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Japan's Exquisite Ryokan Collection: Top Stays Across the Regions (Part 1)

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Immerse yourself in the traditional elegance and serene ambiance of Japan's finest ryokans (旅館). A ryokan is a type of traditional Japanese inn that typically features tatami-matted rooms, communal baths (often onsen or hot springs), and other public...

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Important Booking Notes & Tips: 

When planning your ryokan stay, keep the following practical tips in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable booking process: 

• Book Well in Advance: Popular ryokans, especially those in highly sought-after onsen towns or during peak seasons (cherry blossom, autumn leaves, national holidays like Golden Week or Obon, New Year's), can book out months in advance. For top-tier ... 

• Pricing Structure: Ryokan rates are almost always quoted per person, per night, rather than per room. The price typically includes a traditional multi-course dinner (kaiseki) and breakfast. This is a key difference from standard hotels. 

• Meal Inclusions: Confirm what meals are included in your booking plan. Most traditional ryokans offer a "one night, two meals" plan (一泊二食, ippaku nishoku), which is highly recommended for the full experience. Room-only or breakfast-only plans are l... 

• Cancellation Policies: Ryokan cancellation policies can be stricter than hotels due to the personalized preparation involved. Always check the specific cancellation terms on your chosen booking platform or the ryokan's direct website to avoid unexp... 

• Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) vs. Direct Booking: 

     o OTAs (like Booking.com): 

     Offer convenience, competitive rates, and often have English-language interfaces. They're excellent for Browse and comparing. 

     o Direct Booking: 

     Sometimes, ryokans offer exclusive packages, more room types, or slightly different meal options on their official Japanese websites. It's often worth checking the ryokan's direct site, especially if you encounter issues or want to compare special of... 

• Onsen Tax: Be aware that a small "onsen tax" (入湯税, nyutosen) of typically JPY 150-300 per person, per night, is often levied at hot spring ryokans. This is usually paid directly at the ryokan upon check-out and is not always included in the initial...
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Essential Guide: Navigating Your Ryokan Stay & Onsen Etiquette

To ensure a seamless and respectful experience at a traditional Japanese inn and its hot springs, familiarize yourself with these key customs and practical tips. Comprehensive information on etiquette, bookings, and what to expect can be found in the...

 
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Ryokan, traditional Japanese inns, offer more than just a place to stay 

Japan's famed omotenashi (hospitality) is at the cornerstone of this accommodation experience. Potentially the oldest form of hotel in the world, Japan's ryokan are said to date back to the 8th century. These accommodations are imbued with Japanese t...
Japanese Ryokan Guide | Guide | Travel Japan - Japan National Tourism Organization (Official Site)
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The first step in taking a hot spring bath is to locate the changing areas, which are almost always gender-segregated rooms outside the bathing areas. The men's and women's changing areas are typically identified by the curtains that hang outside. Bl...
How to take an onsen bath
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Hokkaido Region: Northern Escapes & Volcanic Springs

Discover Hokkaido's vast natural landscapes and dynamic hot springs. These ryokans offer a blend of modern comfort and natural beauty, providing serene retreats with exceptional amenities.

 
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Elegant Accommodations: Lake Toya Tsuruga Resort HIKARINOUTA in Sobetsu offers a 5-star ryokan experience with a hot spring bath, spa facilities, sauna, and open-air bath. Guests enjoy a serene garden and a restaurant serving French and European cuis... 

Comfortable Amenities: The resort features a fitness room, public bath, minimarket, and free WiFi. Additional facilities include a 24-hour front desk, family rooms, and free on-site private parking. 

Prime Location: Located 2.5 mi from Lake Toya and 68 mi from New Chitose Airport, the resort is near attractions such as Muroran (22 mi) and Usu Station (8.1 mi). The surrounding hot spring area enhances the relaxing atmosphere. 

Guest Satisfaction: Highly rated for its attentive staff, comfortable rooms, and scenic lake views, the resort ensures a memorable stay for all visitors.
Lake Toya Tsuruga Resort HIKARINOUTA
 
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Comfortable Accommodations: Jozankei Onsen Yurakusoan in Sapporo offers family rooms with mountain and river views. Each room includes air-conditioning, a private bathroom with a bath and bidet, and a dining table. 

Relaxing Facilities: Guests can enjoy a hot spring bath, sauna, and open-air bath. The property features a spa and wellness center, providing a range of relaxation options. 

Dining Experience: An à la carte Asian breakfast is served daily. The on-site restaurant offers a variety of dining options, including a lounge and public bath. 

Convenient Location: Located 22 mi from Okadama Airport, the ryokan is near attractions such as Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort (12 mi) and Odori Park (16 mi). The surrounding hot spring area enhances the relaxing atmosphere.
Jozankei Onsen Yurakusoan
 
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Located in Niseko, within 14 mi of Niseko Annupuri International Ski Area and 9.9 mi of Niseko Annupuri Hot Spring, Zaborin provides accommodations with a garden and free WiFi throughout the property as well as free private parking for guests who dri... 

At the ryokan, the rooms come with a balcony. Every room comes with a private bathroom with a shower, a hairdryer and free toiletries. All units will provide guests with a wardrobe and a kettle. 

A Japanese breakfast and a traditional kaiseki multi-course dinner are available daily at Zaborin. 

Niseko Goshiki Onsen is 7.5 mi from the accommodations. The nearest airport is New Chitose Airport, 72 mi from Zaborin.
Zaborin, Kutchan
 
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A 15-minute drive from the Mount Hakodate, Bourou Noguchi Hakodate features modern accommodations with Wi-Fi in the guest rooms. After soaking in the indoor and outdoor hot-spring baths, guests can relax in the massage chairs in the sky lounge, or lo... 

The air-conditioned rooms feature a flat-screen TV, a refrigerator, and a desk. Guests can lounge at the separate seating area with a sofa.The private bathroom provides free toiletries and a bathrobe. 

The hotel provides a library and a billiard room. Guests can also request for massages or relax in the sauna. The duty-free souvenir shop sells local products and the hotel’s original goods. 

Breakfast and dinner are served at the restaurant. Guests can request for a traditional multi-course meal for dinner. 

Hakodate Bourou Noguchi is a 15-minute drive to both the Goryokaku Park, and the Motomachi and Bay Area. The Hakodate Airport is a 10-minute drive away.
Bourou Noguchi Hakodate

Tohoku Region: Historic Charms & Scenic Onsen Trails

Journey to Tohoku, a region of captivating natural beauty and traditional hot springs. These ryokans offer an authentic Japanese experience with high-quality amenities and cultural depth.

 
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Featuring free property-wide WiFi, a spa center and a seasonal outdoor pool, Matsushima Ichinobo offers accommodations in Matsushima. The ryokan has a hot spring bath and sauna, and guests can enjoy a drink at the bar. Free private parking is availab... 

Every room at this ryokan is air conditioned and is equipped with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. For your comfort, you will find yukata robes, slippers and free toiletries. 

There is free shuttle service, gift shop, and shops at the property. 

Zuiganji Temple is located 0.7 mi away. The nearest airport is Sendai Airport, 19 mi from the property.
Matsushima Ichinobo
 
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Comfortable Accommodations: Tabinoyado Saikawa in Kuroishi offers a 3-star ryokan experience with spa facilities and free WiFi. Guests enjoy private check-in and check-out, beauty services, and a hairdresser/beautician. 

Comfortable Amenities: The property features air-conditioning, spa baths, hairdryers, chocolates or cookies, tatami floors, refrigerators, TVs, and sofas. Free on-site private parking is available. 

Dining and Services: Dinner and breakfast are provided by the property, highly rated by guests. Meeting rooms are available for business purposes. 

Local Attractions: Located 21 mi from Aomori Airport and 21 mi from Lake Towada, the ryokan is near attractions such as Hirosaki Castle (14 mi) and Sukayu Onsen (12 mi).
Tabinoyado Saikawa
 
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Featuring free WiFi and a restaurant, Okawaso offers accommodations in Aizuwakamatsu, 8.1 mi from Aizu Higashiyama Onsen. 

Each room at this ryokan is air conditioned and comes with a TV. The rooms include a private bathroom. For your comfort, you will find slippers and a hairdryer. 

You will find free shuttle service at the property. Guests can enjoy seasonal Japanese and Western-style buffet spread breakfast and dinner. 

Mount Iimori is 9.9 mi from Okawaso, while Aizuwakamatsu Castle is 8.7 mi from the property.
Ookawaso

Kanto Region: Urban Escapes & Mountain Retreats

Beyond Tokyo's bustling heart, Kanto offers stunning hot spring towns like Hakone and Kusatsu. These ryokans provide luxurious escapes, many with private onsen and iconic views.

 
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Opened in April 2017, Hakone Kowakien Tenyu offers Japanese-style rooms with tatami flooring, an open-air bath or ceramic open-air hot springs bath made with Shigaraki pottery. The property features views of Tonomine, Myojogatake and Mount Asama. Fre... 

All rooms have air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, mini-bar, refrigerator, electric kettle and private bathroom. Free bath amenities and a hairdryer are provided. Some rooms feature a seating area where you can relax. Wine and champagne are offered b... 

The 24-hour front desk provides free luggage storage. Guests can enjoy the shared lounge, shops, on-site gardens and terrace. There is also a spa lounge and sauna available for guests. There is an on-site drinks vending machine. 

There is an on-site bar and lounge in addition to a Japanese-style restaurant. Hakone Kowakien Tenyu offers a breakfast buffet. For dinner, guests can enjoy Japanese and Western-style fusion cuisine. 

The property is a minutes walk from Tenyu Bus Stop and a 12-minute walk from Kowakien Bus Stop. The property also provides a free shuttle. Kowakudani station is a 16-minute bus ride from the property, while Hakone Kowakien Yunessun is a 5-minute walk...
Hakone Kowakien Tenyu
 
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Featuring a terrace with views of Lake Ashi, Hakone・Ashinoko Hanaori offers a soothing hot spring bath and sauna. The property is located a 2-minute walk from Togendai Station on Hakone Ropeway. Free Wifi is available throughout the property and free... 

Each room is air conditioned and comes with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and a view of lake or mountain. Amenities include a refrigerator and electric kettle. For your comfort, you will find a hairdryer and free toiletries. Some rooms hav... 

A 24-hour front desk offers free luggage storage and concierge service. The ryokan has an on-site restaurant and shop. 

Hakone Botanical Garden of Wetlands is a 9-minute drive, while Pola Museum of Art is an 11-minute car ride from Hakone・Ashinoko Hanaori. Tokyo Haneda International Airport is 48 mi away.
Hakone Ashinoko Hanaori
 
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Kusatsu Onsen Eidaya is located in Kusatsu. The property is a 10-minute walk from Kusatsu Yubatake and Kusatsu-Onsen Bus Terminal. Guests can find a private hot spring bath and Japanese restaurant on site. 

At the ryokan, all rooms include a flat-screen TV, fridge and wardrobe. Certain rooms feature in-room hot spring bath, while some rooms offer a kitchen with a microwave. 

An Asian breakfast is served each morning at the property. 

The shared lounge area includes activities such as game consoles, board games and playing cards. Guests at Kusatsu Onsen Eidaya will be able to enjoy activities in and around Kusatsu, like skiing. 

The nearest airport is Matsumoto Airport, 78 km from Kusatsu Onsen Eidaya.
Kusatsu Onsen Eidaya
 
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Set in Hakone’s natural beauty, Gora Kadan is located a 5-minute walk from Gora Station on the Hakone Tozan Line. Guests can leisurely soak in the hot spring bath, relax with a massage treatment. Free WiFi and free private parking is available. Gora ... 

The 24-hour front desk at Kadan Gora offers free luggage storage, concierge service and currency exchange. Shuttle service to the ryokan is also available upon request. Guests have free access to the indoor pool and fitness center. 

Featuring mountain views, all rooms are fitted with a flat-screen TV, an electric kettle and a fridge. Rooms also come with a private bathroom with free toiletries and a hairdryer. Some rooms have a seating area to relax in after a busy day. 

Guests can savor traditional Japanese meals featuring fresh seasonal ingredients and beautiful garnishes at the on-site restaurant. 

Popular attractions in the area like the Hakone Open Air Museum and Hakone Gora Park can be reached within a 10-minute walk. Lake Ashi is a 25-minute drive away while the nearest airport is Haneda Airport, a 100-minute drive from the property.
Gora Kadan

Chubu Region: Alpine Majesty & Cultural Riches

Explore the heart of Japan, from the iconic Mount Fuji to the stunning Japanese Alps. Chubu's ryokans combine breathtaking natural backdrops with refined hospitality and excellent onsen.

 
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Featuring great views of Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi, Konanso features natural hot spring baths and large Japanese-style rooms with traditional tatami (woven-straw) flooring. It is only a 2-minute walk from a ferry stop, where guests can board sigh... 

Konanso offers indoor and outdoor hot spring baths, a private-use bath (charges apply), and a foot bath on the rooftop. Relaxing massage services can be arranged. Other facilities include karaoke rooms and a lounge bar. A souvenir shop can be found o... 

Guest rooms at Konanso are fitted with futon bedding, a seating area and a flat-screen TV. A Fridge and an electric kettle are also provided. Guests can try on Yukata robes or enjoy free green tea in their room. Some rooms feature an open-air hot spr... 

The property is a 10-minute drive from Kawaguchiko Train Station. A free pick-up service from the station is available upon request. Mount Fuji 5th Station for climbing is a 1-hour bus ride from Kawaguchiko Station. Popular Fuji-Q Highland Amusement ... 

Seasonal Japanese multi-course meals are served either in a private dining room or in the guestroom. Breakfast can be enjoyed at the dining room.
Fujikawaguchiko Onsen Konanso
 
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Set between the Hida River and Japanese Alps, Suimeikan offers rooms with river views. It has 3 hot-spring baths and the on-site restaurant where guests can enjoy seasonal local ingredients. 

Just a 3-minute walk from JR Gero Train Station, the Suimeikan is a 10-minute stroll from Onsen-ji Temple. Gero Onsen Gassho Village is a 5-minute taxi ride away. 

Some rooms feature an open-air bath, while certain rooms features views of Japanese garden. There are also carpeted spacious room with (woven-straw) flooring. 

Guests can enjoy artworks designed by Japanese artists at the property. The lobby lounge features a garden view from floor-to-ceiling windows. For guests' convenience, there are facilities such as karaoke, spa, swimming pool and fitness center. 

Japanese, French or Chinese dishes are served for dinner at restaurants, upon prior request. 

This ryokan has been awarded the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence 2014.
Suimeikan
 
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Beniya Mukayu is a 16 room hot spring ryokan situated on the site of the former head temple within the Yakushiyama foothills. The family owned and operated ryokan has been designed solely for the rejuvenation and relaxation of guests. 
Designed by Kiyoshi Sey Takeyama the architecture is distinctly Japanese reimagined into a contemporary vision of Japanese essence and modern design elements in harmony with its natural surroundings. A proud member of Relais and Chateaux a stay at Mu...
BENIYA MUKAYU
 
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Nestled in the charming city of Chita, Japan, Hananomaru is a 4-star hotel that offers a serene and elegant escape for travelers seeking comfort and relaxation. With its picturesque surroundings and impeccable service, this hotel promises an unforget...
Hananomaru