Arima Hot Springs, the oldest hot spring in Japan as well as one of the 3 best hot springs in the country, offers two types of hot springs, Kinsen (gold spring) and Ginsen (silver spring).
- Kinsen :
- High salinity and rich in minerals, this spring is said to be effective for lower-back pains and joint pains. Brown-ish in color.
- Ginsen :
- This clear-colored carbonated spring contains radon, and it is said to increase the body’s natural healing ability.
Arima Hot Springs has seven spring sources, each with unique characteristics. Being able to enjoy these different hot springs is one of the major attractions of Arima.
Tenjin Sengen
Although the area lacks volcanic activity. The spring reaches 100 degrees Celsius, much hotter even when compared to other hot springs. The reason for this extremely high temperature is still unknown.
Uwanari Sengen
In a folklore, it is said that whenever a beautiful woman stands next to a pool of water, the water in the pool starts to boil. For this reason, this hot spring was named Uwanari (jealousy).
The old traditional Japanese houses in Arima Hot Springs allow visitors to experience what Japan was like in the old days, but the town also has stylish cafes and interesting stores. Combined with the amazing hot springs, it is a great place to spend some time and relax your body and mind.
- Link to more information on Arima Hot Springs
http://www.hyogo-tourism.jp/english/spot/23_arima.html
What separates Kinosaki Hot Springs from the rest of the hot springs in Japan is the seven soto-yu, or outdoor public baths, located throughout the town. In the afternoon, visitors wearing colorful yukata, a casual version of kimono, stroll around town to take a dip in different soto-yu. Come and enjoy the nostalgic feeling that only Kinosaki Hot Spring can offer.
Geta, traditional Japanese wooden footwear, and yukata are must-have items when walking around Kinosaki.
Wear a kimono offered by the inn, and take a stroll around town to experience the true Japanese hot spring vacation.
Don’t stay at a single bath for too long.
Because there are many baths to visit, a short dip in the bath will be enough.
Get a free entrance ticket.
If you stay at one of the inns in Kinosaki, you’ll receive a entrance ticket for free.
Receiving the number 1 entrance ticket to the bath.
Everyday, the entrance tickets are given away at each of the hot springs. The number 1 ticket to the bath will make a great souvenir.
-
- A Map of Kinosaki Outdoor Baths
- Link to more information on Kinosaki Hot Springs
http://www.hyogo-tourism.jp/english/spot/108_kinosakihotsprings.html - For more information on hot springs and hot spring towns
http://www.hyogo-tourism.jp/english/category/hotsprings.html
