Osaka is one of Japan’s most vibrant metropolises in the world – it combines a rich cultural history together with modern-day vibe that’s almost intoxicating.
The city is known for its lively street food scene, impressive architecture, and edgier feel than places like Tokyo or Kyoto.
Here you can expect an incredible mix of modern innovation and age old tradition, which really epitomises what Japan is about. That way that they just make those elements work together so seamlessly in a way no other country seems to pull off.
Ever heard of a ryokan though?
Ryokans are traditional Japanese inns that offer tatami rooms, futon bedding, communal baths, and kaiseki meals. They provide a peaceful and immersive experience with emphasis on relaxation and, of course, that incredible Japanese hospitality known as omotenashi.
They’re the perfect escape from the every day hustle and bustle of life and help to promote suishin. A clear mind that’s pure, calm, and focused. If you’re looking for traditional Japan, then this is it, in the middle of the lights, sounds and chaos, this is your oasis.
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Quick Answer: The Best Ryokans in Osaka
- Overall Best Value Ryokan in Osaka – Hotel Yu-shu
- Best Budget Ryokan for Travellers in Osaka – Wafu Ryokan Uehonmachi
- Most Luxurious Ryokan in Osaka – Luxury Ryokan Takenoya
- Best Ryokan for Couples in Osaka – Suzuran Tengachaya
Hotel Yu-shu
- >
Wafu Ryokan Uehonmachi
- >
Luxury Ryokan Takenoya
- >
Suzuran Tengachaya
- >
Why Should You Consider a Ryokan in Osaka?
Let’s face it – we travel to escape the busyness of home life. We travel to escape that hamster wheel type lifestyle that we get caught up in. We travel to experience new countries and places as well as their traditional cultures. Travel broadens the mind and allows us to open up to new experiences and apply them to our everyday lives back home.
Now, staying in a ryokan in Osaka is nothing short of epic! It’s a unique and enriching experience that allows us to see the beautiful contrast with fast-paced urban life. Think of it as the Ying and the Yang. And if you haven’t considered staying in a Ryokan, or worse, heard of one, you should pay attention here because they’re gonna be the best bit of your trip to Japan!
Have you ever experienced true relaxation? The kind where you can really switch off from the outside world and be present. Well, this is another reason why you should think about heading to a ryokan.
Some ryokans also boast pretty significant historical significance, which allows guests to connect with Japan’s past. They are often in more remote locations that provide an ideal retreat for those who are looking to rest in a tranquil environment.
What Can You Expect From a Ryokan in Osaka?
Osaka is a busy and vibrant city known for its heaving streets, lively districts, and energetic atmosphere. Areas such as Namba, Dotonbori, and Umeda are crowded with people shopping, dining, and enjoying entertainment. And in contrast, ryokans in the city are calm, peaceful, and offer an immersive experience.
You can expect to find traditional rooms inside that often feature tatami mats, sliding paper doors, and futon bedding. Are you feeling the Japanese vibe through your screen already? I know I am! I’m already mind-surfing my way through Osaka’s busy streets, before turning down a side alley, and into the calm of a ryokan.
But it doesn’t end there. Oh, no no no. We’re just getting started. Many ryokan also offer access to traditional onsen (communal baths), further promoting a sense of relaxation in a serene setting.
And then there’s the food. Man oh man, the food. Osaka is known as “the nation’s kitchen”, and ryokan within the city follow in these footsteps. Think multi-course kaiseki meals that highlight seasonal ingredients and local flavours. This is coupled with exceptional service, and you’ll experience the concept of omotenashi for the first time – selfless Japanese hospitality. Hooked yet?
How to Choose the Right Ryokan in Osaka for You?
Now, before I get into some of the best ryokans in Osaka, it’s important to consider a few factors before choosing one. Many of these considerations might seem like common knowledge, but you need to bear them in mind to avoid disappointment. Or expectations not being met.
At the end of the day, the most important thing is you and your happiness. After all, you’re the number one priority in your life and being comfortable is of the utmost importance. The last thing you want is to go to a ryokan where you feel uncomfortable. Whether it’s the price that makes you feel uncomfortable, being too far out of your comfort zone, the sleeping arrangements, or simply the food, you want to be relaxed.
You also need to figure out what exactly you want to get out of your time at the ryokan. Choosing the right ryokan for your stay involves considering factors to ensure that it aligns with your needs and preferences.
Location
You know what they say, location, location, location. Location is one of the most important considerations when choosing a ryokan in Osaka. You’ll need to decide where you’d like to be based before you choose a ryokan.
You’ll need to ask yourself questions like “Do I want to be in a more urban setting?” and “Do I want to be in a more rural setting?” Each of these locations has its benefits and downfalls.
A ryokan in the city means that you’ll be closer to other nearby attractions and things to do in Osaka as well as transport links. The downside is that you might have to navigate the frantic streets and end up worked up by the time you reach your destination.
On the other hand, a rural ryokan in the countryside offers a much more peaceful setting where you can truly relax and unwind. Being close to nature always helps to further promote serene vibes. The downside is that these ryokans can be much further out of the city and a bit of a mission to get to, sometimes being costly as well.
Practices
Ryokan practices in Osaka offer a pretty unique cultural experience that’s heavily rooted in Japanese customs. Upon arrival, guests must remove their shoes and switch to indoor slippers to ensure cleanliness is maintained. You might even find different slippers provided for different areas within the ryokan.
Most ryokans feature tatami rooms where guests sleep on futons, maintaining the traditional Japanese way of sleeping. Some might offer western-style beds, though, as many customers are from abroad.
Some ryokan have onsen, the traditional hot springs, and guests must cleanse themselves at a shower station before entering. These are relaxing communal baths and require guests to maintain the peaceful atmosphere.
It’s then onto the food – kaiseki dinners are the other of the day, with a focus on local flavours. Takoyaki or kushikatsu are the traditional flavours of Osaka. In this respect, they are quite similar to some of the homestays in Osaka, but with a more traditional feel.
Overall, Ryokan practices aim to encourage mindfulness, cultural immersion, and, of course, tranquillity. The focus is centred on quietness, relaxation, and traditional Japanese hospitality.
Price
Now, let’s face it, price is one of the most important considerations when it comes to pretty much anything in life. And especially us as, well, broke backpackers!
Ryokans vary greatly in price, depending on their offering. They range from affordable ones to high-end luxury ones, with everything in between. Price is also often directly related to the level of service and hospitality as these are some of the standout features of a ryokan stay. Price is also dependent on location and the amenities offered.
Generally speaking, ryokans are more expensive than standard hotels, especially the ones that offer onsen baths, luxurious rooms, and multiple-course kaiseki meals. But I reckon that the price is worth it, given the unique, immersive experience that you will have.
Perks
Do ryokans have their own set of perks? Well, of course they do! Not all ryokan have their own onsen, so finding one that does is an absolute treat. These are the ultimate in promoting relaxation and are the perfect tool to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.
Another epic perk is the personalised service, with attentive staff who ensure an unforgettable stay. The level of personal service and hospitality is directly dependent on the level of ryokan you book, so why not treat yourself a bit?
If you’re a foodie like me, you’re going to want to choose a ryokan that offers gourmet meals in the form of their own kaiseki. Being the “nation’s kitchen”, you’re going to want to experience those traditional specialities from Osaka, like kushikatsu or takoyaki.
Duration
A typical ryokan stay usually ranges from one to three nights, depending on your preference, itinerary, and budget. Most people tend to just stay for one night, which is enough time to experience the traditional atmosphere, kaiseki, and to relax in the onsen.
For those who are looking for a deeper cultural experience, staying two or even three nights is a better option. This allows for more time to fully enjoy the amenities offered at the ryokan and also to take things at a more leisurely pace.
Another fun way to do it, is to visit a few different ryokan in the same area or surrounding region. This allows you to experience a number of different ryokan and their own offerings, which differ from place to place.
At the end of the day, the amount of time you spend at a ryokan depends on the type of experience you’re after. It might be a quickie, but you might want to stay longer for a more immersive stay in Osaka. It’s all up to you.
The 4 Best Ryokans in Osaka
Whether you’re stopping by Osaka for a couple of days or you’re on a whirlwind adventure through Japan, a ryokan visit is an absolute must.
Here are some of the top ryokans in Osaka:
1. Hotel Yu-shu | Overall Best Value Ryokan in Osaka
- Price: $104
- Address: Osaka Prefecture, Osaka, Chuo-ku, Shimanouchi 2-8-19, Japan
Kicking things off for ryokans in Osaka is Hotel Yu-Shu, conveniently located within the city, close to Dotonbori and many of the main places to visit in Osaka. That being said, it’s still pretty quiet, which is a bonus. It’s located close to some of the city’s top sights and is the perfect spot to kick back and relax after a busy day of exploring.
They offer yukata to try out, a traditional Japanese-style bathrobe, which is super fun. The rooms also feature tatami mats to hang out on, are super quiet, and the beds are incredibly comfortable, too. What more could you ask for?
2. Wafu Ryokan Uehonmachi | Best Budget Ryokan for Travellers in Osaka
- Price: $67
- Address: Osaka Prefecture, Osaka, Tennoji-ku, Ishigatsujicho 18-23, Japan
Right, now not all of us are big ballers and can afford the best of the best. As I mentioned earlier in the article, the price of ryokan in Osaka varies greatly depending on a number of factors. Location, amenities offered, and the level of service all play a part. Luckily for you, Wafu Ryokan Uehonmachi is one of the more affordable ryokans in the city.
The location is great, something that you’d normally pay a pretty penny for, and the airport bus literally leaves from a stop a few minutes away. While they don’t serve food here, there are plenty of restaurants close by that you can grab some banging traditional food at. In particular, the basement of a department store at the Uehonmachi station complex. Thank me later!
3. Luxury Ryokan Takenoya | Most Luxurious Ryokan in Osaka
- Price: $965
- Address: Osaka Prefecture, Osaka, Japan
Calling all you high rollers out there – this is the ryokan in Osaka that has your name written all over it. Now, I know that the facilities of a place are the major drawcard for most people, but here it’s about the people. The people really make that experience. And it’s that warm, welcoming Japanese hospitality at its finest. I mean, who needs an Airbnb in Osaka when you’ve got this!
Then there’s the deep soaking bath in the rooms that can fit a whole army. What a great way to relax and unwind after a long day on your feet. The rooms are clean and minimalistic and fit the traditional Japanese mould with futon beds. Location is great too, so it’s kinda like the full package here. In this case, you really do get what you pay for.
4. Suzuran Tengachaya | Best Ryokan for Couples in Osaka
- Price: $136
- Address: Osaka Prefecture, Osaka, 1-5-6 Hanazonominami Nishinari-ku, Japan
If you’re a couple traveling through Osaka and are wanting to grab a ryokan for a night or two, Suzuran Tengachaya is your place. The rooms are super comfortable and well-sized. I know this might sounds crazy, but Japanese rooms aren’t normally built for westerners in mind – they’re often tiny!
The location is also super convenient, with the subway close by as well as local restaurants and supermarkets too. A bonus is that the staff all speak great English which can be a real issue sometimes, so that’s like the Swiss flag. A Big plus. The tatami room is also clean and comfortable making for the perfect place to unwind with your significant other.
More Epic Ryokans in Osaka
Here are a few more incredible options to check out in Osaka:
Kaneyoshi Ryokan | Best Ryokan for Friends in Osaka
- Price: $114
- Address: Osaka Prefecture, Osaka, Chuo-ku Soemon-cho 3-12 , Japan
Bunch of mates travelling through Osaka? Why not grab yourself a ryokan and experience Japanese culture together? Kaneyoshi Ryokan is a pretty retro spot that is anything but ordinary. Located in a spot adjacent to the river in Dotonbori, it’s quiet and almost too good to be true.
But the best part is the onsen. Sigh, the onsen. It’s the perfect spot to kick back and unwind after a long day of exploring the city and its surrounds. Oh, and also the breakfast. They do some of the best traditional Japanese breakfasts that money can buy around Osaka, which will have you drooling in Dotonbori.
Imazato Ryokan | Best Ryokan for Solo Travellers in Osaka
- Price: $47
- Address: Osaka Prefecture, Osaka, Higashinari-ku Ooimazatominami 2-5-1, Japan
What better than a family-owned ryokan in Osaka for those solo travellers out there missing the comforts of home? You’ll also have yourself a pretty sweet and spacious room that is decked out to traditional Japanese standards. There are traditional kimonos, the national dress of Japan, for you to wear, and you’ll get to sleep on the tatami. Added bonus – you get your own private bathroom.
The owners are also super involved, and they’ll even cook your breakfast in the mornings. I mean, it doesn’t get much better than that. And it will probably be one of the best meals that you have in Osaka – and that’s a bold statement.
Yamatoya Honten Ryokan Osaka | The Most Unique Ryokan in Osaka
- Price: $165
- Address: Osaka Prefecture, Osaka, Chuo-ku, Shimanouchi 2-17-4, Japan
One of the most unique features of the Yamatoya Honten ryoken is the communal bath. It’s a really cool feature to be able to take advantage of when staying here. The rooms are spacious and simple with all the traditional amenities for a ryokan. Futon beds – check. Tatami – check. Kimono – check.
There is a wide variety of room options available, so there’s something for you. And your partner. And all your friends. Some of the room options also come with both dinner and breakfast included, so that’s one thing less to worry about.
Gyokuzoin | Best Ryokan Near the Mountains in Osaka
- Price: $127
- Address: Nara, Heguri, Shigisan 2280, Japan
While it’s not in Osaka per se, Gyokuzoin is the closest spot that you’re going to get to the mountains. Osaka isn’t a city that is super close to the mountains, so this is your best bet. With gorgeous rooms, amazing service, and the most delicious food for both breakfast and dinner, it’s hard to beat.
Throw in a great location, fire ceremonies, and, of course, an epic onsen, and we have a winner. While the rooms have been decked out in the traditional tatami style, there are plenty of modern amenities to keep you comfortable. You can also access the temple grounds at night, which makes for a pretty unique experience.
Getting Insured BEFORE Travelling to Osaka
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect them. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Osaka.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on the Best Ryokans in Osaka
Staying in a ryokan in Osaka is an absolute must. Well, staying in one in Japan in general is an absolute must. No trip is complete without experiencing the unique and enriching experience that is a ryokan.
Whether you’re after a peaceful retreat to clear the head, a chance to experience local cuisine at its finest, or simply relaxing in an onsen, there’s something for everyone. With personalised service, authentic meals, and a form of cultural immersion, a ryokan stay is an essential part of every Osaka itinerary.
While they’re a bit pricier than your regular hotel, you can’t put a price tag on the deep connection to Japanese culture that you’ll get.
Safe travels! Sayonara!
- Check out our Backpacking Japan guide for in-depth info for your trip.
- Use our Where to Stay in Osaka guide to plan your adventure.
- Backpackers and frugal travellers can use our budget travel guide.
- Make sure you visit the other best places in Osaka too.
- That will of course include many of the stunning National Parks of Japan.
