Dip into Tradition: The Ultimate Onsen Ryokan Guide
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There’s a unique allure to the Land of the Rising Sun, and it’s not just the sushi or the cherry blossoms. Imagine a tranquil retreat shrouded in nature, where time seems to stand still, and the world’s worries melt away in steamy, mineral-rich waters.
Welcome to the Best Onsen Ryokan in Japan – a world where tradition meets luxury, and every soak is a step back into history. Each one of these places can be considered as a unique cultural experience! Dive into this guide and let the wonders of Japan’s finest ryokans with hot springs captivate your senses.
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1. Takaragawa Onsen Ousenkaku (Gunma)
Takaragawa Onsen Ousenkaku (宝川温泉汪泉閣), tucked away in Gunma, is not just an onsen; it’s a slice of paradise. This ryokan boasts one of the largest outdoor hot springs in Japan, and it’s mixed-gender, a nod to traditions of old. The Minakami mountains and the serene Takaragawa River envelop the ryokan, offering a picturesque view that’s a treat for the eyes and the soul.
The onsen waters, rich in minerals, promise to rejuvenate your body and spirit. And if you’re a foodie, their traditional Japanese cuisine, made from local ingredients, is bound to tantalize your taste buds. Whether it’s the snow-draped landscape in winter or the lush greenery in summer, Takaragawa ensures a memorable experience year-round. So, if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle, this ryokan might just be your haven.
<<Book “Takaragawa Onsen Ousenkaku” at the best price!! >>
More info: Takaragawa Onsen: Wonderful Day Trip Onsen from Tokyo
 Access |
16-min drive from Yubiso Station |
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 Official Website |
https://www.takaragawa.com/english.html |
2. Kadensho (Kyoto)
In the heart of Kyoto lies Kadensho (花伝抄), a ryokan that seamlessly blends tradition with modern luxury. As you step in, you’re greeted with an ambiance that whispers tales of ancient Japan. Their rooms, a mix of Japanese and Western styles, promise comfort and elegance. But the real star here is their onsen. With five public baths, including an open-air one, relaxation is guaranteed.
And if you’re in the mood for some pampering, their spa treatments are a must-try. After a day of sightseeing in Kyoto, indulge in their top-notch cuisine, made with the best of local seasonal ingredients. You can bet that staying at Kadensho will be an experience that lingers long after you’ve left.
<<Book “Kadensho” at the best price!!>>
| Access |
2-min walk from Hankyu Line Arashiyama Station |
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| Official Website |
https://www.hotespa.net/hotels/kadensho/ |
3. Ginzanso (Yamagata)
Just a hop away from the popular Ginzan onsen, Ginzanso (銀山荘) is the epitome of relaxation. Imagine soaking in an outdoor hot spring, with each season painting a different backdrop: spring’s greenery, autumn’s fiery hues, and winter’s pristine white blanket. And if you’re not outdoorsy, fret not! Their indoor baths are just as inviting. Hungry after your dip? Feast on their special Wagyu beef roast, a delicacy of the Yamagata prefecture.
And for the cherry on top, each room faces the river and mountains, ensuring you’re always in sync with nature. But wait, there’s more! Fancy some foot massage or bed-rock bath? They’ve got you covered. And if you’re in the mood for some retail therapy, their lobby boasts a souvenir shop brimming with Japanese handicrafts.
<<Book “Ginzanso” at the best price!!>>
| Access |
40-min bus from JR Oishida Station |
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| Official Website |
https://www.ginzanso.jp/english/ |
4. Osawa Onsen Sansuikaku (Iwate)
Osawa Onsen Sansuikaku (大沢温泉 山水閣), a gem in Iwate’s Hanamaki city, is a haven for those seeking solace in nature and tradition. With a history spanning over 1,200 years, this onsen offers a unique blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. The ryokan comprises three distinct buildings, each with its own character, allowing guests to embark on a delightful “onsen-hopping” journey.
The ambiance is reminiscent of yesteryears, with well-preserved wooden interiors and artifacts that tell tales of a bygone era. The laughter of guests in the common areas adds to the warmth. And the culinary offerings? Pure, seasonal delights that narrate a story of their own!
<<Book “Osawa Onsen Sansuikaku” at the best price!!>>
| Access |
18-min drive from JR Hanamaki Station |
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| Official Website |
https://www.oosawaonsen.com/ |
5. Noboribetsu Onsen Dai-ichi Takimotokan (Hokkaido)
Located in the heart of Hokkaido, Noboribetsu Onsen Dai-ichi Takimotokan (第一滝本館) offers one of the most outstanding ryokan experiences in the region. This establishment attracts travelers with the promise of rejuvenating onsens and delectable cuisine. The hot spring baths are a highlight, with the Sulphur Hot Spring Baths standing out for their therapeutic properties.
However, adventure awaits too for those who want something more than just relaxation, with various activities in Noboribetsu to keep the adrenaline pumping. And as the day winds down, the ryokan’s bar lounge offers a perfect setting to gaze at the starry night. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning guest, Takimotokan ensures a memorable Hokkaido experience.
<<Book “Noboribetsu Onsen Dai-ichi Takimotokan” at the best price!!>>
| Access |
20-min bus from JR Noboribetsu Station |
|---|---|
| Official Website |
https://www.takimotokan.co.jp/ |
6. Iyashi-no-Sato Kiyashiki (Kumamoto)
Welcome to Iyashi-no-Sato Kiyashiki (いやしの里 樹やしき), where every moment is a deep breath for the soul. Located in Kumamoto’s picturesque Aso region, this ryokan balances masterfully the beauty of nature with Japanese hospitality. The name “Kiyashiki” translates to “tree mansion,” and true to its name, the establishment is surrounded by lush greenery, offering guests a tranquil retreat.
The onsen baths are a treat, promising relaxation and rejuvenation. The culinary offerings are a celebration of seasonal flavors, ensuring a delightful gastronomic journey. And if you’re in the mood for some exploration, the ryokan’s proximity to various attractions in Kumamoto makes it an ideal base. So, if you’re seeking a place where the heart finds peace, Iyashi-no-Sato Kiyashiki awaits.
<<Book “Iyashi no Sato Kiyashiki” at the best price!!>>
7. Bessho Sasa (Yamanashi)
Bessho Sasa (別墅然然), located in the heart of Yamanashi Prefecture, offers a sophisticated approach to the art of relaxation. Here, guests can indulge in the “SASA Speciality” – a hospitality experience that’s as natural as it is luxurious. Whether you’re seeking solitude or vibrant energy, Bessho Sasa caters to both desires.
The rooms are designed to be your personal sanctuary, where you can soak in the hot springs while gazing at Mount Fuji. And when it comes to dining, every dish speaks a story, a tale of seasonal flavors and local ingredients. Dive into the embrace of nature with their hot springs, sourced directly from the blessings of Mount Fuji.
<<Book “Bessho Sasa” at the best price!!>>
8. Hakone Kowakien Tenyu (Kanagawa)
Hakone Kowakien Tenyu (箱根小涌園 天悠) is where time seems to stand still, offering moments of pure relaxation. Located in the scenic region of Hakone, this establishment promises an experience that tantalizes all five senses. The highlight? Every room boasts its own open-air onsen, allowing guests to immerse themselves in nature’s embrace.
The culinary journey here is just as sensory, with dishes that celebrate the season, the land, and the essence of flavors. Whether you’re seeking a retreat into nature or a luxurious escape, Tenyu offers a slice of Hakone that’s both rejuvenating and unforgettable.
<<Book “Hakone Kowakien Tenyu” at the best price!!>>
9. La Vista Fuji Kawaguchiko (Yamanashi)
La Vista Fuji Kawaguchiko (ラビスタ富士河口湖) has a bit of a unique proposal, where the charm of Southern France meets the beauty of Japan. Located in the picturesque region of Yamanashi, it draws inspiration from Provençal elegance and masterfully incorporates it with Japanese hospitality.
In doing so, it creates a space where the essence of the place is clear: a retreat that promises relaxation, luxury, and moments that will make you forget the passage of time. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a getaway, La Vista promises an experience that’s both memorable and enchanting.
<<Book “La Vista Fuji Kawaguchiko” at the best price!!>>
| Access |
11-min drive from Kawaguchiko Station |
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| Official Website |
https://www.hotespa.net/hotels/kawaguchiko/ |
10. AMANE RESORT SEIKAI (Oita)
At AMANE RESORT SEIKAI (潮騒の宿 晴海), the whispers of the sea waves meet unparalleled hospitality. Located in the scenic Beppu city of Oita, this resort is an ode to luxury and relaxation. Every room here boasts an ocean view, ensuring that the horizon is always within sight. And what’s a stay without a dip in their onsen? With hot springs that are a direct flow from the source, relaxation is just a step away.
In addition to outstanding views and baths, the culinary journey here is equally mesmerizing. Whether you’re indulging in traditional Japanese cuisine at “Gen” or savoring the flavors of the sea at their seafood restaurant, every bite is a celebration. So, if you’re seeking an escape where the ocean serenades you, AMANE RESORT SEIKAI is the place to be.
<<Book “AMANE RESORT SEIKAI” at the best price!!>>
| Access |
8-min walk from JR Beppudaigaku Station |
|---|---|
| Official Website |
http://www.seikai.co.jp/ |
11. Gero Onsen Suimeikan (Gifu)
Gero Onsen Suimeikan (水明館), nestled in the heart of Gifu, is where tradition meets modern luxury. This ryokan, with its rich history, promises an experience that’s both rejuvenating and memorable. The onsen baths here are the highlight, offering a therapeutic escape from the daily hustle. But it’s not just about relaxation; the culinary journey at Suimeikan is a sensory delight.
With dishes that celebrate the season and the region, every meal is a gastronomic adventure. And as the day winds down, the ryokan’s serene ambiance ensures a peaceful night’s sleep. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning guest, Gero Onsen Suimeikan promises a slice of Japan that’s both authentic and luxurious.
<<Book “Gero Onsen Suimeikan” at the best price!!>>
12. Dogo Miyu (Ehime)
Step into Dogo Miyu (道後御湯), a realm where relaxation is the only agenda. Located in the picturesque region of Ehime, this establishment promises an out-of-this-world experience. The onsen baths here are a treat, offering a therapeutic escape from the daily grind.
When it comes to dining, Dogo Miyu doesn’t disappoint. With a menu that celebrates local flavors and seasonal ingredients, every meal is a culinary delight. The rooms, with their elegant design and modern amenities, ensure a comfortable stay. And with its proximity to various attractions in Ehime, Dogo Miyu is the perfect base to explore the area.
<<Book “Dogo Miyu” at the best price!!>>
13. Miyajima Grand Hotel Arimoto (Hiroshima)
Grand Hotel Arimoto (宮島グランドホテル 有もと) is located a stone’s throw away from the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, offering both traditional aesthetics and modern comforts. The rooms, with their classic wooden interiors, boast breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea, making every sunrise and sunset an event.
If you’re a foodie, their cuisine, which is a delightful mix of Hiroshima’s local flavors and international dishes, will leave you craving for more. But what truly sets them apart is their warm hospitality, ensuring that every guest feels like royalty. After a long day exploring the nearby attractions, all you will need is to soak in the ambiance of the hotel to become convinced of the grant experience at Miyajima Grand Hotel Arimoto.
<<Book “Miyajima Grand Hotel Arimoto” at the best price!!>>
| Access |
15-min walk from Matsudai-kisen Ferry Terminal |
|---|---|
| Official Website |
https://www.miyajima-arimoto.co.jp/ |
14. Biwako Ryokusuitei (Shiga)
Located on the shores of Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest freshwater lake, Ogoto Onsen Biwako Ryokusuitei (おごと温泉 びわこ緑水亭) promises to whisk you away from the daily routine. The ryokan’s architecture is a nod to Japan’s traditional design, with tatami rooms offering panoramic views of the lake, creating a perfect space to relax and feel rejuvenated.
And if you’re a gastronome, their kaiseki meals, which are a visual and culinary feast, are a must-try. With seasonal events and activities, every visit to Biwako Ryokusuitei offers a new experience, making it a favorite among both locals and tourists.
<<Book “Biwako Ryokusuitei ” at the best price!!>>
15. Ryokan Matsusaki (Ishikawa)
The main highlight of Ryokan Matsusaki (まつさき), in the heart of Ishikawa, is their “Phoenix” rooms, or “鳳凰” as they’re locally called, equipped with their very own onsen baths, both indoor and outdoor. The onsen water is sourced directly from their garden, boasting of its weak alkaline properties that are said to be beneficial for a myriad of health concerns.
The onsen experience is complemented with their excellent cuisine, featuring the best of Kanazawa’s local produce. So, if you’re looking for a mix of traditional aesthetics with modern luxury, Ryokan Matsusaki is your go-to destination. Just remember to leave your strong perfumes at home; they like to keep the ambiance pure and authentic!
<<Book “Ryokan Matsusaki” at the best price!!>>
Japan’s ryokans offer more than just a place to rest; they’re a gateway to the nation’s rich history, traditions, and unmatched hospitality. Whether nestled in bustling cities or serene countryside, these establishments promise rejuvenation, culinary delights, and a genuine taste of Japan’s timeless charm. Dive in, and let the journey begin.
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Written by
Photographer, journalist, and avid urban cyclist, making sense of Japan since 2017. I was born in Caracas and lived for 14 years in Barcelona before moving to Tokyo. Currently working towards my goal of visiting every prefecture in Japan, I hope to share with readers the everlasting joy of discovery and the neverending urge to keep exploring.
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