If you're in Tokyo, staying at one of the many ryokans in Tokyo is the perfect way to experience the essence of Japanese culture. According to Statista, there were about 50.32 thousand ryokans and hotels in Japan as of the end of March 2023.
But it's important to note that ryokans and onsens are not the same. Onsens are hot springs, while ryokans are traditional inns, and some ryokans in Tokyo even feature their own onsen. Continue reading to discover the best ryokans in Tokyo, Japan.
What are the Best Ryokans in Tokyo, Japan?
These Japanese inns are beautiful and offer an authentic Japanese experience. Here is a list of the best ryokans in Tokyo you might want to visit.
1. Edo Sakura
Edo Sakura is a comfy Japanese inn in Shitaya, near JR Ueno Station. It opened in June 2013, blending modern comfort with the charm of old Tokyo. You can pick a room with tatami mats or twin beds. It's close to transportation and Ueno Park, offering cultural spots like a family bath, garden, and tea room
- Air-conditioning, TV, telephone, refrigerator, safe, electric kettle with tea-making amenities.
- Private bathroom and toilet, with some rooms offering shower or bathtub options.
- 5 minutes from Iriya Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line.
- Free Wi-Fi available.
- Coin-laundrette on-site.
- Private reservable bath for guests.
- Smoking area located at the lobby.
Image Source: https://www.tokyoedosakura.com/
2. Ryokan Takemine
Ryokan Takemine, is a 3-star hotel in Tokyo's Shinjuku Ward district. It's about a 15-minute drive from Tokyo Dome and other sports spots. The hotel provides Wi-Fi in rooms and parking. It's in the center of Tokyo, close to Yakuo-in Temple and a quick drive to Hanazono Shrine
- Located in Shinjuku Ward, around 3 km away from cultural spots such as the Samurai Museum.
- Close proximity to Ochiai-minami-nagasaki underground station.
- A 10-minute drive from Cherry blossom viewing and historical sites like Hanazono Shrine.
- Private traditional Japanese bath in Premium Room with Semi-Open Air Bath.:
- Premium Room with Semi-Open Air Bath offers the largest room space among mid-range ryokans in Tokyo (55 sqm).
- Ideal for families.
- Cooked-to-order breakfast served daily.
3. Hotel Ryumeikan Ochanomizu Honten
Hotel Ryumeikan Ochanomizu Honten reopened in August 2014 with a fresh look, offering a century of warm hospitality. It's conveniently located just a minute's walk from Shin-Ochanomizu Subway Station. The hotel beautifully combines modern comforts with traditional Japanese charm in its stylish guest rooms.
- Imperial Palace is a 10-minute train ride away.
- Spacious junior suites with amenities like a coffee machine and minibar.
- On-site restaurant, 1899 Ochanomizu, offers fusion-style Japanese cuisine and selected green tea.
- Sophisticated guest rooms with flat-screen TV, Blu-ray/DVD player, and bathrobes.
- Proximity to cultural attractions such as Samurai Museum, Koishikawa Korakuen Garden, and Yushima Tenmangu.
- Access to popular spots like Akihabara and Ryogoku Kokugikan Sumo Stadium.
Image Source: https://www.ryumeikan-honten.jp/english/photogallery/
4. Ryokan Kamogawa
Ryokan Kamogawa Asakusa Tokyo is in the heart of the city, within walking distance of Senso-ji Temple, and near Asakusa Toei tube station. The ryokan is close to Imado Shrine, Shinobazu Pond, and the National Museum of Nature and Science.
Families can enjoy a visit to Hanayashiki Amusement Park, and Asakusa Tobu train station is just 300 meters away.
- Room amenities include a flat-screen TV, refrigerator, and air conditioning.
- Free wifi is available for guests.
- The ryokan features a hot tub and an on-site restaurant with a grill called Kura.
- Close to popular landmarks like Asakusa Kaminarimondori Shopping Street and Asakusa Fujiasama Shrine.
- Sushi Zammai Asakusa Kaminarimon-ten, Magurobito Shinnakamise, and Edomae Mimatsu are nearby sushi restaurants.
- Explore art galleries like Tokyo Asakusa Gallery Gei in the area.
- Japanese breakfasts are available upon request.
Image Source: https://www.f-kamogawa.jp/english/equipment.html
5. Ryokan Seikou
Ryokan Seikou is in Ogikubo, a popular residential area in Tokyo, considered the best place to live. It's registered as a Tangible Cultural Property by the Agency for Cultural Affairs. Built in the early days of the Showa era, it has a nostalgic vibe.
Despite its age, the well-maintained interior offers garden views from all rooms, providing a unique experience compared to modern hotels. The inn is carefully designed to make you feel like you've stepped back in time to the beginning of the Showa era.
6. Andon Ryokan
Andon Ryokan is just a 5-minute walk from Minowa subway station and a 20-minute walk from historic Asakusa. The hotel features award-winning architecture, a hot tub, bike rentals, and Japanese-style rooms with free wired internet.
- Guest rooms have tatami floors and traditional futon beds.
- Each room comes with a TV and a DVD player.
- Toilets and bathrooms are shared.
- Non-smoking rooms
- Restaurant
- Free WiFi
Image Source: https://www.andon.co.jp/en/art
7. Ryokan Asakusa Shigetsu
In traditional Tokyo, Ryokan Asakusa Shigetsu is a six-story hotel with 28 guest rooms, offering both Japanese and Western styles. Located near Nakamise-dori, Asakusa's main street, the ryokan provides various facilities and amenities:
- Scenic views of the Asakusa district.
- Traditional Japanese cuisine.
- Internet connectivity in guest rooms.
- 28 Japanese and Western-style guest rooms.
8. Taito Ryokan
Taito Ryokan is a 2-star hotel in Tokyo. It has a shared lounge and garden, and WiFi is available in the rooms. This traditional Japanese-style inn is situated in the heart of Asakusa, with origins dating back to the 1950s. It was renovated in 2011 but still holds the charm of the past era.
- Close proximity to the natural onsen bathhouse “Jakotsuyu.”
- A historical building operating since the Edo period.
- Various facilities for a comfortable stay, including a common room with cable TV, free Wi-Fi, coin laundry machines, and a free coffee/tea service.
- Just a 3-minute walk from Tawaramachi Station on the Ginza Line, providing easy access to the popular Ginza area in 15 minutes.
9. Onsen Ryokan Yuen Shinjuku
Onsen Ryokan Yuen Shinjuku is a hotel in Tokyo with air-conditioned rooms, a restaurant, and free WiFi. It's conveniently located near various temples and shrines. The hotel offers 3-star accommodation with a hot spring bath for guests to enjoy. The staff can communicate in English, Japanese, and Korean, providing practical advice on the area at the reception.
- Rooms equipped with a desk and flat-screen TV
- Some rooms offer a city view
- Hot spring bath available for guests
- Multilingual staff at the reception providing practical advice
- Close to Saikoan Shrine, Jisho-in Temple, and Full Gospel Tokyo Church
- Approximately 1.4 km from Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden in the Shinjuku Ward district.
Image Source: https://www.uds-hotels.com/en/yuen/shinjuku/#rooms
10. Onsen Ryokan Yuen Bettei Tokyo Daita
Onsen Ryokan Yuen Bettei Tokyo Daita is a 4-star hotel in Tokyo, close to Shinganji Temple and Kitazawa Hachiman Shrine. It provides amenities like a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk, and free WiFi. Guests can use the sauna, hot spring bath, and spa facilities, including wellness packages.
- Located near Shinganji Temple and Kitazawa Hachiman Shrine
- Facilities include a restaurant, 24-hour front desk, and free WiFi
- Sauna, hot spring bath, and spa facilities available
- Rooms with air conditioning, flat-screen TV, safety deposit box, and private bathroom
- Some rooms with a terrace and garden views
- Coffee shop on-site
- Walking distance to Hanegi Park
- Nearest airport: Tokyo Haneda Airport (19 km away)
Final Words
Tokyo is home to some of the best ryokans, each rich in history and offering a range of experiences, from simple rooms to luxurious inns with exceptional service and delicious meals.
While Tokyo’s ryokans are incredible, be sure to explore the best onsens in Hakone if you're looking to enjoy a soothing hot spring. After your stay, don’t forget to bring back a memorable gift from Japan for your friends or a special keepsake to remember your journey!
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