Ryokan oases in the city

While the long summer holidays are now underway, getting away from it all is something desirable year-round. However, with the hectic pace of Tokyo life having only one or two days off is something not uncommon, and it definitely makes it difficult to get very far out of town.

While a snap decision to head to a luxury city hotel might be a good option in this situation, we think that there’s nothing quite like staying in a chic Japanese ryokan (Japanese-style inn) that has a sense of history. Even in Tokyo, it’s possible to find luxurious spaces that allow you to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Check out some of these Tokyo ryokan, where each stay is steeped in traditional Japanese style. They’re perfect places not only for those who just want a bit of downtime on their own, but also for those who are visiting from out of town.

Homeikan Honakan and Daimachi Bekkan (Hongo)

Located on a quiet street in Hongo, this long established ryokan still has the feel of the Showa period. The ryokan is comprised of the Honkan (main building) – which is a registered tangible cultural property – and two Daimachi Bekkan (annexes), all surrounded by an elegant garden. This ryokan is imbued with both serenity and charm, as well as a sense of history. Non-staying guests can also enjoy a banquet meal, which will also entitle them to use the baths.
(Full details & map)

Ryokan Kangetsu (Chidori-cho)

This lush ryokan is surrounded by a ‘designated protected forest’ in Ota ward. The ryokan has a summer house amidst a grove of trees, and also features both indoor and open-air baths. Nearby is Ikegami Honmon-ji Temple as well as the popular sightseeing spot Sakurazaka. While in the past the ryokan used to offer a stay package that included a banquet dinner, these days it only offers breakfast. Various room types are available starting at ¥5,150 yen for one night in a single room. One night in a deluxe room will run you about ¥8,400.
(Full details & map)

Sawanoya Ryokan (Nezu)

This ryokan is located in Yanaka, in shitamachi (downtown) Tokyo. The staff are able to provide customer service in English, making this ryokan a popular choice among international guests. What the rooms lack in size they certainly make up in comfort. While a number of rooms have their own shower, if you’re looking to save a bit of money your best bet is to request a room that doesn’t have its own shower and instead use the communal shower facilities. The ryokan also has a small coffee lounge. The owners are a very sociable husband and wife team who cannot do enough to make sure that their guests enjoy their stay. Nearby are a number of sightseeing spots including Nezu Jinja Shrine, the Taito City Shitamachi Museum and Ueno Park.
(Full details & map)

Ginza Yoshimizu (Ginza)

This Japanese ryokan is located behind the Kabuki-za theatre. It’s a small ryokan with only 11 rooms in total. There are four types of rooms, ranging from 4.5 tatami mat rooms (without en-suite toilet) to 8 tatami mat-sized rooms (with both en-suite toilet and shower). While stay packages do not include dinner, a home-style breakfast using organic vegetables from all of the country is provided. From the interior design to the linen and food, Ginza Yoshimizu puts an emphasis on natural and organic materials.
(Full details & map)

Sukeroku no Yado Sadachiyo (Asakusa)

This sophisticated and modern ryokan is perfectly located about five minutes from Asakusa temple. From the outside, the ryokan looks like it’s something between a European mountain cottage and a Japanese castle. However, take a step inside and you will find a space permeated with chic Japanese style, and be greeted by a kimono-clad front desk attendant. All of the rooms are Japanese-style rooms, and come in a variety of sizes – with the smallest about five mats. Taking some time to relax in the communal baths will be an unforgettable experience.
(Full details & map)