Arimasansoh Goshobessho
9,6/10 Exceptional - Based on 57 reviews
Arimasansoh Goshobessho is a compact, design-led ryokan set on the wooded slopes of Arima Onsen, presenting ten detached thermal suites that prioritize privacy and space. Each suite measures about 100 m² and combines natural timber interiors with high ceilings, dedicated living areas and a private bathing sequence that includes a hot-spring tub sourced from Arima’s mineral-rich springs and an adjoining low‑temperature “thermal room” (a gentle sauna). Room types range from single‑level villas with pond views to split‑level maisonettes and the signature treehouse villa with an open‑air gold‑spring bath, making this a ryokan with private onsen in Arima, Hyōgo that emphasises individual retreat-style stays rather than a conventional multi-room hotel experience.
Dining focuses on terroir-led multi-course meals crafted from seasonal ingredients drawn from the surrounding mountains and nearby ports; menus are presented in private dining rooms or at-seat service, allowing for tailored culinary pacing and attention to dietary needs. The property also maintains a small library salon and beverage service for post‑dinner relaxation, while in‑room amenities are selected for comfort (quality bedding, robes, and Japanese-made linens) so guests can extend their stay within the suite after bathing and dining. Spa treatments, aromatherapy and light wellness programmes are available to complement the onsen and thermal facilities.
Service and layout are calibrated for quiet, restorative stays: the handful of suites, limited public spaces and wood‑deck terraces encourage slow mornings, forest walks and seasonal viewing without crowding. Some suites are configured specifically for two adults and the treehouse option has age restrictions for safety; other layouts accommodate small families or groups up to four. With an emphasis on private bathing and thermal therapies alongside curated dining and minimal communal footprint, this ryokan with onsen in Hyōgo is positioned for travellers seeking a discreet, wellness‑centred visit to Arima’s historic hot‑spring district.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Arimasansoh Goshobessho
Positive Reviews
Outstanding, attentive staff and service
Multiple reviewers praised the team as friendly, helpful and attentive—staff provided transfers (hotel car/pickups), spoke English/other languages for assistance, and went out of their way to accommodate families and children.
Exceptional food and private dining
Guests repeatedly described the meals as delicious and memorable (including kaiseki-style/private meals). Many highlighted the quality and presentation of dinner and the care taken with children's meals.
Private and public onsen experiences
The property offers excellent hot-spring facilities: private in-villa baths, communal onsen options and even a dry sauna. Reviewers found the onsen relaxing, private and a major highlight of the stay.
Spacious, comfortable villas and rooms
Cottages and villas were noted as large, modern, clean and well stocked. Guests enjoyed comfortable beds, separate spaces for families, and thoughtfully designed cottages for an upscale overnight stay.
Beautiful, peaceful location and ambiance
Reviewers described the property as serene, set in nature and very tranquil—many recommended it for relaxation, honeymoons or family stays and noted proximity to scenic spots.
Negative Reviews
Strict / limited meal policies and limited food options
Some guests found meal rules restrictive (asked to confirm all meals several days in advance) and would like more flexible options such as room service, light/snack choices or more child-friendly menu items outside the main lunch/dinner services.
Breakfast style didn’t meet expectations for some
A few reviewers expected a Japanese-style breakfast but received a more European/American-style offering and were disappointed by the mismatch with expectations.
Safety concern with moving walkway/conveyor system
At least one guest reported a serious safety incident where a child’s foot was caught in the conveyor-type walkway to rooms; although staff helped, reviewers warned the system felt hazardous and suggested removal or review of safety measures.
Perceived high price / occasional food quality issue
Several guests felt the stay was expensive for what was offered; one reviewer mentioned a very costly dinner and a food-related illness experience. Overall value was questioned by some visitors.
Minor room layout and amenity issues
A few practical complaints included odd two-floor cabana layouts with limited natural light, a need for extra closet lighting, and longer-than-expected walks to rooms—small inconveniences for some guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
The property consists of ten villas/rooms; room types vary and typically accommodate between 2 and 4 guests depending on the unit — check the specific room details when booking.
Most villas include a private onsen in-room, and the property also offers hot-spring spa facilities and sauna areas for guests.
Because many rooms have private baths, guests with tattoos can use their in-room onsen; public-bath rules may still apply, so request private bathing if needed.
The ryokan arranges pick-up from Arima Onsen bus/train stops if you call on arrival and can assist with taxi reservations from nearby stations; contact them in advance to coordinate transfers.
Common routes are: limousine bus to Kobe/Sannomiya then Hokushin Subway and Kobe Dentetsu to Arima Onsen, or direct highway buses from Shin-Kobe; once in Arima, call the ryokan for pick-up.
The official site and materials are available in English and staff can assist in English, though the level of spoken English may vary so it’s best to request any language support before arrival.
The on-site restaurant serves Japanese (terroir) cuisine for breakfast and dinner; to eat at the ryokan you should reserve meals at the time of booking or notify the property in advance.
Standard check-in begins at 15:00 (arrival window varies by listing) and check-out is by 12:00. Guests on dinner-inclusive plans must check in early enough (usually by 18:00) to dine in the restaurant; late arrivals may receive a boxed dinner.
The ryokan sits in Arima Onsen town with easy walks to public baths, temples, galleries and souvenir streets; the property also offers curated local experiences such as gallery visits, guided tours and traditional meals for an authentic stay.
Pets are not permitted, but private functions and group bookings (private rooms for events and the option to reserve multiple rooms) can be arranged with the property; Arima’s town center with shops and convenience stores is a short walk away.