Hakone Private Onsen Guide: Best Ryokans for Tattooed & Shy Travelers
Visiting an Onsen (Hot Spring) is the #1 bucket list item for Japan. But let’s address the elephant in the room.
Are you comfortable being completely naked in front of strangers?
- ❌ “I have tattoos.” (Most public onsens ban tattoos).
- ❌ “I am too shy.” (Swimsuits are NOT allowed).
- ❌ “I want to bathe with my partner.” (Public baths are separated by gender).
If you answered “No” to any of these, you have only one solution: Book a Ryokan with a “Private Onsen” in your room.
💡 “In-Room” vs “Private Rental”
Be careful when booking. There are two types of “Private” onsens:
- 🏆 In-Room Onsen (Best): The bath is on your balcony. You can use it 24/7. Total privacy.
- Private Rental (Kashikiri): A separate room you book for 45 mins. You have to leave when time is up.
Below, I have selected the Top 3 hotels that feature IN-ROOM Baths so you can relax without time limits.
🏆 Top 3 Ryokans with Private Onsen in Hakone
Hakone is the best place to experience this. It is only 90 minutes from Tokyo. Here are the top 3 picks where I guarantee an unforgettable experience.
Note: These rooms sell out months in advance. If you see availability, book it immediately.
1. Hakone Kowakien TENYU (The “Safe” Luxury Choice)
If you want a modern, fail-proof luxury experience, this is it. Opened recently, it blends traditional Japanese style with Western comforts (yes, real beds!).
🌟 Tenyu Quick Specs
💡 Editor’s Tip: This is a “Modern Ryokan”. It feels like a 5-star hotel but with Tatami mats. Perfect for first-timers who are scared of strict traditions.
- The Bath: ALL rooms have a private open-air bath. You don’t need to worry about choosing the wrong room type.
- View: Most baths overlook the lush valley or mountains.
- Why it wins: It is very foreigner-friendly. English service is perfect. You don’t have to worry about strict old-school rules.
2. Setsugetsuka (Best Access & Value)
Located right in front of Gora Station. This is extremely popular because you don’t need to drag your luggage far.
🌟 Setsugetsuka Quick Specs
💡 Editor’s Tip: The in-room bath uses heated mineral water (not natural onsen), BUT you can use the 3 private garden spas (natural onsen) for FREE without reservation!
- The Bath: ALL rooms have a wooden bath on the balcony.
- Perks: Free late-night ramen and all-you-can-drink Yakult in the morning.
3. Yama No Chaya (Deep Culture Experience)
If you want the “Real Japan” experience, go here. You cross a suspension bridge over a river to enter the Ryokan. It feels like time travel.
🌟 Yama No Chaya Quick Specs
💡 Editor’s Tip: This is a traditional wooden building (no elevators). It is not suitable for heavy suitcases, but the atmosphere is unbeatable.
⚠️ BOOKING WARNING:
Not all rooms have a private bath here. You MUST select a room type that says “Open Air Bath” or “Panoramic Bath”.
- The Bath: The private baths here are massive and often made of wood or stone, overlooking the forest.
- Vibe: Traditional architecture, Tatami mats, and incredibly detailed Kaiseki dining.
- Verdict: Ideal for honeymoons. It is expensive, but worth every penny.
💰 Is it Worth the Price?
Ryokans with private baths are expensive. Usually $400 – $800 per night. But remember, this price usually includes:
- Dinner: A multi-course Kaiseki meal (often worth $100+ per person).
- Breakfast: A traditional Japanese set meal.
- The Room: Much larger than standard Tokyo hotels (often a Suite).
💡 Pro-Tip: Can’t Eat Raw Fish?
Kaiseki dinner usually includes Sashimi (raw fish). If you are allergic or can’t eat it, you must email the Ryokan 3 days in advance. Most will happily change it to grilled fish or meat.
📝 Important Rules (Don’t Mess Up!)
⏰ The “17:30” Dinner Deadline
Check-in usually starts at 15:00.
However, if your plan includes dinner, you MUST arrive by 17:30 or 18:00. If you arrive late (e.g., 19:30), the kitchen will be closed. You will lose your dinner and will NOT be refunded.
Please do not plan a tight schedule on the day of your check-in.
Shoe Etiquette: Unlike hotels, you must take off your shoes at the entrance of the Ryokan. You will wear slippers inside, but NO slippers on the Tatami mats (socks or barefoot only).
FAQ
Q: Can I use an Onsen if I have tattoos?
Most public onsens ban tattoos. However, if you book a Ryokan with a ‘Private Onsen’ in your room (like the ones above), tattoos are completely fine.
Q: Are there any hidden costs?
Yes. There is a small “Bathing Tax” (approx. 150 JPY per person). This is NOT included in your Agoda booking and must be paid at the hotel checkout.
Q: What is the difference between Public and Private Onsen?
Public onsens are shared with strangers and separated by gender. Private onsens are located inside your room (or rentable), allowing you to bathe privately with your partner or family.
How to Get Around Hakone?
To get to these Ryokans, you need the Hakone Free Pass. It covers the train, cable car, ropeway, and buses.
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