baths with views over Arima's forested mountain setting
- Traditional tatami rooms with futon service and a manicured Japanese garden
- Geta and yukata provided for exploring Arima Onsen's seven public bathhouses on foot
Tips for visiting
- Rates are quoted per person and include two meals (dinner and breakfast); confirm the meal plan when booking as it significantly affects the total cost.
- Book well in advance for autumn foliage season (late October to mid-November) and the New Year period, which are the busiest times of year.
- The direct bus from Kobe Sannomiya Bus Terminal to Arima Onsen runs roughly every hour and costs around ¥620 one way — no rail transfer needed.
- Request the rotenburo (outdoor bath) floor schedule at check-in; bathing hours for men and women alternate and the schedule changes seasonally.
- Arima's public bathhouses (sotoyu) are open to all visitors for around ¥650 per entry; the ryokan's central location makes walking between all seven very practical.
Accessibility
Arima Grand Hotel is located in a historic hot spring district where some paths within the resort town are sloped and cobbled. The hotel has lift access to guest floors, though certain areas of the traditional building including some bathing floors with step entries may not be fully accessible for wheelchair users. Guests with mobility requirements should contact the hotel directly before booking.
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Frequently asked questions
What types of hot springs does Arima Grand Hotel offer?
The hotel offers access to both kinsen (gold spring), known for its iron-rich reddish-brown water, and ginsen (silver spring), a transparent mildly effervescent bath. Both are among Japan's most celebrated onsen waters.
Are meals included in the room rate?
Most room rates are set on a full-board basis including a kaiseki dinner and traditional Japanese breakfast. The per-person pricing reflects this all-inclusive approach; confirm the meal plan when reserving.
How do guests reach Arima Onsen from central Kobe?
A direct bus from Kobe Sannomiya Bus Terminal reaches Arima Onsen in approximately 45 minutes (around ¥620 one way). By car or taxi from Shin-Kobe Station the journey takes about 30 minutes.
Is Western-style bedding available?
Yes, the hotel offers both traditional Japanese rooms with futon on tatami and Western-style rooms with beds. Guests should specify their preference when making a reservation.
When is the best time to visit Arima Onsen?
Autumn (October–November) is the most popular season for its crimson maple foliage; spring cherry blossoms (late March to early April) are also spectacular. Summer is quieter and rates are slightly lower.