
Everything you need to know about Onsenji
Near Shinnyo-ji Temple in Kobe, Kobe Port View Hotel stands out for its scenic views of the harbor and surrounding mountains, offering a peaceful retreat just a short walk from the temple. The hotel features traditional Japanese gardens and an on-site hot spring bath, perfect for relaxation after visiting the sacred site. Another excellent choice is Kobe Asahi Hotel, located within easy reach of the temple with convenient access to local attractions. Both properties provide exceptional service, modern amenities, and authentic Japanese hospitality, making them ideal for travelers seeking cultural immersion and comfort.
Visitors can easily reach Shinnyo-ji Temple via public transit: take the JR Kobe Line or Hankyu Railway to Sannomiya Station, then transfer to a local bus bound for "Shinnyo-ji Mae"—a 25-minute ride. For those driving, the temple has dedicated parking facilities; however, the route includes steep, winding roads requiring caution. Parking may be limited during weekends and holidays due to high visitor volume. Therefore, using public transportation is recommended for convenience, reduced traffic stress, and environmental sustainability while exploring the area.
After visiting Shinnyo-ji Temple, guests can enjoy a distinctive Zen Meditation & Tea Ceremony experience offered by the temple, providing insight into Japanese Zen philosophy through quiet reflection and traditional tea rituals. Nearby, the Kobe Mountain Trail offers scenic hiking paths surrounded by lush forest, ideal for photography and nature lovers—especially stunning during cherry blossom season. Additionally, explore the nearby Kobe Onsen District, where natural hot springs offer therapeutic baths rooted in centuries-old tradition. These experiences seamlessly blend spirituality, nature, and wellness, creating a deeply enriching journey for visitors.
Kobe Onsen Hotel is a top choice located just a 5-minute walk from Kōyō-ji Temple, blending traditional Japanese architecture with modern comfort. The hotel features an authentic natural hot spring bath, perfect for relaxing after visiting the temple. Its serene rooms overlook tranquil Zen gardens, enhancing the meditative experience. Complimentary shuttle service is available from Kobe Station, making access easy. Guests can also enjoy locally sourced kaiseki cuisine prepared with ingredients from nearby farms. Located in the heart of Kobe’s cultural district, it offers both spiritual tranquility and convenient transportation links.
After visiting Kōyō-ji Temple, head along Yamate-dori for about 8 minutes on foot to reach Kobe Onsen Hotel, passing through historic machiya houses and tea houses that evoke old-world charm. Alternatively, take the free shuttle service available at the temple entrance—just a 10-minute ride. The hotel offers various room types, including traditional tatami-style rooms and Western-style suites, all equipped with private onsen baths and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Kobe’s skyline. Reservations are recommended, especially during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons when demand spikes. Nearby, you can also visit Kobe Harborland for shopping and dining, making it a seamless extension of your journey.
Beyond visiting the ancient Kōyō-ji Temple, guests can participate in the morning bell ceremony, held twice yearly in spring and autumn, offering a profound glimpse into Japanese Buddhist tradition. The temple also hosts a handmade washi umbrella workshop, where visitors learn traditional paper-making techniques and craft personalized keepsakes. Nearby, the tea house Sanmi serves exclusive matcha sets made with tea harvested directly from temple grounds—delicate and aromatic. For a magical evening experience, join the night lantern procession, walking along illuminated stone paths beneath softly glowing paper lanterns. All activities require advance HopeGoo; check the official website for schedules and fees.
Kobe Onsen Hotel provides the most convenient access to downtown Kobe, located just a 15-minute bus ride from Kobe Station and offering complimentary shuttle services. The hotel is within a 12-minute walk of Kobe Harborland, where you’ll find shopping malls, the iconic Kobe Port Tower, and waterfront restaurants. High-floor rooms offer panoramic views of Kobe Bay and the Rokkō Mountains. With 24-hour concierge service, guests can easily arrange flights, car rentals, and guided tours. Whether traveling for business or family vacation, this hotel ensures seamless connectivity and comfort.
Yes, Kobe Onsen Hotel features authentic natural hot springs drawn from underground sources 300 meters deep, rich in calcium and magnesium ions known for skin and muscle benefits. The hotel has separate indoor and outdoor onsen pools for men and women, surrounded by bamboo groves and traditional gardens for a serene, healing atmosphere. Open daily from 9 AM to 10 PM, with limited capacity to maintain quality. The hotel also offers onsen yukata rental and wellness seminars to educate guests on Japanese onsen culture. Some rooms include private onsen baths, providing a truly intimate soaking experience—highly favored by families and couples.
Absolutely! Kobe Harborland is a top family destination just a 12-minute walk from Kōyō-ji Temple, featuring a giant Ferris wheel, children’s science museum, and marine life exhibits perfect for young explorers. The area also boasts a vibrant shopping arcade and international restaurants ideal for a family dinner. Just a 20-minute drive away, Kobe Animal Kingdom offers interactive feeding sessions and animal shows beloved by kids. The hotel provides family packages and child-focused activities such as pottery workshops and treasure hunts, ensuring memorable and engaging experiences for all ages.
See what other travelers say about Onsenji

Staying at Arima Onsen Motoyu Kosenkaku was an absolute delight. The moment I stepped into the property, I felt like I had entered a quiet, timeless retreat. Located just a short distance from Kobe, it's easily accessible by public transport, and once you're on the grounds, the peaceful atmosphere truly sets in. The traditional Japanese design of the inn is beautifully maintained—wooden beams, tatami floors, and subtle lighting create a serene vibe. My room was spacious, cozy, and perfectly appointed with all the essentials. What made this stay unforgettable was the natural hot spring bath. The onsen water is crystal clear, rich in minerals, and so soothing that every muscle relaxed instantly. I especially loved walking through the surrounding bamboo groves and listening to the gentle sound of flowing water nearby—it felt like being in a hidden garden. The kaiseki dinner was exquisite—fresh ingredients, artistic presentation, and thoughtful flavor balance. Breakfast was equally impressive, with local delicacies that gave a true taste of the region. The staff were attentive without being intrusive, making the whole experience feel personal and warm. This isn't just a hotel—it’s a calming escape from the everyday. I’d highly recommend it for anyone seeking authenticity, tranquility, and a genuine connection with nature and tradition.

Staying at Taketoritei Maruyama Onsen in Arima was an absolute delight. The property is immaculately maintained—no signs of aging at all—and the traditional Japanese design creates a serene, authentic atmosphere. I felt instantly relaxed upon arrival. The staff went above and beyond with their warm, attentive service. They even offered complimentary shuttle service to and from the town center, and it’s easy to call for a pickup back to the hotel. While the outdoor onsen is popular and tends to fill up fast, the indoor baths are much easier to book and just as enjoyable. Breakfast was a highlight—huge variety, fresh ingredients, and delicious local flavors. Every detail felt thoughtfully curated. This place truly delivers on comfort, hospitality, and value. I’d definitely come back without hesitation.

Staying at Hotel Morgenrot was an absolute delight, especially because of its unbeatable location right next to the Gin-You Onsen entrance—just a quick step outside and you're already soaking in the hot springs. The temple of Gekoku-ji is literally within 100 meters, making it super easy to take a peaceful morning walk or explore some local history. While the bathroom is on the smaller side, it's spotlessly clean and functional. The overall vibe of the place is cozy and authentic, with a real sense of Japanese simplicity and warmth. For the price, this hotel offers incredible value—perfect for travelers who want a quiet, genuine ryokan experience without the hassle of long commutes. I’d definitely stay here again if I’m back in Kobe.

We stayed at Zuihoen in Kobe with my 74-year-old mom and our 10-year-old daughter. The suite was spacious—definitely more than just a standard room—but it felt like three rooms were squeezed together, which made the layout a bit unusual. Still, we were very happy with the size and comfort. The bathroom stood out—the fixtures were high-end and so relaxing after a long day of exploring. While the price wasn’t cheap (over ¥100,000 for the suite), considering the location, service, and overall quality, it felt worth every yen. We only found availability through this platform, which made it even more special. A memorable stay with a great balance of comfort and value—definitely planning to return.

Staying at Arima Onsen Koki was an absolute delight! The moment I walked in, the cleanliness and attention to detail were immediately apparent. The staff went above and beyond with their warm, attentive service—always smiling, always helpful. But the real highlight? The hot springs. The natural onsen water is pure and soothing, perfect for unwinding after a long day. I especially loved soaking in the evening with views of the surrounding mountains—truly peaceful and rejuvenating. Located just minutes from Kobe’s city center via train, it’s easy to explore local restaurants, shops, and attractions without sacrificing tranquility. This place offers incredible value for such a high-quality experience. I’ll definitely be back.

I had a great stay at Arimaonsen Musubi-No-Koyado En - Hostel! The room was clean, comfortable, and the staff went above and beyond to make our visit enjoyable. However, I did encounter a minor issue with the booking platform—there was an address discrepancy that led me to the wrong hotel location. After several trips back and forth with luggage, I finally found the correct entrance at the information center. It definitely wasted some time, so if you're booking through a third-party site, I’d recommend double-checking the address or contacting the hostel directly before arrival. Despite this hiccup, the overall experience was excellent. The atmosphere is cozy, the location is convenient, and the value for money is outstanding. Definitely worth a visit if you're in Kobe!

Staying at Arima Onsen Hyoe Koyokaku in Kobe was an absolute delight. I booked a traditional Japanese-style room, and it was spacious and cozy with efficient heating—perfect for the chilly weather. The bathroom featured a smart dry-wet separation, and cleanliness was excellent throughout. The onsen experience? A solid 10/10. The outdoor baths are separated by gender, set in a peaceful, serene environment with plenty of lounge space to relax before or after soaking. They even provide complimentary towels, hair dryers, and toiletries—no need to pack extra stuff. Staff were incredibly attentive and warm-hearted. Since we traveled with our young child, the restaurant team went above and beyond—offering kid-friendly utensils and a welcoming atmosphere that made mealtime stress-free. Every detail felt thoughtfully designed. This isn’t just a hotel—it’s a true retreat. Highly recommend for anyone seeking comfort, authenticity, and genuine hospitality in a beautiful onsen setting.

Staying at The Gran Resort Arima was a fantastic choice for our trip to Kobe, especially since we were driving. The room was spacious by Japanese standards, and the location couldn’t be better—just a short drive from Arima Onsen town and nestled in the hills with beautiful views. Free parking is a huge plus, especially when traveling with a car. The on-site gold bath (kinyu onsen) was incredibly relaxing, and the water quality was excellent. The surrounding scenery adds to the peaceful, serene atmosphere. While breakfast isn’t included, there are plenty of great local eateries nearby, so it’s easy to grab a delicious meal. Overall, this resort offers an unbeatable mix of comfort, convenience, and value—perfect for anyone exploring Kobe by car. Would definitely stay here again.

Staying at Arima Koyado Toji was an absolute delight! The room was spacious and immaculately clean, with a stunning view of a blooming cherry blossom tree right outside the window—pure spring magic. We loved being able to enjoy unlimited access to the Kin no Yu hot spring, which made our relaxation experience truly special. The only downside was that Gin no Yu was temporarily closed, but we understand it’s just for maintenance. One thing worth noting: check-in happens at the tourist information center downstairs, where you pick up your room key code and hot spring tickets. This wasn’t mentioned anywhere on the booking page, so we were confused when we arrived with luggage only to find we couldn’t enter the room. Thankfully, the staff were incredibly helpful, guiding us through the process with patience and warmth. From the serene atmosphere to the thoughtful service, this place offers a genuine, peaceful retreat in Arima. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a quiet, authentic Japanese onsen getaway.

Staying at The Gran Resort Princess Arima was an absolute delight from start to finish. The hotel sits on a hilltop with breathtaking views, offering a peaceful retreat while still being well-connected to local attractions. The front desk staff member who speaks Chinese was incredibly helpful and friendly—great for travelers who prefer communicating in their native language. One of the standout features is the complimentary shuttle service to nearby spots like the Arima Onsen and train stations; just call ahead and they’ll arrange everything smoothly. Breakfast was a real highlight—plentiful, varied, and delicious, with options ranging from traditional Japanese dishes to Western-style favorites. It’s clear that attention to detail is a top priority here. With its serene ambiance, excellent service, and unbeatable location, this resort truly delivers a memorable stay.

Staying at Maple Arima was an absolute delight. The hotel is nestled in a peaceful area perfect for walking and enjoying nature, making it ideal for travelers who appreciate a calm atmosphere. The rooms were spotlessly clean and very comfortable—truly a great value for the price. One thing to note: breakfast is served early, so if you're someone who likes to sleep in, you might want to plan accordingly. That said, the breakfast options were delicious and varied. The location is also convenient for getting around Kobe, with easy access to public transit. Overall, this is a fantastic choice for a relaxing and memorable stay.

Nestled in a quiet alleyway of Kobe's vibrant shopping district, this charming retreat offers a peaceful escape with authentic Japanese vibes. Perfect for light-travelers looking to soak up the local atmosphere—everything you need is within walking distance, and public transport access to major sights is convenient. The staff are warm and welcoming, making check-in a breeze. While the location is tucked away and ideal for a relaxed stay, guests with large suitcases should be prepared for a bit of a climb—there’s no elevator. That said, the overall experience is outstanding, especially considering the serene ambiance and thoughtful touches throughout. If you're after a genuine, low-key stay in Kobe with a personal touch, this place is definitely worth a visit.
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