11 Stunning Ryokans with Private Onsen Kyoto: the Ultimate Relaxing Getaway
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Unlock my secret weapon for exploring Tokyo—
My meticulously curated Google Maps guide was born from countless hours wandering these ancient streets. I’ve mapped every must-visit spot from this guide (plus dozens of hidden gems I couldn’t squeeze into the article), pinpointing precise locations of those easy-to-miss temple entrances and local-favorite restaurants. After testing this across multiple trips, I swear by this digital companion—simply tap any pin and let Google Maps guide you seamlessly between Kyoto’s layers. Skip the typical first-timer frustrations and navigate like an insider, with all my hard-won research right in your pocket.
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My meticulously curated Google Maps guide was born from countless hours wandering these ancient streets. I’ve mapped every must-visit spot from this guide (plus dozens of hidden gems I couldn’t squeeze into the article), pinpointing precise locations of those easy-to-miss temple entrances and local-favorite restaurants. After testing this across multiple trips, I swear by this digital companion—simply tap any pin and let Google Maps guide you seamlessly between Kyoto’s layers. Skip the typical first-timer frustrations and navigate like an insider, with all my hard-won research right in your pocket.
I recently returned from an amazing three week trip to Japan, and one of the highlights was undoubtedly our stay at a traditional ryokan inn in Kyoto and Takayama. There’s nothing quite like unwinding in your own private onsen hot spring bath after a long day exploring the temples and shrines of this historic city.
11 Stunning Ryokans with Private Onsen Kyoto: the Ultimate Relaxing Getaway
No time to read all? Here are the highlights:
If you’re planning a trip to Kyoto, I highly recommend splurging on at least a night or two at one of these incredible ryokans with private onsens. Trust me, it will make your visit to Japan’s cultural capital absolutely unforgettable! Without further ado, here are my top 15 picks for the best ryokans in Kyoto with private onsen:
Luxury private onsen Ryokans in kyoto for a Splurge-Worthy Stay
ryokans in kyoto with onsen
Seryo
Price: $$$$ | Location: Ohara | Book Now

Ryokan | Kyoto, Japan
9/10 rating
This rural retreat in the mountains an hour north of central Kyoto is the ultimate spot for a romantic and secluded getaway. Soak in your private outdoor onsen surrounded by nature and indulge in gourmet kaiseki meals.
Price luxury
kyoto hotels with private onsen
Nazuna Kyoto Nijo-jo
Price: $$$$ | Location: Nakagyo Ward | Book Now

Nazuna Kyoto Nijo-jo
Ryokan | Kyoto, Japan
9/10 rating
One of Kyoto’s top luxury ryokans, Nazuna offers exquisite themed suites with open-air onsens, irori fireplace breakfasts, and sukiyaki dinners. Treat yourself to in-room massages and kimono rentals.
Price luxury
Suiran Luxury Collection Hotel
Price: $$$$ | Location: Arashiyama | Book Now

Suiran Luxury Collection Hotel
Ryokan | Kyoto, Japan
9/10 rating
Enjoy your own private open-air onsen fed by Arashiyama hot springs at this high-end hotel nestled near the famous bamboo grove and Hozu River. On-site French-Japanese fusion restaurant and cafe.
Price luxury
best ryokan with private onsen kyoto
Kamishichiken Oku
Price: $$$$ | Location: Nishijin | Book Now

Kamishichiken Oku
Ryokan | Kyoto, Japan
9/10 rating
With just 6 rooms, this intimate ryokan provides unparalleled personal service. Book a room with an outdoor tsuboburo bath and arrange for geisha entertainment and a guided taxi tour of Kyoto.
Price luxury
Mid-Range Kyoto Ryokan onsen for Comfort and Value
kyoto onsen hotel
Kyoto Takasegawa Bettei
Price: $$$ | Location: Shimogyo Ward | Book Now

Ryokan | Kyoto, Japan
9/10 rating
Relax in your private hinoki wood onsen at this central ryokan near the picturesque Takase River. Rooms have luxe amenities like L’Occitane toiletries and Simmons beds.
Price luxury
private onsen kyoto for couples
Ryokan Sakura Urushitei
Price: $$ | Location: Shimogyo Ward | Book Now

Ryokan | Kyoto, Japan
9/10 rating
this lovely ryokan and can vouch for the spacious tatami rooms, private onsen you can reserve, delicious breakfast, and fun cultural activities like tea ceremony and sake tasting. Great value for the reasonable price.
Price luxury
Hachi Inn
Price: $$ | Location: Shimogyo Ward | Book Now

Ryokan | Kyoto, Japan
9/10 rating
This simple but comfortable ryokan has a private rooftop onsen with stunning views over Kyoto. The kitchenettes in each room allow you to save money by preparing some of your own meals.
Price Mid Range
Kyoto hotels with onsen in a Machiya Townhouse
Kyoto Machiya Fukune
Price: $$$ | Location: Nakagyo Ward | Book Now

Ryokan | Kyoto, Japan
9/10 rating
Stay in a traditional machiya wooden townhouse beautifully restored with a private garden onsen. Enjoy perks like breakfast, tea ceremony, and luggage storage.
Price luxury
Machiya Maya Gion
Price: $$$ | Location: Gion | Book Now

Ryokan | Kyoto, Japan
9/10 rating
One of Kyoto’s top luxury ryokans, Nazuna offers exquisite themed suites with open-air onsens, irori fireplace breakfasts, and sukiyaki dinners. Treat yourself to in-room massages and kimono rentals.
Price luxury
Hoshinoya Kyoto
Price: $$$$ | Location: Arashiyama | Book Now

Ryokan | Kyoto, Japan
9/10 rating
Accessible only by boat, this secluded luxury ryokan offers a magical escape. Each room has a semi-open-air onsen and river views. Savor seasonal cuisine and participate in cultural activities.
Price luxury
Ryokan Genhouin
Price: $$ | Location: Higashiyama | Book Now
With so many incredible ryokan options in Kyoto, you’re bound to find the ideal accommodation for your dream trip to this captivating city. Don’t forget to reserve any private dining or onsen time slots, cultural activities, or spa treatments when booking to ensure availability.
Tips for Booking a Kyoto Ryokan with Private Onsen
- Book well in advance, especially for travel during cherry blossom season or autumn. The top ryokans get fully booked.
- Look beyond central Kyoto to areas like Arashiyama or Ohara for a quieter, more immersive stay.
- Check if meals are included, as some ryokans only provide breakfast or no meals at all. Kaiseki dinners are an essential part of the ryokan experience but add to the cost.
- Confirm whether the onsen is a natural hot spring or a regular bath, and if fully private or just a reservable time slot, to avoid any surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are ryokans more expensive than regular hotels in Kyoto? Generally yes, as you are paying for a unique cultural experience, personalized service, gourmet meals, and often an onsen. But there are options at different price points.
- Do I need to be naked to use the onsen? Yes, it is required to fully undress and wash yourself before entering the hot spring bath. But with a private onsen, only you and your travel companion will be nude together.
- What should I bring to the ryokan? The ryokan will provide yukata robes, slippers, towels, and toiletries. Just bring comfortable clothes and any personal items you need.
- Can I stay at a ryokan as a solo traveler? Absolutely, many ryokans accommodate single guests. You’ll likely be charged a single occupancy rate that is a bit higher per person compared to two guests sharing a room.
Staying at a ryokan with private onsen truly makes for an unforgettable experience during your trip to Kyoto. You’ll get to immerse yourself in traditional Japanese culture while pampering yourself with a steaming hot bath. Whether you decide to splurge on a top luxury ryokan or find a hidden mid-range gem, you really can’t go wrong with any of these fantastic accommodations.
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