Ginsuisou Choraku
8,5/10 Excellent - Based on 76 reviews
Ginsuisou Choraku sits within the Arima Onsen hillside, framed by oak trees and the slopes of Mount Rokko, offering a composed, Japanese-style retreat that emphasises quiet views and seasonal change. The property blends traditional tatami rooms and shoji screens with modern comforts such as in-room tea facilities and seating areas; some accommodations are arranged as separate villas with their own open-air baths. Positioned within the wider Kansai hot-spring circuit, it functions as a ryokan with private onsen Kansai visitors often look for when seeking a restorative break.
The inn is notable for operating two distinct spring types: iron-rich “Kinsen” (golden) and the lighter mineral “Ginsen” (silver), both served through a mix of public bathing areas and reservable private open-air baths set into the surrounding greenery. Public bathing facilities are organised by gender at different times, and the property also offers dry-sauna options and a small outdoor pool, while private open-air baths can be booked on site for exclusive use. These features make it an example of a ryokan with private onsen Hyōgo guests can reserve for couples or small groups.
Dining follows a seasonal kaiseki approach, highlighting local seafood from nearby waters and carefully selected beef, presented course by course in a refined setting; breakfast is served in-house with similar attention to regional ingredients. Additional guest services include a shuttle for arrivals, on-site parking, a spa menu with massage treatments, and small retail offerings of local crafts. The ryokan’s layout and facilities suit both romantic stays and family visits, with a focus on relaxed hospitality and close proximity to the town’s cultural attractions.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Ginsuisou Choraku
Positive Reviews
Excellent onsen and bathing options
Many guests praised the hot springs—both communal and private baths—describing them as superb, relaxing and a highlight of the stay (including a private onsen with a great view).
Friendly, attentive staff
Multiple reviewers noted warm, hospitable and professional staff who enhanced the experience, helping with room arrangements and special requests.
High-quality meals and local ingredients
Dinner (including fine‑dining/half‑board guests) and breakfast were frequently described as tasty and well prepared, often using locally sourced ingredients; several guests called the meals a standout feature.
Comfortable rooms, views and convenient location
Guests enjoyed spacious, well‑appointed rooms with good views. The property is near the train station and offers timely shuttle pickups, making it convenient for visitors.
Great choice for couples and families
Reviewers recommended the ryokan for couples and families, noting romantic private-bath options, comfortable shared dining, and relaxing communal spaces suitable for various ages.
Negative Reviews
Language and communication barriers
Numerous guests reported limited English among staff; non‑Japanese speakers found daily conversation difficult and relied on translation apps or basic Japanese/Chinese to communicate.
Booking and meal inclusion confusion / cost issues
Several reviewers experienced confusion over whether meals were included (one reported being charged separately despite a booking appearance). Others noted that some breakfast elements (e.g., coffee) were not included and that small extras could be costly.
Accessibility and room layout problems
Guests with reduced mobility mentioned steps, slipper changes and small level differences that made movement difficult; requests for ramps or clearer accessible routes were suggested.
Amenity and maintenance shortcomings
A few guests reported missing or inadequate amenities (no hair dryer in a specific bath area, no vending machine) and isolated maintenance issues (one report of no hot water in a room with no immediate resolution). Also some rooms lack sufficient power outlets.
Inconsistent service tone / minor disturbances
While many praised staff, some felt service could be pushy or unsympathetic in difficult situations (notably during booking disputes). Others mentioned minor nuisances such as loud footsteps from staff in corridors or very early wake/breakfast times that didn’t suit all guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ginsuisou Choraku is in Arima Onsen, Kobe (Kita Ward), set on a hillside above the town; it is about a 7–10 minute walk from Arima Onsen Station.
You can reach Arima Onsen by train or highway bus from Osaka or Kyoto in roughly 50–60 minutes; Itami (Osaka International) is about a 50‑minute drive and Kansai Airport requires longer travel by train/bus plus local transfer.
The property operates a free shuttle service; guests must inform the ryokan of their arrival time in advance to arrange pick‑up.
Check‑in is from 14:00 (please arrive by 19:00 if you plan to have dinner), and check‑out is until 11:00.
Room types range from twin rooms for two to Japanese‑style family and suite rooms that can accommodate larger groups (futon configurations for 4–8 depending on room); cribs and extra beds are not available, so include children’s ages when booking.
Yes — the property offers multiple hot‑spring baths fed by onsite sources (including both gold and silver springs), gender‑separated public baths, and reserveable private open‑air baths and a small detached villa available for private use.
Guests with visible tattoos may be restricted from using the public bathing areas; private baths are the recommended option if you have visible tattoos.
The ryokan serves seasonal kaiseki dinners (often served in your room) and Japanese breakfast; please notify the property in advance about dietary restrictions or special requests so they can prepare accordingly.
Pets are not permitted at the property; Arima Onsen town has convenience stores and local shops within walking distance for basic supplies, though there is no large supermarket on site.
Expect a traditional ryokan stay with tatami rooms, yukata and Japanese hospitality; staff primarily speak Japanese, with some Chinese support and limited English assistance—contact the ryokan ahead of arrival for specific language needs.