Best Kyoto Ryokans with Private Onsen: Tattoo Friendly Guide 2026
Kyoto has thousands of hotels, but finding a “Real Ryokan with a Private Onsen” is surprisingly difficult.
⚠️ The “Kyoto Trap” (Read Before Booking)
- ❌ Fake Onsens: Many “Private Baths” in downtown Kyoto are just heated tap water, not natural hot springs.
- ❌ Concrete Buildings: Most “Ryokans” near Kyoto Station are just modern hotels with tatami mats.
- ❌ Exclusivity: Authentic Ryokans in Gion are often “Members Only” or cost $2,000+.
But don’t give up. I have found the 3 best Ryokans that welcome international tourists, allow tattoos, and offer an unforgettable private bathing experience.
🏆 Top 3 Ryokans in Kyoto with Private Baths
I have selected three different styles: Best Value, Traditional Luxury, and Unique Experience.
1. Kyoto Arashiyama Onsen Kadensho (Best Value & Family)
Located right in front of Arashiyama Station. This is the most popular choice for tourists because of its amazing “Free Private Bath” system.
▲ One of the 5 free private baths.
🌟 Kadensho Quick Specs
💡 Editor’s Tip: The 5 private baths are first-come, first-served. No reservation needed! The best time to go is right before dinner (17:00) or late at night.
- The System: They have 5 different private onsen rooms (Stone, Bamboo, Steam, etc.). If the light is OFF, you can just walk in and lock the door. It’s free and unlimited!
- Location: Perfect for visiting the Bamboo Forest (10 min walk).
2. Arashiyama Benkei (Authentic Luxury)
If you want the “Real Traditional Experience” and money is not an issue, stay here. It is located right by the river.
▲ Authentic cypress bath with natural hot spring water.
🌟 Benkei Quick Specs
💡 Editor’s Tip: This is a 100% traditional Ryokan. You will sleep on Futons on the Tatami floor. It is best for couples seeking quiet luxury (less suitable for loud kids).
- The Bath: Some rooms have open-air cypress baths with garden views. The water is natural Arashiyama Onsen (great for skin).
- Food: This is a “Culinary Ryokan”. The Kaiseki dinner is Michelin-level quality.
3. Nazuna Kyoto Nijo-jo (Unique Tea Bath)
This is not just a hotel; it’s an “Experience”. Located near Nijo Castle, this Ryokan focuses on “Tea” (Ocha).
▲ Steep yourself in a giant tea bath!
🌟 Nazuna Quick Specs
💡 Editor’s Tip: This is one of the few places where you get FREE food and drinks (beer/sake) in the lounge! It’s a great way to save money on dinner.
- The Bath: Every room has an open-air or semi-open-air bath. The twist? You steep giant tea bags in the bathwater! (Green tea, roasted tea, etc.). It smells amazing.
- Design: Modern Japanese “Zen” style. Very Instagrammable.
Getting There: Don’t Get Lost
Arashiyama is beautiful but far from Kyoto Station. Don’t take a taxi (it’s expensive and slow due to traffic).
- To Arashiyama (Kadensho & Benkei): Take the JR Sagano Line from Kyoto Station to “Saga-Arashiyama” (15 mins). It is the fastest way.
- To Nazuna Nijo-jo: Take the Subway Tozai Line to “Nijojo-mae” station.
FAQ: What You Need to Know
Q: Are there hidden fees? (Important)
YES. Kyoto charges taxes per person, per night. It is NOT included in your Agoda booking.
⚠️ WARNING: You usually need to pay these taxes in CASH (JPY) at check-in. Credit cards are often not accepted for tax. Please keep some small bills ready.
Q: Is there food nearby? (Arashiyama)
Warning: Arashiyama shops close very early (around 17:00-18:00). If you did not book dinner at your Ryokan, there are very few options open at night. Buy snacks at the convenience store (Lawson/7-Eleven) near the station before you check in.
Q: Can I just use the bath without staying? (Day Trip)
Generally NO. These high-end Ryokans are for overnight guests only. If you want a day-trip onsen in Arashiyama, try “FuFu No Yu” (next to Kadensho).
Q: Can couples bathe together?
YES. In all three hotels, the private baths are private. Couples can bathe together without any restrictions (mixed bathing).
Final Verdict
If you want a private onsen in Kyoto, book early. There are very few hotels that offer this experience.
- For Families/Couples on a budget: Go to Kadensho.
- For a High-End Traditional stay: Go to Benkei.
- For a Unique Modern stay: Go to Nazuna.
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