13 Best Ryokans in Kyoto with Private Onsen

Planning to visit Kyoto and want to make your stay special? Why don’t you spoil yourself with Ryokan in Kyoto with private onsen?

Kyoto is one of the most beautiful cities in Japan with old wooden houses, unique temples, hidden gardens, and some breathtaking locations that you won’t find anywhere else. Choosing the right accommodation is essential to elevate your experience.

Ryokan is a traditional Japanese house with a typical local design. Luckily today, most of the Ryokans offer modern-day comfort and even luxurious amenities. Having a private onsen in your accommodation is the ultimate experience and the best way to relax during your holiday.

To save you time and hours of research, I have prepared a list of the best Ryokan in Kyoto with private onsen. This article features different types of accommodation so you can find your perfect match.

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Where to stay in Kyoto? Our top picks for ryokans in Kyoto with private onsen:

13 amazing ryokans in Kyoto with private onsen

Kamishichiken Oku

Photo credit: Kamishichiken Oku via Booking.com
Photo credit: Kamishichiken Oku via Booking.com

Kamishichiken Oku is one of the best ryokan in Kyoto with private onsen which embodies wonderfully the Japanese soul and spirit. It is located approximately 3 km away from the Kyoto city center on a wonderful street that will take you back in time.

This ryokan is exquisitely decorated in a traditional Japanese style but offers all the modern amenities for a comfortable stay in style. There are rooms that offer a terrace or a balcony with a lovely view of the gardens.

Some of the rooms also boast a private open-air Onsen. The rooms with open-air baths will give a lovely Japanese touch to your Kyoto vacation and make you feel like royalty.

Last but not least, what makes Kamishichiken Oku one of the best Kyoto ryokan is the traditional Japanese breakfast. A selection of warm and cold dishes, local specialties and fruit is available for guests and can be enjoyed directly in your room.

What guests loved about Kamishichiken Oku?

They thought of everything for comfort in your stay here, the room had everything, even a self-filling bath. We couldn’t fault our stay, even had a Japanese newspaper in English on our door when we were leaving. Lots of little touches like this were appreciated around the room, and the staff was lovely. would definitely come back if we ever venture back this way.”

Nazuna Kyoto Tsubaki St. 

Photo credit: Nazuna Kyoto Tsubaki St. via Booking.com

Nazuna Kyoto Tsubaki St. lies in a strategic location near the Kyoto city center. This wonderful Kyoto Ryokan with the private onsen is a real pearl of modern design and efficiency colliding wonderfully with a sober traditional Japanese style.

The luxury room is the way to go if you are seeking the ultimate experience of comfort and uniqueness. The private onsen is modern & intimate and will make you relax after a busy day visiting Kyoto. The rooms are fully equipped for short and long stays and make happy every kind of guest.

On-site, you will a fine dining restaurant where you can try Asian specialties. Guests can also enjoy an eye-pleasing and delicious breakfast in their room.

What guests loved about Nazuna Kyoto Tsubaki St.?

“Clean, well-organized interior and nicely restored street as the exterior. Kind and very helpful staff that make you feel very welcome, good suggestions about Kyoto, and above & beyond service. Nazuna Kyoto Tsubaki St. is a wonderful choice to stay in Kyoto to greatly expand your Japanese and Kyoto experience. Can’t wait to visit again.”

TABITABI STAY MOONLIGHT

Photo credit:TABITABI STAY MOONLIGHT via Booking.com
Photo credit:TABITABI STAY MOONLIGHT via Booking.com

TABITABI STAY MOONLIGHT is a beautiful 2-bedroom house located in Nijo, a few minutes away from Kyoto Castle. This highly-rated Kyoto ryokan with private onsen boasts an incredible booking score of 9.2.

The decor is exquisitely Japanese, it collides with a modern style with a traditional touch. The cherry on the cake of this fantastic accommodation is the open-air private Onsen to unwind and enjoy some authentic Japanese vibes.

This fully equipped accommodation is ideal for families and groups since it can accommodate up to 7 people. It is also an excellent choice for travelers who plan to stay in Kyoto long term since you can find everything you need in the house.

What guests loved about TABITABI STAY MOONLIGHT?

“Absolutely loved the outdoor bathtub.  The beds were comfy too.  Loved the whole aesthetic of the home.  Also, the sake and other free drinks were a nice added touch.”

Kyonoyado Gekkoan

Photo credit: Kyonoyado Gekkoan via Booking.com
Photo credit: Kyonoyado Gekkoan via Booking.com

Kyonoyado Gekkoan is one of the best-rated luxury Kyoto ryokan with private onsen with a score of 9.7. 

Set near the Nijo castle, Kyonoyado Gekkoan is perfectly connected to the Kyoto heritage. Despite that, the accommodation lies in a very quiet and traditional Japanese street, in the heart of Nakagyo Ward.

This modern Ryokan in Kyoto with private onsen keeps a Japanese traditional touch, but the decor is quirky and innovative.  Yet, the harmony of combined elements blends perfectly for an experience of tradition, comfort, and lux.

This holiday home offers everything that a traveler might need for short and long-term, such as a kitchenette. The property also offers a traditional or vegetarian breakfast to the guests.

What guests loved about Kyonoyado Gekkoan?

“A Quiet peaceful side of Kyoto, not too far from the station. 10 min JR from Arishiyama. The host was exceptionally hospitable, even booking us a taxi to a popular local Yakatori-ya that we thoroughly enjoyed. The experience as a whole has been one of, if not our favorite times in Japan on our holiday so far. We wish we could have stayed longer!”

Kyoto Machiya Fukune 

Photo credit: Kyoto Machiya Fukune via Booking.com
Photo credit: Kyoto Machiya Fukune via Booking.com

Set in a quiet street between the Nishiki Market and the Nijo Castle, Kyoto Machiya Fukune is a gem of modern design. This high-end ryokan in Kyoto with private onsen is probably the best choice to enjoy Japanese modern design. 

Despite the modernity and the lux, the tradition is very much alive in the details. Unique pieces of design, such as traditional musical instruments, are a wonderful touch to make your stay essentially Japanese. Wood is an omnipresent element and it’s perfectly highlighted by the furniture and lights.

The rooms come with a private open-air onsen to complete the ultimate experience of lux and comfort.

What guests loved about Kyoto Machiya Fukune?

“Absolutely lovely property with a lot of character but still very functional and comfortable. The hosts were very friendly and welcoming and very responsive to the questions we had before and during our stay. The location was central and convenient.”

Kishoan 

Photo credit: Kishoan via Booking.com
Photo credit: Kishoan via Booking.com

Kishoan is a stunning villa set in the heart of the city and one of the best ryokan with private onsen. The privileged location, in a quiet and not trafficked street still guarantees privacy and intimacy, and the terrace offers lovely city views.

The wooden decor is a candy to please your eyes and a triumph of design. Modern and luxurious elements blend magnificently with a Japanese style.

The very symbol of this union of elements is the open-air onsen where you can let go of all your thoughts after a day sightseeing.

The Ryokan can accommodate up to 6 people and is fully equipped. This means that it’s a perfect choice for couples and families for short and long-term stays while visiting Kyoto.

What guests loved about Kishoan?

“Beautiful, traditional Kyoto home. Truly an authentic home with a small zen garden and bathtub. A gem for those wanting to get a taste of Kyoto.”

Nazuna Kyoto Gosho 

Photo credit: Nazuna Kyoto Gosho via Booking.com
Photo credit: Nazuna Kyoto Gosho via Booking.com

Nazuna Kyoto Gosho stands between the Kyoto imperial palace and the Nijo Castle. It is a traditional Kyoto ryokan with a private onsen that you don’t want to miss for a romantic stay in Kyoto.

Each room is uniquely decorated and with its own Wagashi theme. If you are looking for an extra cuddle you should go for the luxury rooms with the private open-air onsen.

Guests can chill in the shared lounge or in the beautiful Japanese gardens. If your room doesn’t come with a private onsen you can always enjoy the public one equipped with a hot tub and free toiletries.

The Japanese heritage is also brilliantly presented to the guest even through the culinary tradition. A seasonal breakfast is served daily using only the freshest and best products that Japan has to offer. For dinner, you can try one of the best Sukiyaki of your life!

Finally, what makes this a very famous Kyoto ryokan with private onsen is a number of activities like kimono rental, massage, and more.

What guests loved about Nazuna Kyoto Gosho?

“Tasteful, traditional, and cozy room. Very friendly, polite, and helpful staff. Lovely private bath area. Old-style Kyoto vibe.”

Kiraku Kyoto Honmachi 

Photo credit: Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel via Booking.com
Photo credit: Kiraku Kyoto Honmachi via Booking.com

Set a few minutes away from the historical area of Kyoto, this holiday home is one of Kyoto’s best ryokan with a private onsen.

The modern design highlights the details of the house, which is fully equipped for a memorable stay in Kyoto. The home consists of 3 separate bedrooms each uniquely decorated and personality. For better privacy, the home has a private entrance.

The Machiya Suite is the way to go for a romantic special stay. This spacious suite has access to a large onsen where you can unwind with your partner.

The house offers a mouth-watering traditional a la carte breakfast that can be also taken in your room.

What guests loved about Kiraku Kyoto Honmachi?

“I loved everything about this home. It felt so cozy and clean. The outdoor onsen In the winter was super romantic. 2 large people can fit. The plexiglass floor is very fun.”

Kiraku Kyoto Gion

Photo credit: Kiraku Kyoto Gion via Booking.com
Photo credit: Kiraku Kyoto Gion via Booking.com

Kiraku Kyoto Gion is nestled in the most folkloristic area of Kyoto and one of the most picturesque all of Japan. This 5-star holiday home is one of the best ryokan in Kyoto with a private onsen for its position and style.

This holiday home is composed of 2 separate bedrooms with a king-size bed, some common spaces, and Japanese gardens. The house is completely soundproof and has its own private entrance. Some of the walls display Japanese paintings.

The house offers a delicious traditional a la carte breakfast that can be also enjoyed in your room.

What guests loved about Kiraku Kyoto Gion?

“The outside onsen bathtub was amazing. It was an interesting experience. The beds were firm but comfortable. It was easy to check in. The location was great for all the temples.”

Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Kyoto 

Photo credit: Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel via Booking.com
Photo credit: Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel via Booking.com

Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel, is in one of the most iconic and spectacular areas of Kyoto.

The location of Arashiyama makes it perfect to explore some iconic locations and yet have a more intimate space compared to the city center.

This 5-star hotel in Kyoto boasts modern accommodations and amenities for an unforgettable stay in Kyoto. The lavish decor will make you feel like royalty while the staff will take good care of you.

The privileged location on the river Hozu and the lush surroundings is an oasis of peace where you can relax and get the best out of your Kyoto vacation.

Get an authentic glimpse of the Japanese fine dining cuisine at the restaurant. The café offers a variety of gourmet options and afternoon tea in the peaceful garden. 

A number of experiences and treatments can be requested for an additional charge.

What guests loved about Kiyomizu Inishie-an?

“There is no better location in Arashiyama than Suiran. The afternoon tea on the outdoor balcony of Cafe Hassui is perhaps the most delightful pleasure of all Arashiyama. The lunch and/or breakfast at the garden restaurant also makes Suiran the most lavish onsen in Japan.”

Kiyomizu Inishie-an

Photo credit: Kiyomizu Inishie-an via Booking.com

Kiyomizu Inishie-an lies a short distance from Kiyomizy-Dera, in the heart of Kyoto. And this ryokan in Kyoto with a private onsen has an excellent score on booking of 9.1.

The accommodation is spacious and fully equipped for long and short stays. The modern design is not only delightful but also functional and provides all the comforts and amenities. The house has two separate rooms, it offers a terrace, mountain views, and a balcony.

Guests can relax in the open-air onsen or unwind in the garden.

What guests loved about Kiyomizu Inishie-an?

“The interior design was superb, with the comfort of modernity while maintaining the traditional style. The location offered a very authentic Kyoto experience.”

Kyoto Nanzenji Ryokan Yachiyo

Photo credit:Kyoto Nanzenji Ryokan Yachiyo via Booking.com
Photo credit:Kyoto Nanzenji Ryokan Yachiyo via Booking.com
  • Rating on booking: 7+
  • Room with private onsen: Japanese-style suite with Balcony and Garden View and Open-Air Bath
  • Check rates and availability

Kyoto Nanzenji Ryokan Yachiyo lies next to the famous Nanzen-ji Temple in a quiet yet historical area of Kyoto. This popular Kyoto ryokan with private onsen is surrounded by an incredible Japanese garden, to offer a private and relaxing experience to guests.

The room decor is purely Japanese featuring a tatami (woven-straw) flooring and futon bedding. Some rooms also boast a private bath or even a Sauna, for an extra charge, guests can also request massages.

Finally, what makes Kyoto Nanzenji Ryokan Yachiyo one of the best ryokans in Kyoto is its on-site restaurant. Here you can try Japanese dishes skilfully prepared while overlooking the gardens. Vegetarian options are available. 

What guests loved about Kyoto Nanzenji Ryokan Yachiyo?

“Fantastic traditional Ryokan stay. The hosts and staff persisted diligently to understand our wishes and requirements and were extremely hospitable and accommodating at all times. Delicious Kyo-Kaiseki meal.”

Further reading for the best Ryokan in Kyoto with private onsen

Travel tips for Kyoto:

Travel tips for Osaka:

Travel tips for Tokyo:

Or read more about Kyoto | Osaka | Tokyo | Himeji | Nara | Uji | Japan

Other useful tips for visiting Japan

🏠 Need a place to stay? Browse Booking or Agoda
💃 How about fun experiences? GetYourGuide, Viator, and Klook have it all
🚗 Considering renting a car in Japan? Use Rentalcars
🚂 If you need transfers, bus or train tickets, check 12Go
🔒 Don’t forget about travel insurance from HeyMondo

In conclusion…

13 Best Ryokan in Kyoto with Private Onsen That Will Blow Your Mind

This is the end of the best ryokan in Kyoto with private onsen and while it might be difficult to choose, I am sure you found the perfect match for your needs, comfort, and budget. Now it is time to count the days until your trip to Japan.

I would love to hear your thoughts, so if you have any feedback or additional tips, leave a comment below. Also, check out my Instagram for regular travel videos and travel inspiration. Or explore other destinations on this travel blog.

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13 Best Ryokan in Kyoto with Private Onsen
13 Best Ryokan in Kyoto with Private Onsen

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