Tokyo, the epicenter of all things modern and fast-paced. Despite all of the modern and technological touches this city has become famous for, Tokyo still many aspects that nod to the past and preserve the culture of ancient Japan. Staying in a Ryokan can be an experience like none other. Imagine yourself checking into a place that seems to be stuck in time, you notice the immaculate styling and attention to detail.
As you dip into your private hot spring bath overlooking the megacity of Tokyo you feel the ultimate sensation of relaxation, all before ending your night to a delicious and seasonally handcrafted multiple course dinner of the finest Japanese cuisine. If this is something you think might enjoy (and we think you probably do) check out this curation of our favorite Ryokan in Tokyo!
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Grand Prince Hotel Takanawa Hanakohro
Credits: Booking
This place isn’t called “Grand” for nothing. This Ryokan looks more like a modern architecture gallery than a place you stay and rejuvenate. Don’t worry though, it’s just as good at rejuvenating as it is looking amazing. Looking at the design of this Ryokan leads you to think that every aspect of design was painstakingly analyzed over. Very reminiscent of a certain Alex Garland movie that was also inspired by Japanese.
This Ryokan, aside from being beautiful, offers some great hospitality. They provide completely private bathing areas and a bathtub as an added boost. In addition, they provide air conditioning units in every room, which are absolutely necessary for the Japanese summer. The Grand Prince Hotel is just unique in the sense that it doesn’t really stick to the traditional aspects of most Ryokan, in addition, you are a 6-minute walk from Shinagawa. You can get basically anywhere in the country from that station. Quick access to a Shinkansen could have you on a (literal) fast track to Kyoto where you can experience even more of our recommended Ryokan!
Price: ¥61,000 – ¥128,000
Location: 〒108-0074 Tōkyō-to, Minato-ku, Takanawa, 3 Chome−13−1
Shizuku
Credits: Booking
Ryokan & Spa Shizuku is a good choice if you want to stay a bit out of the center of the city but still want quick and direct access to the madness of central Tokyo. This is another beautiful Ryokan crafted with some serious devotion. It also doesn’t hurt that reviews absolutely praise this staff. It’s about an 11-minute walk from it’s nearest station and a 35-minute train ride from Asakusa. While it’s a bit on the far side it definitely makes up for it with the beautifully crafted tubs in the suites. It should be noted that this Ryokan does not have a restaurant on site, so keep that in mind when booking here.
There are a lot of temples and parks around this area. They are definitely worth a look as you never know what sort of festivals might be happening at them! So, if you’re the type of person who might want to ease their vacation into Tokyo instead of diving right into Shinjuku or Shibuya, we recommend staying here.
Price: ¥30,000 – ¥60,000
Location: 〒123-0851 Tōkyō-to, Adachi-ku, Umeda, 2 Chome−2−8-5
Hoshinoya
Credits: Booking
Hoshinoya Tokyo is very popular among couples and it is clear to see why. This is one Ryokan that is sure to impress your significant other, without a doubt. It is incredibly close to the imperial palace, this area in general boasts some great Tokyo views and on a clear and sunny day, you can even see Mt. Fuji! This is definitely the Ryokan of the modern age, the styling is incredibly clean inside, most of the rooms look like a large suite and you live in total comfort while you are there. In addition to the fairly standard free Wi-Fi, your suite will also come with private bathing quarters.
Being this close to the center of Tokyo and staying in a truly beautiful establishment should be just what you need to get your Tokyo vacation started. With a rooftop hot spring, that is enjoyable virtually all day to the complimentary experiences like Sake tasting. This might be one of the most well-rounded experiences you can have. Not to mention, you mere minutes away from anywhere else and any train line.
Price: ¥30,000 – ¥1603,000
Location: 〒100-0004 Tōkyō-to, Chiyoda-ku, Ōtemachi, 1 Chome−9−1
Takemine
Credits: Booking
It may seem weird, and maybe sort of obvious, but this Ryokan is boasted on their food. After scanning some of the hundreds of user reviews, it can be concluded they have an absolutely wonderful kitchen. As it’s a kaiseki-style dinner, the ingredients will have changed depending on when you get there, but it is definitely worth sticking around for a meal. One of the points I like best here is the blend of modernism and traditional Japanese styling
Couples seem to have rated this Ryokan very high and claim is perfect for one night stays! A good point to mention is that room comes with a private bathroom, something of a luxury when it comes to Ryokan and definitely onsen.
Situated perfectly in Shinjuku, this Ryokan puts you within minutes from every attraction in Tokyo. This location is seriously convenient due to the shopping, train lines, restaurants and the overall touristy nature of Shinjuku. You won’t find yourself really struggling to do anything in this location. The staff at this Ryokan also speaks English, so you won’t feel any sort of language barrier when asking anything on the premises. Overall, this is a great choice purely for the convenience of location and you still get a traditional experience in this modern bustle we call Tokyo but book this one fast!
Price: ¥30,000 – ¥200,000
Location: 〒161-0032 Tōkyō-to, Shinjuku-ku, Nakaochiai, 1 Chome−1−3
This location has permanently closed.
Senju Tamuraya
Credits: Booking
There’s nothing like some local, home-grown hospitality and that is exactly what you’ll get during your stay in Senju Tamuraya Ryokan. This family-owned Ryokan (for who knows how many generations) is so low key you might just walk right past it. This Ryokan is located near the ever-popular Asakusa and all of its accompanying historical sites, like Senso-Ji temple! The Ryokan is in a residential slice of the neighborhood so you will be getting a much different experience than most people who come to Tokyo and stay in the hotels, and in my opinion, you might have a more rewarding experience than you may think.
The staff is extremely friendly and go out of their way to make your stay as enjoyable as possible. There is also plenty of shopping and restaurants around the area, so you can do some worthwhile neighborhood exploring while you are here! In addition, you will find on-site washing machines at this Ryokan. While small and quaint this Ryokan offers a lot in the way of hospitality. This our recommendation if you want a more local experience!
Price: ¥23,000 – ¥67,000
Location: 〒116-0003 Tōkyō-to, Arakawa-ku, Minamisenju, 7 Chome−19−10
Where Will You Stay?
Credits: Booking
There you have it, a collection of our favorite Ryokan. Which of these caught your eye and which of these will you be staying? Wether you want an experience with more of a home touch and out of the city or full on luxurious experience in the center of Tokyo, you can definitely find one here!
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And if you plan to leave Tokyo for some time, feel free to select our selection of the best Ryokan in Japan, there are just fabulous! 🙂 Don’t miss our blog posts and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest.
Matane!
