Best Ryokans in Japan

Here Are the 12 Best Ryokans in Japan (Hot Springs Included!)

A Guide to the Best Places to Bathe in Both Tradition and Luxury

The Land of the Rising Sun has always been synonymous with cutting-edge technology, bustling cities, and centuries-old traditions. While skyscrapers, neon signs, and high-speed trains are the hallmarks of Japan's contemporary visage, it is the ryokans – traditional, rustic Japanese inns – that offer a true immersion into the country's rich culture and history. Stretching back to the Edo period, ryokans provide visitors with a sensory experience – from tatami-matted rooms to communal baths, traditional kaiseki meals, and the renowned omotenashi (Japanese hospitality).

Given their significance, choosing the best ryokans in Japan is a challenging feat, especially if you’re a first-time visitor. This guide will delve into the crème de la crème of these establishments, ensuring that your journey through Japan is bathed in authenticity.

The Origin and Significance of Ryokans

Before we dive head-first into our handpicked selection, let's take a moment to appreciate the origin and importance of ryokans in Japanese culture. Established in the 17th century, these inns were initially resting places for travelers journeying on the nation's highways. Offering food, shelter, and relaxation, ryokans quickly became the epitome of Japanese hospitality.

What sets a ryokan apart from a standard hotel is its architecture, ambiance, and offerings. The meticulous detail in the rooms, from the straw-mat flooring (tatami) to the sliding paper doors, is a testament to Japanese craftsmanship. The practice of removing one’s shoes before entering, wearing yukata (a light cotton robe), and sleeping on futons laid out in the evening all contribute to an authentic experience. Another highlight is the communal hot spring baths or 'onsen,' which are rich in cultural significance and health benefits.

Without further ado, read on to learn about the very best ryokans in Japan.

1. Jinya-Inn

Nestled at the foot of the Tanzawa mountain lies the Jinya Inn, a sanctuary where nature's splendor meets history's grandeur. 

The story of Jinya begins in 1918, conceived as the 'Hiratsuka garden,' a lavish villa of the illustrious Mitsui group. With its abundant freshwater and healing hot springs, this locale became a coveted retreat. This region, once teeming with the villas of politicians, was the political heartbeat of the nation. The ryokan’s lobby echoes its rich history with displays of historic relics, including famous armor and weapons and calligraphic masterpieces by iconic Japanese chess maestros.

Upon your arrival, the rhythmic beats of the Jinya drum will resonate, a symbol of the region’s distinct brand of hospitality. Each season paints its own tale in the eight-acre traditional Japanese garden, urging you to pause, reflect, and imagine the myriad stories woven throughout this ryokan’s enduring history.

2. Araya Totoan

At the heart of a bustling hot-spring resort area, Araya Totoan stands as a portal to a bygone era, offering a haven of serenity reminiscent of a secluded mountain villa. 

The hot spring waters of Yamashiro are sourced mere meters below the ground, offering relaxation and rejuvenation. This ryokan draws the largest quantity of water among the area’s hotels, a staggering 100,000 liters per day. 

Explore the garden between soaks. It dates to the 17th century and embodies the timeless "yamakuro-chisen-shiki" style, a hallmark of traditional Japanese aesthetics. Curated with profound intent, the landscape showcases majestic trees and fieldstones from across Japan.

Finally, the local cuisine is the perfect complement to Yamashiro’s natural beauty and strong cultural roots. Enjoy simple, authentic dishes showcasing each ingredient and served on locally crafted ware, making every meal an experience of art, history, and flavor.

3. Ginzan Onsen Fujiya

The Fujiya Inn lies in scenic Ginzan Onsen and offers understated luxury for those seeking respite from the daily grind (or those simply trying to capture the country’s essence). The minimalist design philosophy strips away embellishments to focus on the pure essentials, relying on a soothing color palette, balanced proportions, and carefully curated décor.

The inn’s eight rooms all face the Ginzan River and their walls are covered in handmade paper, known as washi. Five distinctly themed baths are open 24 hours for your soaking pleasure. Finish your day with a kaiseki-style course dinner of traditional Japanese dishes made from local products.

4. Zaborin

Designed by an internationally acclaimed architect, this contemporary ryokan, Zaborin, is perched amidst the serene landscapes of Hanazono in Hokkaido. It takes the best of the age-old traditions of authentic Japanese inns and melds them with the luxuries of the modern world, making it arguably the most beautiful ryokan in Japan. Nonetheless, at its heart lies 'omotenashi', the essence of Japanese hospitality, which values each and every guest.

The mantra here is "Breathe. Soak. Savor." Focus on those words as you enjoy the private indoor onsen or the open-air hot spring bath. Zaborin also offers award-winning 'kita kaiseki' cuisine, a northern twist on the ancient Kyoto kaiseki-style dining. An ode to local produce and the changing seasons, this multi-course feast is a symphony of flavors and textures.

5. Gora Kadan
This ryokan, Gora Kadan, was once the cherished summer villa of an esteemed member of the Imperial lineage, making it the perfect place to spoil yourself on a royal level.

The legacy of its imperial roots is palpable from the moment you set foot here. Its architecture, a beautiful amalgamation of traditional Japanese elements and modern design nuances, is a visual treat. But the essence of Gora Kadan is in its soul-soothing offerings: generously flowing natural hot springs, award-winning Japanese cuisine, and enchanting garden.

Indulge in an authentic kaiseki dining experience. The ryokan's premier dining establishment, Kaiseki Kaidan, promises an unforgettable gastronomic journey. 

For a more intimate setting, book the exclusive Japanese-styled room. It opens up on the garden for a tranquil backdrop that even an Emperor would find respite in.

6. Nishimuraya Honkan

Experience the very essence of Japan's cultural and aesthetic legacy at Nishimuraya Honkan ryokan in Kinosaki Onsen – a place where tradition meets opulence.

Rest your well-traveled legs in a room boasting authentic Japanese design, including tatami mat floors, sliding paper doors, and wooden terraces overlooking garden vistas. Think of it not just as a living space, but a carefully curated experience, designed to express beauty both within and without.

Nishimuraya Honkan's gardens are an ever-evolving tableau of Japan's iconic four seasons, each with their own unique beauty, from cherry blossoms in spring to fall colors and winter snowscapes.

This ryokan is also home to an architectural marvel – the Hiratakan Annex building. Built by Masaya Hirata, a master of sukiya-style architecture, it evokes the elegant simplicity of Japanese tea houses.

7. Wanosato

Located in the southern fringes of Takayama City in mountainous Gifu Prefecture, Wanosato stands as an ode to Japan's rich history and Hida’s natural splendor. This ryokan immerses its guests in the age-old Japanese appreciation of "wabi-sabi," or the beauty in transience and imperfection.

You’re not just meant to relax here but to embark on a sensory journey. Savor each season through traditional cooking and seasonal ingredients, all locally sourced – a culinary experience that captures the soul of the region.

The ryokan boasts four distinctive suites across four separate gassho-zukuri-style buildings. Each suite has its own unique design, from VIP rooms to spaces adorned with exquisite Hida wood and traditional Shunkei Nuri lacquerware.

The area’s natural beauty is hard to miss. One of the ryokan's most striking features is its single-glass windows, which look out over graceful Hida as the Miyagawa River meanders through the estate's garden. If that view proves too tempting, head out and explore the ryokan’s 45,000 sqm of pristine property before indulging in yet another soak.

8. Besho Shasha

Nestled in the highlands to the north of the towering Mt. Fuji, Besho Shasha offers awe-inspiring views of the legendary mountain, reflected in its commitment to traditional Japanese architecture and aesthetics.

This ryokan is more than just a visual treat. It is a gateway to the genuine essence of Japan. Relish in the time-honored tradition of onsen baths complemented by exquisite Japanese feasts, capturing the flavors of the changing seasons.

Witness the majesty of Mt. Fuji as you relax in the spacious public baths or allow the natural hot spring waters to rejuvenate your senses. Besho Shasha takes pride in its variety of bathing experiences, including open-air baths on the 10th roof floor, with panoramic views of Mt. Fuji, and the luxury of private open-air baths in select guest rooms.

For newcomers to the onsen culture, Besho Shasha introduces its Foot Bath journey. This beginner-friendly onsen indulgence lets visitors soak their feet, feeling the warmth and healing of the spring waters, all while taking in breathtaking vistas of Mt. Fuji and the surrounding landscape, preserving their modesty.

9. Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku

The name Takaragawa, or ‘river acquiring treasure,’ draws inspiration from a beautiful nearby river. It was once a resource for minerals, but today the hot springs are the real treasure here.

Soak your weary feet in the healing waters of numerous public baths set in a lush natural setting next to rushing rapids and feel the history in this storied location. Punctuate your day with traditional Japanese meals prepared with care and explore the mountainous area’s natural beauty. Short on time? Follow the instructions on their website to make a day trip here from Tokyo via public transit, or keep the travel experience stress-free with a private car service.

10. Cyashitsu Ryokan Asakusa

Believe it or not, the best ryokans in Japan aren’t all in the countryside. Tokyo’s historic heart of Asakusa is a seamless blend of history and modernity, much like a ryokan itself. Tucked away in this district is the Cyashitsu Ryokan Asakusa, just 300m from the famous Asakusa Fujisama Shrine. It offers unparalleled access to the area’s many sights, but also a unique opportunity to experience a ryokan without leaving the nation’s capital.

This ryokan masterfully marries traditional Japanese aesthetics with contemporary city comforts. The rooms are adorned with classic tatami flooring and lantern lighting balanced by sleek, modern bathrooms. A standout feature is the open-air rooftop onsen bath, accentuated with hinoki wood, which gives off a therapeutic aroma when warmed, amplifying the bath's restorative qualities. 

11. Satoyama Jujo

With 13 meticulously designed guest rooms, an invigorating hot spring bath, harmonious communal spaces, and the critically acclaimed restaurant Sanaburi, Satoyama Jujo is hands down one of the best ryokans in Japan.

Against a gorgeous natural backdrop in Minami-uonuma, this robust, rustic abode looks straight out of a fairy tale. Past its weather-defying exterior, designer furniture and contemporary art await you.

This ryokan isn’t just about relaxing in a pretty place – it’s a place to find inspiration amidst divine luxury while soaking in the bucolic beauty of its surroundings. Whether it’s the food, architecture, environment, or art, something about this place will give you exactly the perspective you’re looking for.

12. Byaku Narai

Enter old-world Japan in Narai-juku, the longest-standing post town on Japan's Nakasendo route with a history spanning 400 years. At its heart lies BYAKU Narai’s Inn, a testament to Japan's rich history, situated amongst nearly 200-year-old buildings. This historic spot was once bustling with travelers, known as Narai Sengen, translating to "1000 houses".

For a truly immersive experience, bathe in the SAN-SEN, a large public bath that draws its rejuvenating waters from the Narai-juku mountain spring. This spring, the very origin of the Shinano River, has for ages sustained the town and its inhabitants. And as you soak, find further solace in the bathhouse, meticulously crafted from the five hallmark trees of the Kiso region: Hinoki, Sawara cypress, Hiba, Umbrella pine, and Arborvitae.

Soak Up the Real Japan

Ryokans are much more than accommodations – they are a cultural voyage, a tangible connection to Japan's illustrious past, and a showcase of its timeless hospitality. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or exploring Japan for the first time, a stay in one of these traditional inns will undoubtedly be a cherished memory, one where you can both learn and experience the country’s deep culture and history. 

So, when mapping out your journey through Japan, ensure that a ryokan experience is high on your list. Get out of the city to see the stunning countryside, soak in ancient, healing waters, and eat the freshest local food. But, if you just can’t fit that into your itinerary, you can still get the ryokan experience in major metro areas. Wherever you indulge, just remember to relax!

For the ultimate stress-free experience while exploring Japan, turn to TokudAw for hand-crafted private tours, created around you.