For travellers visiting Japan, staying at a ryokan—a traditional Japanese inn—offers an immersive experience of Japan’s unique culture, architecture, and hospitality. Ryokans have been around since the Edo period, serving as accommodations for travellers and samurai along Japan’s historic highways. More than just a place to stay, ryokans offer a step back in time with tatami mat rooms, futon bedding, hot spring baths (onsen), and meticulously prepared Japanese meals (kaiseki). These inns, more expensive than the regular capsule stays, reflect the art of omotenashi, the Japanese spirit of hospitality, ensuring that guests feel cared for in every aspect. Here are five of the best ryokans in Japan that showcase the elegance and comfort of this unique lodging style.
Nestled in the hot spring town of Hakone, Gora Kadan is one of Japan’s most luxurious ryokans, combining traditional architecture with contemporary elegance. Originally a summer retreat for the Imperial family, this ryokan blends modern luxury with classic Japanese aesthetics. Rooms are spacious, with large windows offering views of lush gardens and surrounding mountains. Guests can enjoy private open-air onsen, and the exquisite kaiseki meals are artfully prepared using seasonal ingredients.
Address: 1300 Gora, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0408, Japan
In the heart of Kyoto, Tawaraya is among the oldest ryokans in Japan, offering an intimate and historical experience. Family-run for over 300 years, Tawaraya captures the essence of Japanese hospitality with a calm and secluded setting. The rooms feature simple yet elegant décor, sliding shoji screens, futons, and tatami flooring. Tawaraya’s garden is a work of art designed to evoke tranquillity. The ryokan’s service is famously discreet yet attentive, offering guests a private, luxurious retreat in the bustling city of Kyoto.
Address: 278 Nakahakusancho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8094, Japan
Located in, a picturesque hot spring town, Nishimuraya Honkan embodies traditional ryokan charm with an emphasis on nature and relaxation. Family-owned for seven generations, this ryokan offers beautifully decorated rooms overlooking Japanese gardens, and several private and public onsen baths are available. Guests here can dress in yukata robes and explore the quaint town on foot, stopping by local hot springs. Nishimuraya Honkan also serves exceptional kaiseki dinners, with dishes highlighting local seafood and regional specialities, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a comprehensive cultural experience.
Address: 469 Kinosakicho Yushima, Toyooka, Hyogo 669-6101, Japan
Asaba Ryokan in Shuzenji, Izu Peninsula, offers refinement against the backdrop of bamboo forests. This ryokan has welcomed guests for over 500 years and combines minimalist interiors with beautiful outdoor spaces, including a tranquil pond and a Noh stage. The rooms have large windows overlooking the peaceful gardens, and the ryokan’s onsen is known for its healing waters. Asaba Ryokan’s meals are a highlight, with each dish carefully crafted to reflect the region’s flavours and seasonality.
Address: 3450-1 Shuzenji, Izu, Shizuoka 410-2416, Japan
Nestled in the Aso District of Kumamoto, Sanga Ryokan offers a calm retreat in the heart of Kyushu’s lush landscapes. Surrounded by forests and mountains, this ryokan provides a blend of rustic elegance and traditional Japanese hospitality. Guests can unwind in private open-air hot spring baths, soaking in mineral-rich waters while enjoying views of the natural surroundings. Rooms are thoughtfully designed with tatami mats, wooden furnishings, and sliding shoji doors, creating an authentic Japanese atmosphere. Known for its farm-to-table kaiseki meals, Sanga Ryokan delivers an immersive, nature-filled experience perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Address: 6961-1 Manganji, Minamioguni, Aso District, Kumamoto 869-2402, Japan