If you're visiting Arima Onsen and don't want to go from place to place for different baths, I highly recommend heading straight to Taiko no Yu!
Here, you can enjoy Arima's famous Kinsen and Ginsen springs all in one visit. The Kinsen spring is also one of Japan's most highly concentrated natural hot springs. It warms your whole body and feels so good. There are also 26 different types of baths, including open-air baths, rock baths, Goemon baths, carbonated baths, herbal baths, and stone saunas where you can slowly unwind.
My personal favorite was the open-air bath. Soaking while letting my mind go blank was truly soothing. If you have limited time but want to experience the appeal of Arima Onsen all at once, this place is well worth visiting. You really won't want to leave after your soak!
Taiko no Yu | Review by 王小鈞
Other Reviews by 王小鈞
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Sumiyoshi Taisha
The head shrine of 2300 Sumiyoshi shrines nationwide, revered as the god of cleansing evil spirits, safe voyage and poetry. It is said that Osaka’s summer festival begins with Aizen Festival, via Tenjin Festival and ends with Sumiyoshi Festival.
Besides the lively Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori areas, Osaka also has quite a few places steeped in history. Sumiyoshi Taisha is one attraction that's well worth a visit. On my first visit, the red arched bridge immediately caught my eye. The moment I crossed it and entered the shrine, the atmosphere around me became quiet, completely different from the bustle of the city center.
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Nankin-machi (Nanjing town)
"Nankin-machi" (Japanese name for Nanjing town) in Kobe is one of the three best Chinatowns in Japan, along with Yokohama Chinatown and Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown. There are more than 100 Chinese restaurants, Japanese and Western restaurants, grocery stores, general stores, and many other stores lining the streets.
One place you definitely shouldn't miss when visiting Kobe is the exotic Nankin-machi!
It's one of the largest Chinatowns in western Japan, and the streets are lined with lots of tempting foods, like soup dumplings, pork buns, Peking duck, sesame balls, and more. Walking around and eating really gives you that travel feeling. I especially recommend not rushing to find a restaurant and sit down. Just stroll around and snack, buying whatever looks good and slowly taking in the crowds and energy.
Even though you're in Kobe, Japan, Nankin-machi has such a strong Chinese atmosphere that it feels both familiar and new. It's lively during the day and even more atmospheric when the lights come on at night, making it a great stop in Kobe for strolling, taking photos, and finding something to eat. -
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Setsugetsuka Main Store
A renowned teppanyaki restaurant where highly skilled chefs grill carefully selected Kobe beef right before your eyes. The restaurant primarily sources premium, female Kobe beef that is carefully raised for over 30 months and has never calved. This exquisite beef is distinguished by its rich color and delicate marbling, and is further enhanced through extended aging, removing excess moisture and concentrating its flavor.
If you’re visiting Kobe and want an unforgettable Kobe beef experience, Setsugetsuka is definitely worth considering. It’s near Sannomiya Station, so it’s very convenient. Although it’s not cheap, since you’re already in Kobe, it’s worth treating yourself once in a while!
Sitting at the teppan counter and watching the chef prepare Kobe beef and fresh seafood right in front of you, every step—from slicing and grilling the meat to finally tasting it—feels ceremonial. The beef is incredibly tender, and the aroma of the marbling slowly spreads in your mouth. With just simple seasoning, it’s already unbelievably delicious.
There’s a reason it has a Michelin star. The entire dining experience isn’t just about eating delicious food; it’s more like a feast for the eyes and palate.
Although your wallet may hurt a little afterward, when you think back on the flavor, you’ll still feel, “Since I’m already here, it’s worth it!” -
