Kyoto is a city that blends ancient temples, traditional streets, and lush mountains into one of the most culturally rich destinations in Japan. While Kyoto itself isn’t known for natural hot springs, its surrounding regions offer some of the best ryokan with private onsen for travelers who want a serene, luxurious, and authentic experience. Whether you’re looking for romantic outdoor baths, family-friendly suites, or a quiet escape after busy sightseeing, the Kyoto area has plenty of options.
This guide introduces the best places to fine a private onsen near Kyoto, explains what to expect, and helps you choose the perfect ryokan for your trip.
Why Choose a Ryokan with a Private Onsen?
A private onsen–known as kashikiri-buro or private hot-spring bath–allows you to enjoy hot spring water without sharing the space with other guests. This is ideal for:
- Couples seeking a romantic stay
- Families wanting privacy with children
- Travelers with tattoos who prefer a private setting
- Visitors new to Japanese bathing culture
- Anyone who wants peaceful, uninterrupted relaxation
Many ryokan offer rooms with open-air baths (rotenburo), indoor stone baths, or rentable private baths that can be reserved by the hour.
Where to Find Private Onsen Near Kyoto
While Kyoto city itself has very few natural hot springs, the nearby regions–especially within 1 to 2 hours–are home to historic onsen towns. The best areas include:
1.Arashiyama (Kyoto City Outskirts)
Travel time from central Kyoto: 20-30 minutes
Arashiyama is famous for bamboo forests and riverside scenery, making it one of the most atmospheric places to stay. A few luxury ryokan here offer rooms with private baths that use hot spring-style mineral water even if not from natural onsen sources.
Best for: travelers who want a ryokan experience without leaving Kyoto.
2.Kinosaki Onsen (Hyogo Prefecture)
Travel time: ~2.5 hours by train
Kinosaki Onsen is one of Japan’s top hot spring towns, known for its picturesque bridges, canal streets, and seven public bathhouses. Many ryokan offer private onsen and tattoo-friendly options.
Best for: a classic traditional onsen town atmosphere.
3.Arima Onsen (Kobe Area)
Travel time: ~1.5-2 hours
One of Japan’s oldest hot springs, famous for “golden” and “silver” water types. The area has many luxurious ryokan with in-room private baths.
Best for: premium stays and historic hot spring lovers.
4.Kurama & Kibune (Northern Kyoto Mountains)
Travel time: 30-60 minutes
Known for mountainous scenery, spiritual temples, and quiet inns. Some ryokan here offer outdoor baths with sweeping nature views.
Best for: peaceful retreats close to Kyoto.
5.Lake Biwa / Shiga Prefecture
Travel time: 30 minutes-1 hour
Ryokan near Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest lake, often feature private open-air baths with lake views.
Best for: nature, lake scenery, and easy access.
Top Ryokan with Private Onsen Near Kyoto
Below are some highly recommened ryokan that consistently earn positive feedback from international visitors. (Descriptions are generalized so they suit an editorial style blog.)
1.Arashiyama Benkei (Kyoto / Arashiyama)
A traditional riverside ryokan with serene views of the Katsura River. Some suites come with semi-outdoor hinoki baths, offering a peaceful retreat within Kyoto city.
Highlights:
- Located steps from the Bamboo Forest
- Kansai cuisine using seasonal Kyoto ingredients
- Quiet, intimate atmosphere
2.Hoshinoya Kyoto (Luxury Option)
Accessible via a private boat ride, this is one of the most exclusive stays near Kyoto. While not all rooms have onsen, private baths and deep-soaking tubs with nature views offer hot spring-inspired luxury.
Highlights:
- Riverside villas surrounded by forest
- Premium dining and curated experiences
- Ideal for honeymooners
3.Nishimuraya Honkan (Kinosaki Onsen)
A historic ryokan repeatedly rated among the best in Japan. It offers several private baths and suites with in-room onsen.
Highlights:
- Access to all seven Kinosaki bathhouses
- Tatami rooms with elegant garden views
- Exceptional hospitality
4.Kinosai Onsen Nishimuraya Hotel Shogetsutei
More modern than Honkan, with both private forest-view spas and in-room onsen options. Very foreigner-friendly and spacious.
Highlights:
- Forest spa for private rental
- On-site aromatherapy and wellness facilities
- Shuttle access to town baths
5.Arima Onsen Tocen Goshobo
A beautifully preserved ryokan featuring golden hot spring baths. Some rooms include private mineral baths with vintage charm.
Highlights:
- One of the oldest hot spring inns in the region
- Authentic kaiseki meals
- Luxurious yet warm atmosphere
6.Arima Onsen Arima Grand Hotel
A larger hotel-style ryokan with mountaintop views. Premium rooms include private open-air baths.
Highlights:
- Wide range of facilities (pools, lounges, gardens)
- Ideal for families
- Large scenic public baths using natural hot springs
7.Yuzuya Ryokan (Gion, Kyoto City)
Although not a natural hot spring, several rooms here include private deep-soaking tubs inspired by traditional Kyoto aesthetics.
Hightlights:
- Located beside Yasaka Shrine
- Elegant yuzu-themed cuisine
- Premium Kyoto-style ambiance
8.Biwako Ryokusuitei (Lake Biwa)
A modern ryokan offering multiple room types with open-air private baths overlooking the lake.
Highlights:
- Gorgeous sunrise views
- Easy access from Kyoto Station
- Ideal balance of comfort and affordability
9.Yumotokan (Lake Biwa Area)
A popular ryokan with many private bath room varieties: hinoki, stone, open-air, and panoramic views.
Highlights:
- Rooftop public onsen with lake view
- Tattoo-friendly for private baths
- Great value for couples and families
What to Expect in a Private Onsen Ryokan
Staying in a ryokan near Kyoto is a unique cultural experience. Here’s what you can typically expect:
Traditional Rooms
Most ryokan feature:
- tatami flooring
- sliding shoji doors
- futon bedding prepared in the evening
- minimalistic design focused on peace and simplicity
Kaiseki Dinner
Many stays include:
- multiple-course meals
- seasonal Kyoto vegetables
- freshwater fish
- wagyu beef (optional)
Kaiseki is an essential part of the ryokan experience.
Private Onsen Types
You private bath may be:
- stone bath
- hinoki (cypress) tub
- open-air rotenburo
- semi-outdoor tub facing a garden or mountain
Some ryokan use natural hot spring water, while others use heated mineral water in regions without natural springs.
Atmosphere
A private onsen stay focuses on:
- quiet
- mindfulness
- nature
- slow-paced relaxation
Many guests describe it as the most healing part of their Japan trip.
Tips for Choosing the Right Ryokan Near Kyoto
・Check if the room truly includes a “private onsen”
Some listing terms can be vague. Look for:
“客室露天風呂”, “private open-air bath”, “kashikiri onsen”.
・Confirm whether it’s natural hot spring water
Some Kyoto city ryokan offer private baths but not natural onsen.
・For tattooed guests
Private onsen are always OK, even in strict towns like Arima.
・Consider access
Some mountain areas require trains + short taxis.
・Book early
Ryokan near Kyoto sell out months in advance, especially in spring and autumn.
FAQs: Ryokan with Private Onsen Near Kyoto
1.Does Kyoto City have natural hot springs?
Only a few. Most real onsen are outside the city — Arima and Kinosaki being the most famous.
2.Are private onsen tattoo-friendly?
Yes. Tattoos are not restricted in private baths.
3.Can couples use private onsen together?
Yes, private onsen are designed for couples, familes, or individuals.
4.Is breakfast included?
Most ryokan include both dinner and breakfast. Always check when booking.
5.How much does a private onsen room cost?
Typical range:
Mid-range: ￥25,000-￥45,000 per person
Luxury: ￥60,000-100,000+ per person
Staying at a ryokan with a private onsen near Kyoto offers the perfect balance between cultural immersion and luxurious comfort. Whether you choose historic Arima Onsen, picturesque Kinosaki, scenic Lake Biwa, or tranquil mountain ryokan, you’ll experience a side of Japan that goes far beyond sightseeing.
After days exploring temples, shrines, and bustling markets, soaking in your own private onsen — surrounded by nature, quiet, and timeless Japanese hospitality — becomes an unforgettable highlight of any Kyoto trip.
