Arima Onsen (the oldest hot spring in Japan)

Arima Onsen, in the mountains north of Kobe, is considered one of the three best onsens in Japan and the oldest in the country, with documented references since the 7th century. What makes Arima unique in the world is that its waters belong to two radically different types: the Kin-no-yu (Gold Bath), of a rusty orange colour and rich in iron, sodium and radon, and the Gin-no-yu (Silver Bath), colourless and carbonated, effervescent like mineral water. Both springs are rare in the world and nowhere else on the planet do they coexist so close together. The public Kin-no-yu costs 650 ¥ and the Gin-no-yu 550 ¥. Several ryokan also offer day access to their more luxurious private baths (from 1.550 ¥). The town of Arima has cobbled lanes with craft shops, sugar-cane sweets and plum sake. It is reached from Sannomiya by direct train (Kobe Dentetsu line) in 30 minutes or by bus in 40 minutes. It is essential to book accommodation or day bathing on a weekend.