Ryokan in Japan, Compared by What Guests Found
A ryokan can be the highlight of a trip to Japan or an expensive disappointment, and booking pages rarely tell you which.
We read guests' worst reviews and watch their own videos, then put the private baths, meals, prices and catches side by side.
Hakone ryokan
Seven ryokan near Tokyo, compared on the same dinner-and-breakfast plan, with the catch at each one.
Ajisai Onsen Ryokan Gora · $344* · 3 private baths, booked by time slot
Mizunoto Kowakudani · $393 · In some rooms, plus 3 small private baths
Tensui Saryo Gora · $432 · In some rooms, plus bookable outdoor baths
Shiunso Tonosawa, by Hakone-Yumoto · $454 · Outdoor private bath for a fee
Yoshiike Ryokan Hakone-Yumoto · $472 · In some rooms. Others pay to reserve one
Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu Kowakudani · $481 · In some rooms
Hakone Yumoto Aura Tachibana Hakone-Yumoto · $522 · In some rooms
Lowest plan with dinner and breakfast for two, one night, checked November 9, 2026. *Ajisai's price is for a different date, explained in the guide. Photos are stills from guests' videos, credited in the guide.
Compare all 7 Hakone ryokanWhat to check before you book a ryokan
- What "private onsen" means on your plan. It can be a bath in your room, a shared private bath you take turns using, or one you pay to reserve. See how it differs across seven ryokan.
- When dinner is served. Meals run on a schedule, and late arrivals can find few times left. What guests wish they had known.
- How you get there with luggage. Some ryokan sit up steep hills, and a shuttle or taxi matters more than the map suggests. Which area of Hakone to stay in.
How we work
- We say so when we haven't stayed somewhere.
- We credit every guest video we use.
- We show complaints as well as praise, and how common they are.