"We had a wonderful stay at Arima Grand. One of our favorite parts of our trip to Japan. I highly recommend staying in a ryokan at least for a short time when you visit Japan. You are provided sized yakutas that you wear during the stay. The onsen is beautiful and not crowded. By staying here we felt a deeper connection to the Japanese culture. The included 9 course omakse is heavenly if you are open minded to try new foods including several raw dishes and usually ends with a Kobe beef entree. The included breakfast buffet with Japanese, Chinese and American items was among the best I have ever experienced. Our room was a suite with Western and Japanese elements including tatami floors with futons and elevated 2 twin beds, a separate bidet toilet from the shower area, and an included unlimited alcoholic and non alcoholic mini bar. The included meals, onsen, rooms and yakutas are WELL worth the higher cost. Service was fantastic. We enjoyed the game room for the kids and the gift shop as well. The only downside was that it is a bit off the beaten path from Kobe but we used it as a home base from our day trips to Kyoto and Osaka. Day trips on the Shinkansen from Kobe were $10 and 15-20 minute rides. It was a true luxury to be able to come home to a 9 course dinner followed by a dip in the onsen before bed. 10 out of 10!"