10 Iconic Ryokan with Onsen in Japan

This hilltop retreat is nestled in a quiet area of Hakone, a popular Japanese tourist destination. At this ryokan with onsen, you will be greeted by serene views of the Hakone mountains. Throughout your stay, you’ll come to know Ten-Yu, the embodiment of the essence of nature and Japanese hospitality. Rejuvenate and breathe in the pure mountain air while admiring a vibrant tapestry of colours from an open-air bath.

Nearby attractions include the Hakone Shrine, the enchanting sounds of Chijo Falls and spectacular views of Mount Fuji from the tranquil shores of Lake Ashi. Throughout the seasons, discover the essence of nature that surrounds you, from the subtle fragrance of cherry blossoms to the vibrant colours of autumn.

Step into this Hakone ryokan with onsen and emerge anew from natural hot springs sourced from the Motohakone Onsen. Relax in an open-air bath while gazing at magnificent vistas of Lake Ashi and the emerald Hakone Forest. Or admire nature’s beauty from a private garden bath. At dinner, enjoy the inviting ambiance of lake views while savouring the seasonal flavours of Japanese cuisine.

During your stay, relax in a Yukata, a traditional Japanese garment provided to guests. Nearby experiences include marvelling at glass art in the Hakone Glass Forest Museum, an adventurous sightseeing tour on a pirate ship and hopping aboard the Hakone Ropeway for views of Mt. Fuji and Owakudani, a mountainside covered by plumes of smoke.

Embrace the serenity of nature at this ryokan with onsen in Kobe while indulging in the health and wellness benefits of one of Japan’s oldest hot springs. Relax in Japanese-Western style accommodations while marveling at the Rokko mountains. Whether you opt to soak in the gold or silver hot springs, both have therapeutic properties that will energize your mind and body.

Enjoy a short walk to explore Arima Onsen’s small meandering roads and traditional wooden buildings that reveal the hidden history of this century-old city, a story steeped in Japanese tradition. Popular excursions include exploring Kobe and nearby Osaka. Don’t miss the natural wonder of Nunobiki Falls, a subject of Japan’s literature and art for centuries.

Find and restore balance at this ryokan in the picturesque town of Fujiyoshida. The invigorating open-air and indoor hot baths are sourced from the base of Mt. Fuji. At sunset, witness a canvas of colours unfold across the early evening sky while gazing at Mt. Fuji. Relax in a traditional Japanese-style guest room with tatami mat flooring, futon bedding and shoji paper sliding doors.

For cultural activities, try ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arrangement, attempt calligraphy or watch a traditional tea ceremony. Relax in the Japanese garden and listen to the sounds of nature that surround you. Nearby landmarks include Arakurayama Sengen Park, a top spot for viewing a red pagoda, cherry blossoms and Mt. Fuji in the backdrop.

Situated on the shores of Lake Kawaguchi at the foothills of Mt. Fuji, this renowned ryokan with onsen offers stunning views and holistic hot springs bathing experiences. Immerse yourself in nature’s beauty in “Fuji no yu” for a view of Mt. Fuji or “Umi no yu” for a serene lake view. Throughout the day, watch how light interacts with the landscape.

Awaken your senses indoors in a revitalising high-temperature sauna or re-energise your mind and body in a natural stone bath surrounded by the impressive site of boulders. Throughout the year, local festivals celebrate the unique beauty of each season – springtime cherry blossoms, summer’s vibrant flower fields, the fiery red and purple hues of autumn and sparkling winter landscapes.

The pace of time is in step with nature’s seasons at this ryokan with onsen in Yufuin, a popular hot spring town. Discover your escape to nostalgia in a garden setting with open-air baths fed by rejuvenating hot springs. The “Beauty Hot Spring” is a favourite bath of women for its natural moisturising properties.

After a delicious Kaiseki breakfast, visit nearby shrines and temples, explore Yunotsubo Kaido’s quaint shops or embark on a hike at the foot of Mt. Kurodake to discover the spring-fed waters of Ooike Pond, among Japan’s purest. Other attractions include the Kokonoe Dream Suspension Bridge which offers views of Shindo Falls and the colourful flower fields of Kuju Flower Park. 

Nestled on a hillside in Beppu, the inviting aesthetics of the Japanese-Western style guest rooms at this ryokan with onsen incorporate European design with a palette of warm earthy colours and organic textures. Whether you bathe in the soft sunlight in an open-air hot spring bath or beneath the stars on a clear winter night, this ryokan offers a connection with nature enhanced by seasonal beauty.

Immerse in Japanese culture at a tea ceremony, indulge in the flavours of traditional Japanese cuisine, and see The Shinshoan, a replica theatre that celebrates Noh, a traditional Japanese performing art. Nearby Umi Jigoku Umi has intriguing thermal pools, a geyser and a pond that showcases the tropical beauty of giant Amazon lilies.

Nourish your well-being at this sought-after ryokan with onsen in Sapporo. Step into the outdoor natural hot spring baths sourced from the therapeutic waters of Karurus Onsen or a semi-open-air bath infused with soothing natural light and emerge with renewed energy. Indoor amenities feature a sauna and aesthetically beautiful stone-carved baths.

Restaurant cuisine features fresh, locally sourced ingredients and custom meals including “Genjiyaki”, carefully selected ingredients grilled over charcoal. For nearby activities, explore on your own or take a guided tour of Sapporo's popular attractions. Admire stunning views from the summit of Mount Moiwa, take a lesson on the traditional art of soba noodle making or explore the buzz of everyday life at Nijo Market.

Immerse yourself in natural harmony and hospitality at this ryokan with onsen nestled alongside a national park in Sapporo. Restore your inner balance in mineral-rich hot spring waters from 3 sources, including the renowned “Shika-no-yu” hot spring. Start your day with a Japanese and Western-style breakfast buffet – a delicious and colourful culinary experience best enjoyed in the ambiance of this ryokan’s mountain vistas and tranquil garden views.

Local attractions include Iwato Kannondo, a red-roofed temple, and Futami Suspension Bridge with views of Hoheikyo Dam. The bridge is renowned for its viewpoint and colourful autumn leaves. Wine enthusiasts enjoy Hakkenzan Winery to learn about winemaking while savouring local favourites. During winter, enjoy the thrill of skiing at Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort.

Experience hospitality focused on providing exemplary guest experiences at this ryokan with onsen in Hakodate. Thoughtful touches of hospitality will enhance your experience, including an inviting 2,500-year-old cypress panel and a cup of Japanese tea and Wakamatsu Matcha cake in your guest room.

Breathe in the salty air while bathing in mineral-rich hot springs. Watch ocean waves break along the coastline and admire the endless blue horizon. Local attractions include Mount Hakodate, where you can experience stunning cityscape views at night. Enjoy learning about the history of Japanese tea ceremonies, the art of Japanese flower arrangements and soba noodle making or spend a day exploring the majestic seasonal views at Lake Onuma.