Want to experience a pause out of time? The Japanese ryokans invite you on a magical sensory journey, blending ancient tradition with modern refinement. Stepping inside one of these inns is to discover the soul of Japan: soft tatami mats, soothing onsens, delicate cuisine, and views of breathtaking landscapes. A stay in a ryokan is not just told, it is savored, promising a unique experience that should urgently be added to your bucket list.
Looking for an extraordinary Japanese experience while diving into the refinement of an ancient tradition? Welcome to the magical world of ryokans, these Japanese inns that sit between a zen escape and discreet luxury. This guide invites you to explore the most exceptional ryokans in Japan, ranging from intimate addresses to contemporary legends, where everything—from the tatami under your feet to the scents of kaiseki cuisine—invites disconnection and wonder. Ready to discover timeless places, nestled between secret mountains, ocean views, and sculpted gardens? Follow the guide!
The Soul of Japan on Ago Bay: Cova Kakuda
Imagine a ryokan set in an ancient pearl-farming house, nestled in the heart of Ago Bay, famous for its refined pearls. Cova Kakuda promises an intimate stay (only four rooms!) where time seems suspended, amidst home beehives, delicate local gastronomy, and the ocean as the only horizon. You arrive by boat, or by winding along the only coastal road, far from everything, but close to the essential. The highlight? Rooms with private onsens, perched for more intimacy or with memorable sea views. The gastronomic interlude flirts here with pure poetry!
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Design & Contemplation in Nature: Shiguchi in Hokkaido
At the gates of the mountains and vast forests of Hokkaido, Shiguchi enchants art and architecture lovers. Five traditional houses have been exquisitely restored to become true contemporary jewels where wood, clay, and vintage furniture harmoniously converse. The rooms seem to float among centuries-old trees and large windows: a call to meditation, enhanced by private onsens and workshops related to Ainu culture. Here, the ryokan experience takes a decidedly artistic and serene turn.
The Adventure on Volcanic Islands: Entô in Oki
Dreaming of disconnecting from the tumult? Head to the Oki Islands in Shimane Prefecture, to an address right on the Sea of Japan, Entô. The isolation—three to four hours by ferry—is the key to a rare stay. The rooms overlook the waves, bathed in light; the minimalist design invites you to “clear your mind” and be inspired by the daily spectacle of the ocean. Local cuisine, hikes, introspection: here, every moment is precious and savored far from everything.
Western Comfort in Japanese Tradition: Oyado The Earth
Who said tradition had to rhyme with rudimentary? Oyado The Earth, in Mie Prefecture, proves that the ryokan experience can be wonderfully comfortable. Suites with private onsens on the terrace, ultra zen spa, and even the possibility of watching the last AMA pearl divers plunge into the ocean from your own rooftop. Enhanced by an exquisite local kaiseki menu and the tranquility of a nearby natural park, this ryokan is a pure cocoon of delight.
For Activity Enthusiasts: Arnaca in Shizuoka
Here’s a refuge for both active and contemplative spirits: Arnaca, set in the lush Izu Peninsula. Each room is suspended in the forest, accompanied by the sound of the river, a private onsen, and opportunities for hiking or surfing nearby. The refined cuisine is experienced like a sensory journey through the seasons, to be savored behind immense bay windows… Enough to delight sports lovers in search of rejuvenation.
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Wine Pleasures and Contemporary Design: Yamagata Takinami
In northern Japan, Yamagata Takinami plays the chic modernism and gourmet pleasure card. Nordic design (thanks to Arne Jacobsen…), private onsens, and a Michelin-starred restaurant that changes its menu daily. Here, the Japanese wine cellar attracts connoisseurs, while the collective bath, sculpted from rock, makes every bath a memorable ritual. A highly recommended address for those who appreciate the art of living and unexpected discoveries.
Reimagined Tokyo: Hoshinoya Tokyo, the Urban Pearl
In the vibrant heart of Japan’s economic capital, Hoshinoya Tokyo amazes: you enter like a temple, to experience the serene luxury of a ryokan suspended above the tumult. Hot springs, rooms where you walk in socks on tatami mats, breakfast in kimono, and an unmissable chef’s table: nothing has been forgotten to make your heart beat to the rhythm of ancestral Japan, in a design cocoon where culinary art touches poetic heights. Don’t miss the essential martial arts class on the rooftop with panoramic views. City lovers and authenticity seekers, go for it!
Taking Time, Rejuvenating: Bettei Otozure in Yamaguchi
If your quest is for prolonged cocooning, head to Bettei Otozure: a haven honored by the Michelin Guide where the calm of the river and the raw beauty of the surrounding mountains are celebrated. This ryokan combines elegant design, nature, and spirituality, complete with a spa, library, and onsens open to the forest. The duplex rooms on the top floor, with private onsens and home cinema, have everything to charm those who wish to stay… for a long time! And for more inspiration for curious travelers, explore the hidden treasures of Okabe.
Reconnecting with the Essentials: Bettei Kai in Tochigi
Want to immerse yourself in deep zen? On the lands of the imperial residence of Nasu, Bettei Kai offers 10 spacious suites nestled in a lush forest. Each suite features onsens drawing from ancient springs and offers an atmosphere conducive to meditation and daydreaming. No detail has been overlooked, both in the precious wood decor and the philosophy of the place: here, everything is designed for reconnection with the present… and the best version of oneself.
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A Garden of Poetry in Kyoto: Fufu Kyoto
Yearning for a setting worthy of the most beautiful Japanese prints? Fufu Kyoto combines ultimate refinement and tradition against a mountain backdrop, just steps from the famous Nanzen-ji temple. Between its lush gardens, local craftsmanship pieces, contemplative meals around the bonsai pond, and, icing on the cake, geisha performances reserved for guests in the evening, this ryokan revives all the magic of the ancient imperial capital. The dream is within reach! Looking for other magical destinations to travel? Get inspired by this guide to must-visit destinations, or discover even more ideas here, there, and even over here.
