Okuno Hosomichi
9,5/10 Exceptional - Based on 99 reviews
Set on the wooded slopes of Arima Onsen near Kobe, Okuno Hosomichi blends clean-lined, contemporary ryokan design with traditional tatami rooms and private terraces. Guest rooms vary from tatami-mat layouts to suites with in-room open-air baths; many offer views of surrounding forest or garden and a quiet, intimate atmosphere. Practical touches include complimentary Wi‑Fi, a lobby footbath using onsen water, slippers and toiletry pouches supplied in rooms, and a shuttle service to the nearby station, making this ryokan with private onsen in Arima, Hyōgo a convenient base for exploring the hot-spring district and nearby mountains.
The property operates communal bathing facilities and separate large baths that alternate by gender, plus an outdoor Kinsen (gold) bath and an indoor house source whose mineral profile is described as close to Ginsen (silver) springs. Towels and skin lotions are provided in dressing areas, and a sauna and cold-water bath are available alongside paid chartered baths in the annex for those who prefer exclusive use. Several room types include private open-air onsens, and staff can arrange private-bath bookings, so visitors seeking a ryokan with onsen in Hyōgo Prefecture will find both shared and reserved bathing options to suit different comfort levels.
Culinary offerings are presented in private dining rooms on the second floor and focus on multi-course Japanese meals prepared by the onsite chef, with select rooms featuring live cooking demonstrations. Additional services include massages (fee applies), a small on-site shop with local specialties, and parking for guests; staff emphasize attentive, reservation-based service to coordinate dining times and bathing reservations. The combination of in-room baths, communal kinsen and a compact, guest-focused layout makes the property a practical choice for couples or small groups seeking a measured onsen experience in Arima.
Highlights of this ryokan
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Review summary for: Okuno Hosomichi
Positive Reviews
Exceptional cuisine and dining experience
Many guests praised the meals as a highlight—elaborate kaiseki-style dinners, live cooking demonstrations by the chef, generous in-room snacks/fridge items and memorable culinary presentation.
Warm, attentive hospitality
Staff repeatedly described as very friendly, caring and professional; employees anticipated needs, arranged surprises for occasions and provided high-quality service throughout the stay.
Excellent onsen offerings (including private baths)
The property’s hot springs received strong praise—golden onsen, private in-room open-air baths and well-maintained public baths offered relaxing, enjoyable bathing experiences.
Clean, comfortable rooms with thoughtful amenities
Guests noted high cleanliness, comfortable rooms and useful touches such as yukata, personal amenities pouches and complimentary snacks and drinks in rooms.
Quiet, secluded location with shuttle service
The ryokan’s tucked-away setting created a peaceful retreat; although remote, a standby shuttle to town was appreciated and helped guests access local shops and transport.
Negative Reviews
Rooms can feel small
Several reviews mentioned that some room types are relatively smaller than expected compared with other onsen properties.
Location is somewhat remote from main streets
The property is set away from the main shopping streets; while guests liked the privacy, some found the distance inconvenient despite the complimentary shuttle service.
Limited views or parking-facing rooms
A few guests expected better outdoor onsen views; some rooms or outdoor baths face the parking lot rather than scenic vistas.
Occasional noise and disturbances from other guests
There were reports of disruptive behaviour (for example young children in the public onsen) and some dining areas where noise from other guests could be heard.
Minor in-room comfort and logistics issues
Comments included small practical lacks in private balcony baths (no chair or place to set a phone), early 11:00am checkout feeling tight after a large breakfast, occasional bed discomfort and mixed feedback on complimentary drinks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most rooms are set up for two adults; several larger suites and premium rooms can sleep up to six using futons and sofa beds, and children are generally not permitted.
The ryokan offers Arima’s specialty Gold open-air baths and an indoor house-source bath, plus alternately used large communal baths; some rooms also include private open-air baths.
Yes — a hotel shuttle is available; guests are asked to call the property after arriving at Arima Onsen bus terminal or station and staff will pick you up quickly (they cannot accept calls before your arrival).
From Osaka Itami Airport expect about 90 minutes by public transport (monorail/train and transfers); routes vary so check current schedules on your travel day.
The property has an English-language website and staff regularly assist international guests, offering basic-to-intermediate English support for check-in, directions and dining arrangements.
Dinner is a multi-course Japanese menu prepared by an award-winning chef and both dinner and breakfast are served in private dining rooms; dinner hours run roughly 18:00–21:00 with last orders around 19:00, and the ryokan cannot prepare dinner for arrivals after 20:00.
Check-in is from 15:00 to 19:00 and check-out is between 07:30 and 11:00; you should inform the ryokan of your estimated arrival time in advance.
Yes — there are reservable private (charter) baths in the annex and many room types include their own private open-air baths; ask the ryokan when booking or at check-in to arrange a reserved time.
Pets are not allowed at the property. Arima Onsen town has small shops and convenience stores near the station for basic supplies, but note the route to the ryokan includes steep slopes so the shuttle is recommended.
Guests with visible tattoos may be restricted from using communal baths, and standard onsen etiquette applies: wash thoroughly before entering, do not bring towels into the water, and follow staff instructions in bathing areas.