Arima Onsen's history dates all the way back to the Heian Period, 1300 years ago, making it one of the oldest onsen villages in the country. Its geothermal springs have been linked to key historical figures, such as Emperor Jomei who visited in 631. Arima Onsen was also quite popular with the warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi, one of Japan's Three Great Unifiers, who often visited with his wife Lady Nene. Its continued patronage by people from all walks of life made this onsen village a cultural treasure throughout Japan.

Sometime during the Meiji Restoration, a wealthy merchant decided to build his villa here at Arima Onsen, likely to take advantage of the rejuvenating hot springs. The merchant's name has been lost, but the beautiful home he made continues to stand today as Hashinoya Bekkan Ransui. While modernized, the ryokan still proudly bears its original form and design, offering guests beautiful traditional rooms in the sukiya-zukuri architectural style, and secluded hot spring baths in a captivating garden setting.

Design and Architecture

Built as a villa during the Meiji Restoration, Hashinoya Bekkan Ransui follows the sukiya-zukuri style which was quite popular during the Edo Period. The design and arrangement of the guestrooms give off an air of elegance while still being quite welcoming and homey. Shoji screen panels and tatami floors also give off a sense of familiarity, as guests know they'll be treated with authentic Japanese hospitality.

The ryokan's hot springs feature classic cypress wooden baths under a wooden roof. High walls are built around it for privacy, while a small garden creates a vibe and atmosphere that fosters closeness with nature. Another important part of the ryokan is the inner garden, an inviting green space where guests can witness the poetry of the passing seasons whenever they visit.

As an esteemed ryokan with exceptional service and history, Hashinoya Bekkan Ransui offers top-notch dining for its guests. Start your day with a hearty washoku breakfast before heading off to explore Arima Onsen. Come dinner time, the ryokan's kaiseki cuisine will deliver incredible savory delights made with regional delicacies and seasonal ingredients, all in an eye-catching presentation.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

The main draw for staying at Hashinoya Bekkan Ransui would be to take a bath in their rejuvenating onsen. But how should one spend the time between those visits to the springs? Arima Onsen is filled with many cultural sites and outdoor opportunities if you know where to look. Visiting the area's shrines and temples is one of the most popular ways to pass the time here. Tosen Jinja is conveniently close by and a lovely place to pray for good fortune and purchase souvenirs. Those who'd like to stretch their legs can climb up Mount Ochiba and visit Myoken-ji, one of the many Buddhist temples that sit atop the region's many mountains. The town is also home to contemporary museums, such as the Arima Toy Museum which is home to a collection of automaton toys from all over the world.

If you're feeling adventurous, hop aboard the nearby Rokko Mountain Cable Car, which is Japan's longest cable car line, and find yourself atop Mount Rokko. Depending on the season, one can find the Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden in full bloom, or the Rokko Snow Park bustling with skiers.

Other Celebrations

Arima Onsen would be a fantastic place to celebrate your birthday or anniversary, but you must make it clear to the management that you have certain plans. Although the ryokan doesn't have a venue, they may still agree and provide some form of personalized service during your stay. Alternatively, they may be able to refer you to establishments that will be able serve your needs.