Arima Onsen (Kobe City, Hyogo Pref.)

This "first bath of the year ceremony" is conducted on the 2nd of January every year. It has been said that the priests Gyoki and Ninsai were responsible for the restoration of the Arima Hot Springs, and this ceremony is dedicated to them. The women bath attendants knead the hot water to cool it down and prayers are said for the prosperity of the hot springs.

Gyoki (701-756):

A high ranking priest of the 6th century, who worked for the propagation of Buddhism in the Kinki region

Ninsai:

A high ranking priest who worked for the restoration of the Arima Hot Springs after the flood disaster of 1097

Combining the spirit of the Japanese Tea Ceremony, considered a good example of the culture of Japan, and the beauty of the Arima Hot Springs, this ceremony is conducted to remember the famous 14th century Chief Advisor to the Emperor of Japan, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who was known to love the hot springs.

Outdoor tea ceremonies are also held on the 2nd and 3rd of November every year at the Zuihoji Temple Park, under the colorful autumn leaves.

Nodate:

Outdoor tea ceremonies, an enjoyable custom in Japan

We are promoting the construction of tourist spots and the preservation of the old city streets and atmosphere of the central part of the town, which contains the hot springs source well and many historic Buddhist temples and Shinto Shrines.

The photograph on the left shows the Tenjin Onsen, which was designed employing the shape of a tea kettle used by Toyotomi Hideyoshi.

There are nine temples and shrines in Arima, making it a showcase for the atmosphere of Jaapan and the history of the Arima area, such as a Nenbutsu Buddhist temple with a Sal tree aged over 300 years and Zenpuku-ji Temple with its 270-year-old weeping cherry trees.