The 15 Best Ryokans in Tokyo

Looking for a ryokan stay in Tokyo? You’re in the right place! 

Staying in a ryokan is one of the most memorable ways to experience traditional Japanese culture while in Tokyo. A ryokan gives you more than just a bed for the night because it’s a whole cultural experience in itself! We also love staying in ryokans because it’s a very peaceful experience, and we’ll never say no to a kaiseki dinner.

Tokyo’s ryokans range from strictly traditional inns to more modern retreats, and there are options all over the city to suit a range of budgets. We’ve rounded up the best of the bunch here to help you find your perfect stay. 

Where to Find the Best Ryokans in Tokyo

For those who haven’t stayed in one before, a ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn. Ryokans have tatami floors, futon beds, and onsens on site. But the real highlight of staying in a ryokan is the chance to experience a traditional kaiseki dinner, which is a multi-course feast showcasing seasonal ingredients and meticulous presentation!

Unlike Kyoto, where ryokans are everywhere, it can be a bit of a challenge to find a traditional stay in Tokyo. The capital lost many of its historic inns when much of the city was bombed during World War II. Still, a handful of beautiful ryokans remain, and we’ve rounded them up for you in this blog post so that you get a glimpse into old Japan. 

• Asakusa – This is one of Tokyo’s most traditional districts, with its lantern-lit alleys and the iconic Senso-ji Temple! Ryokan Asakusa Shigetsu is the perfect choice for ryokan purists.

• Northern Tokyo (Ueno, Yanaka, Arakawa) – A laid-back area with plenty of temples, parks, and nostalgic corners to explore. Annex Katsutaro Ryokan is a top-rated and affordable choice.

• Downtown Tokyo (Nihonbashi, Central Tokyo) – This is the historic heart of the city, where cultural sites are tucked between skyscrapers. Nihonbashi Kakigara Ryokan is a lovely, traditional ryokan housed in a modern building.

• Western and Southern Tokyo (Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, Shinagawa) – This bustling and dynamic area is the heart of the action, with lots of great options for nightlife and shopping. KAMENOI HOTEL Ome is a peaceful retreat that overlooks the Tama River.

The Best Ryokans in Tokyo 

Asakusa

Asakusa is famously a very traditional part of Tokyo. It takes you right back to old Japan with its narrow streets and historic temples, especially Senso-ji Temple, which is basically the centerpiece of the area! It’s Tokyo’s oldest temple and it’s surrounded by bustling shopping streets like Nakamise-dori, which are so much fun to explore.

You’ve also got Sumida Park nearby, which is the ideal spot for a riverside stroll. Meanwhile, Tokyo Skytree offers panoramic views of the city, and there are also a ton of cute little museums, kimono rental shops, and quaint cafes around. 

One of our favorite things about Asakusa is the fact that it’s so walkable! It’s such a pleasure to wander around and explore the historic streets on foot. It’s lively during the day, but the evenings are much calmer, especially along the riverfront. 

We think that Asakusa is the best place to stay in Tokyo if you’re seeking a ryokan stay. Since it’s such a traditional area, it offers more choice than other parts of the city, and there are some truly special inns here!

Pros

• Rich in history and traditional charm 
• Compact and walkable
• More choice of ryokans than other areas

Cons

• Can get crowded during the day
• Limited nightlife options

Cyashitsu Ryokan Asakusa ($$$)

Cyashitsu Ryokan brings modern luxury to Tokyo’s historic Asakusa district. We like this property because it has all of the elements of a traditional ryokan, like tatami flooring and sliding paper doors, but it still manages to achieve a chic, contemporary feel. There’s a lovely open-air onsen on site that’s open to all guests, but there’s also a private one that you can reserve for just you and your party. 

Dining is an important part of any ryokan stay, and the food here is next-level. A complimentary breakfast is included with every stay, but you can opt to include dinner, too, which is a feast of fresh sushi and beautifully prepared seasonal dishes. 

This place is truly special, and the glowing reviews certainly attest to that! We think it would be a wonderful choice for a honeymoon or a romantic trip. Prices start from $450 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay at Cyashitsu Ryokan here!

Ryokan Asakusa Shigetsu ($$)

Ryokan purists will love this charming, family-run inn. Ryokan Asakusa Shigetsu is over 70 years old and it boasts a fantastic location in the heart of historic Asakusa, so it’s the perfect way to step back in time and experience traditional Japanese hospitality.

A big highlight of this property is its relaxing onsens. In keeping with tradition, there are male and female baths, both of which provide scenic views of the famous five-storied pagoda of the Senso-ji Temple. The ryokan is also just a short walk from Nakamise-dori Street and multiple subway and train stations, so it’s easy to visit other parts of the city from here.

Prices generally range between $150 and $300 USD per night, but this place is popular so we suggest making a reservation well in advance. 

Book your stay here for an authentic Asakusa experience!

PROSTYLE RYOKAN TOKYO ASAKUSA ($$)

PROSTYLE RYOKAN Tokyo Asakusa is a stylish and comfortable ryokan located in the heart of Tokyo, just a short walk from the Sumida River and key attractions like the Tokyo Skytree. This isn’t such a “strict” ryokan as some of the others mentioned so far, as Western and traditional Japanese are blended for maximum comfort.

For example, the beds are Western-style, but they’re lower to the floor to emulate the futon style. In the same vein, the complimentary breakfast buffet also has both Japanese and Western options, although the restaurant focuses solely on Japanese cuisine at dinner time.

On top of that, there’s a nice bar on site where you can relax after exploring the surrounding area of Asakusa. Prices typically range from $200 to $600+ USD per night.

Get the best prices by booking in advance here!

Andon Ryokan ($)

Andon Ryokan is a charming and wallet-friendly inn just a 5-minute walk from Minowa Station and a short ride from Ueno. You can also walk to Asakusa in about 20 minutes from here, so it’s definitely got a great location going for it!

One thing that we like about this ryokan is that it offers lots of cultural activities for guests to enjoy, including flower arranging classes and traditional Japanese tea ceremonies. After all, staying in a ryokan is all about immersing yourself in local culture.

The ryokan has a laundromat on site and bike rentals available which makes it easy to get to the nearby parks and museum. We think this is a fantastic affordable choice if you want to do a ryokan stay on a budget! Prices typically range from $80 to $120 USD per night for a double or twin room.

Check room options and book this affordable stay here!

Sakura Ryokan Asakusa Iriya ($)

Sakura Ryokan Asakusa Iriya offers a true ryokan stay at a very competitive price. The rooms are uber traditional, with tatami flooring and futon beds, and of course, onsen baths! 

Another perk of staying here is that the inn is nestled between Asakusa and Ueno. You’ll be just a 6-minute walk from Iriya Metro Station, and Uguisudani Station is 16 minutes away on foot. The friendly staff are always happy to help you work out transit routes and train schedules, and they’ll even store your luggage for you. 

This is a great base for exploring northern Tokyo and experiencing a quintessential ryokan stay without breaking the bank. There are even discounted rates for solo travelers, which is handy. Prices typically range from $65 to $175 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Related Read: Want to explore more of this historic neighborhood? Check out our guide to the best things to do in Asakusa here for the top sights, food spots, and cultural experiences nearby!

Northern Tokyo

Northern Tokyo is a quieter, more laid-back side of the city, so it’s perfect if you don’t want to stay right in the thick of Tokyo’s overwhelming rush! Staying here offers a mixture of history and everyday local life. 

This area includes neighborhoods like Ueno, Yanaka, and Arakawa. Each one has its own charm, but Ueno is particularly famous thanks to its huge train station, museums, and zoo! Oh, and Ueno Park is one of Tokyo’s top spots for cherry blossom viewing, so staying here is ideal during sakura season. 

Meanwhile, Yanaka and Nezu are home to narrow streets and traditional houses, so they offer visitors the chance to step back in time while remaining fairly central. Speaking of which, there are excellent public transport links around here, so it’s an ideal base for exploring the rest of the city. You can use the train and subway lines to get to central Tokyo in a matter of minutes!

Northern Tokyo also has a handful of traditional ryokans, so you can spend all day sightseeing and then come back to relax in an elegant, old-school inn. We think that a ryokan stay in this area is ideal for travelers who want to experience a more authentic side of Tokyo while still having easy access to the city’s top areas and attractions. 

Pros

• Rich in history and local culture
• Well connected by train and subway to central Tokyo
• Quieter, more relaxed atmosphere compared to central Tokyo

Cons

• Limited nightlife and entertainment compared to Shinjuku or Shibuya
• Some attractions may be a bit spread out, requiring short train rides
• Not ideal for those who want to stay in the heart of the action

The Edo Sakura ($$)

The Edo Sakura is a charming Japanese-style ryokan located in Taito City, which borders Ueno. It’s just a 5-minute walk from Iriya Subway Station and 15 minutes from Ueno Station, so it gives you easy access to the city while providing a quiet spot to retreat to in the evenings. This ryokan blends traditional and modern comforts, with rooms offering either tatami floors with futon bedding or Western-style beds on wooden floors. You get to choose when you book!

There’s a traditional garden for guests to enjoy and a private onsen that you can reserve in the evenings. The staff are attentive and helpful, and the whole property has that serene vibe that ryokans are famous for. Prices typically range from $135 to $200 USD per night, and there’s a two-night minimum stay.

Book early to avoid disappointment!

Annex Katsutaro Ryokan ($$)

Annex Katsutaro Ryokan is a modern take on a traditional Japanese inn, located just a 2-minute walk from Sendagi Subway Station in the historic Yanaka Ginza district. While the building itself is contemporary, the rooms are designed with classic tatami flooring and futon bedding, so you still get an authentic Japanese experience inside. 

The ryokan’s location is ideal for exploring Ueno Park, Ueno Zoo, and nearby temples. JR Nippori Station is only an 8-minute walk away,  which means you’ll have easy access to Akihabara and Tokyo Station. You’ll also be surrounded by charming cafes and craft breweries, so exploring closer to home can be a lot of fun, too! Prices typically range from $165 to $200 USD per night.

Book early for the best rates!

Ryokan Katsutaro ($)

Ryokan Katsutaro is a traditional Japanese inn in the heart of Ueno. It’s very peaceful, but its proximity to one of Tokyo’s main transport hubs—JR Ueno Station—makes it easy to explore the rest of the city and beyond! The ryokan is a 16-minute walk from the station, and it’s also less than 10 minutes from Ueno Park and Ueno Zoo.

Other than its stellar location, this ryokan has a super-friendly owner who will make you feel right at home, and laundry facilities, which are always handy on a longer trip. This place may be modest, but it really encapsulates what old-school Japanese hospitality is all about, so we think it makes an ideal base in popular Ueno.

It has triple and quadruple rooms available, so it’s especially suitable for families and groups. Prices range between $85 and $200 USD per night.

Get the best prices by booking in advance!

Downtown Tokyo 

Downtown Tokyo is the city’s historic heart, where merchant streets and modern skyscrapers sit side by side. It offers a lot of traditional charm, a central location, and plenty of famous landmarks. We think this is a great choice for first-timers visiting Tokyo, and there are a handful of refined ryokans to choose from. 

Some of the top neighborhoods to check out in Downtown Tokyo include Nihonbashi, which is home to historic bridges and traditional shops. We also like exploring Ginza’s upscale boutiques and art galleries, and wandering around the elegant streets of Marunouchi.

The area also has excellent transport links, with multiple subway and train lines connecting you to the rest of the city in minutes. You can get to Shinjuku or Shibuya in around 20 minutes, as well as historic Asakusa. Basically, you’ll be very well-positioned to go sightseeing if you stay here! 

While the streets can be busy during the day, evenings are calmer. There’s not much nightlife in Nihonbashi and Maranouchi, although Ginza does offer a lot of high-end bars and restaurants, as well as more casual izakayas along the bustling “Ginza Corridor”.

Pros

• Central location with great transport links
• Mix of historic charm and modern convenience

Cons

• Can feel busy and crowded during the day, especially around shopping areas
• Limited nightlife in some neighborhoods
• Fewer budget accommodation options compared to other areas of Tokyo

Nihonbashi Kakigara Ryokan ($$)

Nihonbashi Kakigara Ryokan is another rare find in downtown Tokyo. It’s housed in a modern building in the heart of the Chuo Ward, but inside you’ll find tatami floors, futons, and shoji (lattice paper doors). We love the fact that it’s a traditional gem tucked behind a modern facade! 

The location is ideal for exploring Tokyo, with Takao Inari Shrine just a five-minute walk away. Amazake Yokocho Shopping Street is also within easy reach of souvenirs and local snacks, while public transport options connect you to the rest of the city. There are two subway stations close by, and Shin-Nihombashi Station is less than 20 minutes’ walk away. Prices typically range from $300 to $350 USD per night.

Book early to secure your spot with free cancellation!

Ito Ryokan ($)

It’s actually pretty rare to find a traditional ryokan in downtown Tokyo, which makes Ito Ryokan a true gem in my eyes! It’s a fantastic spot that offers an authentic stay right in the heart of Nihonbashi, in the bustling Chuo Ward.

We especially love the breakfast here and highly recommend opting to include it with your stay. It’s a generous spread featuring miso soup, rice, and other Japanese favorites, so you can eat your first meal of the day like a true local! 

The staff are very friendly and speak excellent English, which makes it easy to get tips on transport and sightseeing. Rooms cost between $135 and $200 USD per night but they usually book up weeks in advance so be quick!

You can secure your stay here with free cancellation.

Hotel Edoya ($)

Hotel Edoya is a modest but comfortable ryokan tucked away down a peaceful street in central Tokyo. It’s housed in a modern building, but inside you’ll find all the hallmarks of a classic Japanese inn, like tatami floors and futon bedding. There’s a calm, welcoming atmosphere, so it feels like a quiet retreat right in the middle of the city.

The location is spot-on, as the property is just a short walk from Yushima and Ochanomizu Stations, and about 15 minutes from Akihabara. There are spacious onsens on site, including an open-air one, which is ideal for relaxing after a busy day of sightseeing. The traditional Japanese breakfast is great too and, better still, it’s free! It typically costs $65 USD per night for a single room here or $130 USD for a double.

Book your stay here, with free cancellation!

Related Read: For more accommodation ideas, don’t miss our blog on where to stay in Tokyo here—it’s packed with tips on the best neighborhoods to base your trip.

Western and Southern Tokyo

If you want to experience Tokyo’s energetic side, Western and Southern Tokyo is the area for you! And while the area is busy and lively, there are also a handful of ryokans tucked into quieter streets. This means you can experience traditional Japanese hospitality here while immersing yourself in the city’s most buzzing, futuristic area as soon as you step out of the door. 

This area includes neighborhoods like Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, and Shinagawa. Each one has its own vibe: Shinjuku is famous for neon lights and entertainment, while Ikebukuro is a hub for shopping and anime culture, then Shinagawa is a major transport hub with historic temples dotted around its quieter streets. In fact, you’ve even got Shinkansen access from Shinagawa, so this makes an ideal base if you’re planning to take some day trips out of the city.

As well as being a fun and exciting place to stay, Western and Southern Tokyo also offers a variety of ryokans. You can opt for a super traditional experience here, go for something more modern, or even go for a ryokan-style hotel within a wider resort. The choice is yours!

Pros

• Bustling and dynamic area with lots to do 
• Excellent transport links
• Range of ryokan experiences to choose from

Cons

• Can feel crowded and hectic 
• Less traditional charm overall compared to areas like Asakusa or Northern Tokyo

ONSEN RYOKAN YUEN SHINJUKU ($$$)

ONSEN RYOKAN YUEN SHINJUKU is one of Tokyo’s most popular modern ryokans, and for good reason! It combines the tranquility of a traditional Japanese inn with the sleek, minimalist design you’d expect from a boutique hotel in Shinjuku, so you really do get the best of both worlds. 

The highlight here is the indoor and outdoor rooftop onsens, where you can soak in natural hot spring water while gazing out at the Tokyo skyline. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a long flight or a busy day exploring. The rooms are beautifully designed to be sleek and minimalist, but there are still plenty of nods to traditional design. Rooms book up fast here, and prices typically range from $200 to $400 USD per night.

Reserve early to secure your spot!

Takanawa Hanakohro ($$$)

Takanawa Hanakohro is an elegant ryokan-style retreat set within the Grand Prince Hotel Takanawa complex in Shinagawa. It blends elements of a traditional Japanese inn, such as tatami accents and shoji doors, with sleek contemporary luxury. 

The surrounding area isn’t packed with attractions, but that’s actually part of the appeal because it’s a quiet retreat. It’s still easy to explore the rest of Tokyo from here, though, because Shinagawa Station is just a 7-minute walk away and the hotel even provides a free shuttle! 

What makes this ryokan stand out for us is that it’s part of a larger hotel complex; you’ll be able to access any of the sister lounges and restaurants via a network of serene garden paths. It’s like a ryokan tucked within a resort! Suites here cost between $650 and $3,000 USD per night.

Find the best prices on Booking.com!

KAMENOI HOTEL Ome ($$)

KAMENOI HOTEL is a peaceful retreat in Ome, which is a gateway to the scenic countryside west of Tokyo. It’s surrounded by mountains and overlooks the Tama River, so it’s a wonderful choice if you’re craving a quiet escape from the city! 

This isn’t a true ryokan in the strict sense of the world. It has western-style beds and mostly contemporary decor, although you will find some traditional touches like sliding paper doors and onsen baths. However, you do get a traditional Japanese breakfast and dinner included with your stay, which are prepared with seasonal, local ingredients.

The hotel also provides a free shuttle to Ome Station and nearby attractions like sake breweries and craft studios, so it’s really easy to explore the area. We think this is the perfect choice for a peaceful rural getaway from Tokyo. Prices typically range from $90 to $280 USD per night.

See optons and secure your stay at KAMENOI HOTEL here!

Kimi Ryokan ($)

Kimi Ryokan is a cozy, traditional-style inn tucked just a short walk from Ikebukuro Station, which is one of Tokyo’s main transport hubs! It’s the perfect spot if you want to stay somewhere quiet and authentic while still being close to all the action because from here, you can reach Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ueno in under 15 minutes by train.

Inside, you’ll find simple but charming tatami rooms with futon beds and shoji screens, giving you that classic ryokan feel right in the heart of the city. The Cypress-wood public bath is lovely, too. There’s also a cute cafe attached that serves excellent coffee. 

There are rooms here that sleep up to five guests, so we think that this is a fantastic, affordable option for groups. Rates typically range between $50 and $165 USD per night.

Don’t wait—book your stay at Kimi Ryokan right here!

Related Read: Planning a longer stay? Check out our guide on how to spend five days in Tokyo here for the ultimate way to explore the city!

Top Activities to do in Tokyo

Once you’ve locked in your Tokyo ryokan, it’s time to plan the fun stuff! This city is packed with amazing experiences, and we made the most of our time by booking a few standout tours that gave us a deeper (and tastier!) look at Tokyo. From go-karting past famous landmarks to rolling sushi with local chefs, these are some of the highlights we still talk about.

• Take in some of Japan’s most iconic views – From Mt. Fuji’s snowy peak to the breezy Lake Ashi cruise, this day trip packed in so many epic views. We loved the ropeway ride and couldn’t stop snapping photos at every stop. Lunch was tasty, the vibes were relaxed, and ending with the bullet train was so much fun.

• Go on a food tour – Sampling our way through Tsukiji Market on this food tour was such a fun (and tasty) way to learn about Japanese food culture. We tried sushi, wagyu skewers, and omelettes, and our guide shared great local tips and made everything easy to enjoy. If you’re a fellow foodie, don’t miss our guide to the best food tours in Tokyo here for even more delicious ideas!

• Drive a go-kart through Tokyo – Zipping past Tokyo Tower and over the Rainbow Bridge in a full-on costume was absolutely wild (in the best way). This go-kart tour around Tokyo Bay felt like a mashup of sightseeing and real-life Mario Kart. The staff was awesome, the route was epic, and we couldn’t stop laughing the whole way through.

• Explore Tokyo with a private guide – This custom walking tour made Tokyo feel way less overwhelming. Our guide was super knowledgeable, flexible, and full of fun local tips. We hit shrines, side streets, gardens, and snack spots all in one smooth, six-hour adventure.

• Learn how to make sushi – This sushi rolling class was way more fun than we expected! The instructors were hilarious, the seafood was super fresh, and we actually learned to make nigiri and rolls like pros. It was hands-on, relaxed, and one of our favorite experiences in Japan.

Related Read: For even more ideas, we have a full list of the best things to do in Tokyo you won’t want to miss

Renting a Car in Japan

Japan’s trains are great, but if you want to explore rural areas, scenic routes, or off-the-beaten path hidden gems, renting a car offers unmatched flexibility. Driving in Japan is generally safe, with well-maintained roads and clear signage, though there are some unique rules and customs to be aware of.

We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare multiple provider prices, check company ratings, filter for the type of vehicle you want, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Japan

• Drive on the left: In Japan, vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road. The driver’s seat is on the right, and you’ll need to adjust to roundabouts and different road layouts. Take some time to get comfortable before hitting busy roads.
• Know the local rules: You must come to a full stop at “止まれ” (stop) signs, and pedestrians always have the right of way. It’s also mandatory for all passengers to wear seatbelts, even in the back seat. It’s also a good idea to brush up on the Japanese road signs before you go. They are mainly symbol based, and being able to recognize them will make your journey a lot smoother!
• Insurance is essential: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance—especially in Japan, where tight city parking, narrow village streets, and even wildlife on roads (like deer in Hokkaido) can lead to unexpected dings or damage. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable) to add this peace of mind when you book.
• Choose the right car: Roads and parking spots in Japan can be tight, especially in cities and older towns, so a small or mid-sized car is usually best. Discover Cars makes it easy to filter by transmission, fuel type (like hybrid), luggage space, and more, so you can find exactly what works for your trip.
• Watch for toll roads: Japan has an extensive network of toll roads (expressways). Tolls can be paid by cash or card, but it’s worth checking if your rental car comes with an ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) card for convenience.

What You Need to Rent a Car in Japan

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• An International Driving Permit (IDP) under the 1949 Geneva Convention. This is a must—it’s the only version Japan recognizes, and you’ll need to get it before arriving.
• A credit card in the driver’s name for the deposit.
• Most companies require you to be at least 18 years old, and some may require you to have held a license for at least one year. Drivers under 25 may face additional fees.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the Japan on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

Visiting Tokyo is unforgettable on its own, but staying in a ryokan makes it even more special. It’s a chance to experience traditional Japanese hospitality right in the heart of the city—something we think everyone should try at least once. Whether you stay in Asakusa, Shinjuku, or somewhere in between, a ryokan stay adds a peaceful and cultural touch to your Tokyo adventure. Just be sure to reserve your stay early, as the best ones fill up fast!

Before you go, check out our other Japan blogs here for more travel inspiration, from city itineraries to food tours and cultural tips. Or check out these other Japan guides to kickstart your planning!

Where to Stay in Ginza, Tokyo: 5 Best Areas & Hotels

3 BEST Mt Fuji Tours from Tokyo

The 15 Best Ryokans in Hakone

The 15 Best Ryokans in Nagano