KAMENOI HOTEL Arima
7,7/10 Very good - Based on 309 reviews
KAMENOI HOTEL Arima sits in the Arima Onsen district and presents a measured blend of contemporary comfort and traditional bathing culture. The property centres on mineral-rich bathing facilities with both indoor and outdoor pools supplied by the local springs; public bathing is organised for guests and the hot-spring areas typically operate in a daytime–late evening window. Guests are offered standard ryokan touches such as yukata and communal bathing etiquette, making this a practical choice for travellers seeking a ryokan with onsen in Hyōgo without sacrificing modern conveniences.
Guest accommodation mixes Japanese-style and Western-influenced rooms equipped with essentials like complimentary Wi‑Fi, small refrigerators, electric kettles and en-suite wash facilities; toiletries and daily housekeeping are provided. On-site dining focuses on seasonal, locally sourced dishes served in a restaurant that opens for multiple meals, and a buffet option is commonly available for breakfast. Practical amenities include on-site parking and electric vehicle charging, luggage storage and a 24-hour front desk; bath access may require prior arrangement at busy times, so guests are advised to check availability in advance for this ryokan with onsen in Kobe's Arima Onsen area.
The hotel’s setting suits short stays tied to the hot-spring experience and nearby attractions such as Mount Rokko and the town’s historic public baths, offering straightforward access by regional rail or road. The atmosphere prioritises relaxation and uncomplicated service rather than elaborate frills, which makes it appropriate for couples, small groups and families looking to combine sightseeing with restorative bathing. Practical notes: expect communal onsen protocols, comfortable but functional rooms, and proximity to the pedestrian routes and shops that characterise the Arima spa district.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: KAMENOI HOTEL Arima
Positive Reviews
Delicious and varied meals
Many guests praised the food — dinner is frequently described as delicious and plentiful, with varied breakfast buffets and comforting nighttime noodles. Some reviews noted memorable or special dishes and different menus across nights.
High-quality onsen and authentic ryokan experience
Reviewers enjoyed the hot spring water (noting the iron/gold water) and overall onsen experience. Multiple guests highlighted the traditional ryokan elements (yukata, futons/beds) and found the stay relaxing and memorable.
Attentive, friendly and well-trained staff
Staff were repeatedly described as cheerful, thoughtful and professional. Several guests noted smooth service from both Japanese and foreign staff, and helpful pick-up from Arima Onsen station.
Comfortable, spacious rooms
Many guests found the tatami-style rooms spacious with comfortable beds and enough space for luggage and families. Rooms were often described as clean and suitable for relaxing.
Convenient location and proximity to attractions
The property is close to the train/bus stops and within walking distance of the Arima Onsen village, shops and hiking paths. Some guests appreciated being near the ropeway and local attractions.
Negative Reviews
Challenging access and steep approach
Multiple reviews warned of a very steep route to the hotel that is difficult with luggage and unsuitable for elderly guests. Some experienced issues contacting the hotel for station pick-up and recommended taxis to avoid the climb.
Dated facilities and need for modernization
Several guests commented that the building and some facilities feel old or in need of updates. Suggestions included modernizing public areas and installing conveniences such as elevators to parking.
Onsen size and variety limitations
A number of guests mentioned the public bath is relatively small and could be expanded. Some missed having an outdoor bath (rotenburo), a clear 'silver' bath, or amenities like a sauna.
Inconsistent or disappointing breakfast/meal issues
While many praised dinner, a few guests reported inconsistent dinner quality between nights and disappointing breakfast experiences in some stays (including limited breakfast service hours or less satisfying offerings).
Occasional cleanliness and room issues
A few reviews noted cleanliness concerns (for example a smelly toilet or dusty areas) and odd room assignments (unexpected ‘nursing-home’ style rooms). Minor amenity complaints included missing room water service or small waste bins in large rooms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms range from compact doubles to Japanese‑style and Japanese‑Western rooms; some rooms sleep up to 5 guests (premium Japanese‑Western with semi‑open‑air bath), while most standard rooms accommodate 2–4 people.
Yes — the hotel features public hot spring baths fed by Kinsen (gold spring) and renovated bathing areas; select premium rooms include private in‑room hot spring baths.
No — guests with visible tattoos are generally not permitted to use the public onsen; private in‑room baths (when available) avoid this restriction.
The property does not advertise a fixed airport shuttle; it is about a 3‑minute drive or roughly a 5–10‑minute walk from Arima Onsen / Arima Station, and the hotel can assist with arrival arrangements if contacted in advance.
Itami (Osaka) is the closest airport (about 20–30 minutes by car), while Kansai International is around 80–90 minutes by car; by rail, travel to Kobe then transfer to local lines or buses to Arima Onsen.
Staff provide service in Japanese and offer assistance in English; some staff may also speak Chinese — contact the hotel ahead of arrival for specific language needs.
Standard hotel practice applies: check‑in typically begins in the mid‑afternoon and check‑out is in the morning (confirm exact times on your reservation or by contacting the hotel).
Yes — some newly renovated premium rooms include private golden‑spring baths or indoor onsen; reserve these room types when booking as availability is limited.
Pets are not permitted on the property; the hotel is family‑friendly, offering larger tatami and Japanese‑Western rooms suitable for groups and children, with extra futons available on request.
The hotel serves a breakfast buffet and Japanese cuisine highlighting local Hyogo ingredients and Kobe beef, with occasional late‑night noodle service; the Arima Onsen area also has many small restaurants and shops within walking distance.