Ryokans, or traditional Japanese inns, are a cut above your usual accommodations. You can find ryokans in historical onsen towns but they are also available in the city. Regardless, staying at a ryokan offers a timeless cultural experience for all travelers.
The cost of ryokans varies widely, depending on location and amenities provided. In this article, we explore the costs that you should expect when planning your Japan trip. Whether you want a luxurious treat or a modest getaway, there’s always a ryokan perfect for your budget.
Average Price For A Ryokan In Japan
Not all ryokans are the same. Different categories of ryokans have very different costs and amenities provided. Ryokans can range between 5,000 to more than 100,000 yen ($33 – $670) per person and night. These are inclusive of dinner and breakfast, but some lower priced ryokans don’t offer meals at all.
When staying in ryokans, you’ll mostly be paying for the experience. Tatami mats, classic sliding doors, tokonoma, and low tables and chairs (called zaisu) furnish each room. You’ll be sitting and sleeping on the floor on zabuton cushions and futon mattresses.
In ryokans, you’ll also get the chance to wear a yukata, a lighter version of a kimono, and take part in rituals.
Different class ryokans offer different services and luxuries that justify their prices. Let’s dive into them one by one!
How Much Is A Luxury Ryokan In Japan – Average Price
Luxury ryokans cost over 30,000 up to 70,000 yen ($200 – $465) per night. On the extreme end, they can even cost more than 100,000 yen ($670) per night. These luxurious ryokans have high quality meals, rooms, and facilities available.
The more deluxe ryokans have elaborate onsens (hot spring baths) on the premises. These baths are spacious and supplied with only the cleanest spring water from the mountains. Most of these ryokans have facilities built just for onsens and relaxing massages.
Guests can also enjoy “kaiseki”, an impressive, traditional, multi-course dinner. They also offer picturesque views of the local landscapes from the comfort of your room.
These ryokans offer the most elaborate and immersive cultural experiences. Here, you can enjoy Japanese tea ceremonies, sake tastings, and even gagaku performances.
Some luxury ryokans you can consider are:
Nakajimaya Ryokan (Nozawa Onsen, Nagano)
Rooms start at 30,000 yen ($200).
Book It Here: Nakajimaya Ryokan
Bettei Senjyuan (Minakami, Gunma)
Rooms start at 67,696 yen ($450).
Book It Here: Bettei Senjyuan
Ryokan Genhouin (Sakyo Ward, Kyoto)
Rooms start at 116,472 yen ($775).
Book It Here: Ryokan Genhouin
You can find more recommendations of luxury ryokans in Kyoto here!
Gora Kadan (Hakone, Kanagawa)
Rooms start at 220,000 yen ($1460). Read the full review of Gora Kadan ryokan here.
Book It Here: Gora Kadan
You May Also Like: The 16 Best Luxury Ryokans In Japan
How Much Is A Mid-Range Ryokan In Japan – Average Price
Mid-range ryokans offer a balance of affordability and elegance. These stay cost over 15,000 to 25,000 yen ($100 – $166).
At these ryokans, you can still enjoy traditional architecture and serene gardenscapes. Additionally, these ryokans are also located near temple complexes and local markets. Their accessibility make them appealing options for travelers.
Most of these ryokans offer both breakfast and dinner options. They also have simple spa facilities and public baths. Some mid-range ryokans even have private onsen baths available in suites.
Here are some mid-range ryokans to consider:
Hiranoya (Gamagori, Aichi)
Rooms start at 16,500 yen ($110).
Book It Here: Hiranoya
Sumiyoshi Ryokan (Takayama, Gifu)
Rooms start at 19,800 yen ($132).
Book It Here: Sumiyoshi Ryokan
Andon Ryokan (Tokyo-to, Tokyo)
Rooms start at 21,000 yen ($140).
Book It Here: Andon Ryokan
Kangetsuen (Otofuke, Hokkaido)
Rooms start at 23,000 yen ($153).
Book It Here: Kangetsuen
How Much Is A Budget Ryokan In Japan – Average Prices
Even if you’re on a strict budget, you can still enjoy the serenity and comfort of staying in a ryokan. Budget ryokans cost between 4,000 to 15,000 yen per night ($27 – $100). Some ryokans can cost 3,000 yen ($20) per night. You can find these ryokans in quaint neighborhoods at the heart of cities and towns.
While simpler and smaller in size, these ryokans still provide a similar traditional experience for every traveler. They have the same traditional designs and aesthetics that define ryokans. Some budget ryokans also have public onsens you can bathe in.
Most may also serve authentic Japanese cuisine for an additional fee.
Looking for a ryokan on a budget? Check out these options:
K’s House Ito Onsen – Historical Ryokan Hostel (Ito, Shizuoka)
Price starts at 3,555 yen ($24).
Book It Here: K’s House Ito Onsen – Historical Ryokan Hostel
Shiobara Onsen Yashio Lodge (Nasushiobara, Tochigi)
Price starts at 8,820 yen ($59).
Book It Here: Shiobara Onsen Yashio Lodge
Ryoso Chatani (Kyoto, Kyoto)
Rooms start at 9,900 yen ($66).
Book It Here: Ryoso Chatani
Sakuraya (Miyajima, Miyajima)
Rooms start at 14,000 yen ($93).
Book It Here: Sakuraya
Is The Ryokan Experience Worth It?
A ryokan stay is different compared to your average hotel experience. They offer deluxe cultural delights for decent prices. Enjoy exceptional hospitality, authentic cuisine, and a mindful getaway all in one setting.
If you’re after immersive cultural experiences, then ryokans are the place to go. You’ll get to engage in Japanese customs firsthand. You’ll get to wear a yukata, sleep on a futon, and even enjoy different rituals. There are also some meals that you can only eat if you stay at a ryokan.
Furthermore, ryokans offer a rejuvenating mind and body experience. Onsens or hot springs usually available in ryokans give you the chance to relax and unwind. Traditional Japanese architecture and aesthetics and serene landscapes await you in every ryokan.
What are you waiting for? Add ryokans to your Japan trip bucket list for an exciting yet enriching experience.
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I hope you enjoyed this guide about how much it costs to stay at a ryokan in Japan. As you can see, it will really depend on the type of Japanese traditional inn you choose. The good news is that there are ryokans for every budget!
