Kamiobo
8,9/10 Excellent - Based on 33 reviews
Kamiobo is a compact traditional ryokan tucked into the historic lanes of Arima Onsen in Kobe. Housed in a low-rise wooden structure with a small courtyard garden, the inn offers a range of tatami rooms laid out with futons for couples or small groups, some with verandas or views toward the surrounding hills. Practical touches include free on-site parking and air conditioning; the property’s central position places guests within easy walking distance of local temples, museums and the town’s public footbaths, making it a convenient base for exploring Arima on foot.
The property features a modest on-site public bathing area fed by Arima’s mineral-rich springs; the bath is compact and emphasizes a quiet, traditional bathing experience rather than large-scale facilities. Typical public bath hours are in the afternoon–evening and early morning (commonly around 15:00–23:00 and 6:30–9:30), and there is no dedicated private onsen available on the premises. For visitors searching for a ryokan with onsen in Hyōgo, Kamiobo delivers direct access to the town’s characteristic spring waters while keeping accommodations intimate and centered on local bathing customs.
Meals emphasize regional ingredients, with breakfast often served in-room and dinner options available on select plans; service is oriented toward a personalized, small-inn rhythm. On-site amenities include complimentary Wi‑Fi, a communal recreation area and guest parking, while house policies reflect the ryokan’s compact scale (standard mid-afternoon check-in and morning check-out times, and certain room-type restrictions regarding children). Overall, the accommodation suits travelers looking for a traditional, walkable stay focused on Arima’s hot-spring district and nearby cultural sights.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Kamiobo
Positive Reviews
Excellent onsen quality
Multiple guests praised the hot spring water—described as heavenly, very concentrated (notably the silver spring), and the primary reason to visit. Several reviewers called the bathing experience outstanding and authentic.
Authentic traditional atmosphere
Reviewers appreciated the ryokan’s traditional Japanese style and charming decor, calling it a beautiful, classic inn with a sento that provides an authentic experience and good ambiance.
Delicious breakfast (often served in-room)
Breakfast was frequently noted as very good and plentiful; several guests enjoyed breakfast served in their rooms and described it as a highlight of their stay.
Friendly, attentive staff
Many guests reported kind and sweet staff or managers and generally good service, which enhanced their stay and contributed to a welcoming atmosphere.
Convenient location in Arima
The ryokan’s location was praised for being central and close to local streets and attractions, making it easy for guests to explore the area on foot.
Negative Reviews
Onsen condition and comfort concerns
Some guests found the bathing facilities old or in need of refreshment—issues included visible mildew, a depressing appearance, overly hot water that was unusable for some, and small or aged bath spaces that did not match expectations from photos.
Lack of in-room amenities
Several reviews noted missing conveniences in rooms such as no refrigerator, no kettle, and no trash bin, requiring guests to fetch cold water from the bathing area or use makeshift solutions.
Inconsistent communication and service issues
A few guests experienced sloppy phone confirmations, unclear check-in explanations, difficulty with locks, staff shortages or absent send-offs, and inconsistent handling of services (e.g., meals); these service problems negatively affected stays for some visitors.
Uncomfortable bedding for some guests
Opinions on bedding varied: some found futons too thin and difficult to sleep on or pillows too firm, making sleep uncomfortable for certain visitors.
Facility maintenance and layout drawbacks
Reports mentioned building creaks (age-related), maze-like interior layouts, slippery steps inside the baths, and seasonal issues like large numbers of stink bugs on balconies—factors that detracted from comfort for some guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms are traditional tatami-style with futons and are offered in layouts that can sleep from about 2 up to 6 guests depending on the room type; specific capacity is shown when you book. Children are generally not accepted at this ryokan.
Yes — Kamiobo offers communal onsen facilities for guests, using Arima’s mineral-rich spring water. Public bathing hours are typically in the afternoon/evening and early morning.
There is no regular airport shuttle listed; guests usually arrive by train to Arima Onsen Station and walk or take a short taxi from there. If you need assistance, contact the ryokan in advance to confirm any ad-hoc pickup options.
The nearest airport is Osaka Itami (Osaka International), about 23 km away; travel time by public transport or car is typically around 30–60 minutes depending on connections. Kansai International Airport requires a longer transfer, often over an hour by train and transfers.
Staff can assist in English to a useful degree, and the ryokan receives international guests. For complex requests it’s best to notify the property in advance.
Kamiobo provides a traditional ryokan experience with tatami rooms and futon bedding; breakfast is served and kaiseki-style dinners are offered by prior arrangement. Meals focus on local seasonal ingredients and are usually presented in-room or in small dining areas.
The ryokan is in Arima Onsen’s historic district within a few minutes’ walk of local sights such as the Arima Toy Museum, nearby temples, and the town’s public footbaths and hot-spring facilities (Kin no Yu/Gin no Yu). The compact onsen town is easy to explore on foot.
Kamiobo is a short walk from Arima Onsen Station — generally about 5–10 minutes on foot along the town streets. Taxis are also available from the station if you have luggage.
Standard check-in is from 15:00 with a latest listed arrival around 21:00; check-out is by 10:00. If you expect to arrive late, inform the ryokan in advance.
Private onsen baths are not listed as standard and may be limited — contact the ryokan to request privacy options; pets are not allowed. The onsen town has small shops and convenience stalls within walking distance, while larger supermarkets are in central Kobe and reachable by train.