Japan is home to some of the world’s most unique accommodations, and nothing embodies cultural luxury more than a ryokan. These traditional inns blend history, hospitality, and comfort, offering tatami rooms, seasonal kaiseki dining, and healing hot spring baths. For travelers planning a trip this year, choosing the right ryokan can turn a vacation into a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This guide highlights the best ryokans in Japan this year, complete with regional recommendations.
Check out our Ryokan vs Hotel article to learn what makes a Japanese Ryokan special.
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Best Ryokans in Kyoto
Kyoto, Japan’s cultural capital, is filled with temples, gardens, and historic neighborhoods. Staying in a ryokan here means immersing yourself in centuries-old traditions while enjoying refined hospitality. The best ryokans in Kyoto this year combine luxury, cultural depth, and proximity to landmarks like Gion and Kiyomizu-dera.
HOSHINOYA Kyoto
A secluded riverside retreat in Arashiyama, accessible only by a private boat ride. With just 25 guest rooms, this exclusive ryokan blends privacy with luxury. Guests can enjoy seasonal kaiseki cuisine, stroll along lush riverfront gardens, and relax in their own private hinoki baths while surrounded by nature.
Amenities
- Riverside location
- Private hinoki baths
- Inventive kaiseki dining
- Exclusive boat access
Hiiragiya Ryokan
A legendary ryokan operating since 1818, Hiiragiya has hosted cultural icons, writers, and dignitaries for over two centuries. Its traditional tatami rooms are furnished with antiques, while each meal is prepared with Kyoto’s finest seasonal ingredients. Staying here is like stepping into Japanese history.
Amenities
- Tatami rooms
- Seasonal kaiseki meals
- Traditional gardens
- Historic architecture
Seikoro Ryokan
Established in 1831, Seikoro Ryokan is an intimate property offering a personalized guest experience. Known for its meticulously prepared kaiseki dinners and elegant decor, it features private baths and is located near the historic Gion district, making it convenient for sightseeing.
Amenities
- Ensuite baths plus communal wooden baths
- Tatami flooring
- Seasonal cuisine
- Close to Gion
Best Ryokans in Hakone
Hakone is one of Japan’s most famous hot spring towns, located just outside Tokyo. Known for its healing waters and breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, Hakone’s ryokans are perfect for travelers looking to unwind in a natural setting. This year’s top choices blend wellness, luxury, and tradition.
Gora Kadan
Formerly an imperial villa, Gora Kadan is now a Relais & Châteaux ryokan renowned for elegance and luxury. Surrounded by forests, it offers a serene retreat with multiple hot spring baths, spa treatments, and exquisite kaiseki dining experiences.
Amenities
- Indoor and outdoor onsen
- Luxury spa
- Forest views
- Relais & Châteaux service
Kinnotake Tonosawa
An adults-only ryokan that reimagines traditional Japanese design with a contemporary twist. Its open-air baths face lush woodlands, offering a romantic and secluded atmosphere. Spacious suites with private terraces make it a favorite for couples.
Amenities
- Open-air baths
- Forest setting
- Modern suites
- Fine dining
Gora Byakudan
With only 16 rooms, Gora Byakudan is a peaceful retreat offering exclusivity and comfort. Guests can enjoy the scent of sandalwood throughout the property, indulge in gourmet kaiseki meals, and soak in spacious outdoor baths with mountain views.
Amenities
- Outdoor hot springs
- Kaiseki dining
- Sandalwood atmosphere
- Mountain views
Best Ryokans in Kanazawa
Kanazawa, often called “Little Kyoto,” offers preserved samurai districts, teahouses, and rich cultural heritage. Ryokans here focus on boutique experiences, offering intimacy, authenticity, and elegant design. The best ryokans in Kanazawa this year are perfect for travelers who want cultural immersion with fewer crowds than Kyoto.
Sumiyoshiya
One of Kanazawa’s oldest ryokans, Sumiyoshiya balances affordability with tradition. With over 300 years of history, it offers authentic tatami rooms, hearty breakfasts, and access to a relaxing public onsen. It’s an excellent choice for value-conscious travelers.
Amenities
- Wi-Fi
- Breakfast is available
- Dinner service is currently suspended.
Kanazawa Chaya Ryokan
Located near Kanazawa Station and Omicho Market, this refined ryokan offers an elegant stay with seasonal multi-course meals and a peaceful Japanese garden. It’s well-regarded for impeccable hospitality and convenient location.
Amenities
- Japanese garden
- Kaiseki cuisine
- Indoor bath
- Proximity to Omicho Market
Best Ryokans in Hokkaido
Hokkaido is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, from snowy mountains in winter to colorful flower fields in summer. Ryokans here are designed for nature immersion, with open-air onsen, regional cuisine, and spacious accommodations. This year’s top ryokans highlight both relaxation and breathtaking scenery.
Onsen Ryokan Yuen Sapporo
A modern ryokan in the heart of Sapporo, Onsen Ryokan Yuen offers a sophisticated blend of city convenience and traditional relaxation. Guests stay in minimalist tatami rooms and unwind in the onsen baths using natural hot‑spring water sourced from Karurusu Onsen (Noboribetsu) and transported to the hotel.
Amenities
- Public onsen
- Tatami rooms
- Central city location
- Contemporary design
Zaborin 坐忘林 Ryokan
Nestled in the mountains near Niseko, Zaborin is a luxury villa-style ryokan offering unmatched privacy and elegance. Each villa comes with its own indoor and outdoor onsen, complemented by haute cuisine crafted from Hokkaido’s finest ingredients. It’s a top choice for honeymooners and luxury travelers.
Amenities
- Private villas
- Outdoor onsen
- Fine dining
- Views of Niseko mountains
Akan Tsuruga Bessou Hinanoza
Situated on the shores of Lake Akan, this ryokan combines stunning natural beauty with luxury amenities. Guests can bathe in open-air hot springs overlooking the lake, enjoy spa treatments, and dine on kaiseki meals showcasing Hokkaido’s seasonal produce.
Amenities
- Lakeside location
- Open-air onsen
- Spa services
- Gourmet cuisine
