Nowadays, more and more international travelers coming to Japan think of “onsen” (hot springs) as one of the  must-try experiences.

For those exploring Osaka, Kyoto, or Kobe, Arima Onsen is often considered a top destination to include in their itinerary.

But how to get there efficiently, affordably, and without wasting time?

This article will explain the best transportation options from major cities in Kansai, namely Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe, to Arima Onsen, one of Japan’s three most famous hot spring resorts.

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Located in Hyogo Prefecture, Arima Onsen is one of the 3 best onsens in Japan.

This historic hot spring town is within a 700-meter radius of the Hankyu Expressway Bus stop, allowing visitors to easily explore on foot and perfect for a half-day trip.

The town is filled with steaming hot spring sources, traditional ryokan inns, souvenir shops, and delicious street food spots, creating an authentic onsen atmosphere.

For a truly relaxing experience, an overnight stay at one of the town’s hotels or ryokan is highly recommended. However, if you’re short on time, a day trip from Osaka, Kyoto, or Kobe is also a great option!

From Osaka Umeda Station, one of Osaka’s major transportation hubs, there are two main ways to reach Arima Onsen: highway bus and train.

Here’s a quick guide to choosing the best option based on your needs:

・ For a hassle-free, direct journey → Take the highway bus (no transfers required).

・ For more flexibility in travel times → Take the train (departures are frequent).

・ For a budget-friendly day trip → Take either the highway bus or train with discount passes like the “Taiko-no-Yu Bus Discount Ticket” or the “Arima Onsen Taiko-no-Yu Coupon”.

・ For a combined trip with sightseeing in Kobe → Take the train (with the “Arima Onsen Taiko-no-Yu Coupon” for extra savings).

*Prices are as of February 2025

If you’re traveling from Osaka Umeda to Arima Onsen by train, there are three different routes to Kobe Sannomiya: Hankyu, Hanshin, and JR, each with slightly different fares.

For a budget-friendly day trip, consider using discount tickets like:

 “Taiko-no-Yu Bus Discount Ticket” is available for Hankyu Expressway Bus passengers.

 “Arima Onsen Taiko-no-Yu Coupon” is a cost-saving option for Hankyu and Hanshin Railway users.

These tickets offer great value, making your journey more affordable!

Each discount ticket includes round-trip transportation and admission to Arima Onsen Taiko-no-Yu (full-time weekend/holiday entry normally priced at ¥2,970 for adults), making it a great deal.

With the Hankyu & Hanshin “Arima Onsen Taiko-no-Yu Coupon”, you can freely hop on and off within the designated railway network. This means that after enjoying Arima Onsen, you can explore Kobe’s bay area, visit Nadagogo’s sake breweries, or stop by Hanshin Koshien Stadium, all while saving on transportation costs!

▼Tourist info about Kobe▼

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Hanshin Koshien Stadium｜How to enjoy a baseball game in Japan?

Many travelers choose accommodations near Shin-Osaka Station.

If you’re traveling from Shin-Osaka to Arima Onsen, taking the Hankyu Expressway Bus is the most convenient option.

*Prices are as of January 2025

Traveling from Shin-Osaka to Arima Onsen is faster, more affordable, and more comfortable with the Hankyu Expressway Bus, as it requires no transfers.

However, since the number of buses stopping at Shin-Osaka Station is limited, it’s best to book your ticket in advance for a smooth journey.

There is no direct public transportation from Kansai International Airport (KIX) to Arima Onsen.

First, you need to travel to Kobe Sannomiya or Osaka Umeda by train or airport limousine bus.

For details on how to get from Osaka Umeda to Arima Onsen, refer to the earlier section of this article. If you’re traveling from Kobe Sannomiya, check the following section for transportation options.

For a hassle-free transfer, taking the airport limousine bus from Kansai International Airport to Osaka Umeda is a convenient option!

▼Check here for more details▼

Buses are a comfortable way to get from Kansai International Airport to Umeda, Osaka! Thorough explanation of travel time, boarding location, etc.

In 2025, with the increase in international flights at Kobe Airport, more travelers may head directly from Kobe Airport to Arima Onsen.

As of February 2025, the only public transportation option for direct access from Kobe Airport to Arima Onsen is the Shinki Bus (route bus).

*Prices are as of January 2025

However, the number of services is limited to only two buses per day.

Most travelers will likely take the Kobe New Transit Port Liner (approximately 25 minutes to “Sannomiya Station”) or the City Loop Bus (route bus, approximately 25 minutes to “Chikatetsu Sannomiya Station”).

*The City Loop Bus also offers a connection at Shin-Kobe Station for alternative transportation options.

For directions from Kobe-Sannomiya to Arima Onsen, please see the next section.

There are three ways to travel from Kobe Sannomiya to Arima Onsen: Expressway bus, local bus, and train.

*Prices are as of January 2025

The travel time does not vary significantly regardless of the transportation method you choose.

Both JR Express Buses and Shinki Buses operate around 10 times a day, so it’s best to check the schedule in advance. Additionally, Shinki Buses have a passenger limit, meaning if the bus reaches full capacity, you may have to wait for the next bus, which could be about an hour later. Make sure to plan ahead and allow extra time for your trip.

Shin-Kobe Station is the closest Shinkansen station to Arima Onsen, making it a convenient stop for travelers coming from Tokyo or Hiroshima.

From Shin-Kobe Station to Arima Onsen, you can choose from three transportation options: highway bus, local bus, or train.

*Prices are as of January 2025

The travel time and cost vary slightly depending on the transportation method you choose. Consider the pros and cons to find the best option for you.

Using discount tickets is also a great way to save money. Kin no Yu and Gin no Yu are iconic public bathhouses in Arima Onsen, each offering a unique type of hot spring water. (Please note that entry may be restricted during peak hours due to high demand.)

Kyoto is farther from Arima Onsen than Osaka, but a day trip is still possible.

There are two transportation options: highway bus and train. Surprisingly, the highway bus can be a quicker way to travel.

*Prices are as of January 2025

If you take the Expressway bus, the fare is almost the same as the train, but you can reach your destination faster without transfers.

However, since the number of buses is limited, it’s recommended to book your ticket in advance and plan your trip accordingly.

Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe have more than just Arima Onsen!

If you’re looking for a hot spring experience closer to the city, a hotel with onsen facilities, or a private onsen room, be sure to check out the articles below for recommendations.

▼Check this article▼

Best 7 Onsens (Hot Springs) Near Osaka (Introducing hot spring etiquette in Japan)

4 Private Onsen & Baths to enjoy in Osaka! Hot spring resorts to stay overnight or enjoy on a day trip