[Access] From Saginuma Station (Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line), take a 5-minute bus ride and get off at the “Chu-Arima” stop. The inn is located right by the stop.
[Fee] 1400円
[Rakuten Travel Webpage] Arima Ryoyo Onsen Ryokan

I’d wanted to visit this hot spring for a long time. However, it felt a bit too close to home to justify a “dedicated trip,” and the price was a little steep, so I kept putting it off. But then, it was featured in SALUS, a free lifestyle magazine distributed along the Tokyu lines. After seeing it, my wife—who rarely makes such requests—said she wanted to go. I figured this was the perfect opportunity, so we decided to check it out.

As soon as we stepped through the entrance, the atmosphere immediately made the meaning of the inn’s name clear. The reception had a clinical, hospital-like feel, yet the stacks of yellow towels gave off unmistakable hot spring vibes. The curtain at the bathhouse entrance was inscribed with the words “Reikousen” (Miraculous Mineral Spring). It sounded like it would be incredibly effective.

Entering the bath area, I was immediately struck by the cloudy, brownish water. A sign asked guests not to use the water for kakeyu (the customary rinsing before entering), so I washed my body thoroughly in the shower first. On the wall, there was a brief explanation: the clear, cold water trickling from a lion’s mouth was the actual source. To avoid wasting such a precious cold mineral spring, kakeyu was prohibited. Apparently, a golden film forms on the surface for the very first bathers in the morning. I tried a little taste of the spring water from the lion’s mouth; it had a very strong, metallic iron scent.

The place was filled with what seemed to be regulars. For some reason, they were cupping the spring water in their hands and pouring it over their heads—I wonder if it’s good for the hair? The texture of the water felt a bit “kishi-kishi” (squeaky/tight) on the skin, but it kept me incredibly warm even after getting out. It also left my skin feeling slightly moist and smooth. It might be great for people with dry skin like mine.

I didn’t get a close look at the details, but it seems to be a hot spring with a surprisingly long history. The regulars seemed to take their time, alternating between soaking and resting. One woman, who had been coming here for four years, remarked, “I couldn’t live without this place.” Hearing her talk about how her poor circulation had completely vanished, my wife was nodding in total agreement. Still, on the way home, we talked about how it’s a bit far for a regular commute—and, of course, there’s that price tag.