12 Best Tokyo Ryokan And Hotels With Private Onsen

Last Updated on September 9, 2025 by Audrey

Need to find the best Tokyo ryokan with a private onsen?

Dreaming of soaking in a steaming private onsen bath after a long day of walking around Shinjuku? Yeah, I figured! So you're on the hunt for a ryokan in Tokyo with a private onsen—but struggling to find one that’s actually in the city?

Let me break the bad news first: Tokyo isn’t built on natural hot spring sources, so technically, there are no true onsen in the heart of the city. Some places do bring in hot spring water from nearby areas like Hakone or Izu, but those are usually public baths, if they’re available at all.

But as a fellow private onsen lover, I resonate with your mission. Just for you, I scoured the internet to find the closest thing to a traditional ryokan with a private bath without having to travel 2+ hours. So if you’re looking for the best Tokyo ryokans with private onsen-style baths, here are my top picks that give you that relaxing soak right inside the city.

Top 3 picks: Best Tokyo ryokan with private onsen

What are the Best Tokyo Ryokan with Private Onsen?

Most ryokan in Tokyo with private onsen-style baths are located around Asakusa or Ueno, two quieter neighborhoods that are still very popular places to stay. You’ll be near popular spots like Sensoji Temple and Ueno Park, but away from the constant crowds. It’s a great mix of old Tokyo and city convenience, so it’s perfect for relaxing without being too far from the action. 

1. Cyashitsu Ryokan Asakusa  ($$$$) (3⭐S)

• ⭐ Rating: 9.7/10 (600 reviews)
• ✔️ Perfect for: All travelers
• 💎 Known For: Minimalist luxury, in-room outdoor onsen, teahouse inn customs
• 💦 Onsen Hours: Not listed
• ☀️ Day Visit Option: No
• 🖋️ Tattoo Friendly: Yes, private onsen
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking or Agoda

Cyashitsu Ryokan flawlessly blends traditional Japanese teahouse aesthetics with modern luxury. From the moment you enter, you’re immersed in a calming atmosphere. Stone paths lead you past a moss garden in the lobby, while the rooms feature woven cedar ceilings traditionally used in tea huts. Meticulously placed flower arrangements adorn the hotel, all designed to reflect the elegance of Japanese tea ceremony culture.

All rooms are Japanese-style with futon bedding to promote closeness and comfort. Two suites offer private open-air onsen baths: the Cyashitsu Suite, which accommodates up to 4 guests, and the Ofuro Suite, which is perfect for couples and features incredible views of Asakusa and Tokyo Skytree. Solo travelers who can book the single room can still enjoy an outdoor cypress bath on the 6th floor, rentable at all times. This bath is surrounded by lush greenery, allowing you to fully unwind and relax. 

Both breakfast and dinner are served onsite, featuring premium dishes like specially sourced Matsusaka beef sukiyaki or shabu-shabu, sea bream, and sushi.

Lastly, the hotel is in a perfect location, being only a 3-minute walk to Asakusa Fujiasama Shrine and 5-minute walk to Sensoji Temple, so you can enjoy the peaceful area at night when the crowds disperse.

"I wish I had begun my stay at this ryokan. The moment I stepped inside the space, I was transported. There was such a feeling of peace and love that I could feel the stress of traveling leave me, and a feeling of calm and quiet fill its place."

Myra (Read more reviews)

2. Prostyle Ryokan Tokyo Asakusa ($$$) (4⭐S)

• ⭐ Rating: 8.9/10 (2,800 reviews)
• ✔️ Perfect for: All travelers
• 💎 Known For: Tokyo Skytree views, private open-air onsen, in-room sauna
• 💦 Onsen Hours: 24/7 private onsen
• ☀️ Day Visit Option: No
• 🖋️ Tattoo Friendly: Yes, private
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking or Agoda

Prostyle Ryokan Tokyo Asakusa offers a modern take on the traditional ryokan experience, situated in the heart of Asakusa. This highly booked ryokan embraces the "Shitamachi" spirit, immersing guests in the charm of Asakusa's historic and nostalgic streets.

Rooms are adorned with tatami floors and low beds to invoke a serene atmosphere. You have several choices of rooms with private baths here. The best of the best, the corner suite room, sits on the top floor with a full, unobstructed view of Tokyo Skytree and Sumida River. This spacious room accommodates up to four people, and a private open-air bath is featured with no ceiling.

Additionally, all the suite, twin, and king bed rooms offer either open-air baths or half open-air baths in-room. The baths are designed in a modern style, featuring a ceramic bath with moody teal colors.

For a unique experience, couples can also reserve the “Hanare” suite, which provides a private in-room sauna!

Both breakfast and dinner are available at the ryokan. The on-site restaurant, Kotakino, showcases specialties like beef tongue shabu and wagyu beef hotpot. You also have the choice between a Western or Japanese breakfast to start your day.

This hotel is conveniently only a 4-minute walk from Asakusa Station for incredibly easy transportation, and a 5-minute walk to Sensoji Temple.

"WOW. This property exceeded our expectations, we only wish we had more time here! We had a room on floor 12 and an outdoor bath on the balcony. It was incredible and we wish we were still there! The beds were massive and very comfortable. The staff here were very friendly and we felt very welcomed."

Shona (Read more reviews)

3. The Edo Sakura ($$$) (3⭐S)

• ⭐ Rating: 9.1/10 (3,000 reviews)
• ✔️ Perfect for: Solo travelers, couples, cultural experience lovers
• 💎 Known For: Highly rated, Free tea ceremony, Kyoto-style architecture
• 💦 Onsen Hours: 15:00-22:00
• ☀️ Day Visit Option: No
• 🖋️ Tattoo Friendly: Yes
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking or Agoda

A peaceful ryokan tucked away in a quiet neighborhood near Ueno, The Edo Sakura was built with Kyoto-style architecture and a love for Japanese tea ceremony culture. The rooms here are simple but warm, with both Western and Japanese-style options available.

There’s a private Japanese-style bath you can reserve at check-in for free. Though it’s not a hot spring, it’s still the perfect spot to unwind with a view of the serene inner garden. The atmosphere reflects the heart of omotenashi, or traditional Japanese hospitality, and you can even experience a traditional tea ceremony here for free. Breakfast is available, and the hotel offers great recommendations for lunch and dinner.

This is a great mid-range pick for travelers who want an authentic stay without straying far from Tokyo’s central action. It’s just a 5-minute walk from Iriya Station and a 15-minute train ride to Ueno Park.

"Beautiful traditional rooms with tatami, excellent breakfast, free tea ceremony, private bath, close to Iriya Station (about 5 minutes walk). It's really hard to find a place that feels like a traditional ryokan in Tokyo."

Alexander (Read more reviews)

4. Ryokan Kamogawa ($$$) (3⭐S)

• ⭐ Rating: 9.4/10 (1,000 reviews)
• ✔️ Perfect for: Families, First-time visitors
• 💎 Known For: Prime location, children's amenities, free drinks and snacks 
• 💦 Onsen Hours: 16:00-23:00
• ☀️ Day Visit Option: No
• 🖋️ Tattoo Friendly: Yes (private bath)
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking or Agoda

Located just a 3-minute walk from Sensoji Temple and Kaminarimon Gate, Ryokan Kamogawa is a gem located in the heart of Asakusa. This traditional inn offers Japanese-style rooms that can accommodate up to four guests, making it perfect for groups and families.

One of the standout features is the indoor private bath, which guests can reserve for free upon check-in. After a day of exploring traditional Japanese neighborhoods and browsing Nakamise-dori Street, come home to a relaxing soak.

Additionally, this ryokan goes above and beyond for families, offering child-friendly amenities like baby baths, booster toilet seats, kids’ toiletries, diaper bags, and even mini yukata.

There’s also a cozy lounge with free drinks, Japanese sweets, and fun cultural activities like calligraphy and origami available for guests. I think this option is perfect for those traveling with little ones, or guests looking for an authentic Japanese stay right at the doorstep of Tokyo’s city life.

"This ryokan is located near Nakamise Shopping Street and the Asakusa temple. Still quiet at night. Super friendly and helpful staff and the private bath is the cherry on top. Loved the rooms and we slept really well on the futons. We had such a great stay and will definitely come again! "

Simone (Read more reviews)

5. Yuen Bettei Daita ($$$) (4⭐S)

• ⭐ Rating: 9.3/10 (400 reviews)
• ✔️ Perfect for: Luxury lovers, serenity seekers, traditional ryokan experience
• 💎 Known For: Elegant interiors, tranquil ambiance
• 💦 Onsen Hours: 06:00-13:00, 16:00-01:00
• ☀️ Day Visit Option: Yes, public onsen only
• 🖋️ Tattoo Friendly: Yes, if covered with tattoo sticker
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Agoda

Yuen Bettei Daita offers a peaceful retreat just minutes from central Tokyo, located to the west of Shibuya. This 4-star hotel seamlessly blends an authentic ryokan experience with modern comforts to provide an outstanding stay. 

The only private bath option here is the Deluxe Twin Room, featuring a private wooden bath, though the water is not sourced from natural hot springs. The outdoor bath is placed on a secluded terrace with total privacy and a peaceful stone garden, providing a relaxing experience amidst nature. 

Additionally, the ryokan's public baths utilize natural hot spring water from Hakone, renowned for its skin-soothing properties, and include both indoor and open-air options, as well as saunas and ice baths for men and women.

Lastly, the on-site restaurant, Tsukikage, serves seasonal Japanese course meals with ingredients from all over the country, and offers a curated selection of sake collected by their sake master.

"We had such a wonderful experience with the massage and the onsen that we visited again on our last day of our holidays. A hidden sanctuary in Shimokitazawa. This is a must for anyone visiting Tokyo."

Martha (Read more reviews)

Hotels in Tokyo with Private Onsen-style Baths

As you can see, there aren’t a ton of authentic ryokan in Tokyo with private baths, but the few that do exist are very beautiful! To give you some more options, I also found some outstanding Tokyo hotels that have great private baths that give the same relaxing onsen-style experience, despite not being traditional ryokan.

6. TSUKI Tokyo ($$$) (3⭐S)

• ⭐ Rating: 8.8/10 (1,300 reviews)
• ✔️ Perfect for: Foodies, Minimalists
• 💎 Known For: Cypress wood baths, sake bar, perfect location 
• 💦 Onsen Hours: 06:00-12:00, 15:00-24:00
• ☀️ Day Visit Option: Unknown
• 🖋️ Tattoo Friendly: Yes (private)
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking or Agoda

TSUKI Tokyo blends understated design with refined comfort, giving off a warm, minimal energy that still feels high-end. The rooms are modern with subtle pops of color, and if you book a Premier or Deluxe room, you’ll get your own private hinoki wood bath to enjoy a peaceful soak at the end of the day. 

If your room doesn’t come with a bath, don’t worry! The hotel has two stunning private cypress baths guests can rent for 45 minutes, named Oboro and Kasumi. The soft aroma of the Aomori Hiba wood makes it feel like you’re bathing deep in a forest.

After your bath, unwind in the lounge with free drinks, books, and Panasonic’s latest massage machine. 

For even more pampering, complimentary pastries and a delicious bento breakfast from Hakejouyu Noriben Yamanobori are offered here, a shop so popular that people wait in line for 2 hours to buy!

And if you’re into sake, the hotel’s Sake Bar pairs regional sips with small plates to match.

I’ve stayed in the Tsukiji area myself and loved it. You’re right next to the Tsukiji Fish Market and a short walk to the luxury shops of Ginza. You’ll have Japan’s rich food culture and endless shops at your fingertips. This hotel is also highly praised for its perfect location, being only a block from the subway.

"Loved everything! Stayed on two separate occasions. The room was so thought out and had loads of extra little touches. The bed was super comfy! The staff were so helpful and kind. Would 100% recommend to anyone staying in Tokyo."

Lara (Read more reviews)

7. Stay SAKURA Yokozuna ($$) (3⭐S)

• ⭐ Rating: 8.7/10 (700 reviews)
• ✔️ Perfect for: Budget Travelers, Large groups, families
• 💎 Known For: Sumo rooms, unique themes, multilingual staff
• 💦 Onsen Hours: 24/7 private
• ☀️ Day Visit Option: No
• 🖋️ Tattoo Friendly: Yes (private)
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking or Agoda

Stay SAKURA Yokozuna might just be the most unique place you stay in Tokyo. Once an actual sumo training room called ‘Kokonoe-beya’, the hotel has kept the original room structure and proudly showcases sumo culture throughout the building. From the room names, which are each named after past Yokozuna, to playful sumo-themed art on the walls, this place has a fun cultural energy that you’ll love.

The Deluxe Suites here come with private open-air baths surrounded by bright bamboo. These spacious suites can sleep up to 6 guests and include a large dining table, two beds, futons, and plenty of room for luggage. It’s a perfect space for families or groups traveling together.

Rooms can be as low as ¥12,000 ($87 USD) per night, making this a great pick for travelers on a budget who still want a unique cultural experience. Plus, the staff speak Japanese, English, and Chinese, and you’ll be just a 5-minute walk from Sensoji Temple and 9 minutes to Asakusa Station.

"Loved everything about this property. Immaculately clean, super comfy and a great location very near the Sensoji and only 5-10 mins walk to Asakusa station."

Withyman (Read more reviews)

8. Centurion Hotel Ueno ($$$) (3⭐S)

• ⭐ Rating: 7.7/10 (7,500 reviews)
• ✔️ Perfect for: All travelers, large groups
• 💎 Known For: Multiple room options, Highly booked, Prime location
• 💦 Onsen Hours: 24/7 private
• ☀️ Day Visit Option: No
• 🖋️ Tattoo Friendly: Yes (private)
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking or Agoda

Centurion Hotel in Ueno promises a high-quality stay, and is luxuriously designed to provide you with the ultimate experience. The lobby is decorated with tall bamboo and beautiful Japanese paintings, with golden fans painted on the ceiling and rich red accents that give it a distinct Japanese feel.

There are a variety of different rooms that you can choose from, all with private open-air baths surrounded by wood paneling for complete privacy and lush greenery to set a calming atmosphere. In addition to several bed options, their suites can accommodate up to 8 people, which is perfect if you’re traveling in a big group. Some rooms on the top floor have stunning views of Tokyo’s skyline.

The hotel is in a fantastic location, being a 4-minute walk to Ueno Park and only 3 minutes to the closest subway station. If you also consider all the shops and restaurants nearby, the location can’t be beat.

"The Centurion Hotel Ueno is a delightful little hotel perfectly situated for exploring the city. Its proximity to the train station is a major plus, making it a breeze to arrive and depart. The hotel is also surrounded by a vibrant array of restaurants and shops, offering endless options for dining and shopping. "

Michael (Read more reviews)

Boutique Hotel Picks with Great Baths

Now, these hotels are a whole other category in themselves. These are unique boutique hotels with beautifully designed rooms and bathrooms, with great baths to boot.

9. The Gate Hotel Kaminarimon  ($$$) (4⭐S)

• ⭐ Rating: 9.0/10 (11,000 Reviews)
• ✔️ Perfect for: Modern luxury, city views, romantic getaways 
• 💎 Known For: Highly booked, outstanding service, incredible views 
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking or Agoda

The Gate Hotel Kaminarimon is a modern oasis above the streets of Old Tokyo.

From the moment you step inside, the energy of Asakusa is replaced with an elegant sanctuary. The elevator opens straight into the top-floor lobby, where you’re immediately greeted by a sweeping view of the Tokyo Skytree. 

This hotel caught my eye for The Gate Suite (aptly named after the hotel, I guess). In particular, the bath features a huge soaking tub set right next to a window with panoramic city views. It’s the kind of vibe that makes you want to melt into your personal sanctuary and just enjoy the view for hours. The room has a modern, sophisticated design with navy blue accents and mid-century furniture. 

Guest reviews are all about the buffet breakfast, with perfectly cooked eggs Benedict, buttery quiche, and bagels with Échiré butter. Mmmm... now I'm drooling.

You can enjoy your meal on the terrace with sweeping views of Asakusa’s skyline. There’s also a rooftop bar where you can end your night with a cocktail and a private view of Tokyo Skytree’s glow.

And yet, it gets even better. The hotel is just a 2-minute walk from Sensoji Temple and 3 minutes to Asakusa Station. With its unbeatable location, indulgent food, and jaw-dropping views, The Gate Hotel Kaminarimon delivers one of the best modern-meets-traditional stays in Tokyo.

"It's such a fantastic place in an exceptional location! Everyone was so welcoming and friendly. The room and facilities are so clean and comfortable. There's a phenomenal bar on the top floor."

Tiffany (Read more reviews)

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10. Hotel K5 ($$$$) (4⭐S)

• ⭐ Rating: 9.2/10 (1,200 reviews)
• ✔️ Perfect for: Design enthusiasts, boutique hotel lovers
• 💎 Known For: Michelin Guide recognition, historic architecture, stunning interiors
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking or Agoda

Hotel K5 might just be one of the most beautiful stays in Tokyo. Set in a renovated 1920s bank building, this design hotel in Nihonbashi is a fusion of vintage charm and modern sophistication. The interiors will take your breath away. Decor is moody and minimalist, yet warm and full of character. The high ceilings, large leafy plants, and custom furniture create a space that feels more like an art exhibit than a hotel.

All 20 guest rooms are designed with intention. You won’t find any TVs, but with standalone bathtubs, plush recliners, ambient lighting, and even vinyl record players, you’ll be plenty entertained. It may not be an onsen, but the experience is totally immersive and unforgettable.

You’ll also find a coffee bar, a cozy library bar, an izakaya, and an international brewery all on-site.

Lastly, the location is top-tier—just a 5-minute walk to Nihonbashi Station and close to Tokyo Station, with all the shops and restaurants you could want nearby. If you’re interested in curated spaces and elegant design, check out Hotel K5.

"Every corner of the hotel was thoughtfully designed, showcasing a perfect blend of modern style and functionality. The room was a work of art in itself, with sleek lines, high-quality materials, and clever use of space. It provided a tranquil and luxurious environment, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring Tokyo. "

Gokce (Read more reviews)

Just Outside Tokyo: Ryokan-Style Getaways

Just a short distance away from the city center are these peaceful ryokan-style retreats, where you can unwind and enjoy the calming forests.

11. Kamenoi Hotel ($$$) (4⭐S)

• ⭐ Rating: 8.0/10 (450 reviews)
• ✔️ Perfect for: Relaxation Lovers, City Getaways
• 💎 Known For: Pet-friendly room, Accessible Room
• 💦 Onsen Hours: 05:00-09:00, 15:00-24:00
• ☀️ Day Visit Option: Yes (1,100 yen adults, 550 children)
• 🖋️ Tattoo Friendly: N/A
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Booking or Agoda

Kamenoi Hotel is located in Ome, the Tokyo suburbs. This hotel has a much more relaxed vibe than the busy city, with an abundance of natural scenery. You can enjoy the gentle flow of the Tama River and the view of the Okutama Mountains from your room. 

The standout feature of this hotel has to be its unique room options as well, such as multiple pet-friendly rooms with a premium dry sauna and a private backyard, as well as a universal room with wide doors for easy accessibility.

The rooms are decorated in a modern Japanese style, with tatami mats and natural wood details, but incorporate western beds for extra comfort. Their deluxe room offers a private ceramic open-air bath. The room is spacious with two Western beds and tatami space for extra futons, accommodating up to 5 people. There is a public onsen that you can check out as well. 

Dinner and breakfast are available here, with delicious kaiseki meals featuring Akigawa beef shabu-shabu and their local dish, Fukagawa Meshi. The eating area is a welcoming, modern space with a beautiful view of Tokyo. Lastly, they also offer complimentary dan dan noodles as a late-night snack!

The hotel is around 1 hour from Shinjuku Station on the JR Chuo Line, 25 minutes to Shinagawa Station (which is only 8 minutes away from Tokyo Station), or 20 minutes from Haneda Airport on the Keikyu Express Main Line. So you can definitely get there from Tokyo in less than an hour. It could also be a nice stay right before your trip ends, so you can go directly to the airport.

“Great onsen and amazing rooms. Very spacious and clean with beautiful river views. Their breakfast was amazing with some vegetarian options like fruits, salad, breads and corn flakes."

Shubhansh (Read more reviews)

12. Tokyo Yugawara Onsen Manyo-no-Yu Machida ($$) (3⭐S)

• ⭐ Rating: 8.1/10 (120 reviews)
• ✔️ Perfect for: Relaxation lovers, Day-trippers, Families
• 💎 Known For: Private onsen options, Numerous relaxation areas, Spa treatments
• 💦 Onsen Hours: 24/7
• ☀️ Day Visit Option: Yes
• 🖋️ Tattoo Friendly: Only in private
• 🏨 Check rates and availability on Agoda

Tokyo Yugawara Onsen Manyo-no-Yu Machida provides a complete onsen experience without having to leave Tokyo, with great options for both overnight stays and day trips. Venture just a little outside the city, and you can enjoy an immensely rejuvenating soak in natural hot spring water, without even leaving Tokyo!

Located in Machida, near Yokohama, the hotel is about 40 minutes from Shibuya with no transfer required. I absolutely loved visiting Yokohama, so if that’s on your list, you could consider adding this hotel to your trip!

Manyo Club is a bit different in that it’s a great day trip option with multiple public onsens and saunas. However, to get access to their private onsens, you have to book a stay at their hotel. 

Regarding private onsen options, there are two types here: Japanese-style suites with private open-air onsen, or private onsen that can be rented hourly. For the rental onsen, there are two types, either for two people or four. Children are included in the count, so families will have to rent the four-person bath or reserve the suite. The rentals cost 2,750 JPY per hour (around $20), so not too bad!

While you’re there, you can also enjoy a multitude of spa treatments and massages, so it’s a wonderful getaway option. Then you can check out the Cup Ramen Museum in Yokohama while you’re at it!

"I had a bath in my room on my private balcony, and it was awesome. There are seven floors of different things you can do—from baths to massage to just relaxing and getting away from things. I would strongly recommend it."

Jeff (Read more reviews)

Tips for Booking Ryokan and Onsen Hotels in Japan

• Book early! Most ryokans open reservations 3–6 months in advance and fill up very fast. I recommend using platforms like Booking.com or Agoda with free cancellation. That way, you’ll secure your spot first and can always modify it if needed.
  
• If you want to enjoy their breakfast or dinner service, confirm with the hotel after booking. Meal reservations often need to be made in advance, and sometimes things get lost in translation when you book online.
  
• Don’t cram your itinerary during your stay. Ryokans are all about slowing down and enjoying the experience. Don’t pack your schedule too tightly during your stay.
  
• Learn from my mistake: The first time I stayed at a ryokan with a private onsen, we booked a tour just an hour after check-in. We ended up rushing through their welcome tea ceremony and didn’t get to enjoy it!
  

Everything is well thought out and arranged, from the moment you check in to your meals, so don’t overbook yourself. You’re paying a premium to stay here, so be present and enjoy every moment! 

Japanese Bathing and Onsen Etiquette

Before the Bath:

• Always wash yourself first so you’re clean when you enter the onsen.
• Rinse off all soap before entering!
• Tie up your hair.
• Perform Kakeyu: Splash hot water from the small basin over your lower body using the provided pail to help your body adjust to the temperature.

General Bathing Tips:

• Don’t overheat like they do in Kaiju No. 8! Take breaks and cool off as needed.
  
• Drink water afterwards to rehydrate.
  
• A quick cool rinse at the end will help close your pores.

Tokyo Ryokan with Private Onsen FAQ

Have some questions? Here are the most common questions regarding onsen and ryokan!

What's the difference between an onsen and a ryokan?

A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn, typically featuring tatami-mat flooring, futon bedding, and warm, attentive hospitality. Stays often include both breakfast and dinner, usually served as a multi-course kaiseki meal or shabu-shabu.

An onsen refers specifically to a natural hot spring, heated by geothermal energy. These baths are known for their mineral-rich waters, which are believed to offer a variety of health benefits like improving muscle fatigue, arthritis, improving skin, and much more.

Ryokan and onsen often go hand in hand. Many traditional inns have on-site hot spring baths, allowing you to enjoy both incredible meals and a deeply relaxing soak. However, don’t assume that every ryokan has an onsen or will automatically include meals, so always double-check before you book.

What’s the difference between an onsen and a sento?

An onsen is a hot spring, while a sento is a public bathhouse.

Will I be allowed to go to an onsen with tattoos?

Most public onsen won’t allow you to enter if you have tattoos (that’s right, you yakuza!). If you have a small tattoo, you might be able to get away with covering it with a tattoo sticker, but definitely not with that geisha girl sleeve.

You can always inquire with the hotel directly, but I would recommend booking a private onsen if you have a lot of tattoos.

Are Ryokans more expensive than Hotels?

Yes, they are. There’s no sugar coating that! However, remember that you’re paying for upscale Japanese hospitality, and most of the time your stay includes two meals. I personally think the food balances the cost and makes it well worth the value.

How many days should I stay in a ryokan?

I personally believe that the ideal amount of time to stay in a ryokan is 1-2 days.

One day feels a little short, but if that's all the time you have, then still go for the 1 day! You’ll still be able to enjoy dinner and breakfast.

Two days is perfect if you want to explore the nearby area while also enjoying all the hotel’s amenities.

Conclusion

Options are limited, but those are the best ryokan in Tokyo with a private onsen! I have to say, some of them are straight-up tatami heaven, they’re just gorgeous. Of course, if you venture to cities closer to hot springs like Hakone, Izu, or even Hakodate, you’ll find many more selections, but that depends on your trip schedule.

I also have a separate post on the best areas to stay in Tokyo that aren’t specific to private onsen, if you want to take a look.

Let me know where you end up staying, and if you liked it (or hated it)! If you ever need help, holla at me at audrey@getlostinjapan.com as always 🙂 Happy traveling!

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