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Japan Spa Guide: The Best Spas in Kyoto

Zazen meditation at Park Hyatt Kyoto

Whether you’re inspired by beautiful architecture, ancient traditions, handcrafted art, peaceful gardens, or can’t wait to enjoy delicious Japanese cuisine, Kyoto offers endless possibilities for a special and memorable experience. Kyoto, the former capital of Japan (794-1868), located on Honshu, the largest island of Japan, is a must-visit city where you’ll find abundant opportunities for exploration and adventures. 

City view of Kyoto.

While the city is filled with lively happenings, it’s also rich with ways to slow down and enjoy mindful moments. From meditating at a temple to tea ceremonies to wandering on the Philosopher’s Path, Kyoto offers a plethora of prospects for finding your zen. 

Peaceful garden path in Kyoto

Japan is known for its famous onsens which are natural hot springs and bathing destinations perfect for self-care and unwinding. Kyoto’s onsen offerings include traditional onsen complexes, onsen ryokans, and luxury spa hotels.

Japan Spa Guide: The Best Tokyo Spas

If you are looking for tranquil relaxation in the heart of the city, you’ll find a dreamy selection of gorgeous Kyoto spas that celebrate Japan’s onsen heritage. Read on for our list of the best Kyoto spas for divine relaxation.

Insider’s Tips to Know Before You Go:

  • Some spas in Japan do not allow guests with tattoos to use their facilities. If you have tattoos, check with the spa directly to make sure it is a tattoo-friendly destination.

  • Many spas with onsen bathing areas do not allow bathing suits. If you prefer privacy, some destinations have private onsen bathing areas that can be reserved for an additional fee.

  • It is customary to take your shoes off before entering the spa/onsen. It is also the custom to shower and wash your hair before using the onsen bath. This helps keep the destination clean and hygienic.

If you’re looking for the best deals on flights to Kyoto, click here.

8lements Spa at Dhawa Yura Kyoto

8lements Spa at Dhawa Yura Kyoto

Contemporary design meets historic appreciation at this intimate boutique hotel located in Sanjo in the heart of Kyoto. This chic hotel is near the Kamo River, conveniently walking distance from many popular attractions including museums, shopping, dining, temples, and shrines.

8lements Spa at Dhawa Yura Kyoto

8lements Spa is inspired by the eight pillars of the Banyan Tree Group’s unique wellbeing. 8 is a symbol of infinity and the elements are essential to the unique interconnection between nature and people. Treatments include full body massages, facials, scrubs, and more.

Address: 84 Ohashi-cho, Higashiyama-Ward, Kyoto City, 605-0009 Kyoto, Japan
Phone: +81 75-366-5376
Email: SPA-Yura@dhawa.com

Aman Spa at Aman Kyoto

Outdoor Onsen at Aman Kyoto

Aman Kyoto is an elegant 5-star destination located on the whimsical secluded grounds of a secret garden at the foothills of Hidari Daimonji mountain in Kyoto’s Takagamine district. The resort is walking distance from Kinkakuji golden temple and about a 30 minute drive from Kyoto Station. 

Aman Kyoto’s rooms are spacious, light-filled, and offer a modern take on the traditional ryokan inn with a minimalistic aesthetic. Guests at Aman Kyoto will find innovative dining at The Living Pavilion and kaiseki-style cuisine at Taka-an.

Spa Treatment Room at Aman Kyoto

Aman Spa offers a traditional onsen bathing experience with treatments inspired by Japan’s natural environment, featuring ingredients like green tea, Tamba kuromame black beans, local sake, cold-pressed camellia oils, and Kyoto silk cocoon. 

Spa guests can enjoy indoor and outdoor onsen bathing, three treatment rooms, a spa lounge, and fine retail. In addition to a range of luxurious treatments, spa guests can take part in unique wellness experiences including breathing and meditation exercises in the garden, Japanese tea ceremony, calligraphy, ikebana flower arranging, and more. 

Address: 1, Okitayama Washimine-cho, Kita-ku, Kyoto, 603-8458 Japan
Phone: (81) 75 496 1333

Kanra Spa at Hotel Kanra Kyoto

Kanra Spa at Hotel Kanra Kyoto

Hotel Kanra embraces the spirit of Kyoto with a mission to provide guests with an experience that celebrates the beauty, wisdom, and hospitality of Japan. The hotel is designed to showcase “Machiya” style, which is created with traditional skill and technique, displaying natural materials such as wood and stones. 

Kanra Spa at Hotel Kanra Kyoto

The spa at Hotel Kanra Kyoto is inspired by traditional Asian remedies and naturopathy. Their treatments aim to stimulate all five senses. The spa’s offerings include a range of body treatment options, medicinal aromatherapy, hot stone massages, and facial treatments. If you have limited time, you can opt for short spa treatments including jet lag recovery, dry head spa treatments, or reflexology. 

Address: 190 Kitamachi Karasuma-dori Rokujo-sagaru Shimogyo-ku Kyoto Japan 600-8176
Phone: (+81)75-344-3826

Le Spa FAUCHON at FAUCHON L’Hotel Kyoto

Le Spa FAUCHON at FAUCHON L’Hotel Kyoto

FAUCHON L’Hotel Kyoto combines iconic French and Japanese elements for a distinctive 5-star luxury hospitality and culinary experience. The hotel features 59 guest rooms, providing an urban retreat that blends Parisian style with Japanese artistry. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed with a special tea and FAUCHON pastry from the hotel’s famous gourmet bar. 

The FAUCHON brand is known for its world-renowned French pastries and macarons, so it’s fitting that the hotel also offers a unique Kyoto meets Paris tea ceremony ritual with French accents. For those with a sweet tooth, Patisserie & Boutique FAUCHON is the place to stop for incredible pastries and savory treats. (Macarons and fruit-flavored teas are imported directly from Paris!) Meanwhile, The Restaurant Grand Café FAUCHON invites diners to enjoy a rare panoramic view of Higashiyama and a casual French cuisine dining experience. Guests can also unwind with a signature tea cocktail, fine wine, or FAUCHON champagne while viewing a beautiful Kyoto sunset at Le Bar FAUCHON. 

Treatment room at Le Spa FAUCHON at FAUCHON L’Hotel Kyoto

Le Spa FAUCHON at FAUCHON L’Hotel Kyoto combines sensory indulgences with centuries-old healing and rejuvenation techniques. Innovative treatments are designed to combine the best elements from Japanese and Parisian spa rituals. Guests can experience an array of indulgent massages, facials, and body treatments. The spa is known for its signature Le Spa FAUCHON Beauty Oil which can be used to moisturize the entire body (including the hair) and can be purchased onsite. 

Address: 406 Nanbacho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8027, Japan
Phone: : +81 75-751-7711

Riraku Spa and Fitness at Hyatt Regency Kyoto

Spa Suite at Riraku Spa

Hyatt Regency Kyoto is a sophisticated hotel, offering accommodations that are a great fit for both business and leisure travelers. The hotel offers 187 guestrooms with timeless Kyoto-inspired design and several onsite dining options, including Cafe 33, Trattoria Sette, and Touzan.  

Enzyme bath at Riraku Spa

Riraku Spa at Hyatt Regency Kyoto offers relaxing spa treatments that draw from both Eastern and Western traditions. Treatment options incorporate Shiatsu, acupuncture, moxibustion, and aromatherapy. Services feature products including YON-KA and Shiseido Qi. Guests can rejuvenate in unique dry baths featuring hinoki powder, a high quality powder that comes from trees grown in Yoshino, Nara Prefecture. 

Address: 644-2 Sanjusangendo-mawari, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Japan, 605-0941
Phone:  +81 75 541 1234

THE SPA at Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

On the grounds of the The Four Season Hotel Kyoto, you’ll find a beautiful 800-year-old Shakusui-en — a pond garden which provides a serene setting that grounds the luxury destination in tradition, artistry, and nature. Rooms feature a perfect harmony of modern and traditional design and floor-to-ceiling windows perfect for taking in garden views of the stunning seasons, from spring cherry blossoms to red autumn leaves. Guests can satisfy their appetites with onsite dining options like modern and seasonal delights at the Brasserie, pastries and baked goods at The Lounge and Bar, and authentic Edomae-style sushi at Sushi Wakon

Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

THE SPA at Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto is one of the largest Kyoto hotel spas. This Four Seasons wellness facility spans across two floors and features wellness amenities including an indoor pool, large whirlpool, fitness center on one floor, in addition to THE SPA floor that accommodates seven treatment rooms.

Popular treatments include Kyoto Green Tea Therapy which features potent KOTOSHINA products and Zen Ceremony package which includes a full body massage and sake bath treatment. Other treatment options include a wide range of facials, massages, nail treatments, and more. Hotel guests can also opt for wellness experiences including private yoga sessions, in-house Sunday wellness activities such as forest bathing and meditation, and ritual experiences from resident practitioners and healers.

Address: 445-3 Myōhōin Maekawachō, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0932, Japan
Phone: +81 75-541-8288

Spa at The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto

The Ritz-Carlton Spa relaxation room

Located on the banks of the Kamo River, The Ritz Carlton Kyoto is just steps away from fine shopping, dining, and entertainment in downtown Kyoto. The hotel’s site has been favored by Japanese nobility since the 17th century, and today it offers a breathtaking backdrop for a luxurious stay in Kyoto. 

Accommodations include spacious suites with handmade soaps, 600-count linens, and picturesque views. There are also four onsite restaurants showcasing both Japanese and international cuisine, including Michelin-starred Japanese restaurant Mizuki and traditional Italian cuisine at the enchanting La Locanda. 

Swimming pool at The Ritz Carlton Spa

Guests will find peace and tranquility at the gorgeous Spa at the Ritz-Carlton Kyoto where you can begin your relaxation journey sipping on matcha green tea. The spa features modern Japanese design with serene elements like a bubbling waterfall and amenities including a 20-meter swimming pool, steam room, and dry sauna. The spa is home to seven treatment rooms, including a spa suite where guests can experience treatments like “The Kyoto Bamboo Ritual” which utilizes heated bamboo stalks and warm oil or “Ryokucha Serenity Ritual” which incorporates antioxidant-rich green tea leaves. Featured spa brands include ESPA and La Prairie.

Address: Kamogawa Nijo-Ohashi Hotori, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, 604-0902 Japan
Phone: +81 75 746 5555

Spa Kacho at The Westin Miyako Kyoto

Spa Kacho at The Westin Mikyako Kyoto

The Westin Miyako, located in eastern Kyoto at the edge of the Higashiyama mountain range, is designed to provide an elegant and sophisticated modern environment inspired by the nature of Higashiyama, Kyoto. The spacious rooms and bathrooms offer tranquil relaxation with beautiful nature and cityscape views. Hungry travelers will appreciate a choice of five onsite restaurants with scenic views and fine foods. 

Luxury hot spring complex at Spa Kacho at the Westin Mikyako Kyoto

Spa Kacho at the Westin Miyako Kyoto is the largest spa in the city, spanning over 2,100 square meters. Spa Kacho’s luxury hot spring complex “Kyoto Keage Onsen” features a natural hot spring with water sourced directly from the ground beneath the spa. Guests can experience the Japanese onsen tradition with semi-open-air bathing surrounded by peaceful seasonal garden views. Amenities include a steam room and sauna. Spa Kacho’s offerings include meditation, yoga, forest bathing, and facial and body treatments. There’s also a fitness center and indoor swimming pool available for the full Westin “Feel Well” experience.

Guests can unwind with spa and beauty treatments at Le Jardin Sothys, which offers Sothys facials,  acupressure, couples massages, eye treatments, facials, foot baths, massages, and more. Meanwhile Barbershop “Ragazzo” offers hairstyling and facial shaving services. For additional relaxing wellness activities, guests can bird watch at the nearby Wild Bird Sanctuary and Trail or join a peaceful tea ceremony.

Address: 1 Kacho-cho, Awataguchi, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi (Sanjo Keage)
Phone: +81 75-771-7111

Spa Trinity at Hotel Monterey

Hotel Monterey Kyoto melts British traditions with the style and culture of Kyoto. It is particularly influenced by the artistic heritage of Edinburgh, Scotland. Edinburgh and Kyoto are considered sister cities and the hotel celebrates this relationship by showcasing the traditional architecture and a warm atmosphere of the cities.

Guest rooms are refined and elegantly decorated with a color theme inspired by a late evening Kyoto sunset. For dining, guests can enjoy two on-site restaurants, Zuientei which offers traditional Japanese cuisine, and The Library, a cafe/bar designed to look like a traditional British library.

Spa Trinity is a penthouse spa at Hotel Monterey with amazing views of Kyoto and the mountains. Amenities include a spa lounge, body care room, esthetic salon, and a bedrock bath (women only). Natural spring water is pumped into the spa for a soothing onsen experience. [Note: Guests with tattoos are not permitted to use this spa facility.]

Address: 604 Manjuyacho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8161, Japan
Phone: +81-75-212-3980

Tenzan no Yu

Tenzan no Yu is a traditional onsen facility located near Kyoto’s Arashiyama district. This onsen complex features natural spring water sourced from 1200 meters underground. Guests can enjoy a range of public baths including open-air baths, a cold bath and “carbonated spring.” The carbonated spring is created from dissolved carbon dioxide that results in hot water bubbles that adhere to the body. There are also a range of foot baths, including ceramic foot baths and fish therapy foot bath options (where Garra rufa fish feed on dead skin on the feet.) Day spa services include Thai massage, facials, Korean-style body scrub, and full body massage chairs. [Note: Guests with tattoos are not permitted to use this spa facility.]

In addition to soaking in the therapeutic baths, guests can visit the onsen’s arcade to play video games or dine on Japanese and casual Western cuisine. Tenzan no Yu is close to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, one of Kyoto’s world-famous sites. 

Address: 55-4-7 Miyanomoto-cho, Sagano, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto
Phone:+81 075-882-4126

Thermal Spring Spa at Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto, a Luxury Collection Hotel and Spa

Mitsui Kyoto Thermal Spring Spa

Located in the heart of Kyoto, close to the Nijo-jo Castle, Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto is a tranquil destination for a joyful stay while in Kyoto. The destination embraces Japan’s unique beauty and refinement. 

Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto is situated on the site of the home of the Kitake, the executive branch of the Mitsui Family, a prominent Japanese family throughout Japanese history – from the Edo period through today. At the entranceway greeting guests is the Kajiimiya Gate that is still standing today, beautifully preserved from the private residence of the aristocratic Mitsui family from 300 years ago. Walking into the hotel, located at the center of the property is a beautiful garden that is a modern recreation of the garden of the Mitsui residence. 

In addition to the beautiful curated garden, the hotel features a modern reimagining of the traditional Japanese tearoom, 5 dining/bar destinations, and 161 guest rooms.

Mitsui Kyoto Thermal Spring Spa

Hotel the Mitsui Kyoto has is home to Thermal Spring Spa. The spa’s core concept is “an oasis of serenity” where guests are invited to step away from their everyday lives and surround themselves with the tranquility of spring water. The thermal spring provides the opportunity to immerse yourself in the calming bath and let your stresses melt away. (While some onsens in Japan do not allow swimwear, bathers at Thermal Spring are asked to wear swimwear, so it is a great choice for those who are more comfortable with this option.)

The spa offers ancient Japanese traditional Anma massage and treatments based on ying/yang balance and the five elements (metal, wood, water, fire and earth). Private onsen areas are also available for guests who want to enjoy onsen bathing in complete privacy. Additionally, Thermal Spring Spa has a fully-equipped fitness center with treadmills, aero bikes, and more.

Guests can also enjoy afternoon tea at the former Shimogamo Villa of the Mitsui family, a designated Tangible Cultural Property in Japan, have photos taken by professional photographer at Nijo-jo Castle in a traditional kimono, or learn zazen meditation at Taizo-in, a subtemple in Myoshinji Temple, Japan's largest zen temple complex.

Address: 284 Nijoaburanokoji-cho, Aburano-koji St. Nijo-sagaru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto 604-0051
Phone: +81 75 468 3125 (Reservations for Thermal Springs Spa)

THE ROKU SPA at ROKU KYOTO

Twin Treatment Room at ROKU KYOTO

ROKU KYOTO, LXR Hotels & Resorts is nestled in the foothills of Kyoto’s north western mountain range, offering a luxurious escape with breathtaking panoramic views of the Takagamine mountains. The hotel offers an elegant retreat inspired by the region’s natural beauty. 

ROKU KYOTO’s architectural design concept pays homage to 16th century Japanese artist, Koetsu Hon’ami. Guest room accommodations offer stunning views of the Tenjin River and rolling foothills, viewed from floor to ceiling windows. Onsite dining options include art-like unique seasonal dishes at TENJIN Chef’s Table, French influenced cuisine at TENJIN All-Day Dining, and light café & bar fare in a sophisticated atmosphere at The Bar.

ROKU KYOTO provides guests with an oasis of wellbeing at THE ROKU SPA where they can relax with soothing treatments. Spa guests can also enjoy year-round access to ROKU KYOTO’s outdoor thermal pool which draws natural hot spring water from the adjacent Shozan Resort Kyoto grounds. It’s Kyoto’s only outdoor natural onsen pool open year-round. A 24-hour fitness center gives guests a workout experience surrounded by incredible mountain views. At the SPA and fitness center guests can partake in unique activities such as Thermal Floating Meditation, an experience where the guest gets a stretch massage by an instructor while floating in the thermal pool. Other relaxing offerings include meditation walks in the Japanese garden and outdoor yoga.

Thermal Floating Meditation Experience at ROKU KYOTO

In addition to unwinding at the spa or fitness center, ROKU KYOTO provides a collection of bespoke experiences led by experts so guests can “Dive into Kyoto” by immersing themselves in Kyoto’s elusive charms. These include washi paper making (a centuries-old craft tradition), kintsugi experience (an ancient art of reviving broken pottery pieces with gold and lacquer), handicraft porcelain making (led by third generation porcelain master, Kano Shokoku), Japanese tea ceremonies, and more. 

Address: 44-1 Kinugasa Kagamiishichō, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8451, Japan
Phone: +81 75 320 0111

The Spa at Park Hyatt Kyoto

Entrance to the Park Hyatt Kyoto

Park Hyatt Kyoto is a luxury hillside guest house in the heart of Higashiyama, close to some of Kyoto’s most iconic sites. The hotel mixes the high art of Kyoto with the signature luxury of Park Hyatt for an elegant retreat that blends modern and traditional Japanese hospitality. 

The exclusive destination features just 70 guest rooms, including 9 suites for a quiet escape from the excitement of the city. Onsite dining at The Park Hyatt’s Signature Restaurant and Bar offers views of the Yasaka Pagoda. Guests can also enjoy Kaiseki cuisine at the family-run Kyoyamato enclosed in one of the destination’s historic teahouses. 

Spa treatment room at the Park Hyatt Kyoto

The Spa at Park Hyatt Kyoto is located on the third floor of the hotel, offering a serene wellness space with fitness and luxury bathhouse amenities. Guests can enjoy bathhouse soaking, along with a steam room and sauna in the sophisticated space. Treatments are personalized for each guest’s needs and feature locally inspired products from regional brands including, Kotoshina, an organic skincare brand from the Uji region of Kyoto. 

Additionally, the hotel will arrange for a variety of wellness and cultural experiences including yoga classes, peaceful Zazen meditation experiences, and kimono experiences. 

Address: 360 Kodaiji Masuyacho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, Japan, 605-0826
Phone:  +81 75 531 1234 
Email: kyoto.park@hyatt.com

The Spa at Suiran, A Luxury Collection Hotel

Private Treatment Room at The Spa at Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel

This 39 room Luxury Collection Hotel is located along the Hozu River offers 17 rooms featuring onsen hot spring baths, including semi-open air baths.  

Private open-air bath at The Spa at Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Spa experiences can be enjoyed in the privacy of your room or at the private spa. The spa is located within the hotel’s secluded Japanese garden and features two treatment rooms with private open-air baths with water from Arahiyama hot springs. Services include green tea scrubs, jade stone facials, and more. 

Address: 12 Saga-Tenryuji, Susukinobabacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8385, Japan
Phone: +81 75-872-0101

The Spa at The Hotel Higashiyama by Kyoto Tokyu Hotel

Hotel Higashiyama is a newer luxury hotel (opened in July 2022) located within the Higashiyama ward in Kyoto. The hotel is ideal for travelers seeking a traditional and artistic Japanese setting. 

The destination features 168 guest rooms around a central Japanese garden/courtyard. Amenities include a restaurant and bar, tea bar, a foot spa, gym, and private baths. Hotel Higashiyama is within walking distance to the Kyoto City Subway Tozai Line, as well as the Kyoto Zoo, The National Museum of Modern Art, and the Murin-an garden. 

At The Spa at Hotel Higashiyama, guests can experience calming aromas as they relax in separate wet and dry areas in private spa rooms. The spa offers BOSE speakers that can connect to your smartphone for a customized relaxation experience with your choice of music. Services range from foot treatments to facials to body oil treatments, and more. 

Address: 605-0034 175-2, Ebisucho Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto 605-0033
Phone: +81-75-533-6109 

THE THOUSAND SPA at THE THOUSAND KYOTO

Kyoto is known as the thousand year city since it was the capital of Japan for more than 1,000 years (from 794 to 1868) – THE THOUSAND KYOTO is inspired by the city’s history. This sustainably-minded hotel is just two minutes from the central exit of JR Kyoto Station, a convenient location for shopping, dining, and sightseeing. The urban destination offers rooms and suites with minimalist charm and a sense of beauty synonymous with zen and tea ceremony. There are three onsite restaurants where guests can savor quality Kyoto cuisine with seasonal ingredients.

THE THOUSAND SPA at THE THOUSAND KYOTO is inspired by meditation, offering an experience for the five senses. Guests can unwind in the elegant spa’s luxurious hot water baths, bedrock baths, relaxation room, and sauna (sauna is men only). Soft soothing music helps set a calming atmosphere. Treatments include signature black charcoal heated stone massages, facials, aromatherapy body treatments, head spa treatments and more. There’s also a fitness facility available to hotel guests. 

Address: 570 Higashi Shiokoji Cho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8216, Japan
Phone: +81 75-354-1000

Kyoto Onsen Hotels

Bamboo Grove in Kyoto

If you are looking for a simple, yet traditional onsen experience, check out these Kyoto hotels that offer hot spring bathing onsite (but may not offer full spas):

Chisun Premium Kyoto Kujo

At Chisun Premium Kyoto Kujo, guests can soak in large communal baths, open from 6 am to 1 am. The dog-friendly hotel is just an eight minute walk from the Hachijo East Exit of Kyoto Station.

Address: 15-1 Higashikujō Kamigoryōchō, Minami Ward, Kyoto, 601-8015, Japan
Phone: +81 75-672-6180

Dormy Inn Premium Kyoto Ekimae Natural Hot Spring

Dormy Inn is just a 3-minute walk from Kyoto Station and offers large natural hot springs baths, a sauna, and massage services. On the top floor of the spa hotel, guests can relax with the indoor and semi-open-air hot tubs.  

Address: 558-8 Higashishiokōjichō, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8216, Japan
Phone: +81 75-371-5489

Hotel Resol Trinity Kyoto

Hotel Resol Trinity Kyoto is a cozy hotel located in a quiet residential area of the Fuyacho Street. Guests can unwind at the cafe lounge, a great spot for drinking coffee and reading while listening to jazz music. On the ground floor of the hotel is a large bath for relaxing while enjoying a scenic Kyoto view. 

Address: Japan, 〒604-0943 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Kamihakusanchō, 249
Phone: +81 75-211-9269

Kyoto Hot Spring Hatoya Zuihokaku Hotel

The hotel is only a 5 minute walk from Kyoto train station and offers a private natural hot spring bathing facility. The natural onsen is available to hotel guests only and offers indoor bath and semi open-air bathing experiences. 

Address: 802 Minamifudodocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8234, Japan
Phone: +81 75-361-1231

Kyoto Nanzenji Ryokan Yachiyo

This small elegant Kyoto ryokan in the Nanzen-ji Meiji area of Kyoto features 6 suites and 12 rooms with tatami mat floors, futon beds, and communal baths.  (A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn that often features tatami mat floors, futon-style beds, and communal bathing facilities.) Some rooms also feature private semi-open air “Hinoki” wooden tub baths. Guests can enjoy the peaceful garden setting and Kaiseki-style dining. 

Address: 34 Nanzenji Fukuji-cho Sakyo-ku Kyoto-shi Kyoto,606-8435,JAPAN
Phone: +81-75-771-4148

Matsui Honkan

This 27 room traditional inn, located in the heart of Kyoto, has over 80 years of history. Guests can relax in the hotel’s large public baths, including 3 jet baths. The hotel also features a souvenir shop and offers Kaiseki cuisine. 

Address: Yanagibaba Rokkaku-Sagaru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto 604-8113
Phone: +81-75-221-3535

Rangetsu

If you are looking for a traditional Japanese ryokan experience, Rangetsu offers elegant classic Japanese-style accommodations in a quiet neighborhood of the Arashiyama district.  At Rangetsu, guests can unwind in the public indoor/outdoor baths or reserve a room with a private open-air bath. 

Address: 7 Susukinobaba-cho, Sagatenryuji, Saga Tenryuji, Ukyo, Kyoto, Kyoto, 6168385
Phone: +81 75-865-2000

Ryokufuso

Ryokufuso is a traditional ryokan featuring Japanese-style rooms with tatami mats. The inn offers a communal bathing facility on the 6th floor with beautiful mountain and city views. Guests can also enjoy nine-course Kaiseki meals at the hotel’s dining hall. 

Address: 600-8323 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward
Phone: +81 75-341-7201

[Images courtesy of their respective hotels and spas]

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A University of Michigan graduate, Lizzy Sherman is an award-winning digital content writer/editor. Her work has appeared in publications including Beauty Launchpad, Nailpro, DAYSPA, CNET, Entertainment Tonight, and more. She has been a featured guest speaker at Cal State University Northridge, Digital LA, and The National Association of Audience Marketing Professionals. When she's not writing, Lizzy enjoys yoga and playing guitar. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter: @zillizy, @zillizy16