The plane tickets to Japan are booked, and your schedule is all planned, but where do you stay? How about a Kyoto ryokan with private onsen for the ultimate relaxation experience?
That long-awaited trip to Japan is finally happening and Kyoto is on the itinerary. But with so much to see and do, how do you begin to decide where to stay? What’s the best location, price, and experience?
You’re in the right place. This article will guide you through 20 of the best ryokan to stay at during your visit to Japan’s former capital city to make your stay an unforgettable one. Be sure to also check out my 3-day Kyoto itinerary and if you’re heading to Tokyo, my 5-day Tokyo itinerary.
Whatever kind of Japan you’re looking for, Kyoto is filled with rich Japanese culture, history, fun and interesting corners to visit, and unique experiences to have.
Whether it’s modern or traditional, luxurious, or simple guest rooms, a few nights in a ryokan on a tatami mat and your own private Japanese onsen might be just what your trip needs to finish it off.
As one of the best-preserved cities in Japan, Kyoto is a very popular place to visit. The choice of where to stay can be a tough one, but that’s why you’re here. Let’s take a look at the 20 Best Kyoto Ryokan with Private Onsen in 2024, broken down by area to include:
Top 3 Picks: Best Kyoto Ryokan with Private Onsen
#1 TOP PICK
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Suiran – A Luxury Collection Hotel
✔️ Indoor & outdoor
hot spring baths
✔️ Gift shop, fitness center, spa, & restaurant
✔️ Private spa rooms available
#2 PICK
Nazuna Kyoto Tsubaki St.
✔️ Traditional Japanese breakfast
✔️ Private semi-open-air baths
✔️ Kimono rental available
#3 PICK
Kyoto Nanzenji Ryokan Yachiyo
✔️ Private semi-open-air baths
✔️ Beautiful Japanese gardens
✔️ Free bicycle hire
20 Best Ryokan with Private Onsen in 2024
This page contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Downtown Kyoto
1. Kamishichiken Oku
Rating: 8.9 | Location: Kamigyo Ward | View on Booking.com
This traditional and highly rated onsen ryokan located in one of Kyoto’s oldest teahouse districts offers guests a range of services and experiences right in the heart of the city.
Guests can roam the grounds and enjoy the Japanese Garden or have a drink at the bar. If you’re looking to explore the area, you can ask the English-speaking front desk about the local attractions.
All rooms offer free Wi-Fi and room service, and the Superior and Deluxe rooms offer a rotenburo private open-air bath. The ryokan doesn’t have a restaurant, but breakfast can be served in your room. Alternatively, there are several restaurants to choose from nearby.
“Very nice and welcoming staff despite the language barrier they are ready to do anything to make you comfortable.”
– ANGELA (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Kitango-Tennmanngu shrine and the iconic Kinkakuji ‘Golden Pavillion’ are both within walking distance. If you’re in the mood to explore even further the ryokan offers guests bike rentals putting the rest of the city within easy reach.
Check prices and availability at Kamishichiken Oku
2. Yadoya Kyoto Shimogamo
Rating: 9.8 | Location: Shimogamo Kibunecho | View on Booking.com
At the Yadoya Kyoto Shimogamo you can relax on the garden terrace before unwinding in the private open-air bath or indoor bath.
Conveniently located just 1.3 miles from Kyoto Imperial Palace, and 2.5 miles from the iconic Heian Shinto Shrine.
A perfect place for families, this air-conditioned accommodation is more like a private holiday home than a traditional ryokan, offering two private guest rooms (one with two futons, one with two single beds), free parking, a 24-hour front desk, and free WiFi. The apartment is a home away from home and comes fully equipped with a washing machine and kitchen.
“The room was warm with the hearth. I had a lot of fun baking sake appetizers. The bath was clean and large, and the outdoor bath was also comfortable.”
– MIKIO (READ MORE REVIEWS)
As for dining, a Japanese breakfast can be served to guests, or grocery deliveries are available upon request. Alternatively, there is a cafe and two restaurants close by.
Between four people this property is a similar price to a standard hotel. If you want traditional-style accommodation and an experience you’ll never forget, this is the place for you.
Check prices and availability at Yadoya Kyoto Shimogamo
3. Kyoto Umekoji Kadensho
Rating: 9.2 | Location: Shimogyo Ward | View on Booking.com
The elegant four-star Kyoto Umekoji Kadensho opened in 2022 and embodies the simple beauty of a traditional Japanese hotel integrated with modern Japanese design and comforts.
Located in Kyoto’s city center, the beautiful Umekoji Park, and Kyoto Aquarium are a short walk away, and the Umekoji-Kyotonishi train station is only 3 minutes, giving you easy access to the rest of the city.
The hotel offers a bar, a 24-hour front desk, private parking (which requires a reservation and a daily fee of 1,500 yen), and convenient vending machines. Have a drink at the hotel bar, browse the gift shop, or take some time to relax in the communal hot spring bath or reserve one of the five private hot spring baths for your exclusive use free of charge.
“The walk-in private semi-outdoor hot springs are very nice. Great if you want to enjoy it as a couple or family. They also provide free ice cream and drinks. Overall decor and facilities are very nice. Highly recommend.”
– YAT (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Private rooms come as double, twin, triple, or quadruple, all with air-conditioning, and the entire hotel is a non-smoking building.
For dining, try a traditional Japanese meal in the hotel restaurant, explore the dozens of restaurant choices within a short distance, or just grab something at the nearby convenience store.
Check prices and availability at Kyoto Umekoji Kadensho
4. Nazuna Kyoto Tsubaki St.
Rating: 9.2 | Location: Shimogyo Ward | View on Booking.com
Located in the center of Kyoto and reminiscent of an old geisha district, this stunning ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn that has perfectly incorporated modern Japanese design into its guest rooms and public areas. At dusk, paper lanterns and lanterns light up the stone-paved streets, giving the street a magical atmosphere.
Nazuna Kyoto Tsubaki St. offers twin and double rooms with private semi-open-air baths at a reasonable price in a range of styles to suit your preference and price range, including budget, luxury, and deluxe.
All guest rooms are non-smoking, include free WiFi, and a Japanese breakfast can be served at your door for an additional cost. For dining, there is a restaurant in the hotel serving up mouth-watering wagyu beef or room service is available. There are also several restaurants to choose from all within a 10-minute walk and the hotel 24-hour front desk can arrange other services such as massages.
“Super helpful and caring staff who recommended excellent restaurants. Marvelous Service, Facility and Food (Breakfast & Dinner). Their Bungo Beef dinner set was amazing. Will definitely come back if we are in Kyoto again.”
– GUEST (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Just a 5-minute walk from the hotel is Shijo Dori, one of Kyoto’s busiest streets filled with department stores, restaurants, and traditional shops. Also, within walking distance are Nijo castle, Nishiki Market, and the nearby Shijo-Omiya railway station allows easy access to the city.
Check prices and availability at Nazuna Kyoto Tsubaki St.
5. Ryokan Motonago
Rating: 9.5 | Location: Higashiyama Ward | View on Booking.com
The wood-built historic quarter of Kyoto, Higashiyama ward, is home to some of the most beautiful traditional Japanese tea houses, shops, and restaurants in the entire city.
Ryokan Motonago is a traditional Japanese ryokan that has been recommended by the Michelin Guide and offers a concierge service, a 24-hour front desk and a Japanese garden. As with many traditional wooden structures in Japan, the hotel is also a smoke-free property.
Premium Room and Luxury Rooms come with private bathrooms but like many traditional ryokans, for other room types, bathroom facilities are shared. Indoor baths are available to reserve for private use between 4pm and midnight. A kaiseki dinner with seasonal menu is available to reserve for an additional cost. All rooms include free WiFi, air-conditioning, traditional tatami floors, futon beds and televisions. A traditional Japanese breakfast can be served to guests for an extra charge or there is a café and two restaurants less than 50 yards away.
“The staff were very welcoming. The room was spacious and cosy with a view of a peaceful garden. The onsen was lovely and they brought a small-size yukata for me. The location is great for sightseeing as it’s close to a lot of temples. The dinner and breakfast were both fantastic! Flavours were great and each dish was presented with such care and attention to detail.”
– KIRSTIE (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Ryokan Motonago has a location rating of 9.7, which means there is plenty to see and do nearby. Local attractions include Yasaka shrine, the busy Kawaramachi shopping street, and the timeless Ishibe alley. The Kyoto Imperial Palace is also under 2 miles away as well.
Check prices and availability at Ryokan Motonago
6. Ryokan Kanade
Rating: 8.5 | Location: Sakyo Ward | View on Booking.com
The beautiful and well-maintained Ryokan Kanade is ideally located in Sakyo Ward with plenty nearby to see and do and is popular with couples, and families.
Rooms include a terrace or garden, bathtub, yukata, air conditioning and free WiFi. In addition, guests can reserve the rooftop rotenburo open-air bath for private use on the roof.
Breakfast is available to guests for a small fee in the hotel restaurant, or there is a choice of cafes and several restaurants a short walk from the hotel.
“Very clean and nice Ryokan which is a good mix of traditional and modern. Amazing and friendly staff! Food was incredible as well!! The ryokan is located near a beautiful park, museum and also the zoo. It’s also nice to walk around the neighbouring streets.“
– CHRISTINA (READ MORE REVIEWS)
You are a 10-minute walk from the National Museum of Modern Art, the beautiful Heian Shrine, and the Kyoto City Zoo. Additionally, you are only 12 minutes from Keage train station if you wish to venture further.
Guests looking for something closer and more relaxing after a long day sightseeing might want to check out the Kyoto Nama Chocolate Organic Teahouse just a 3-minute walk away.
Check prices and availability at Ryokan Kanade
7. Kyoto Nanzenji Ryokan Yachiyo
Rating: 7.8 | Location: Sakyo Ward | View on Booking.com
One of the first things guests at Kyoto Nanzenji Ryokan Yachiyo will notice is the quiet and relaxing surroundings, even right in the city. The ryokan is next to Nanzen-ji temple and offers guests large public baths, beautiful Japanese gardens, and onsite parking at an additional cost.
All the rooms include tatami mats and include free WiFi, flatscreen TV, and many of the rooms come with onsen-style bathrooms featuring private semi-open-air baths that look out onto a tranquil Japanese garden.
There is a restaurant and café on-site, where guests can enjoy a Japanese breakfast for a fee. Room service is also available.
“The room was stunning, the onsen in the bedroom was amazing. The balcony outside the room was also very comfortable to relax in.”
– HEATHER (READ MORE REVIEWS)
The hotel has a gift shop, a 24-hour front desk and offers free bike hire for guests to explore the area.
In addition to the nearby temples, other easy-access attractions include Kyoto Zoo, and Murin-an, an unmissable 19th century Japanese garden. Be sure to book ahead if you want to see this cultural and historical landmark.
Check prices and availability at Kyoto Nanzenji Ryokan Yachiyo
8. Nazuna Kyoto Nijo-jo
Rating: 9.4 | Location: Nakagyo Ward | View on Booking.com
Nazuna Kyoto Nijo-jo is located in central Kyoto within walking distance of several iconic Kyoto landmarks such as Nijo Castle.
All guest rooms are spacious and come with private semi-open-air or open-air baths, fridge, and some rooms also come with a separate seating area to relax in. The ryokan recommends guests also take advantage of their original ‘tea bath’ which contains tea leaves for skin beautifying effects.
Guests can enjoy a drink whilst relaxing in their room, take a walk around the Japanese gardens, or rent a bike for an extra charge to explore a little further. A Japanese breakfast is available for a small fee, and there is tea and coffee available in a communal area. If you are looking to explore, you’ll find a sushi restaurant or café a short walk away, or a French-inspired grill or gyoza restaurant 4 minutes away.
“Amazing service and the tea ceremony to welcome you was great. Breakfast is a must, a different experience in itself. The outdoor bath was hot and relaxing with the winters chill around us.”
– SEAN (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Nearby attractions include Nijo castle (an 8-minute walk), the bustling Shijo Street (a 14-minute walk), and the unmissable Kyoto Imperial Palace (a 20-minute walk).
Check prices and availability at Nazuna Kyoto Nijo-jo
9. Hatoya Zuihokaku
Rating: 8.7 | Location: Shimogyo Ward | View on Booking.com
Located in the heart of Kyoto, Hatoya Zuihokaku Hotel is just a 5-minute walk from Kyoto Station, putting the whole city on your doorstep. This hotel has a rooftop onsen with public and private baths available to reserve, perfect for relaxing in after a busy day of sightseeing!
This is the only hotel close to Kyoto station where you can dip in private natural hot springs – sourced from over 900 meters underground with mineral enriched water for beautiful skin.
From here you can visit the iconic Kyoto Tower, Higashi Hongganji temple, and Toji temple with its towering 5-story wooden pagoda, all just 15-minutes away on foot.
Guests can choose from a range of spacious rooms in a traditional Japanese style with tatami mats, and Japanese-Western style private rooms, all with air conditioning, free Wifi, and are non-smoking. A choice of larger guest rooms for families are also available.
Guests can book a Japanese breakfast or choose from the options available at the on-site café or restaurant.
“This is a wonderful hotel. The onsen is heaven at the end of a long day. The rooms are very large and have excellent bathrooms. The hotel is very close to Kyoto Station. I would happily stay here again.”
– NATHAN (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Within the hotel are a gift shop, a 24-hour front desk with multilingual staff, a laundrette (coin laundry), a bar, a café, and a restaurant.
Check prices and availability at Hatoya Zuihokaku
10. Kiraku Kyoto Gion
Rating: 8.2 | Location: Higashiyama Ward | View on Booking.com
Located in the heart of Kyoto’s famous entertainment district Gion, Kiraku Kyoto Gion is different to the other places on the list because the entire five-star inn is available to book on an exclusive basis.
The accommodation includes a living room, kitchen, private garden, and two bedrooms – one double, one twin. Both are Japanese style with tatami mats, futon beds, a bath, and free WiFi throughout. There is also an open-air hot spring-style bath on-site. A la carte or Japanese breakfast is available to guests upon request or there are several restaurants just a few minutes’ walk away around the Gion area.
“Great location, house nicely designed, outside bath was great but too small for 2 people to sit in at the same time. Very good English service via phone, stylish gramophone with a selection of LPs!”
– PAWEL (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Since you are already in Gion, why not stroll through Kyoto’s oldest geisha district and see if you can spot the maiko in their vibrantly coloured kimonos around Tatsumi Bridge.
Finally, because you are in the heart of Kyoto surrounded by shrines and temples, take some time to search for the famous Heian Shinto Shrine just a 15-to-20-minute walk away.
Check prices and availability at Kiraku Kyoto Gion
Kyoto Outskirts
11. Ryokan Nenrinbo
Rating: 8.8 | Location: Kita Ward | View on Booking.com
This beautiful hotel located on the north-western edge of Kyoto offers guests breath-taking views of the surrounding countryside while also being in a prime location close to the busy city center.
All of the hotel’s 43 rooms face the recently renovated Japanese garden and are traditional Japanese style with futon beds and tatami mat flooring. Tea and coffee-making facilities and free WiFi are also available. The Japanese-style deluxe rooms feature a private open-air hot spring bath.
The hotel also includes a large public bath and outdoor swimming pool for the warmer months. Japanese breakfast and a variety of traditional Japanese dinners are available to guests in the dining area but will need to be booked in advance.
“The room is so spacious and bright. We wanted to experience a traditional room (Ryokan). It was better than expected. The dinner and breakfast are the best food we’ve ever had! I highly recommend this experience There is also a common bath with a hot pool, that is very enjoyable.”
– GHIZLAINE (READ MORE REVIEWS)
There is a free shuttle service into the city, or there is plenty in the area for you to explore on foot, including the beautiful Koetsuji, Genkouan, and Jyoshoji Temples. Jump on the train and within an hour you can be at the Kyoto Imperial Palace, Togetsu-kyo Bridge and Nijo Castle.
Check prices and availability at Ryokan Nenrinbo
Arashiyama
12. Kadensho, Arashiyama Onsen, Kyoto – Kyoritsu Resort
Rating: 8.3 | Location: Shimogyo Ward | View on Booking.com
Kadensho is located right on the bank of Katsura River. Its scenic surroundings, beautiful Japanese garden courtyard, and range of onsen will make your stay here a memorable one.
The resort offers a wide range of Japanese and western-style rooms in different sizes for singles, couples, and families, all non-smoking, all with free WiFi, and free parking for guests. In addition to the public onsen and private onsen which you can reserve free of charge, selected rooms also feature their own private open-air baths too. There is also a restaurant, a bar, and offers a buffet breakfast until 9:30AM for a small fee. But there are also several restaurants less than a 10-minute walk away.
“There are many hot springs, and family baths can be entered without reservation. It was nice to have plenty of ice cream, ramen, and drinks after taking a bath. The location was very good because it was close to the station, and I could walk to the downtown area.”
– AYA (READ MORE REVIEWS)
The famous Togetsukyo bridge and iconic bamboo forest are both less than a 20-minute walk away, and the easy access to Arashiyama station is only 2 minutes on foot.
Check prices and availability at Kadensho Arashiyama Onsen
13. Hanaikada Ryokan, Arashiyama
Rating: 9.1 | Location: Nishikyo Ward | View on Booking.com
Another beautiful and traditional-style ryokan which can be found a little further up the Katsura River, Hanaikada sits next to both Arashiyama Park and Monkey Park.
The ryokan offers only Japanese-style rooms with tatami mat flooring in a range of sizes and styles. All include modern conveniences such as free WiFi, televisions, and are non-smoking. Guests who choose a Deluxe room get their own private indoor or outdoor baths. The ryokan’s onsen has both a public and private bath available and uses 100% natural hot spring water from Arashiyama Onsen.
“Food and sake was amazing! An old lady, the owner is very friendly and her English sounds very cute 🙂”
– JUDE (READ MORE REVIEWS)
The ryokan has its own garden, spa with onsen and a range of treatments available to guests, and restaurant. Breakfast is available for a small fee or guests can bring food to their rooms and store in their own fridge. There is also a café/bar and several restaurants a few minutes’ walk away.
In addition to the nearby parks, Togetsukyo bridge and the bamboo forest are less than twenty minutes away on foot.
Check prices and availability at Hanaikada Ryokan
14. Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel
Rating: 8.7 | Location: Ukyo Ward | View on Booking.com
Perched on the bank of the Katsura River on the edge of Kameyama Park, Suiran is a beautiful resort surrounded by trees with an emphasis on offering its guests luxury and relaxation.
Guests can choose either a Western or Japanese-style suite with a balcony and river or mountain views. There is free WiFi throughout, a 24-hour front desk, and a snack bar/deli. 17 out of 39 rooms offer an “Onsen” hot spring bath in the room and there is also a Private Spa Room available with an open air bath for guests to enjoy. The hotel also includes a gift shop, fitness centre, spa, restaurant, and cafe, where guests can enjoy a Japanese breakfast until 10AM.
“There is no better location in Arashiyama than Suiran. The afternoon tea on the outdoor balcony of Cafe Hassui is perhaps the most delightful pleasure of all Arashiyama. The lunch and/or breakfast at garden restaurant also make Suiran the most lavish onsen in Japan.”
– WINSTON (READ MORE REVIEWS)
The Spa offers both indoor and outdoor hot spring baths, and a range of treatments and therapies.
Beyond the hotel you are close to the Arashiyama Monkey Park, Togetsukyo bridge, and the bamboo forest. You are also just a 15-minute walk from Saga Arashiyama Station putting the rest of the city within close reach.
Check prices and availability at Suiran
Kyoto Countryside
15. Hananosato Onsen Sansuikan
Rating: 9.3 | Location: Takatsuki | View on Booking.com
As you might guess from its location, Hananosato Onsen Sansuikan offers guests a different type of onsen experience to what you might find in the city. Among the mountain and forest views, and peaceful countryside soundtrack, guests can take a slow and relaxing break from their busy lives.
The hotel includes a traditional Japanese garden, communal lounge and terrace, vending machines, spa facilities including a public open-air hot spring bath, and karaoke for an additional fee. There are also a choice of two private onsen you can reserve for 60 minutes for an additional fee. Some of the guest rooms feature private open-air baths with river views. Room service and free WiFi is available, and all rooms are Japanese style with tatami mat flooring, futon beds and are non-smoking. Buffet or Asian breakfast is available to guests upon request.
“We went here for our honeymoon. It is such a beautiful place nestled along a river. The room was massive with its own outdoor bath looking out to the trees and over the river as well.”
– JADE (READ MORE REVIEWS)
The surrounding area is just 30 minutes from Kyoto and offers great opportunities for countryside hiking and exploration of the nearby Settsukyo Gorge. There is also a shuttle service to Takatsuki station in the nearby city of Takatsuki.
Check prices and availability at Hananosato Onsen Sansuikan
16. Japanese Ryokan Seryo
Rating: 9.3 | Location: Sakyo Ward | View on Booking.com
This traditional Japanese inn located in the heart of the Ohara countryside offers guests peace and tranquillity far beyond the reach of busy Kyoto city. The ryokan boasts both indoor and outdoor public baths, nine Japanese and Western style guestrooms, and an on-site restaurant, all surrounded by a beautifully maintained Japanese garden.
Japanese style rooms include with tatami mat flooring, futon beds and garden views. Free WiFi is also included throughout, and all rooms are non-smoking. There are two guestrooms which feature beautiful private open-air baths within a garden setting. The on-site restaurant offers guests breakfast and lunch you can try a traditional Kaiseki dinner. There is also a café/bar and several restaurants within a 10-minute walk to choose from.
“Our stay was so enjoyable. The room was well appointed with a lovely garden view. Dinner and breakfast were excellent as were the staff and the manager himself.”
– PAUL (READ MORE REVIEWS)
You are less than 10-minutes on foot from the beautiful Otonashi Waterfall, and the Hosen-in Temple with its famous ‘ceiling of blood’ and bamboo grove surroundings.
Check prices and availability at Japanese Ryokan Seryo
17. Monjusou
Rating: 8.1 | Location: Miyazu City | View on Booking.com
Located close to Japan’s northern coastline, on the edge of the Asoumi Sea, the Monjusou Hotel boasts picturesque ocean views, tall green mountains, and a 3.6 km long sandbar called Amanohashidate popular with tourists, just a 5-minute walk away.
Choose from a twin, double, deluxe, or Japanese-style quadruple-sized rooms, with beds or futons, free WiFi, and breath-taking rooms, some of which come with semi-open-air private baths. Guests can unwind at the spa with a massage, or open-air onsen and then later have dinner at the on-site restaurant (don’t forget to book).
“Superbly finished property with uniquely appointed rooms. Quiet, excellent location for local sites. Bright restaurant with good Japanese set course food. Good onsen.”
– RICHARD (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Guests looking to explore the area will have plenty to do as the hotel offers bike hire for a small charge, putting Chionji temple, Amanohashidate beach, and Tango Kokubunji ruins all within reach.
Check prices and availability at Monjusou
18. Kyo Yunohana Resort Suisen
Rating: 9.7 | Location: Kameoka | View on Booking.com
It may only be an hour from central Kyoto, but the Kyo Yunohana Suisen Resort makes guests feel like they are in the heart of the Japanese countryside. With views of the nearby forest and immaculate Japanese garden, it offers both a luxurious and relaxing experience.
The hotel offers free WiFi throughout, a free local shuttle, and breakfast is included. There are a range of different guest room types available including a Japanese-style room with a mountain view or a suite with private open-air onsen.
The hotel also has an on-site spa which includes an indoor hot spring, aromatherapy and massages. A perfect place to be after a long day of exploration. A private open-air rock bath with hot spring water is also available to reserve for an additional fee if you don’t have one in your room.
“Exceptional service from all staff that we had the pleasure of interacting with. The room was amazing and extremely clean”
– KATRINA (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Unlike many of the other ryokans on this list attractions are a little further away. The closest temple is Sairin-ji Temple at 9.9 miles, and the Togetsukyo bridge and the Iwatayama Monkey Park are almost 10 miles away.
Check prices and availability at Kyo Yunohana Resort Suisen
Lake Biwa
19. Biwako Ryokusuitei
Rating: 8.7 | Location: Otsu City | View on Booking.com
Located on the bank of Lake Biwa, Biwako Ryokusuitei ryokan offers its guests incredible views of the lake and surrounding area. All rooms are non-smoking, include free WiFi, and a choice of a western or Japanese-style bed. Be sure to book a balcony room for your chance to unwind in your own open-air hot tub for private use while staring out across the lake.
The hotel also offers a wide range of facilities including free parking, a bar and restaurant, karaoke rooms, a gift shop, a private garden, a breakfast buffet, and an on-site spa that offers 24-hour access to its indoor and outdoor onsen.
“What a fantastic experience. We felt so spoilt. We booked a room with its own private onsen on the balcony and were able to watch the sunrise. Dinner and breakfast was included and the quality of food was great. This was something I’d been wanting to do for years, and I was not let down.”
– JULIE (READ MORE REVIEWS)
The hotel has its own restaurant where guests can try Omi beef, a specialty of Shiga prefecture, and a several cafés for something lighter. Also nearby is Ogoto onsen, Saikyo ji temple, Lake Biwa Museum, and Ogoto Water Park. A free shuttle service is also available from Ogoto Onsen train station.
Check prices and availability at Biwako Ryokusuitei
20. Yumotokan
Rating: 8.9 | Location: Otsu City | View on Booking.com
Yumotokan is a traditional Japanese onsen ryokan located in Noka on the edge of Lake Biwa. With stunning views, peaceful location, and a shuttle service to the nearby Ogoto Onsen train station, guests will have plenty to see and do.
The ryokan offers several public and private indoor hot spring baths, a rooftop open-air bath, and a bathtub in every room which uses hot spring water. There is a wide variety of room sizes from standard rooms with tatami mat flooring and futon beds to Deluxe Suites with open-air bath large enough for families. These Japanese-style rooms also include air conditioning and free WiFi, and many offer a view of the lake.
“All staff were extremely helpful and accommodating. There are both indoor and outdoor onsen. There are 2 outdoor onsen which change daily for female or male usage (signs are in English as well as Japanese) Food is served in the restaurant and was delicious and wonderfully presented. I have stayed at many ryokan and this was one of my best experiences.”
– PAMELA (READ MORE REVIEWS)
There is a bar and a café on site, and breakfast is also available. Visit the nearby Ogoto Water Park, or if you’re looking to explore, take a train ride to Lake Katata Station, and walk along the bank until you find the Mangetsu-ji Ukimido ‘Floating Temple’.
Check prices and availability at Yumotokan
Important Information about Ryokan and Onsen Baths You Need to Know!
It’s important to know the difference between the different kinds of baths before booking your Kyoto ryokan with private onsen to avoid disappointment. In this article, we’ve included a mix of different properties (ryokan, hotels, and private holiday homes) that offer different kinds of private open-air baths and private onsen, but let’s talk about the differences in more detail:
Rotenburo – a private open-air bath or a private bath that is outside is called a rotenburo (露天風呂) in Japanese. It’s important to note that not all rotenburo are onsen. A lot of the time, rotenburo attached to hotel guest rooms just uses ordinary hot water, not natural hot spring water which contains different minerals, but sometimes you’ll find guestrooms whose rotenburo do use onsen (hot spring) water too. These kinds of properties tend to be more common in rural locations rather than big cities and in more luxurious and expensive ryokan.
It’s worth mentioning that even if a rotenburo doesn’t use actual hot spring water, it’s still a wonderful experience at the end of a busy day sightseeing to relax and soak in the open-air bath admiring your Japanese garden or veranda.
Kashikiri – a kashikiri (貸切風呂) is a private onsen bath that can be reserved in a ryokan for couples and families exclusively to use, usually at an extra cost. A kashikiri will most likely contain real onsen hot spring water and all the enriching minerals that come with it. You can usually reserve them for an hour or two with the front desk but obviously the bigger and busier the ryokan, the harder it will be to confirm a reservation so it’s best to do this as early as possible during your stay.
Leave a Reply