Arima Onsen and Mount Rokko Course of Hot Springs and Mountain Views

This is a greedy course of mountains and hot springs that combines Arima Onsen, counted among Japan three oldest hot springs, with Mount Rokko looking down over the city of Kobe, all in a single day. You stroll the atmospheric hot spring town and ride the ropeway up to the summit of Mount Rokko. It is a plan unique to the Kobe area where you can enjoy nature, famous baths and the makings of a night view all at once.

Course Route

9:30 Arrive at Arima Onsen and start This hot spring resort is easy to reach by the Kobe Electric Railway or by highway bus. 9:45 Stroll the hot spring town Walk the old fashioned spa town where long established inns and souvenir shops line the narrow slopes. 10:30 Visit the Kin no Yu and Gin no Yu public baths The iron rich brown Kinsen and the clear Ginsen are the two distinctive baths of Arima. 12:00 Lunch in the hot spring town Try carbonated senbei crackers and local specialties at the eateries. 13:30 From Arima Onsen Station to the Rokko Arima ropeway Enjoy an aerial walk on the way up to the summit station. 14:00 Stroll around the summit of Mount Rokko Enjoy the viewpoints, gardens and seasonal flower fields. 16:00 A sweeping city view from Rokko Garden Terrace A grand panorama spreads out from the Akashi Strait toward Osaka. 17:00 Finish while gazing at the mountain top scenery The closer it gets to dusk, the more beautiful the city lights become.

Highlights

The Kinsen spring at Arima is known for warming you to the core, and a stroll through the spa town after a bath is full of charm. The summit of Mount Rokko is beautiful through the seasons, and the view from Garden Terrace is a famous Kobe sightseeing spot. Enjoying both hot springs and mountains at once is the real pleasure of this course.

Access and Tips

Arima Onsen can be reached from Sannomiya by highway bus or train. The spa town and the summit of Mount Rokko are connected by ropeway, so getting around is smooth. The summit is cooler than the city, so bringing a light jacket is reassuring.

A Quick Tip

If you plan to try the public baths, bringing your own towel is convenient. If you want to stay for the evening view, check the timetable for your return transport in advance.