Best Ryokans In Tokyo (With And Without Private Onsen) 

Looking for the best ryokans in Tokyo? This guide will take you through the top options, many of which feature an onsen (either private or public).

Tokyo is one of the most-visited cities in the world and it’s not hard to see why. Tokyo has secured its place as my favourite city in the world. I keep returning to it – and it should definitely be on the top of your bucket list this year if you haven’t been yet.

For the best experience, you’ll need a fantastic place to stay. Somewhere that’s relatively central, yet still offers you an authentic experience.

Luckily, there are plenty of awesome ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) in Tokyo, many of which feature a private or public onsen (hot spring bath). This way, you can explore the city and then relax in the hot springs afterwards.

To help with your decision, I’ve put together my favourite ryokans in the city. They range in price, location, and amenities, so there should be a perfect fit for you on the list.

Best Ryokans with Private Onsen in Tokyo

Here are the best ryokans in Tokyo with a private onsen:

1. Onsen Ryokan Yuen Bettei Tokyo Daita

This ryokan is set within the Setagaya district of Tokyo. Thanks to its location, you’ll find all sorts of attractions nearby including Hanegi Park, Kitazawa Hachiman Shrine, and Shinganji Temple.

If you’re looking for the best ryokan in Tokyo with a private onsen, then we highly recommend checking out this place. 

This ryokan in Tokyo has certain rooms featuring a private open-air bath and a Japanese garden.The rooms here are beautifully decorated and quite spacious, especially for Japanese standards.

Even if you decide to go for the ryokan’s cheaper rooms, you’ll still benefit from the property’s public onsens, sauna, and spa, where you can enjoy a variety of treatments or full body massages.

2. Cyashitsu Ryokan Asakusa

This ryokan is located in Asakusa. This is one of the most traditional and historic areas in Tokyo, making it perfect for enjoying a ryokan stay and dip in an onsen. The area is easily accessible from Shinjuku (just a short metro ride) and has more than enough bars and restaurants to enjoy.

Cyashitsu Ryokan Asakusa offers you the chance to experience traditional Japanese living, as you’ll be staying within a “teahouse inn“. What better way to embrace the local culture?

There are a variety of Japanese-style rooms to choose from, and some of these offer epic views of Tokyo Sky Tower. You’ll have a traditional breakfast included with your stay, so you’ll get to experience the local food as well.

While the rooms themselves don’t come with a hot spring bath, the on-site onsen can be reserved for private usage. It’s surrounded by a garden, yet, you’ll also get views of the Asakusa neighbourhood while you bathe.

3. Ryokan Kamogawa Asakusa

Ryokan Kamogawa is another beautiful ryokan in the Asakusa area in Tokyo. It’s just a short walk from Kaminarimon Gate, which leads to Sensoji Temple.

You’ll also be a 5-minute walk from Asakusa Station so you’ll have no problems getting around Tokyo. Not to mention, there’s an awesome restaurant on-site.

There are several Japanese-style rooms to choose from at this ryokan with each one featuring a private bathroom. Other amenities include a traditional futon bed, a flat-screen TV, a fridge, and a Japanese tea set.

Again, the rooms in this ryokan don’t have a private onsen attached, but you can book the public onsen for private use. It’s free to book and is the perfect place to relax after a full day of exploring.

Although this place doesn’t offer as many amenities as the previous properties, it’s much cheaper which is always a bonus.

4. The Edo Sakura

The Edo Sakura is found in the neighbourhood of Shitaya – around a 20-minute walk from Ueno Park.

It allows you to embrace the traditional way of life even in Japan’s bustling capital. Each morning at 10 AM, this place provides a traditional tea ceremony for its guests, which is an experience like no other. Better yet, it’s free! 

The ryokan has a private onsen on-site that can be reserved between 3 PM and 11 PM, so it can easily be fitted into your schedule.

If you still weren’t convinced, then The Edo Sakura offers spacious Japanese-style rooms, which all feature a private bathroom and free WiFi. There’s also a coin-operated launderette on the property which always comes in handy when spending a few weeks in Japan.

5. Ochanomizu Hotel Shoryukan

You’ll find Ochanomizu Hotel Shoryukan in Central Tokyo, in the district of Kanda Ogawamachi (Chiyoda Ward). It’s just a short walk from JR Ochanomizu Train Station, which offers direct access to Tokyo Station as well.  

Boasting an on-site restaurant which serves tasty Japanese dishes, a vending machine corner, and a coin-operated laundrette, this ryokan has plenty of facilities.

The Deluxe Japanese-style room features a private open-air bath. It’s only small, but it’s a great way to relax from the comfort of your own room – perfect if you have tattoos for example.

Of course, there are cheaper rooms available too if you’re on a budget. If you go with these, you can still use the public bath on-site. Although it can only accommodate around four people, there is a QR code in the rooms which allows you to see whether there’s space.

6. Prostyle Ryokan Tokyo Asakusa

You’ll find Prostyle Ryokan Tokyo Asakusa in the neighbourhood of Asakusa, with popular nearby attractions including Nitenmon Gate and Ushijima Shrine.

The rooms at Prostyle Ryokan Tokyo Asakusa are both spacious and modern, yet still keep with that traditional design. Better yet, many of them feature a private open-air bath, so you can relax in private and embrace Japan’s traditions. 

Not only that, but some of the rooms feature an outdoor balcony where you can admire the city views, including that of the iconic Tokyo Skytree.

Although costly, these rooms are certainly worth the price in our opinion. However, there are some options which don’t have a balcony or open-air bath if you want to keep an eye on your budget. Just keep in mind that there’s no other onsen on-site for you to use if you opt for the cheaper rooms.

7. Kimi Ryokan

If you’re a budget traveller, Kimi Ryokan may well be the best ryokan in Tokyo with a private onsen. Considering the rooms are an absolute steal, you’ll get a lot for your money here.

One of the highlights has to be the Japanese-style bath which is made out of Japanese Cypress. This bath can be booked out privately. All you need to do is head to the front desk, and they’ll give you the key (if it’s not already in use).

Even though the rooms are very affordable and relatively basic, they feature everything you need, including air conditioning and free WiFi. Just be aware that the toilets and showers are shared, although they’re kept very clean so that’s not an issue.

Better yet, there’s a rooftop terrace and shared lounge area which you can use for socialising. If you still aren’t convinced, then you’ll find plenty of convenience stores nearby, such as 7-Eleven.

Best Ryokans Without Private Onsen in Tokyo

Here are the best ryokans in Tokyo without a private onsen:

1. Ryokan Asakusa Shigetsu

Like many of the traditional accommodation options in this guide, Ryokan Asakusa Shigetsu is located within the Asakusa neighbourhood. As mentioned before, this area is known to be quite historical and traditional, so it’s no surprise it is home to this many traditional inns.

With a history of 80 years, there’s no better place to stay if you’re after an authentic experience. Especially as there are plenty of Japanese-style rooms to choose from (as well as Western-style rooms).

The great thing about Ryokan Asakusa Shigetsu is that there are two public onsens on-site (one for men and one for women). Both are located on the rooftop, and they operate on a first-come first-serve basis. While you aren’t able to book them privately, it still adds so much to the experience of staying in a ryokan.

Not only that but you’ll be treated to striking views of Tokyo Sky Tree and Sensoji Temple from the onsens. In my opinion, these views are best enjoyed in the evening when Tokyo is all lit up.

You’ll also be staying in a really quiet area as the street is closed to general vehicles throughout the day. Perfect to rest up for another day of exploring Tokyo.

2. Onsen Ryokan Yuen Shinjuku

Next up is Onsen Ryokan Yuen Shinjuku which is found in the popular area of Shinjuku. I think Shinjuku is one of the best places to stay in Tokyo for first-timers as there’s lots to do in the area, along with plenty of bars and restaurants.

As well as the location being a great base, Onsen Ryokan Yuen Shinjuku offers spacious and modern rooms, with many of them featuring jaw-dropping city views.

There’s also a great restaurant on-site where you’ll get to try delicious dishes, all made with seasonal ingredients. These dishes are presented in two styles (teppanyaki and tempura) and consist of fish, meats, and vegetables.

As well as a public indoor bath, this ryokan also features two open-air hot springs (one for men, and one for women). Opening hours for these onsens are as follows: Morning (6 AM – 10 AM), Evening (3 PM – 12:30 PM).

3. Onyado Nono Asakusa

With its traditional architecture, excellent facilities, and gorgeous rooms, this ryokan deserves a mention on this list. 

Onyado Nono Asakusa is a mix of traditional ryokan-style accommodation and a more modern hotel, so is perfect for every traveller. It’s found within the Taito district, which offers easy access to other popular areas throughout Tokyo.

First of all, this place has a public indoor and outdoor bath, as well as a dry sauna for men and a mist sauna for women. The baths are open from 3 PM – 10 AM the next morning, while the sauna is closed between 1 AM – 5 AM. 

If you decide to stay here, there’s also a great restaurant on-site where you can try some local specialities and freshly-made dishes. Not to mention a vending machine corner and a laundry corner.

4. Tosei Hotel Cocone Tsukiji Ginza Premier

Tosei Hotel Cocone Tsukiji Ginza Premier is another great option. Although it’s more of a hotel rather than a traditional ryokan, this place does offer nearly 100 Japanese-style rooms, along with a large public bath and sauna.

You’ll find this place located in Tsukiji, which is considered to be one of the country’s leading food towns. From here, you can easily access other areas of Tokyo as well as explore some nearby attractions such as Ensho-ji Temple and Hojuji Temple.

One of the highlights of this place has to be its facilities. In terms of wellness, there’s a large hot spring bath, a cold bath, and a sauna. You’ll also benefit from an on-site restaurant that serves a seasonal breakfast buffet, consisting of both Japanese and Western cuisine.

There’s even a bar area where you can enjoy light snacks and drinks upon your return from exploring Tokyo in the evening.

5. Sakura Ryokan Asakusa Iriya

Sakura Ryokan Asakusa Iriya is situated near the popular areas of Asakusa and Ueno. There are both Japanese and Western-style rooms on offer and the prices are very reasonable.

The rooms at this ryokan are pretty basic but let’s be honest, if you’re in Tokyo, you’re not going to want to spend much time here after all.

Some of them feature a private bathroom while in others, you’ll need to use the shared toilets and washrooms. The latter tends to be the most affordable. 

However, there is a private bathtub on the second floor which you can use. It’s not an onsen, but the option is there if you’re still after a relaxing soak.

You’ll also find a lobby lounge on-site where you can eat your own food as there’s a microwave. Not to mention, there are coin-operated laundry machines for you to use. Perfect for a cheap but traditional stay in Tokyo.

6. Asakusa Ryokan Toukaisou

If you’re not bothered about having a private onsen in Tokyo (or any onsen, for that matter), I’d suggest checking out Asakusa Ryokan Toukaisou.

Located right by downtown Asakusa and just a 10-minute walk from Sensoji Temple, you’ll be staying in a great spot. Tawaramachi Station is only a couple of minutes away too, so you’ll have no problems getting around the city.

Considering its location, the rooms here are very affordable, perhaps some of the cheapest in Tokyo. Not to mention, you’ll benefit from free WiFi, coin-operated laundry machines (perfect for backpackers), and air conditioning. 

Asakusa Ryokan Toukaisou also features a rooftop terrace which is open from 8 AM – 11 PM. Although there are no epic city views per se, it’s still a great place to relax, as you’ll find picnic benches up here (as well as the laundry machines).

So if you’re a budget traveller, make sure you take a look at this place!

7. Kaminarimon Ryokan

You’ll find Kaminarimon ryokan in the neighbourhood of Asakusa, with Asakusa Metro Station being just a short walk away, allowing you easy access to the rest of the city. Especially, as this place offers luggage storage before check-in and after check-out.

This ryokan has been around since 1945 and is a truly authentic place to stay. Several ancient Japanese craftsmanship techniques can be found throughout the property.

There are a variety of rooms to choose from, some of which sleep up to four people. This makes them a great option for families and groups, especially as you’ll have a private bathroom.

It’s important to note that there’s no public or private onsen at this property. There’s also no restaurant on-site but this shouldn’t be an issue as there are plenty of eateries and shops in the surrounding area.

8. Ito Ryokan

Next up is Ito Ryokan which is located in Nihonbashi Ningyocho. This ryokan has been around for over 70 years so it’s got plenty of history. It’s the perfect place to stay if you’re looking to embrace Japanese culture.

There are a variety of fantastic cultural experiences on offer here, including calligraphy, Japanese cooking, tea ceremony, and shamisen (which is a Japanese instrument). You can also take part in rakugo, which is a form of comedic storytelling.

Not only is there plenty to do at Ito Ryokan but there are several Japanese-style rooms to choose from, sleeping between one and four people. Just be aware that you’ll be using communal facilities when it comes to the toilets and showers. 

Breakfast is available at the property for an extra charge and there are laundry facilities on-site. There’s also a lounge area where you can relax and a refrigerator where you can store food.

Not to mention, there are plenty of attractions nearby including the Genyadana Monument, Sankatsu Yukata Museum, and Amazake Yokocho Shopping Street.

Conclusion – The Best Ryokans in Tokyo

Hopefully, this guide has given you an idea of the best ryokans in Tokyo. Whether you’re looking for something budget-friendly or more luxurious, there’s a place for everyone.

You may have even spotted the perfect ryokan for you already, which means you can start planning your Tokyo itinerary.

If you’re looking for other places to try a ryokan near Tokyo, consider checking out Nikko. This beautiful mountain town is a couple of hours from Tokyo, making it a perfect weekend getaway. We also have a guide with the best ryokans in Nikko.