Arima Gyoen - A Tattoo-Friendly Hot Spring in Arima Onsen, Hyogo

Does Arima Gyoen Allow Tattoos?

Partially, tattoos are accepted at Arima Gyoen, but only in private bathsโ€”not public bath areas.

Arima Gyoen Shin Hanga Art Style

Overview of Arima Gyoen

Nestled in one of Japan's oldest and most revered hot spring towns, Arima Gyoen offers a sublime blend of tradition and luxury dating back to 1946. This distinguished ryokan sits within the historic Arima Onsen area, whose therapeutic waters have soothed imperial visitors since Emperor Jomei first discovered them in 631 AD. What truly sets Arima Gyoen apart is its access to the region's famed dual spring typesโ€”the rust-colored Kinsen (golden water) and the clear Ginsen (silver water)โ€”each offering distinct therapeutic properties that have drawn wellness seekers for centuries.

โ€‹

Surrounded by the natural beauty of Mount Rokko and within walking distance of cultural landmarks like Onsenji Temple, Arima Gyoen provides a perfect sanctuary for those seeking both relaxation and cultural immersion in an authentic Japanese setting.

Tattoo Rules & Guidelines

Private Bathing Allowed: While Arima Gyoen doesn't explicitly state a public bath tattoo policy, their Fuyo Sanso room category offers private open-air baths where tattooed guests can enjoy the therapeutic waters without concern for traditional restrictions.

Why Bathe Here? Benefits and History

  • Authentic Historical Experience: Bathe in the same legendary waters that have healed and rejuvenated visitors for over 1,300 years
  • Dual Spring Types: Experience both the iron-rich Kinsen (golden) and radium-infused Ginsen (silver) waters with their unique therapeutic benefits
  • Private Bath Options: Book a Fuyo Sanso room with your own open-air Ginsen bath for unrestricted tattoo-friendly relaxation
  • Culinary Excellence: Indulge in seasonal kaiseki cuisine featuring local Hyogo specialties
  • Cultural Immersion: Stay minutes from traditional landmarks like Taiko Bridge and Onsenji Temple
  • Scenic Location: Enjoy the natural beauty of Mount Rokko while soaking in mineral-rich waters

Onsen Facilities & Amenities

โ™จ๏ธBath Types

  • Traditional Indoor Bath
  • Rotenburo (Outdoor Bath)
  • In-Room Onsen

๐Ÿฝ๏ธDining

  • Kaiseki Dinner
  • Breakfast

โœจAmenities

  • Vending Machines
  • Rest Lounge
  • Massage
  • Free Parking

๐ŸŒAccessibility

  • English Speaking Staff

๐Ÿ“…Booking

  • Online Reservations

๐Ÿ‘ฅSuitable For

  • Good for Couples
  • Family Friendly
  • Good for Solo Travelers

Bathing Experience & Onsen Etiquette

Sinking into Arima Gyoen's mineral-rich waters is like stepping into a living piece of Japanese bathing history. The rusty-brown Kinsen baths, colored by their high iron content, warm your body from the inside out while improving circulation and softening your skin. The clear Ginsen waters, containing radium and carbonate, gently soothe muscle pain and joint stiffness while leaving your skin silky smooth.

โ€‹

For tattooed travelers, the private open-air baths in Fuyo Sanso rooms offer the perfect solutionโ€”allowing you to experience authentic Arima waters under the open sky without worrying about traditional bathing restrictions. As you soak at the ideal temperature of 40-42ยฐC, surrounded by seasonal views, you'll understand why these waters have captivated visitors for over a millennium.

Directions to Arima Gyoen in Arima Onsen

โœˆ๏ธ Kansai International Airport โ†’ ๐Ÿš† JR Limited Express to Sannomiya (75 min) โ†’ ๐ŸšŒ Bus to Arima Onsen (40 min)

๐Ÿš† Shin-Kobe Station โ†’ ๐Ÿš‡ Subway to Tanigami Station โ†’ ๐ŸšŒ Shuttle bus to Arima Onsen (30 min)

๐Ÿš‡ Tanigami Station โ†’ ๐ŸšŒ Arima Onsen Bus (15 min) โ†’ ๐Ÿšถ 10 min walk to Arima Gyoen

๐Ÿš— Free parking available for guests arriving by car

Map

Click for Google Maps Directions to Arima Gyoen โ†’

Booking & Contact Information

Advance reservations are highly recommended, especially for Fuyo Sanso rooms with private baths which are ideal for tattooed guests. Online booking is available in English through their official website.

โ€‹

๐ŸŒ Website: https://en.arima-gyoen.co.jp

๐Ÿ“ž Phone: +81 78-904-0708

๐Ÿ“ Address: 1296 Arimachล, Kita Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 651-1401, Japan

Travel Tip

Look for flexible booking options like free cancellation. This way, you can easily reach out to your onsen to make sure their tattoo policy feels right for your needs and enjoy peace of mind for your trip.

Check Room Prices & Availability for Arima Gyoen โ†—

Browse More Kansai Region Onsen

Last updated on Apr 22, 2025 by Mat Roniss โ€“ Founder of Tattoo Friendly Onsen , and hot springs enjoyer who has been visiting Japanese onsen for over 30 years.

Want to help keep this resource up-to-date? If you noticed any changes in tattoo policy or want to share your experience, please contact us here to let us know. Your feedback helps us keep this guide accurate and helpful for everyone!