Background

Kin no Yu: Arima Onsen's Golden Hot Spring

Experience the therapeutic 'golden waters' of Kin no Yu at Arima Onsen, one of Japan's oldest and most revered hot spring resorts.

4

Kin no Yu is a public bathhouse in Arima Onsen, famous for its therapeutic 'gold' water, colored reddish-brown by iron and salt. It offers a relaxing experience with indoor baths of varying temperatures and a free outdoor foot bath. The mineral-rich waters are believed to improve circulation and overall well-being, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists.

A brief summary to Kin no Yu hot spring

  • Monday 8 am-10 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-10 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-10 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-10 pm
  • Friday 8 am-10 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-10 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-10 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid crowds, especially on weekends and holidays.
  • Bring your own towel to save on the purchase price, or you can buy one at the facility.
  • Take advantage of the free foot bath outside Kin no Yu for a quick and refreshing experience.
  • Consider purchasing a combination ticket for both Kin no Yu and Gin no Yu to experience the different spring waters of Arima Onsen.
  • After your bath, try Arima Cider, a local refreshing drink.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    Kin no Yu is centrally located in Arima Onsen and easily accessible on foot from most points in town. From Arima Onsen Station (Kobe Electric Railway), walk along the main street, cross the Nene Bridge, and continue for about 5 minutes. Kin no Yu will be on your right, next to the free foot bath. No costs are involved if walking.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving at Arima Onsen by bus from Kobe or Osaka, Kin no Yu is a short walk from the main bus stops. From the Hankyu or JR bus stop, walk towards the center of town, following the signs for Kin no Yu. The bathhouse is approximately a 5-10 minute walk. * **Kobe Municipal Bus from Sannomiya Station:** 40 minutes, approximately ¥800. * **Shinki Bus from Shin-Kobe or Sannomiya:** 20-30 minutes, ¥600. * **Hankyu or JR Bus from Osaka:** 60 minutes, ¥1400.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Arima Onsen, and a short taxi ride to Kin no Yu from the Arima Onsen Station or a nearby hotel will typically cost between ¥700-¥1000. This is a convenient option if you have luggage or prefer not to walk. Note that taxi availability may be limited during peak seasons.

Unlock the Best of Kin no Yu hot spring

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Kin no Yu hot spring

Kin no Yu, meaning 'Gold Hot Spring,' is a prominent landmark in Arima Onsen, one of Japan's oldest and most celebrated hot spring towns. With a history stretching back over a thousand years, Arima Onsen has been a favored retreat for emperors, aristocrats, and samurai seeking the healing powers of its mineral-rich waters. Kin no Yu stands as a testament to this enduring tradition, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the town's famed 'kinsen' waters. The hot spring derives its distinctive golden-brown hue from its high iron and salt content. As the water surfaces and interacts with the air, oxidation occurs, resulting in the characteristic color. These unique springs are believed to possess therapeutic properties, aiding in the relief of skin ailments, muscle pain, and joint discomfort. Kin no Yu features two indoor baths, each maintained at different temperatures, allowing bathers to select their preferred level of warmth. For those seeking a more casual experience, a complimentary foot bath (ashiyu) is located just outside the bathhouse, providing a convenient way to enjoy the kinsen waters while soaking in the charming atmosphere of Arima Onsen. Body soap, shampoo, and hair dryers are available, and towels can be purchased. Arima Onsen itself is a compact town easily explored on foot, with narrow lanes, wooden buildings, temples, shrines and a hot spring museum. The town offers a blend of traditional Japanese culture and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for day trips and weekend getaways from nearby cities like Kobe and Osaka.

Popular Experiences near Kin no Yu hot spring

Popular Hotels near Kin no Yu hot spring

Select Currency