Top 15 Ryokans in Kyoto with Private Onsen for the Ultimate Relaxation!
Ryokans are a must-try experience when staying in Kyoto, at least once in your life!
There’s something magical about staying in a ryokan in Kyoto with a private onsen. After a long and tiring day of exploring Kyoto, hiking up the Fushimi Inari Taisha, or soaking in the grand vistas at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, nothing beats a Jet2 Holiday stepping into your very own private onsen bath and relaxing the night away at a traditional Japanese ryokan in Kyoto.
When traveling to Japan, staying at a Kyoto ryokan is something that you have to try at least once in your life, you can read about my experiences at Ryokan Yuri in Japan’s Onsen getaway town of Yufuin if you wanna know more!
Another reason I love booking Ryokans in Kyoto is that many places often include multi-course kaiseki dinners or the traditional breakfasts which are usually served in your room. Some ryokans in Kyoto also offer cultural experiences like tea ceremonies, yukata fittings, or seasonal garden tours. So if this all sounds fun and exciting to you, let me share with you my top 15 ryokans in Kyoto with private onsens!
Check out my other Kyoto blog posts!
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Best Ryokans in Kyoto at a Glance
A soothing private onsen just a few steps from your bed? Yes please!
If you’re short on time and just want the quick picks, here are my top ryokans in Kyoto with private onsen that I think are worth every yen:
Luxury Ryokans in Kyoto with Private Onsen
Nazuna Kyoto Nijo-jo - A stylish ryokan in Kyoto, nestled near Nijo Castle, features tea-themed suites within a traditional townhouse and offers luxurious private open-air baths and refined kaiseki meals in an intimate, adult-only setting.
Seikoro Ryokan - One of the most historic ryokans in Kyoto, known for its traditional wooden architecture, kaiseki dining, and relaxing private onsen.
Mid-Range Ryokans in Kyoto with Private Onsen
Ryokan Motonago - Located along the tranquil Nene-no-Michi in Higashiyama, this Kyoto ryokan offers peaceful tatami rooms, an inviting public bath, and exceptional hospitality, just steps from iconic spots like Kiyomizu-dera and Maruyama Park.
Nazuna Kyoto Higashi Honganji - A boutique ryokan in Kyoto that transforms a century-old townhouse into a design-forward retreat with thoughtful woodwork, individually styled suites, private cypress or stone tubs, and a cozy lounge stocked with complimentary snacks and drinks.
Budget Ryokans in Kyoto with Private Onsen
Nagomi-Ryokan Yuu - A budget-friendly ryokan in Kyoto that offers a serene, intimate experience with just a handful of tatami rooms, optional kimono rentals or tea ceremony sessions, and a warm, personalized service tone.
Matsubaya Ryokan - Dating back to 1884, this central ryokan in Kyoto features traditional tatami rooms, a peaceful garden ambience, modern essentials like in-room kettles and fridges, and friendly hospitality, just minutes from Kyoto Station.
Top Luxury Ryokans in Kyoto with Private Onsen Baths
Japanese Ryokan Seryo
The rooms at Japanese Ryokan Seryo are quite spacious for an accommodation in Japan
Although quite a bit away from Kyoto’s city center, Ryokan Seryo is one of the most luxurious Ryokans in Kyoto that you can experience. Located about a 30 minute taxi ride away from Kyoto in the village of Ohara, Ryokan Seryo just exudes natural luxury and opulence. Though no need to worry about the location as a shuttle service
Ryokan Seryo is really intimate compared to the other Roykans in Kyoto, with only 9 rooms available ranging from a traditional Japanese style tatami rooms with futon bedding to a more familiar western style room with twin beds. Two deluxe options with private open-air baths are also available. Of course you have all the necessary amenities, each room comes with a fridge, tea/coffee facilities, flat-screen TV, and Wi-Fi as well (can’t forget the Wi-Fi). And the best part is that each of these rooms are overlooking a beautifully maintained garden. If you go for a standard room, there are still indoor and outdoor public baths (segregated by gender) with that refreshing Ohara spring water.
What a lovely place to have a nice private onsen bath in Kyoto!
Roykan Seryo also includes breakfast and dinner, with their breakfast option being your traditional Japanese visual feast with soup, eggs, and pickled vegetables. While their Japanese Kaiseki dinner option includes a Japanese Wagyu Sukiyaki or Shabu-Shabu experience which can be enjoyed at the dining room. Though you’ll need to check in before 5:00 PM to be able to join dinner service. Vegetarian option is also available.
Pros
Magical hilltop location in the peaceful Ohara village on the outskirts of Kyoto
High quality breakfast and dinner meals included
private onsen rooms are ultra relaxing, public options aren’t bad either!
Great amenities and impeccable service and hospitality
Cons
Private onsen rooms are way more expensive than regular standard rooms
Standard rooms can feel a bit basic, pillows are a hit or miss.
Public baths are on the smaller side, though usually uncrowded.
Getting a taxi back to Kyoto during busy afternoon hours can be tricky, though the staff can usually help with shuttle service.
Google Maps Rating: 4.2 / 5 (299+ Reviews)
Phone: +81 75 744 2301
Location: 22 Oharashorinincho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 601-1241, Japan
Kyoto Ryokan SAKANOUE
A combination of modern comforts and traditional designs at Kyoto Ryokan SAKANOUE
For a more modern take on the Japanese Roykan, Kyoto Ryokan SAKANOUE is my recommendation. Located in the heart of the historical Gion district and just a 5-minute stroll from Yasaka Shrine and Kodaiji Temple, and about 15 minutes on foot to the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kyoto Ryokan SAKANOUE is the perfect home base for exploring the historical districts of the city.
The modern-ness of Kyoto Ryokan SAKANOUE comes from the traditional wooden tatami style interiors that comes complete with fusuma partitions. However the modernity arrives with the comfy western style beds, minibar, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and TVs.
Private bathrooms with separate tub and shower are also available and on top of that, you get free access to a cozy wooden family bath for 45-minute private sessions, just request your preferred time and it's exclusively yours, great for couples or families, or even just solo.
The dining room at Kyoto Ryokan SAKANOUE is even in the traditional Kyoto ryokan design!
No dinner service is available but there is a Kaiseki breakfast as well as a buffet breakfast is available with your usual dishes like rice, bread, tofu soup, Arabiki sausages, eggs, and pickled veggies. If you're scouting standout ryokans in Kyoto, especially those offering a peaceful Gion base, private baths, and genuine hospitality, Kyoto Ryokan SAKANOUE is a lovely match.
Pros
Great location in Gion, easy access to all of Kyoto’s tourist attractions and landmarks
Charming and comfortable rooms with private onsen available for reservation
Breakfast buffet is included
Cons
Private onsen is first-come-first-served so can be hard to get a spot during peak times
The ryokan can feel a bit old and outdated.
Although breakfast is included, no dinner service (used to have, but not anymore post-covid)
Google Maps Rating: 4.3 / 5 (108+ Reviews)
Phone: +81 75 561 1148
Location: Japan, 〒605-0072 Kyoto, Higashiyama Ward, 祇園 下河原鷲尾町502
Nazuna Kyoto Nijo-jo
Nazuna is one snazzy looking ryokan in kyoto
Another modern and luxury Kyoto ryokan is the Nazuna Kyoto Nijo-jo named as such because it’s located just a 6-minute walk from Nijōjō-mae Station and a short stroll from Nijo Castle in central Kyoto. A mix of traditional and a modern sleek tea-themed “Kyomachiya” townhouse vibe subtly sets this one apart from more traditional ryokans in Kyoto.
What truly won me over were the five “tea inspired” suites: Gyokuro, Genmaicha, Maccha, Houjicha, and Bettei. Each of these suites is designed around a tea theme with its own open-air or semi-open-air private onsen, Simmons bed, and luxurious futon from a legendary Kyoto bedding maker. For example, the Houjicha suite, spans two floors with a private Shigaraki-ceramic bath in its own garden. Inside the rooms are also packed with modern comforts and amenities, flat screen TVs, fridge, safety deposit box, free Wi-Fi, and of course, nice comfy beds. A note about the onsens is that since it’s within your rooms TATTOOS ARE OKAY, this is huge as ryokans in Kyoto with private onsens do not usually allow people with tattoos to enter.
The room leading to an open garden, what a nice blend with nature!
Dinner and breakfast at Nazuna Kyoto Nijo-jo is amazing. Breakfast is served irori-style around a sunken hearth, using local seasonal ingredients. Dinner similarly features local soul, with an A4 Wagyu sukiyaki paired with local rice from Hachidaime Gihey, pickles, grilled duck, and a dessert sherbet, complete with sparkling wine if you like.
Nazuna Kyoto Nijo-jo also has extra experiences and activities like tea tasting, a kimono cultural experience, and a wellness spa. Nazuna Kyoto Nijo-jo may be one of the most stylish and aesthetic ryokans in Kyoto.
Pros
Superb location near Nijo Castle and central Kyoto
Very stylish suites with private onsens and all the amenities.
Great breakfast and dinner options
Plenty of ways to relax and activities to do
Cons
Rooms may be a bit small compared to western standards
Expect to pay a pretty penny, prices are luxury
Google Maps Rating: 4.7 / 5 (151+ Reviews)
Phone: +81 75 253 6877
Location: 580 Kusuriyacho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-0066, Japan
Toshiharu Ryokan
Slap on a Yukata or Kimono and you’ll feel like a Samurai!
Built in the 1900s during the Meiji era, Toshiharu Ryokan is registered as a cultural asset and is one of the most historically significant ryokans in Kyoto. Located in Shimogyo-ku, just a 3-minute walk from Gojo Station and within easy reach of Nishiki Market and Kawaramachi Street, this Kyoto ryokan complete with a private onsen is perfect as a home base for your holiday.
Toshiharu Ryokan is very intimate, with only 5 rooms available and the Satsuki no Ma room is only available during May. Bathrooms are public and you’ll need to share them with other guests, it can be a bit uncomfortable to share bathrooms so just keep that in mind.
While the rooms may be on the more simple and basic side in terms of amenities, it’s very VERY traditional and elegant. Inside you’ll of course find tatami flooring, futon bedding, thoughtful touches like green tea, yukata robes, air conditioning, and some rooms even offer a view of a peaceful garden. Onsen is traditional but still private, these are available by reservation. There is also an addon massage service for extra relaxation.
The breakfast meal set at Toshiharu Ryokan
The staff and hospitality here are extremely gracious, friendly, multilingual, and genuinely caring. In-room Japanese breakfast is also available for an added fee, you can expect the usual Japanese dishes like rice, miso soup, grilled fish, konjac noodles, dashimaki (Japanese rolled omelet), and steamed vegetables.
Pros:
Authentic and historical Meiji era architecture with cultural charm
Quiet yet ultra convenient Central Kyoto location
Attentive, bilingual staff make your stay smooth and personal
Cons:
Bathrooms are shared, may be uncomfortable for some of you (I know I would feel a bit iffy)
Breakfast is an extra charge, and there is not dinner service
Google Maps Rating: 4.9 / 5 (156+ Reviews)
Phone: +81 75 341 5301
Location: Japan, 〒600-8428 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Benzaitencho, 326
Seikoro Ryokan
Seikoro Ryokan looks very unassuming and quite ominous
Another old and historically siginifcant ryokan in Kyoto with private onsen is Seikoro Ryokan, established in 1831, this ryokan is within walking distance of Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Sanjusangen-do, Kyoto National Museum, and the JR Kyoto Station (7-minute drive).
Like the best ryokans in Kyoto, Seikoro Ryokan blends traditional design and modern comforts beautifully. While the ryokan is a bit old, it is still very charming. Rooms all have the usual tatami flooring, futon bedding, flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and private onsens come complete with toiletries and some even overlook a peaceful garden. Seikoro Ryokan also offers a large public onsen carved from 400 year old umbrella pine, how cool is that???
But the room inside is very spacious and inviting!
In terms of dining options, Seikoro Ryokan has a Japanese or Western style breakfast that is served in your room. Kaiseki dinners are also available with seasonal ingredients, from delicate soups to pickles and grilled dishes, all presented with care that showcases Japanese omotenashi hospitality. With great rooms and great service, it’s no wonder why Seikoro Ryokan is often listed as one of the best roykans in Kyoto.
Pros
Good location ear iconic temples and landmarks, close to JR station.
Public and private onsen available
Highly praised staff and in-room kaiseki hospitality.
Cons
Rooms can feel basic and “stuck in time”
Price is very high accounting for the historical legacy of the ryokan
Google Maps Rating: 4.8 / 5 (308+ Reviews)
Phone: +81 75 561 0771
Location: Japan, 〒605-0907 Kyoto, Higashiyama Ward, Nishitachibanacho, 467-2
Top Mid-Range Ryokans in Kyoto with Private Onsen Baths
Ryokan Sanga
To be honest, most of the interiors of these Kyoto ryokans look similar
5 minutes away from the food hub of Nishiki Market is Ryokan Sanga. Many ryokans in Kyoto advertises charm and traditionalism, but I think this townhouse-looking accommodation actually delivers. Surrounding a central garden are rooms lined with wooden tatami flooring, sliding paper screens, and all of this while being located in a prime area, the heart of Kyoto city.
The rooms at Ryokan Sanga are compact and are outfitted with futon bedding, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, a kettle with green tea, and yukata robes for that classic traditional ryokan feel. While there are no in-room private onsen, you do have private toilets and a clean, calming public onsen perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring Kyoto.
But my lawd, the food always looks so damn good
Meal services include breakfast and dinner and are in served in your room, though one quirk is that they do not allow you to bring outside food and drinks into your room… Aside from that Ryokan Sanga also offers extra activities like an in-room massages and even Maiko entertainment, which are traditional Geishas who attend to you during meals (you’ll need to pre-book).
Pros:
Exceptional central location near Nishiki Market and the Gion district
Authentic, cozy tatami rooms with modern comforts and a convenient private toilet
Attentive, thoughtful staff and cultural touches like yukata and optional Maiko performances
Cons:
Rooms are on the smaller side, and in-room onsens are not available
A few guests noted limited views and occasional Wi-Fi hiccups
Google Maps Rating: 3.8 / 5 (86+ Reviews)
Phone: +81 75 241 3251
Ryokan Motonago
Western style bedding is welcome if you find sleeping on the floor uncomfy
Located a bit further from Kyoto’s city center is Ryokan Motonago. Though the location is out of the way, it’s still within 1km to many of the famous Kyoto attractions like the Yasaka Shrine, Kodaiji Temple, and Kiyomizu-dera temple. The highlight of this accommodation is especially the quiet and peaceful nature of it all, which is really what a Kyoto ryokan should be.
The rooms at Ryokan Motonago are cozy and authentic, each tailored with the usual tatami mats and futons, and many rooms also offer views of the elegant garden within the property. Inside you’ll find modernities like air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and free Wi-Fi. While there’s no private in-room onsen, the clean public baths can be reserved for private sessions, and some room options have included private toilets.
Rooms are pretty basic but they get the job done
Dining at Ryokan Motonago is your usual affair. i.e. beautifully plated breakfasts and Kaiseki dinners presented in your room for your comfort. If you’re looking for ryokans in Kyoto with private onsen that strikes a cozy balance of ambiance, good location, and comforting hospitality, Ryokan Motonago is a good option.
Pros:
Good location, near cultural sites, temples, and many historic tourist attractions.
Cozy and peaceful atmosphere, not noisy, perfect for relaxing
Public baths that are reservable for private onsen sessions
Great hospitality and exceptionally attentive staff
Cons:
No private in-room onsen, but that’s a minor inconvenience as you can reserve the public one
Rooms are humble in size, a common issue with ryokans in Kyoto
If arriving by car, note there’s no onsite parking, public transport access is key
Google Maps Rating: 4.7 / 5 (122+ Reviews)
Phone: +81 75 561 2087
Location: Japan, 〒605-0072 Kyoto, Higashiyama Ward, 高台寺ねねの道鷲尾町５１１
Nazuna Kyoto Higashi Honganji
This is like ryokans for the ultra wealthy, which I am not…
You might’ve notice that I have already recommended a Nazuna Kyoto ryokan, yes they have another location at Higashi Honganji. Nestled in Shimogyo Ward, this Kyoto ryokan is around a 10 minute stroll from Kyoto Station and only steps away from it’s namesake of Higashi-Hongan-ji Temple
As you might’ve gathered from the previous recommendation, Nazuna Kyoto Higashi Honganji is a boutique and intimate ryokan with 7 rooms. Every room is unique, named after traditional carpentry terms, and comes with its own cedar or stone cared private onsen, perfect for couples. Of course, all the standard amenities come included with your room and there are also common areas for you to chill at like a lounge stocked with complimentary snacks and drinks.
Would be be brave enough to open the window to the streets while bathing?
Breakfast service is a beautifully curated spread of local Japanese ingredients and flavors, and dinner service can include luxurious Wagyu shabu-shabu or Sukiyaki. Nazuna Kyoto is an absolute standout and this location, though more budget friendly than the previous luxury option is still one of the best ryokans in Kyoto.
Pros:
Prime central location near Kyoto station and rich heritage landmarks
Uniquely themed rooms with luxurious private onsens
Incredibly delicious meal services and hospitality that truly feels thoughtful
Cons:
On the upper end of “Mid-range”, this is a boutique ryokan so pricing is still high
Might not be what you are looking for in terms of a “traditional” ryokan experience
Google Maps Rating: 4.9 / 5 (69+ Reviews)
Phone: +81 75 585 2670
Tazuru
The seating arrangements in these ryokans looks like some business is about to be conducted
Tazuru sits beautifully along the Kamo River, offering breathtaking views of the Higashiyama mountains and a front-row seat to Kyoto's seasonal vistas, and it’s located nearby the Nishiki Market and an easy stroll to the vibrant cafés and alleyways of Shijo.
The rooms at Tazuru are decorated in the same traditional design as my other recommended ryokans in Kyoto. however what’s special here is the tranquil river view that’s ideal for winding down after a long day of exploration. Public and private onsen are available. Though, in my opinion I do think the property is a bit outdated in design, but that’s just my personal opinion.
Air con blowing directly onto the bed so your pillows are nice and cold
Meal service at Tazuru is your traditional Kyoto cuisine. Breakfast is delicious and varied with seasonal ingredients, and traditional Japanese Kaiseki dinners AND lunch are served in the on-site Tazuru restaurant which offers a riverside terrace dining experience unique to Kyoto’s summer.
If you're hunting for ryokans in Kyoto with private onsens that offer serene and tranquil riverside atmosphere, and standout hospitality, Tazuru is a great choice.
Pros:
Gorgeous location along the Kamo river, peaceful and serene
Excellent dining experiences especially the with the riverside terrace restaurant and view
Polite, attentive staff and hospitality
Cons:
The rooms and overall atmosphere can feel a bit outdated
Some guests noted the air conditioning doesn’t work well in some rooms
Google Maps Rating: 4.0 / 5 (189+ Reviews)
Phone: +81 75 341 3376
Location: Japan, 〒600-8015 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Minoyacho, 179-3
Gion Ryokan Karaku
Those are traditional futon beds, can be a hit or miss in terms of back pain issues
As the name suggests, Gion Ryokan Karaku is a ryokan in Kyoto with a private onsen tucked in the historical Gion district, which is just a few steps away from the Yasaka Shrine and nearby the Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Maruyama Park. The location of this accommodation is prime, with easy access to public transportation like the Kyoto-Kawaramachi train station.
While this Kyoto ryokan doesn’t offer in-room private onsens, it does provide a public bath that can be reserved for private sessions, so technically it is a ryokan in Kyoto with a private onsen… The staff and hospitality is superb and very welcoming.
A nice place to have some afternoon tea
The highlight at this ryokan is the meal service, traditional breakfasts are available but it’s the Kaiseki-style dinner meal service that stood out, you have meals ranging from various types of nigiri sushi, to the classic traditional Wagyu shabu-shabu. Though, unfortunately the meals are not served in your room, you’ll have to go to the designated dining room. While not as full of options as the other ryokans in Kyoto, Gion Ryokan Karaku is a nice balance between traditional experiences and budget friendly value.
Pros:
Spot-on Gion location for exploring, also nearby train station for easy transportation
Public bath that are available to reserve for private onsen experiences
Warm, attentive hospitality and friendly service
Cons:
No in-room private onsen, so if that’s a must, you may lean toward the other ryokans in Kyoto
Private parking is limited and must be reserved (approx. ¥2,000/day)
Google Maps Rating: 4.0 / 5 (205+ Reviews)
Phone: +81 75 541 2525
Location: 499 Gionmachi Minamigawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0074, Japan
Top Budget Ryokans in Kyoto with Private Onsen Baths
Matsubaya Ryokan
A nice balance of traditional decorations and comfort with the beds there
Matsubaya Ryokan is one of the older ryokans in Kyoto as it has been operating since 1884, but it’s rooms and facilities recently underwent a renovation. Located in the Shimogyo Ward, and just a 5 minute walk from Higashi-Honganji Temple and Gojo Subway Station, Matsubaya Ryokan is in a great spot. And despite the central location, the ryokan maintains a peaceful garden retreat that’s a contrast to the rest of the city.
The all non-smoking rooms at Matsubaya is your classic Japanese style with tatami flooring and futon bedding combined with thoughtful modern touches like refrigerators, electric kettles, hairdryers, and in-room bathrooms. There is even a computer with free Wi-Fi available at the lobby if you need some work done. Private onsens are available for booking but it’s an additional fee of 1000 Yen.
The dark grey tiling makes the private onsen room feel ultra luxurious in my opinion
Breakfast is also available with the option between Japanese or Western style. Though not many additional experiences and not anything too special. Matsubaya is a solid choice for staying at a ryokan in Kyoto if you are on a budget.
Pros:
Good location in central Kyoto, near train station
All the experience of a traditional Japanese ryokan for a good price
Great breakfast offerings and exceptional hospitality from the staff
Cons:
Nothing really stands out, not a con per-se but just eh…
Private onsen is an additional cost, not included in your booking
Google Maps Rating: 4.6 / 5 (344+ Reviews)
Phone: +81 75 351 3727
Location: Japan, 〒600-8150 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Kamijuzuyacho, 通東洞院西入
Kyomachiya Ryokan Sakura Urushitei
I appreciate the living room for this ryokan being separated by the shoji paper walls
Kyomachiya Ryokan Sakura Urushitei sits in Shimogyo Ward and within a 10 minute walk from Kawaramachi, Shijo, Nishiki Market, and the iconic Pontocho Alley, while Kyoto Station is only a short subway ride away making it a top pick for if you want culture, convenience, and calm all in one.
The rooms at Kyomachiya Ryokan Sakura Urushitei are more modern and practical compared to the other Kyoto ryokans that I’ve recommended. Modern toilets and Western style beds combined with a traditional Japanese style decoration and furniture placement. Not really a “traditional” experience but if you want comfort and can’t miss the modern essentials then this is perfect for you.
A solid breakfast spread, salmon is always a treat
One special highlight is the private onsen hot tub in the communal bath area, a rare perk among ryokans in Kyoto that allows you to soak in some relaxation without needing to share space with strangers. You'll also find facilities like the always useful coin operated laundry machines as well as a tour desk to help you plan your tours and activities across Kyoto.
A tasty Japanese breakfast is also available at the lobby but it comes at an additional charge.
Pros:
Prime central location with walkable access to Kyoto’s attractions and transportations
Nice Japanese style rooms with modern comforts and a private onsen area in shared bath
Cons:
More modernized, not really a traditional Kyoto ryokan experience if you are looking for that
Breakfast is an additional charge
Google Maps Rating: 4.5 / 5 (616+ Reviews)
Phone: +81 75 343 0003
Location: 425 Kichimonjicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8069, Japan
Nagomi-Ryokan Yuu
No the best ryokan in Kyoto but it does feel oddly cozy
Located in the Shimogyo Ward and conveniently located near the Gojo train station is Nagomi-Ryokan Yuu. Kyoto Tower, Higashi-Honganji Temple, and a cluster of bus stops and trains are all in easy reach as well. And despite urban location, Nagomi-Ryokan Yuu is well known for being “a small traditional hotel in the heart of a contemporary urban sprawl,” praised for its quiet and homey fell.
Nagomi-Ryokan Yuu rooms are admittedly very small but it does come with the feeling of coziness. You’ll find traditional with tatami mats, futon bedding, air conditioning, TVs, and options for private or shared bathrooms. There isn’t an in-room onsen, it would be unreasonable to expect one at this price range, but they do have reservable private onsens.
A nice little area to enjoy a private onsen bath
A rather varied and large Japanese breakfast is available to purchase at an additional cost, you get steamed salmon, veggies, rice, soup, as well as dessert or coffee. And a nice surprise is that Kimono rentals and tea ceremony experiences are also available to book at an additional cost. And of course, hospitality is amazing.
Nagomi-Ryokan Yuu stands out among the other ryokans in Kyoto for providing excellent service and accommodations all for a very affordable price. A good pick for if you’re a bit tight on budget.
Pros:
Great location, walkable to many Kyoto attractions and close to public transport
Traditional style rooms with good amenities at a very reasonable rate
Very nice additional experiences like the breakfast, tea ceremony, and kimono rentals
⠀Cons:
Rooms are really small, can feel a bit claustrophobic
Mattress and bedding is too thin and uncomfortable
Google Maps Rating: 3.8 / 5 (169+ Reviews)
Phone: +81 50 361 28314
Location: 94 Kamiwakamiyacho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8313, Japan
Nihonkan
A very modest room but one that gives you the essential Kyoto ryokan experience
Nihonkan Ryokan sits just a few minutes' walk from JR Kyoto Station, making it a top choice among ryokans in Kyoto for if you are concerned about ease of public transport. The rooms are very simple but they get the job done with that traditional Japanese ryokan flair. You have traditional with tatami mats, futon bedding, air conditioning, TVs, and options for private or shared bathrooms.
And at this price point it’s amazing that they even have their own private onsen which you can reserve for a session. Admittedly, I think the rooms look really outdated and old but I guess it can be charming for some people.
Honestly this looks like a picture from the backrooms
There is a curfew from 11:00 PM to 6:30 AM where guest cannot enter or leave the ryokan, this is actually a common practice amongst many ryokans in Kyoto. so it might not be convenient for you if you like to spend the night out or are planning to do something early in the morning, like hiking up the Fushimi Inari Taisha for example.
A modest but wholesome Japanese breakfast is available each morning as well. But considering all that, the value of this Kyoto ryokan is exceptional.
Pros:
Good location in central Kyoto with ease of access to Kyoto station
Traditional Japanese style rooms with good amenities at an affordable price
Cons:
A curfew means that you are limited from spending time outside for too long
Older building that in my opinion needs renovation but it might be a non-issue for you
Google Maps Rating: 4.2 / 5 (207+ Reviews)
Phone: +81 75 371 3124
Location: 696-1 Higashishiokojicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8216, Japan
Matsumoto Ryokan
A looooot of space here for some extracurricular activities
Matsumoto Ryokan is right across the street from Kyoto Station’s central exit, if that’s not perfect location then I don’t know what is. This earned earned Matsumoto as a top choice among ryokans in Kyoto for getting around, whether you're hopping on a bullet train, grabbing a bus, or strolling to Kyoto Tower, Higashi-Honganji, or Nishihonganji.
You can choose between Japanese-style tatami rooms with futons or Western-style accomodations each comes with essential comforts like air conditioning, flat-screen TV, yukata robe, private bathrooms, fridge, and hairdryer. The basement floor houses 4 public onsens, gender separated of course (open evenings and mornings), these onsens rotate everyday, so it’s a different experience every time.
And the onsen bath doesn’t look too shabby either!
Breakfast and dinner are optionally available in the dining room, but dinner requires a reservation at least two days in advance. You also get free coffee in the lobby as well as luggage service, a computer with free Wi-Fi and surprisingly, a massage service is also available for booking.
Pros
Unbeatable location for transport, sightseeing, and Kyoto access
Authentic Japanese tatami or Western-style rooms with modern comforts
Good variety in the bathing and onsen department
Hospitable, English-speaking staff and delightful breakfast and dinner experience
Cons
No private onsen, but private bathrooms are available with a bath and shower
Street noise can be loud, so light sleepers may prefer earplugs
Google Maps Rating: 3.8 / 5 (141+ Reviews)
Phone: +81 75 371 2622
Location: Japan, 〒600-8216 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Higashishiokojicho, 579 ホーム1
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Discounts on Tours and Activities - View great deals on tours and activities in Tokyo, Japan.
Useful Resources for Traveling in Japan
Tourism Information - All the information you need when traveling in Japan
Pocket Wi-Fi - Important for staying connected on the go
JR Rail Pass (Whole of Japan) - Easy , cheap, and unlimited access to JR transports
Check out my Other Japan Blog Posts!
Best 5 Day Osaka Itinerary Including Visits to Kyoto and Nara City!
Amazing 3 Day Kyoto Itinerary, Things to Do in Japan’s Ancient Capital!
Ultimate Yufuin Travel Guide: Exploring the Onsen Paradise of Kyushu
Exploring Sanmachi-suji and the Sake Breweries of Takayama Old Town
Shirakawa-go, Gifu Prefecture’s Village Stuck in Time + Tasting Hida Beef!
Foodie’s Guide to Dotonbori, What to Eat in Osaka’s Iconic Street Food District
What to Eat at Kuromon Ichiba Market, the Seafood Paradise in Osaka
Ultimate Gujo Hachiman Travel Guide: Things to Do in Japan’s Hidden Edo Town!
Exploring Kiyomizu-dera: Kyoto’s Iconic Temple in the Clouds
CHECK OUT OUR OTHER ARTICLES!
