Curious about how much you’ll spend for a Ryokan in Japan? Some say it’s a luxurious indulgence, while others believe it offers unparalleled cultural immersion. Whatever your thoughts may be, the best way to find out is to experience it yourself. Get ready to explore new horizons as we offer our everyday guide to help you navigate through this unique experience. Whether you’re planning a simple outing or a grand adventure, we’ve got you covered!
A Ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn that gives you a glimpse of the past. Dated back in the Edo period, these charming inns have been around for more than 1,300 years and offer an extraordinary and immersive exploration into Japanese customs.
You’ll have an unforgettable stay that combines history, hospitality, and nature’s beauty. Join us as we uncover the mystique of Ryokans and explore the question on every traveler’s mind: “Can I indulge in this authentic experience without straining my budget?”
Average Price for An Affordable Ryokan
If you’re on a tight budget and seeking an authentic Japanese experience, consider staying at an affordable Ryokan in Japan. Prices vary based on location, luxury level, and amenities, with rates ranging from 5,000 to 17,000 yen per person for a single night.
Don’t miss out on Kounso in Tochigi Prefecture, near Tokyo, or the Watarase Onsen Hotel Yamayuri in the forests of Wakayama Prefecture.
These two options offer hot springs and a nature getaway for 12,000 and 9,000 yen per person during the off-season. Keep in mind that Japan is usually crowded during March to early May, July to August, and late December to early January. Consider picking travel dates outside of these peak periods for a more relaxed experienced.
A more economical Ryokan may offer simple yet cozy accommodations, giving you a taste of tradition and tranquility. In these Japanese-style rooms, you’ll find tatami floors and comfortable futon bedding. You have the option to choose between shared or private bathing facilities for an additional cost to unwind and refresh.
Although these budget-friendly Ryokans may not offer all the fancy services and facilities of high-end options, they still embody the essence of a genuine Japanese hospitality and a journey into time-honored customs.
Average Price for A Mid-Range Ryokan
The mid-range Ryokans are a step up in comfort and amenities compared to the previous option. The rooms are noticeably more spacious and fully furnished in the Japanese architecture, often with private en-suite bathrooms. You can find many of these in the tranquil gardens of Kyoto and peaceful onsen towns like Hakone.
The Green Plaza in Hakone offering stunning views on Mount Fuji, even from your onsen bath! Meanwhile, Hirashin Ryokan is a great choice located in downtown Kyoto, right in the middle of the city near shopping, transportation, and nightlife. The atmosphere is calming and their food is satisfying.
Both Ryokans include a healthful and delicious kaiseki (multi-course) meals with a variety of seasonal dishes.
On average, a mid-range Ryokan in Japan costs between 9,000 to 26.000 yen per person per night. They strike a perfect balance between authentic character and modern comforts, all providing a wonderful glimpse into the rich traditions of Japanese culture.
Average Price for A Luxurious Ryokan
In Japan, luxurious Ryokans offer a unique and special style of service different from regular luxury hotels. During your stay, they typically provide 2 meals – breakfast and dinner, which is true for all types of Ryokans.
However, for the high-end option, their chefs use fresh local ingredients (like seafood for Ryokans near the coastal areas), serving the meals at their tastiest state, and the timing is determined by the Ryokan.
Travelers love expensive Ryokans for their flavorful meals, friendly staff, and relaxing onsen rotenburo (open-air hot spring). A lot of luxurious Ryokans are found in the cultural outskirts of Shizuoka, and snow-dusted island of Hokkaido. The Fugaku Gunjo with its spectacular view of Mt. Fuji and the Pacific Ocean, and the Zaborin, featuring an expansive property, formal tearoom and library, also showcase fresh vegetable harvested from their own garden for kaiseki.
Luxurious Ryokans offer an unparalleled level of comfort, personalized service, and state-of-the-art facilities at an average cost of 29,000 yen to well over 100,000 yen per person for one night. The service at these Ryokans is known for being exceptional, with attentive staff catering to all the guests’ needs and ensuring an unforgettable stay that embodies the epitome of Japanese omotenashi (hospitality).
Read More: The 12 Best Luxury Ryokan In Kyoto
How Much Does the Dinner Cost at A Ryokan?
Traditionally, Ryokans treat guests to a special multi-course Japanese meal called “kaiseki,” which is often included in the overall accommodation package. This is true especially for more affordable Ryokans, where the room rates cover both breakfast and dinner.
In mid-range and luxurious Ryokans, the dinner is typically included in the room rates as well. However, at some high-end Ryokans, especially those renowned for their exceptional kaiseki cuisine and special dining experiences, dinner may be offered as an addition or as part of a more exclusive package.
In these cases, the cost of dinner can be significant and may range from 7,000 to 10,000 yen per person depending on the Ryokan and the menu offered.
Where To Find Ryokans in Japan?
Apart from the mentioned Ryokans, you can find many other traditional inns all over Japan. They can be located in bustling cities or remote rural areas. Even in popular tourist destinations like Tokyo and Osaka, you’ll discover Ryokans that blend traditional Japanese hospitality with modern comforts.
If you are seeking a relaxing escape from the busy atmosphere of Tokyo without going too far, Chashitsu Ryokan in Asakusa is the ideal choice. It’s close to Senso-ji Temple and offers view of Tokyo Sky Tree from its rotenburo. And in Osaka, there are Yamatoya Honten and Fudouguchikan Ryokan, just a short ride from the city.
Japan’s national parks like Nikko or Towada-Hachimantai have Ryokans that allow you to experience the preserved natural beauty of the country. One of them is Matsukawa Onsen in Towada-Hachimantai National Park, with Ryokans by the river, offering soothing sulfurous hot spring baths.
Even if you don’t stay overnight, you can use their baths for a small fee during the day. Nikko Tokinoyu, located close to Shinkyo Bridge and Toshogu Shrine, provides a simple stay without dinner but offers a light western breakfast.
In places like Kyoto, Nara, and Kanazawa, you’ll discover Ryokans nestled right in the local neighborhoods. Arashiyama Benkei is a highly-rated Ryokan in Kyoto because of its location. This Ryokan is established in the heart of Arashiyama where stunning bamboo groves are a major tourist attraction.
The Murataya in Kanazawa is conveniently located near the main sights, allowing guest to explore on foot. This Ryokan is great for families as they offer rooms that allows everyone to stay together.
Another must-visit Ryokan is Onyado Nono in Nara Prefecture, known for its moisturizing hot springs and buffet-style breakfast service. This Ryokan is a one-minute walk from JR Nara Station and a 10-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station.
If you visit onsen towns like Hakone, Beppu, and Kusatsu, you’ll find plenty of Ryokans with private or shared hot spring baths. Nature-surrounded areas such as the Japanese Alps, Gifu, and Nagano also provide serene Ryokans for peaceful getaways from the city’s fast-paced and busy life.
The coastal regions, showcasing the scenic Izu Peninsula, Seto Inland Sea islands and Hokkaido, offer Ryokans with stunning ocean views and easy access to beautiful beaches.
For more recommendations, we curated the best Ryokans in the following destinations so feel free to check out these lists too:
- Best Ryokans in Hakone With Private Onsen
- Best Ryokans in Kinugawa Onsen
- Best Ryokans in Kinosaki Onsen
- Best Ryokans in Kusatsu Onsen
- Best Ryokans Near Tokyo
- Best Mt Fuji Ryokans With Private Onsen
- Best Ryokans in Arima Onsen
- Best Ryokans in Beppu
- Best Ryokans in Arashiyama
- Best Ryokans in Noboribetsu
- Best Ryokans in Matsumoto
- Best Ryokans in Nozawa Onsen
How To Book Ryokans in Japan?
Booking Ryokans in Japan is pretty easy, thanks to websites like Booking.com. With a wide range of options available throughout the country, finding the perfect accommodation is a breeze. Just follow this simple step-by-step guide, and you’ll secure your Ryokan in no time.
Step 1
To book accommodation using Booking.com, enter your Japan destination and travel dates. Filter your search to “Ryokan” under “Accommodation Type.” Review the list of available Ryokans, view photos, read guests feedbacks, and check amenities and services offered by each.
Step 2
Compare Ryokan prices considering room type, meal inclusions, and luxury level. Pay attention to every feedback regarding the quality of service, meals, and overall stay. Once decided, click on the Ryokan you prefer to view detailed info about rooms, facilities, and policies. Check also if dinner and breakfast are included or available as add-ons.
Step 3
Once you have chosen your Ryokan, click on “Reserve” or “Book Now.” Fill out the necessary personal information and credit card details to secure the reservation. Check the cancellation policy for any free cancellation options. You’ll receive a confirmation from Booking.com after completing the booking.
Step 4
If you have special request or preferences, you can contact the Ryokan directly after booking. Note that some Ryokans have English-speaking staff, while others primarily use Japanese for communication.
Ryokan Etiquette – The Dos and Don’ts
In Japan, there are specific rules that tourist should follow, especially when staying in a Ryokan, to have a delightful and culturally enriching travel experience. Some things must be done, while others should be avoided. What are these rules?
What to Do in a Ryokan
When entering the Ryokan, take off your shoes. You may use indoor slippers or walk barefoot (or with socks) inside. Once offered with slippers, receive it with both hands. If the Ryokan provides yukata (casual kimono), embrace the tradition and wear it inside. Use common greetings like “Konnichiwa” (Hello) and “Arigatou Gozaimasu” (Thank You) to show respect.
If the Ryokan has an onsen, make sure to follow the right etiquette of washing thoroughly before entering the bath and keeping towels out of the water. Also, be mindful of the designated quiet hours in the evening and early morning, and be punctual for meal schedules, especially for kaiseki meals, as they are served in a specific order.
What not to Do in a Ryokan
Another important onsen etiquette is to avoid wearing swimsuits while using the public bath. In most traditional onsen, nudity is the standard practice. Additionally, some Ryokans (and onsen) may not allow guests with visible tattoos due to cultural associations with the yakuza (organized crime). However, some Ryokans may offer private baths where not-too-visible tattoos are allowed.
As it was mentioned that Ryokans follow designated quiet hours, guests must also avoid talking loudly to preserve the tranquility of the area and consider others’ peace and relaxation preferences.
In Japan, people don’t usually tip as service charges are already included in the total cost. It’s also essential to avoid moving furniture as it holds cultural significance. Japanese value inanimate objects, so it’s best to leave them where they are originally placed. Additionally, wasting food is considered disrespectful, so make sure to finish every meal served during your stay as a way to show appreciation for the effort put into preparing it.
More info about the rules in a Japanese traditional inn in this guide about Ryokan Etiquette.
Final Impressions: The Unforgettable Ryokan Experience
Ryokans hold a magical charm that takes you back in time, combining peace and simplicity with modern comforts. There are options for every budget, from affordable choices to mid-range and luxurious Ryokans. You can find them in cities, remote areas, or onsen towns with hot springs.
These traditional inns embrace you with genuine hospitality, serve delightful kaiseki feasts, and create a serene atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression. So, plan ahead for an unforgettable journey, filled with captivating experiences and cherished memories in the enchanting world of Ryokans and Japan’s rich culture.