The History and Significance of Arima Onsenji Temple

#JanuaryGoodPlaces2025 Onsen-dera Temple is located in Arima Onsen and is a famous temple built by the monk Gyoki during the Nara period. As one of the oldest hot springs in Japan, Arima Onsen has been favored by people since ancient times, and the Onsen Temple is the spiritual symbol of this land. The temple was built not only to honor the gods Omi Takamikoto and Sukunahikona-mikoto who discovered Arima Onsen, but also to carry the local residents' belief in the healing power of the hot springs. Onsenji Temple is considered a sacred place that protects Arima Onsen, attracting countless believers and tourists to make pilgrimages and pray for health and well-being. In addition, the architectural style of the hot spring temple blends with the surrounding natural environment, showing the profound heritage of Japanese traditional culture. The quiet atmosphere of the temple calms the mind and makes it an ideal place for meditation and reflection. In general, Onsen Temple is not only a cultural symbol of Arima Onsen, but also an important place connecting history and modernity, nature and humanity, and has a profound impact on local social and cultural life.