Our most expensive stay - Nakanobo Zuien at Arima onsen

 

If you're looking for a luxurious and serene escape in Japan, Nakanobo Zuien in Arima Onsen is a destination that truly delivers. Our stay here was the most indulgent of our trip, and every detail—from the service to the onsen—was thoughtfully curated to create a deeply relaxing experience.

From the moment we arrived, the hospitality was impeccable. The staff greeted us warmly and made us feel at home instantly. One charming detail: while we were always offered the escalator, the staff would take the stairs—an understated but touching gesture of service. All guests are also offered the traditional matcha tea upon arrival. 

Our room aptly named AKATA was huge, spotlessly clean, and incredibly comfortable. It had a modern Japanese aesthetic with a private open-air bath and a stunning view of the surrounding mountains. There were so many complimentary drinks provided that we couldn’t even finish them all!

The onsen facilities were a highlight. There are both indoor and outdoor baths, with Ginsen (silver) and Kinsen (gold) waters. The gold onsen, rich in iron, has a distinctive brown hue and is said to promote fertility. The baths are gender-separated and rotate daily so guests can enjoy both scenic views.

There’s also a private gin bath for couples, available on a first-come, first-served basis. We did manage to try it and it’s a lovely option for those seeking privacy.

After the onsen, snacks and Asahi beer are served in the evening (around 4 PM). Unfortunately, when I went back at 11 PM, the beer was already out of stock—so go early!

Dinner was a beautifully presented kaiseki meal, and since it was our anniversary, we were treated to a complimentary photo and a serving of cold sake—which was absolutely delicious.

We opted for a wagyu and Kobe beef course, served with seasonal vegetables. Each dish was a work of art, showcasing seasonal ingredients and local flavors.  The chef presented three different cuts of beef, lightly seared to perfection. While the experience was memorable, in hindsight, we thought teppanyaki might have been a better choice for showcasing the beef’s flavor.

We opt for wagyu and kobe beef with side vegetables which they say they have lightly seared the beef. they presented to us 3 diff types of cuts.  but on hindsight maybe teppanyaki will be better option. for breakfast, there are choices and i choose the beef sukiyaki while hubs choose the cod fish version. i think beef is better of the two. 

For breakfast, we had a choice between beef sukiyaki and grilled cod fish. I chose the sukiyaki and my husband had the cod—both were excellent, but I’d say the beef had the edge.

There’s a cozy lounge area stocked with snacks and drinks throughout the day, perfect for a quiet break. The atmosphere is calm and refined, making it a great place to unwind between activities.

The ryokan also offers a free shuttle from Arima Onsen Station. 

Nakanobo Zuien is more than just a ryokan—it’s a full sensory experience that rejuvenates the body and soul.. From the thoughtful service to the luxurious amenities and unforgettable meals, it was the perfect place to celebrate our anniversary. Whether you're visiting Arima for the first time or returning for a deeper experience, this ryokan is a top-tier choice.