10 Best Kyoto Ryokan with Private Onsen
Immerse yourself in the rich culture and tradition of Japan by staying in a Ryokan, a type of traditional Japanese inn that has existed since the 8th century. Kyoto, the heart of Japan's history and culture, houses some of the best Ryokans in the country. But what sets the experience apart is the private Onsen - a hot spring bath that is a hallmark of the Ryokan tradition. This blog post is dedicated to helping you discover the top 10 Ryokans in Kyoto with private Onsens.
Each of these Ryokans offers not just comfort and luxury, but also a deep dive into Japanese culture. From tatami-matted rooms, yukata robes, to traditional Kaiseki meals, these Ryokans promise an authentic Japanese experience.
Embark on a captivating journey through Kyoto's Myoshinji Temple.
10 Best Ryokans with Private Onsen in Kyoto Prefecture
1. Tawaraya Ryokan
Tawaraya Ryokan is one of the oldest and most prestigious ryokans in Kyoto. It has been providing exceptional hospitality for over 300 years and has been favored by international celebrities and dignitaries. The ryokan offers a serene atmosphere with its traditional Japanese architecture, including tatami mats, shoji screens, and antique furnishings. Each room features a beautiful view of the Ryokan's tranquil garden.
The private onsen at Tawaraya Ryokan is a highlight for many guests. Fed by natural hot springs, the water is believed to have healing properties. The bath area is designed with traditional Japanese aesthetics in mind, offering a serene space where guests can relax and rejuvenate. It's an epitome of private luxury, allowing guests to enjoy the onsen experience at their own pace and privacy.
Address: 278, Nakahakusancho, Fuyacho-dori Anekoji-agaru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, 604-8094.
Access: Close to Kyotoshiyakushomae Station on the Tozai Line, about a 5-minute walk.
Visit the nearby Nijo Castle with this tour.
2. Hiiragiya Ryokan
Hiiragiya Ryokan, established in 1818, is a beacon of Japanese tradition and culture. This family-run establishment provides authentic Japanese hospitality, where each guest is treated with utmost care and respect. The rooms showcase traditional Japanese design, with tatami mats, futon beds, and a tokonoma (alcove) for displaying Japanese art.
Hiiragiya Ryokan also features private onsens that provide a soothing bathing experience. The onsen area is beautifully designed with natural materials, creating a peaceful and harmonious environment. The water is sourced from natural hot springs, rich in minerals and perfect for relaxation after a long day of sightseeing.
Address: Nakahakusancho Fuyacho Anekoji-agaru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto 604-8094, Kyoto Prefecture.
Access: Easily accessible by public transportation, close to Itami and Kobe Airports.
Discover the flavours of Kyoto with a guided walk through the historic Nishiki Market.
3. Sumiya Ryokan
Sumiya Ryokan is a historic ryokan located in the Shimabara district of Kyoto. Known for its refined hospitality and beautiful architecture, Sumiya is a cultural asset of Japan. The rooms are spacious and elegantly designed, featuring traditional Japanese aesthetics such as tatami floors, sliding doors, and wooden baths.
Experience the authentic charm of Kyoto on this unforgettable journey.
The private onsen at Sumiya Ryokan offers a unique and luxurious bathing experience. Surrounded by a beautiful garden, the bath allows guests to feel close to nature while they soak in the mineral-rich hot spring water. The tranquil atmosphere and the warm, soothing water make the onsen at Sumiya a perfect place for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Address: 431, Shirakabecho, Fuyacho-dori Sanjo-sagaru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, 604-8075.
Access: It's conveniently located about 6 minutes on foot from Kyotoshiyakushomae Station on the Tozai Line.
4. Seikoro Ryokan
Seikoro Ryokan, established in 1831, is a traditional Japanese inn located in Kyoto. It's a 7-minute drive from JR Kyoto Station, making it conveniently accessible for travelers. The ryokan offers traditional Japanese-style accommodations with its tatami mats and sliding doors. It's a beautifully decorated classic Ryokan that is within walking distance of both downtown and the Higashiyama sightseeing district.
The private onsen at Seikoro Ryokan offers a soothing and authentic Japanese bathing experience. Guests have access to a public bath that provides a tranquil space for relaxation. The onsen, like the ryokan itself, embraces traditional Japanese aesthetics, creating an environment that allows guests to experience the age-old onsen culture in its purest form.
Address: 467 Nishitachibana-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto, 605-0907.
Access: Located a 4-minute walk from Kiyomizugojo Station on the Keihan Line. Also, it's a 7-minute drive from JR Kyoto Station.
Discover panoramic vistas from Kyoto Tower's observation deck.
5. Hoshinoya Kyoto
Hoshinoya Kyoto is a luxurious ryokan that perfectly blends traditional Japanese culture with modern comfort. The ryokan is known for its serene surroundings and exceptional service. Each room in Hoshinoya Kyoto is designed to provide guests with a peaceful retreat, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The private onsen at Hoshinoya Kyoto offers guests a unique opportunity to unwind in a tranquil setting. The onsen is fed by natural hot springs, rich in minerals believed to promote health and well-being. The secluded location of the onsen, surrounded by nature, enhances the overall bathing experience, providing guests with a sense of peace and tranquility.
Address: 11-2 Arashiyamagenrokuzancho, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto, 616-0007.
Access: Approximately a 10-minute walk from Arashiyama Station on the Hankyu Line. Additionally, guests can travel to the hotel by boat from Togetsukyo Bridge.
Embark on a thrilling journey of discovery with our Arashiyama Walking Tour!
6. Gion Hatanaka
Gion Hatanaka is a charming ryokan located in the heart of Kyoto's historic Gion district. The ryokan is renowned for its traditional architecture and hospitality, offering guests an authentic Japanese experience. Each room in Gion Hatanaka is meticulously designed to showcase Japanese aesthetics, featuring tatami mats, shoji screens, and traditional artwork.
The private onsen at Gion Hatanaka provides a soothing bathing experience. The onsen is designed in a traditional Japanese style, creating a peaceful environment for guests to relax and rejuvenate. The natural hot spring water used in the onsen is believed to have therapeutic properties, providing both physical and mental relaxation.
Address: 505 Yasaka Shrine Minamimonmae, Gion, Kyoto 605-0074.
Access: Gion Hatanaka is located in the Higashiyama district, near the Gion area. It's approximately 1.3 km from the center of Kyoto and 39.2 km from Osaka Itami Airport. It's within walking distance of Gion Shijo Station on the Keihan line or Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu line.
Visit Gion, the traditional district of Kyoto.
7. Yoshida Sanso
Yoshida Sanso is a historic ryokan located in Kyoto. Known for its beautiful architecture and refined hospitality, Yoshida Sanso offers a unique and culturally rich experience. The rooms are elegantly designed, featuring traditional Japanese aesthetics such as tatami floors and sliding doors.
The private onsen at Yoshida Sanso offers a luxurious bathing experience. Surrounded by a beautiful garden, the bath allows guests to feel close to nature while they soak in the mineral-rich hot spring water. The tranquil atmosphere and the warm, soothing water make the onsen at Yoshida Sanso a perfect place for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Address: 59-1 Yoshida Shimo-oji-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8314, Japan.
Access: The ryokan is a 15-minute walk from the Ginkakuji Michi bus stop, served by Kyoto bus No. 5, and a 20-minute taxi ride from Kyoto Station.
Witness the sublime Ginkakuji Temple, a testament to Kyoto's aesthetic refinement.
8. Ryokan Kinoe
Ryokan Kinoe is located in the heart of Kyoto, offering easy access to the city's must-see destinations. This ryokan features traditional Japanese-style rooms with tatami (woven-straw) floors and futon beds. Each room is also equipped with a private bathroom and a flat-screen TV. One of the unique features of Ryokan Kinoe is its ability to cater to a diverse range of dietary requirements, including vegetarian and halal meals.
The private onsen at Ryokan Kinoe provides a serene escape for guests. The bath is filled with natural hot spring water, rich in minerals believed to promote health and well-being. The onsen area is designed with traditional Japanese aesthetics, creating a calming environment for guests to relax and rejuvenate.
Address: 44-8 Bishamon-Cho, Higashioji-Dori, Kyoto 605-0812.
Access: Ryokan Kinoe is centrally located in Kyoto, just a 5-minute walk from the Gion area. It is approximately 0.8 miles from the center of Kyoto and about 24.3 miles from Osaka Itami Airport. The property is also within walking distance of Yasaka Shrine and Kiyomizu Temple.
Experience the enchanting world of Gion, Kyoto's historic geisha district.
9. Tamahan Ryokan
Tamahan Ryokan is a hidden gem in the historic district of Kyoto. This ryokan is known for its warm hospitality and traditional Japanese architecture. The rooms feature tatami mats, sliding doors, and wooden baths. Tamahan Ryokan's unique feature is its location, being situated in the heart of a preserved district, giving guests a true sense of traditional Japanese living.
At Tamahan Ryokan, guests can soak in the private onsen that is designed to provide a tranquil bathing experience. The onsen is fed by natural hot springs, making it a soothing place to unwind after a day of sightseeing. The onsen is designed in the traditional Japanese style, providing a serene space for guests to enjoy the therapeutic properties of the hot spring water.
Address: 477 Shimogawara-machi, Shimogawara-dori Yasakatoriimae-sagaru, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan.
Access: Tamahan is located in the Higashiyama district, close to downtown Kyoto and various famous sightseeing spots. It's about a 10-minute walk from Yasui bus stop and a 15-minute taxi ride from Kyoto Station.
Embark on a captivating Higashiyama rickshaw tour.
10. Gion Fukuzumi
Gion Fukuzumi is a traditional Japanese ryokan located in the Gion district of Kyoto. This ryokan offers a comfortable and authentic Japanese experience with its tatami-matted rooms and classic Japanese cuisine. Gion Fukuzumi is known for its evening maiko (apprentice geisha) performances, offering guests a unique glimpse into the traditional art form.
The private onsen at Gion Fukuzumi offers a relaxing and peaceful bathing experience. The bath is filled with natural hot spring water that is believed to have healing properties. The onsen area is designed with simplicity and tranquility in mind, providing a serene space where guests can unwind and rejuvenate. The warm, soothing water and the tranquil environment make the onsen at Gion Fukuzumi a perfect place for relaxation.
Address: 437 Rinkacho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto 605-0062, Kyoto Prefecture.
Access: Gion Fukuzumi is located in the heart of Kyoto's historical Gion district, making it easily accessible to various famous historical sites like Kiyomizu Temple and Yasaka Shrine. The ryokan is well situated for both walking and public transportation.
Admire the striking architecture and spiritual ambiance of Yasaka Shrine.
Kyoto Ryokan Retreat: The Ultimate Onsen Experience
Our journey through the 10 best Ryokans with private onsens in Kyoto has shown us that there is more to these traditional Japanese inns than meets the eye. They offer not just a moment of relaxation, but a deep dive into a culture steeped in tradition and tranquility.
From luxurious retreats to charming historic establishments, each ryokan tells its own unique story. So, as you plan your trip to Kyoto, consider including one of these ryokans on your itinerary. It's an experience that will enrich your travel memories and leave you yearning for more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Ryokans have private onsens?
Yes, many ryokans do provide private onsens. These are typically smaller onsens rooms attached to a ryokan or hotel. The benefit of a private onsen is that you can relax and enjoy the hot spring bath at your own pace, without the need to share the space with other guests. Some ryokans even offer rooms with open-air baths for a unique experience.
Is it worth staying in a Ryokan in Kyoto?
Absolutely! Staying in a ryokan in Kyoto offers an authentic Japanese experience. From traditional tatami floors to Japanese-style suites, ryokans provide a glimpse into the cultural capital's history and traditions. Many Ryokans are situated in prime locations, offering easy access to popular attractions such as the Kyoto Imperial Palace, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and the Kyoto National Museum.
How much is an onsen in Kyoto?
The cost of visiting an onsen in Kyoto can vary greatly depending on the type of facility and the services offered. Some public onsens may charge as little as 500 yen (around $5) for admission, while private onsens in luxury ryokans can cost several hundred dollars per night. However, these often include additional amenities like a traditional Japanese breakfast, spacious rooms, and sometimes even a private open-air bath.
Is a ryokan the same as an onsen?
No, a ryokan and an onsen are not the same. A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn, while an onsen is a hot spring facility. Many ryokans have their own onsen facilities, but not all do. Conversely, not all onsens are part of ryokans - there are also standalone public onsens that anyone can visit.
Can you wear clothes in private onsen?
Typically, bathing in an onsen is done nude, and this applies to private onsens as well. However, since the onsen is private, you have the freedom to wear a bathing suit if that makes you more comfortable. It's important to note that you should rinse off before entering the onsen to keep the water clean.
Can I wear tampon to onsen?
It's generally considered acceptable to use a tampon while bathing in an onsen if you're menstruating. However, it's best to avoid going to a public onsen during heavy flow days out of consideration for other guests. In a private onsen, the decision is up to your personal comfort and discretion.
Can couples go to the onsen together?
Yes, couples can go to an onsen together, especially if they opt for a private onsen. Many ryokans offer private onsens or family onsens where couples, families, or friends can enjoy the hot spring bath together in privacy.
Can you drink in a private onsen?
While it's not uncommon for people to enjoy a drink while relaxing in a private onsen, moderation is key. Overindulging in alcohol can lead to dehydration, particularly when combined with the heat of the onsen. Always ensure you're drinking plenty of water and avoid soaking for too long to prevent overheating.
