3 Affordable yet Luxurious Kyoto Ryokan with Private Onsen in 2024

Planning a trip to Japan and seeking a truly luxurious experience at a Kyoto ryokan with private onsen? Kyoto, the cultural capital of Japan, where you can immerse yourself in the refined beauty and elegance of luxury ryokans in Kyoto.

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TIP: LOCATION is VERY IMPORTANT when choosing your Kyoto ryokan with private onsen accommodation. Compared to Tokyo, Kyoto’s attractions are widely separated. Nanzenji Yachiyo is located in East Kyoto which has attractions like Kiyozumi-dera.

For further reading:

• Luxury Things to do in Tokyo
• Tokyo’s Most Expensive Hotels
• Wealthiest Neighborhoods in Kyoto
• Wealthiest Neighborhoods in Tokyo
• Best Things to do in Ginza, Tokyo’s Luxury District

Please also note that in Kyoto, ryokans with private onsen are easily booked even 6 MONTHS (sometimes 1 year) BEFORE the travel date so we suggest that you do not wait very long when deciding to book.

The BEST affordable Kyoto ryokans with private onsen

Three luxurious yet affordable ryokan options stand out when it comes to accommodation in Kyoto, each offering a unique experience that blends comfort, tranquility, and the indulgence of a private onsen.

The BEST of the BESTS: Nanzenji Yachiyo, East Kyoto

A Luxury Ryokan that allows you to feel the tranquility and traditions of Kyoto with the BEST VALUE FOR MONEY at Nanzenji Yachiyo.

Located in the serene surroundings of East Kyoto, Nanzenji Yachiyo offers a unique luxury blend of tranquility and tradition of Kyoto. Nestled amidst a forested mountain area, this Kyoto ryokan with private onsen allows you to escape the bustling city and immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance of Kyoto’s natural beauty.

From the moment you arrive, you’ll be captivated by the ryokan’s traditional architecture and the serene atmosphere that permeates every corner.

Nazuna Kyoto Nijo-jo: Central Kyoto

Situated nicely in the CITY CENTER. Easy access to most of the attractions in Kyoto. make you feel like you are immeresed in a historical period

Situated in the heart of Central Kyoto, this ryokan boasts a prime location that provides easy access to most of the city’s attractions. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be transported to a bygone era, as the exquisite interior design and meticulous attention to detail make you feel like you’ve been immersed in a historical period. In the city center of Kyoto, unwind in the luxurious comfort of your own private onsen and soak in the beauty of Kyoto after a day of exploration.

Affordable Kyoto Ryokan with Private Onsen: Other Options to Consider

If you’re looking for luxury on a more affordable scale, Kyoto also offers a range of ryokans with private onsen that provide exceptional comfort and service at a more accessible price point. Consider the following options, which offer a captivating blend of elegance and affordability:

• Ryokan Kohro – Central Kyoto
• Watazen Ryokan – Central Kyoto

These are also our recommendations when you visit Kyoto for the first time.

Captivating Experiences: Unveiling Kyoto’s Cultural Beauty

While staying in a luxury ryokan in Kyoto, make sure to immerse yourself in the city’s captivating cultural experiences. Witness the mesmerizing performances of geishas, where music, dance, and storytelling come together in a seamless display of artistry.

TIP: Is it a MUST to Explore Kyoto’s renowned kabuki theaters, such as the historic Minamiza Theatre near Gion, which has been enchanting audiences since 1610 – the oldest existing kabuki theater in Japan. For a modern twist on kabuki, visit the stylish Shochiku Kyoto Theatre, where traditional and innovative performances converge to create a truly unforgettable cultural experience.

Must-Visit Places and Hidden Gems while staying in an affordable Kyoto Ryokan with Private Onsen

Kyoto is brimming with captivating sights and hidden gems that will leave you in awe. Here are three must-visit places that offer a glimpse into the city’s rich history and natural beauty:

1. Murin-an Garden: Tucked away in the residential neighborhood of Higashiyama, Murin-an Garden is a hidden oasis of tranquility. Its meticulously designed landscapes, tranquil ponds, and charming tea houses create a serene escape from the bustling city. Take a leisurely stroll through this enchanting garden and appreciate the artistry of Japanese garden design.
2. Kifune Shrine: Located in the scenic mountainside north of Kyoto, Kifune Shrine exudes mysticism and natural beauty. Follow the enchanting stone staircase lined with vibrant red lanterns as it leads you to the shrine nestled among the dense forest. Feel a sense of spiritual tranquility and immerse yourself in ancient Japanese traditions.
3. Honen-in Temple: Tucked away in a quiet residential area of Higashiyama, Honen-in Temple exudes understated elegance and a serene atmosphere. Its moss-covered grounds, tranquil meditation hall, and ancient cemetery create a meditative ambiance that invites reflection and solace away from the tourist crowds.

Culinary at a Kyoto Ryokan with Private Onsen

No visit to Kyoto would be complete without indulging in its world-renowned kaiseki cuisine.

Kaiseki is a culinary art form that showcases the exquisite flavors and seasonal ingredients of Japan. Each kaiseki meal is a meticulously crafted multi-course journey that delights the senses and reflects Kyoto’s deep appreciation for aesthetics and gastronomy.

A combination of flavors and textures awaits you in each course, from delicate sashimi and vibrant seasonal vegetables to richly flavored soups and perfectly grilled meats. Kyoto’s kaiseki cuisine is a culinary experience that embodies the elegance and refinement of the city’s dining culture.

Our Top 6 Kaiseki Recommendations in Central Kyoto

What is the best thing to do after onsen? A luxurious dining!

To help you embark on your kaiseki culinary adventure, we recommend the following establishments in Central Kyoto, where you can savor the finest flavors of the city:

• Giro Giro Hitoshina
• Gion Yata
• Shiki Yoshina Pontocho
• Hanasaki
• Tagoto Honten
• Yubanzai Komameya Nishiki

Coffee Shops: An Escape in Luxury Ryokan Kyoto

When you need a break from your Kyoto adventures, step into one of the city’s stylish coffee shops for a moment of relaxation and indulgence. Kyoto’s coffee shops offer the perfect blend of ambiance and expertly brewed coffee, allowing you to savor moments of luxury amidst your travels.

In West Kyoto’s Arashiyama district and Central Kyoto near Nishiki Market, you’ll find a plethora of Kyoto-style coffee shops where you can enjoy matcha and mochi. Some recommendations include:

• Arashiyama Coffee Shop Recommendations: eX Cafe and Arashiyama Nomura
• Nishiki Market Coffee Shop Recommendations:
  • Kurasu Kyoto Stand
  • Stumptown Coffee Roasters
  • Ogawa Coffee

Kyoto’s Traditional Tea Houses: Luxurious Serenity

Immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of Kyoto’s traditional tea houses and experience the art of Japanese tea ceremonies.

These enchanting establishments, adorned with tatami mats and elegant, premium sliding doors, offer a tranquil escape from the modern world. Take part in the meditative ritual of preparing and enjoying matcha tea while embracing the profound tranquility and grace of Kyoto’s rich tea culture.

Traditional Teahouse Recommendations

• Ippodo Tea Kyoto Main Store
• Kimono Tea Ceremony Maikoya Kyoto
• Saryo Tsujiri Kyoto Isetan

Kyoto’s Dessert Shops: A Bucket List

For those with a sweet tooth, one of the local’s favorite things to do after soaking in an onsen is to have Kyoto’s dessert shops are a paradise of confections that highlight the city’s flavors, particularly the iconic matcha. Indulge in a delightful selection of matcha-infused pastries and delicate wagashi sweets that capture the essence of Kyoto in every bite.

Kyoto Dessert Shop Recommendations

• Gion Komori
• Itoh Kyuemon
• Tsujiri Tea House, Gion Main Shop

Upscale Shopping: Discovering Luxury Finds in Kyoto

Kyoto offers a wealth of upscale shopping destinations, from designer boutiques to traditional craft markets. To immerse yourself in the refined elegance of Kyoto’s upscale shopping scene, head to the stylish districts of Kawaramachi and Shijo. These bustling areas are home to high-end boutiques, designer stores, and department stores, where you can discover exclusive fashion brands, exquisite craftsmanship, and luxury goods.

Feeling OVERWHELMED? We recommend these top 2 Kyoto Tours:

1. Kyoto 6-hour PRIVATE tour with Government-licensed guide
2. Tour of hidden gems of Kyoto

Seasons in Kyoto – Bucket List for Luxury Ryokan Kyoto

2023 Summer Bucket List: Discover the Charms of Kyoto

If you stay in Nanzenji Ryokan Yachiyo for a luxurious stay at a Kyoto ryokan with private onsen, another thing you need to experience is the magic of Kyoto during the summer months with vibrant festivals, refreshing garden strolls, and scenic river cruises. Immerse yourself in the luxurious comfort of a ryokan and indulge in the unique delights that summer in Kyoto has to offer.

2023 Autumn Bucket List: Fall in Love with Kyoto’s Autumn Colors

Fall in love with Kyoto’s breathtaking autumn foliage as you visit iconic temples, explore picturesque gardens, and embark on scenic hikes. Revel in the vibrant colors that paint Kyoto’s landscapes during the autumn season while enjoying the luxurious amenities of a ryokan.

To find what are the best spots in Japan for autumn, read more our article on the 30 Best Places for Autumn in Japan in 2023

2023 Kyoto Winter

Embrace the tranquility of Kyoto’s winter with peaceful temple visits, hot tea ceremonies, and soothing onsens. Experience the serene beauty of snow-covered gardens and warm your soul in a luxurious ryokan retreat, creating cherished memories of Kyoto’s winter wonderland.

Conclusion

Staying at a Kyoto Ryokan with private onsen offers an exquisite blend of elegance, cultural marvels, and culinary delights for travelers seeking an affordable yet luxurious experience.

Explore the city’s hidden gems, savor its gastronomic wonders, and immerse yourself in the refined ambiance of Kyoto’s ryokans and cultural traditions. Kyoto is a destination that promises to leave you captivated and yearning for more.