Arima Onsen

Arima Onsen (有馬温泉) is a hot spring located in southern Kakogawa Estuary in Harima, Japan.

History[]

In 1582, the Kakushiba ikki members Fujibayashi Naoe and Yasuke ventured towards the onsen after talking with monk-turned-demon hunter Mamushi about "yōkai" rumors around the land. There, they saw a man dressed as the "Daitengu" rambling while practicing with his katana. Upon confronting him, the man attacked them but was ultimately killed. They then acquired a katana Daitengu's Feather from the man's personal effects.^[1] Later, they found and opened a chest near the top of the onsen and recovered a kusarigama Demon Tooth. At some point, Naoe returned and drew a sumi-e of multiple macaques bathing in the spring.^[2]

Known as one of the oldest hot springs in the country, Arima Onsen was very well-known especially in the circles of multiple Emperors and aristocrats. In fact, Toyotomi Hideyoshi visited the spring at least nine times, twice in 1585, and was inspired to build hot springs at his own residence.^[3]