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8 BEST Ryokans in Osaka for a Traditional Japanese Stay

  • Writer: Irene from INNspiring travels
    Irene from INNspiring travels
  • 2 hours ago
  • 12 min read

Discover the 8 BEST ryokans in Osaka for a traditional experience in Japan: authentic tatami rooms, warm hospitality, luxurious services and delicious breakfasts.


I’m from Madrid, but one of my best friends is half Japanese, so since college I’ve been traveling to Japan often and it’s a country I never get tired of. Now that Iberia has finally restarted direct flights from Madrid to Tokyo (after being paused during the pandemic), getting there feels so much easier and more tempting than ever!


I absolutely love Japanese culture: the politeness, the way everything is so clean, and how people always try to help you without ever rushing or pressuring you. For me, one of the things that stands out the most is that nobody tries to take advantage of you or cheat you for money, which has been a rare feeling when traveling these last years.


After visiting more than 40 countries, I can honestly say that Japan is the place where I feel the most comfortable and at peace.


For this guide, I’ve handpicked the 8 best ryokans in Osaka. There actually aren’t too many traditional ryokans here, Osaka was heavily bombed during WWII, so many historic homes were destroyed.


If you’re looking for a wider selection, cities like Kyoto, Kanazawa, Miyajima Island, or Takayama are much richer in traditional stays. Still, I’ve found some truly beautiful ryokans both in the city and around Osaka Prefecture, even near the airport, that give you that unforgettable Japanese experience of tatami rooms, warm hospitality, and incredible breakfasts.


I’ve also included a few of my favorite local activities and experiences in Osaka so you can pair your unique stay in a ryokan with the most exiting things to do in Osaka. Keep reading!

⛩️ If you’re planning a trip around Japan, don’t miss my insider Japan travel guide with a 10-day or 14-day itinerary to help you plan the perfect adventure. 🇯🇵 ⛩️ For more beautiful hotel guides around Japan, make sure to check out my full page about Unique Hotels in Japan!🇯🇵 ⛩️ If you’re planning to explore other countries in Asia, check out the most beautiful and unique hotels in Asia!🇯🇵

First of all, we want to thank you for reading our blog. You must know you are helping others❤️ INNspiring travels is a social travel blog that showcases unique places to stay around the world while contributing a part of its earnings through affiliate marketing to making a positive impact in disadvantaged communities worldwide.


Table of Contents

8 Best Ryokans in Osaka for a Traditional Japanese Stay

Getting to and Around Osaka, Japan

How to get to Osaka, Japan

✈️ By Plane

Osaka has two airports: Kansai International Airport, which handles most international flights, and Itami Airport, mainly for domestic connections. From Europe, I usually fly Iberia direct to Tokyo, but you can also find routes with other airlines. If I don't fly Iberia, I use this cheap flight searcher to find the cheapest tickets. If you are flying with Qatar Airways, I have a direct 5% discount for my readers. Plus you can't miss this post about where to stay 1 day in Doha, Qatar! Need a private transfer from the airport? Check out the best priced private transfers in Japan here.

🚂 By Train

If you’re already in Japan, the Shinkansen (bullet train) is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach Osaka. From Tokyo, the journey takes about 2.5–3 hours, and from Kyoto, it’s just 15 minutes. I always recommend booking a Japan Rail Pass if you plan to travel to several cities, it makes life so much easier. I usually buy it my tickets here in advance!

You really don’t need a car to explore Osaka itself, the public transport is fast, clean, and will take you everywhere.


  • If you’re planning day trips outside the city, renting a car can be a great idea. It’s especially handy if you want to stay in ryokans in Osaka prefecture, visit spots like Mount Koya, the countryside in Nara prefecture, or even drive along the coast.


  • Just remember: in Japan they drive on the left, and you’ll need an International Driving Permit to rent a car as a foreigner.


  • Check out our favorite car rental site here.

Preview Map of the most Unique Ryokans in Osaka, Japan



Where to Stay in Osaka: 8 Best Ryokans in Osaka for a Traditional Japanese Stay


RYOKANS IN OSAKA CITY CENTER


  1. RYOKAN TAKENOYA

Osaka city center, Japan

From 900€/night, 1-7 pax

Ryokan Takenoya is one of my favorite ryokans in Osaka. It combines the tradition of a Japanese ryokan (tatami floors, futon beds, private onsen baths) with the luxury and personalized service of a boutique hotel. The sauna, and garden make it so relaxing after a day in the city, and the staff are just wonderfull; warm really go the extra mile to make you feel at home.. An honest recommendation of one of the best ryokans in Osaka, specially if you are traveling as a family! 👉 Check more photos of Ryokan Takenoya here.


  1. HARPER HOUSE

Osaka city center, Japan

From 140€/night, 1-4 pax

Harper House is a cozy and authentic ryokan in Osaka, with traditional Japanese charm but everything you need, a bath to relax in, a kitchenette and cozy rooms that work great for families with kids. The location feels more local and residential, I personally prefer this, with shops, supermarkets, and plenty of restaurants nearby, while still being just a short walk from the train station so it’s easy to get around the city. Clean, comfortable, and great value for money! 👉 More photos of Harper House here.


  1. YU-SHU RYOKAN

Osaka city center, Japan

From 80€/night, 1-4 pax

Yu-shu is the perfect ryokan in Osaka if you want to experience a traditional Japanese stay while still being right in the heart of Osaka. The tatami rooms and futon beds are super comfy, and the rooms are spacious. The staff are warm and helpful and the location couldn’t be better, it's on a quiet street but just a short walk from Dotonbori and endless restaurants. Yu-shu is definitely one of the best located ryokans in Osaka. And it’s cozy, authentic, and a wonderful alternative to the usual hotels! 👉 Check more photos of Yu-shu ryokan here.


  1. SUZURAN TENGACHAYA

Osaka city center, Japan

From 90€/night, 1-4 pax

Suzuran Tengachaya Ryokan is a great-value ryokan in Osaka! It has a lovely traditional Japanese feel and the futons are surprisingly comfortable. It’s set in a quiet local neighborhood with small restaurants, kissaten coffee shops, and an old shopping street, yet it’s just a short walk from two stations, making it super easy to reach Namba, Dotonbori, or even Kansai Airport. The staff are wonderfully welcoming, breakfast is tasty and affordable, and little touches like free matcha in the lobby make it feel very special! 👉 More photos of Suzuran Tengachaya here.


  1. KANEYOSHI RYOKAN

Osaka city center, Japan

From 100€/night, 1-3 pax

Kaneyoshi Ryokan is a lively ryokan in Osaka if you want to experience a traditional Japanese stay right in the middle of Osaka’s energy. Located along the lively Dotonbori canal, the rooms have tatami flooring, futons, and even little seating areas with views of the bustling streets below. It’s just a short walk to Namba station and surrounded by endless restaurants, shops, and entertainment, making it a super convenient base to explore Osaka. The staff are incredibly kind and helpful, and if you want to try their famous Japanese breakfast, make sure to book it in advance, it’s worth it!! 👉 Check out Kaneyoshi Ryokan in Osaka here.


AROUND OSAKA - RYOKANS IN OSAKA PREFECTURE


  1. VILLA RITO

Osaka Prefecture, Ibaraki

From 130€/night, 1-5 pax

Recently renovated, this charming ryokan in Osaka has a beautiful garden and terrace that add to its peaceful atmosphere. If you like Japanese food, you will enjoy the delicious traditional breakfast and dinner very much, served in generous portions. The host is very nice and has lots of thoughtful touches like a tea ceremony experience and warm hospitality for families with children. Rooms are spacious, the beds comfy and the house is very nice! Cozy yet authentic, Villa Rito leaves visitors with fond memories and a strong desire to return.. 👉 Check more photos of Villa Rito here.


  1. SANSO KAZENOMORI

Osaka Prefecture, Minoo

From 150€/night, 1-10 pax

Perched on a quiet mountain just north of Osaka, Sanso Kazenomori is one of the most peaceful ryokans in Osaka. The views over the Osaka plain are absolutely breathtaking, especially from the private open-air baths and tatami rooms with balconies and terraces. The ryokan blends 70’s minimalist Japanese architecture with a rustic, authentic charm, complete with a fireplace in the lobby. The seasonal Japanese meals are great (you must love Japanese breakfast), the staff is really nice and of course there is an onsen. Stay here if you prefer to stay in a quiet ryokan in Osaka but not too far from the city. 👉 Check more photos of Sanso Kazenomori here.


  1. MEITOKU-AN RYOKAN – KOMOREBI RETREAT

Osaka Prefecture, Minoo

From 200€/night, 1-4 pax

Set in the middle of lush nature, Meitoku-an is one of my favorite ryokans in Osaka and Japan. So peaceful and authentic, this ryokan has lovely tatami rooms with relaxing views of the courtyard or garden. You can enjoy a sauna, hot tub, or an onsen, and enjoy delicious seasonal breakfasts by the sound of the nearby stream. The staff are known for their kindness and extra care and will make you feel at home. With a waterfall just a short walk away and a magical mountain setting, this ryokan is the kind of place where you slow down, breathe, and truly reconnect with nature in Japan. Highly recommended! 👉Check more photos of Meitoku-an Ryokan here.


Other Unique Ryokans in Osaka


  • If you’re looking for a ryokan close to Nara, I recommend Tsukihitei: a traditional ryokan surrounded by nature that feels like a peaceful retreat into old Japan.


  • If you prefer staying in a ryokan near Kobe, try Arimasansoh Goshobessho or Negiya Ryofukaku in Arima Onsen, both perfect for hot springs and that classic and lovely Japanese hospitality.


  • If you love the countryside and slower rhythms of life, then Sanso Amanosato in Wakayama is a beautiful choice with farm-to-table meals and a really authentic Japanese feel.


  • If you want to stay at a ryokan close to Kansai Airport, I would suggest Nanten-En, Oukai Villa Izumi or Fudoguchikan, ideal for a short stay with the bonus of hot springs nearby.


  • And if you’re traveling as a family or group of friends, check out Mizuma no yado (みずまの宿), a private villa for up to 8 people, cozy and still with that Japanese charm. One of my favorite traditional Japanese homes for families in Osaka.



Other Things to Know about Visiting Osaka, Japan


I’ve been lucky to explore Osaka it several times, and every visit feels new. From hands-on cooking classes to walking tours through historic neighborhoods and incredible day trips to nearby cities, Osaka is full of unforgettable experiences. Here are some of my favorites that I think you’ll love too:


🍜 Food Tours




🏙️ City Tours


A great introduction to the city—you’ll see Osaka Castle, wander the retro streets of Shinsekai, and end in lively Dotonbori.


Hop on a bike and see the city at a slower pace, with plenty of stops to take in the sights and enjoy a local lunch.

🌿 Best Day Trips from Osaka


𑁍 Best eSIM Option for Reliable Data in Japan

We use this eSIM during our trips to Japan and it makes a world of difference! Instead of searching for local SIM cards or worrying about unreliable WiFi, it activates instantly, is very affordable, and keeps us connected for whatever we need.


If you’re planning a visit to Japan, we highly recommend this eSIM for seamless connectivity throughout your stay! Check it out here :)


𑁍 Frequently Asked Questions when staying at a ryokan in Osaka, Japan

  • What is a ryokan in Japan?

    A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn with tatami floors, futon beds, and local meals, offering a unique cultural experience.


  • Are there ryokans in Osaka?

    Yes, while Osaka has fewer ryokans than cities like Kyoto or Kanazawa, you can still find authentic stays in and around Osaka Prefecture. You will find the best ones in my article! Read above :)


  • How much does it cost to stay at a ryokan in Osaka?

    Prices usually range from ¥15,000 to ¥40,000 per night ($100–$300), sometimes a little less, depending on location, season, and meals included. There are also luxury ryokans that cost more.


  • Do ryokans in Osaka include meals?

    Most ryokans offer traditional Japanese breakfast, and many include multi-course kaiseki dinners as part of the stay.


  • Is staying at a ryokan worth it?

    Absolutely! Staying at a ryokan lets you experience Japanese hospitality, food, and culture in a way regular hotels can’t offer. I highly recommend it.


  • Which cities in Japan have the most ryokans?

    Kyoto, Kanazawa, Hakone, and Takayama are especially known for their abundance of traditional ryokans.


Traveling around Japan and Final Thoughts

⛩️ If you’re planning a trip around Japan, don’t miss my insider Japan travel guide with a 10-day or 14-day itinerary to help you plan the perfect adventure. 🇯🇵 ⛩️ For more beautiful hotel guides around Japan, make sure to check out my full page about Unique Hotels in Japan!🇯🇵 ⛩️ If you’re planning to explore other countries in Asia, check out the most beautiful and unique hotels in Asia!🇯🇵


🌼 Read more blog posts about Unique Hotels in Asia below! 🇯🇵


Travel Tips and Discounts

To make your trip even more enjoyable, we’ve partnered with various travel companies and services to offer exclusive travel discounts. From luggage storage, car rentals, e-sim cards, travel insurances, travel gear and special offers on attractions and lifetime experiences. Don't miss them.


Have an amazing trip in Osaka!

With love,

Irene


*Hotel photographs are always owned by hotels except when mentioned otherwise.

*INNspiring travels contains affiliate links. If you click or make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you.

Hello and welcome! My name is Irene and I am the Spanish creator from Madrid behind INNspiring travels: a social travel blog which mission is to showcase the world's most beautiful hotels and authentic places to stay, while helping people and children in disadvantaged communities around the globe. My journey as a traveler began at a young age, traveling the world with my family and exploring new destinations on every occasion. However, it wasn't until my 20's that my passion for travel really took off. This desire to see the world and learn about other cultures, combined with my deep desire to help others, led me to create this social travel blog. It’s my way of sharing my love for travel, while also making a difference. Learn more about me and my vision here.

Irene, founder of INNspiring travels, steering a boat on open water. She wears a dark jacket and scarf. Blue sea and sky in the background, with a covered canopy.

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