27 Niigata Ryokans With Private Onsens (Budget & Luxury Picks!)
Are you looking for a Niigata ryokan with private onsen to stay in during your trip to this scenic city?
I know what you’re thinking. A private onsen sounds expensive!
But you also know that I budget my travel expenses very carefully.
In my research for Niigatat ryoka with private onsens, I made the amazing discovery that not all of them are luxury options!
Between my move to Ireland and Supervisor Sandy’s (my cat) expensive food, toys, and vet bills, I’m mindful of my travel expenses.
However, I also think its important to completely immerse yourself in the culture of your destination whenever you can!
If you’re not fluent in Japanese, here is a guide to help you find the perfect traditional inn in Niigata and immerse yourself in the local culture.
If you are new here, Hi, I am Aisha Preece !
I am an avid female traveller and I love helping other females travel safer and better 🙂 I also travel with my partner sometimes too, so I like to share tips for solo female travelers and couples.
Visiting the Niigata prefecture is perfect either during winter for skiing or in spring for hanami (cherry blossom viewing).
But having a private onsen to return to after a day out exploring is a great way to rejuvenate your tired muscles and soothe your body and mind.
Some of you have a tight budget to follow, so I’ve got you covered as well. Check out the more affordable ryokans in this list and book yourself a room today.
So, without further ado, here are the top ryokans in Niigata that come with a private onsen.
Niigata Ryokan With Private Onsen:
Best Luxury Ryokan
Most Affordable Ryokan
Mid-Range Ryokan
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Here are some amazing tours in Niigata you won’t want to miss:
27 Best Niigata Ryokans With Private Onsen
1. Satoyama Jujo
This is a luxury ryokan with spectacular views of Mt. Makihata and the other 2,000-meter mountains along the Gunma-Niigata border.
Soak in the unique infinity pool-inspired onsen and enjoy what was once voted Japan’s best view, or enjoy a bath in the privacy of your room.
Do note that this is an adult-only ryokan, and children under 12 are not allowed.
Location: Osawa, Minamiuonuma, Niigata
Type of ryokan: Modern
Amenities offered: Private onsen, outdoor hot springs, traditional Japanese cuisine
Price: $$$$$
Overall rating: 4.6/5 stars
2. Sake Hotel Tamakiya
Upgrade your room at Tamakiya and soak in a private onsen while enjoying the forest views.
Room plans include a hearty Japanese kaiseki breakfast and a delicious French dinner made with fresh local Niigata ingredients.
The wine pairing recommended by the owner makes it an unforgettable meal.
Location: Matsunoyama Yumoto, Tokamachi-shi, Niigata
Type of ryokan: Modern
Amenities offered: Private onsen, indoor and outdoor hot springs, traditional Japanese cuisine, French cuisine with wine pairing
Price: $$$$$
Overall rating: 4.5/5 stars
3. Shiratama no Yu: Senkei
This is a luxury ryokan near Tokyo with private onsen at a more affordable price.
You get to soak in one of the largest onsen baths along the coast of the Sea of Japan while being pampered by warm Japanese hospitality throughout your stay.
Location: Tsukiokaonsen, Shibata, Niigata
Type of ryokan: Modern
Amenities offered: Private onsen, outdoor hot springs, traditional Japanese cuisine, spa with massage, pool, piano lounge
Price: $$$$$
Overall rating: 4.3/5 stars
4. Yumoto Chobokaku Yuimakura
This is a small ryokan with only 5 rooms, but each one is spacious and comes with its own private open-air bath.
Enjoy a cozy stay here with attentive and friendly staff to serve you.
Location: Yuzawa, Minamiuonuma District, Niigata
Type of ryokan: Modern
Amenities offered: Private onsen, traditional Japanese cuisine
Price: $$$$$
Overall rating: 4.4/5 stars
5. AIR Myoko
Stay at this ryokan lodge that provides easy access to two ski runs around the Akakura Onsen area.
The location right on the ski slope means you can ski in and out. Those of you who are vegans will enjoy the primarily plant-based kaiseki meals served here.
Location: Akakura, Myoko, Niigata
Type of ryokan: Traditional
Amenities offered: Private onsen, traditional Japanese cuisine
Price: $$$$
Overall rating: 4.9/5 stars
6. Resort Project Myoko Kogen
This small family-owned ryokan is very clean and well-maintained. Go out for a day of skiing and return to a warm and lovingly prepared meal.
A great example of Japanese hospitality from the owner and staff here.
Location: Sekikawa, Myoko, Niigata
Type of ryokan: Traditional
Amenities offered: Private onsen, indoor hot spring, traditional Japanese cuisine
Price: $$$$
Overall rating: 4.9/5 stars
7. Koshi no Yado Takashimaya
Takashimaya is priced slightly higher than other ryokans, but in return, you get rooms with private onsens, attentive and friendly staff, and beautifully prepared kaiseki meals.
For breakfast, you must try their popular miso-marinated salmon for an authentic Japanese experience.
Location: Iwamuroonsen, Nishikan Ward, Niigata
Type of ryokan: Traditional
Amenities offered: Private onsen, indoor and outdoor hot springs, traditional Japanese cuisine
Price: $$$$
Overall rating: 4.3/5 stars
8. Ryugon
Ryugon has been renovated to include modern furnishings and amenities but retains much about a traditional ryokan experience.
From the outstanding service and comfortable rooms with private onsens to the freshly prepared kaiseki meals using local and seasonal ingredients.
Little details like complimentary evening aperitifs and live performances make it an unforgettable stay here.
At this price, you can only expect to stay at an average ryokan with private onsen in Tokyo.
Location: Sakado, Minamiuonuma, Niigata
Type of ryokan: Modern
Amenities offered: Private onsen, indoor and outdoor hot springs, traditional Japanese cuisine, bar lounge, library, bicycle and hiking shoe rental, cooking class
Price: $$$$
Overall rating: 4.3/5 stars
9. Rankeisou
This award-winning best ryokan with private onsen will offer you an idyllic retreat among the mountains and beside the Morikado River.
Soak up nature and rest and relax while forest bathing. Then, nourish your body with their freshly prepared seasonal kaiseki, which uses natural spring water.
Location: Nagano, Sanjo, Niigata
Type of ryokan: Traditional
Amenities offered: Private onsen, indoor and outdoor hot springs, traditional Japanese cuisine, karaoke, table tennis, bicycle rental, massage
Price: JPY $$$$
Overall rating: 4.4/5 stars
10. Shosenkaku Kagetsu
Located only 10-20 minutes away from the famous Yuzawa Kogen Ski Resort and the Gala Yuzawa Snow Resort, Kagetsu is the ideal ryokan to stay in during the winter season for skiing and snowboarding activities.
The modern rooms come with private onsen, and the attentive staff serves you with warm Japanese hospitality.
Location: Yuzawa, Minamiuonuma District, Niigata
Type of ryokan: Modern
Amenities offered: Private onsen, indoor and outdoor hot springs, traditional Japanese cuisine, bar lounge, table tennis, art gallery
Price: $$$$
Overall rating: 4.4/5 stars
11. Four Seasons Yuzawa Quattro
Treat yourself to a private onsen right in the comforts of your room at this modern hotel ryokan.
The convenience means that you can take an onsen bath anytime you want without having to worry about time or other people.
Location: Yuzawa, Minamiuonuma District, Niigata
Type of ryokan: Modern
Amenities offered: Private onsen, indoor hot spring, traditional Japanese cuisine
Price: $$$$
Overall rating: 3.9/5 stars
12. Lime Resort Myoko
This modern ryokan with private onsen Japan is the perfect retreat for those of you who prefer to fill your day with outdoor activities.
Take a walk to the nearby Imori Pond and take in the beautiful scenery of Mt Myoko. Or go skiing at any of the 7 ski resorts around the Myoko area.
Location: Sekigawa, Myoko, Niigata
Type of ryokan: Modern
Amenities offered: Private onsen, indoor hot spring, traditional Japanese cuisine, library, kids’ room, gym, cafe, table tennis
Price: $$$
Overall rating: 4.2/5 stars
13. Kutsurogian
This unassuming ryokan built on a hillside will transport you into a serene and tranquil world where you can relax and rejuvenate your body in the onsen without much disturbance.
With only 3 rooms, you can experience warm Japanese hospitality in comfort and peace.
Location: Koguriyama, Minamiuonuma, Niigata
Type of ryokan: Traditional
Amenities offered: Private onsen, indoor and outdoor hot springs, traditional Japanese cuisine
Price: $$$
Overall rating: 4.6/5 stars
14. Ryokan Okayama
Okayama has been renovated with modern furnishings, which only adds to the value of the rooms.
It has all the elements of a traditional ryokan experience, topped with the finest Japanese hospitality.
Location: Oh-aza Tagiri, Myoko City, Niigata
Type of ryokan: Modern
Amenities offered: Private onsen, indoor and outdoor hot springs, traditional Japanese cuisine
Price: $$$
Overall rating: 4.5/5 stars
15. Yumotoya Onsen Ryokan
Yumotoya is a large ryokan with modern amenities and is a good choice for a relaxing family getaway.
They provide delicious kaiseki meals for dinner and a breakfast buffet, with a menu specially for children.
Location: Iwamuroonsen, Nishikan Ward, Niigata
Type of ryokan: Traditional
Amenities offered: Private onsen, indoor and outdoor hot springs, traditional Japanese cuisine, karaoke room
Price: $$$
Overall rating: 3.9/5 stars
16. Hotel Futaba
For those of you on a lower budget and want to explore the Yuzawa Onsen area, this Niigata hotel is a great option.
You can enjoy a private onsen in your room without having to pay through your nose.
Location: Yuzawa, Minamiuonuma District, Niigata
Type of ryokan: Modern
Amenities offered: Private onsen, indoor and outdoor hot springs, traditional Japanese cuisine
Price: $$$
Overall rating: 4.2/5 stars
17. Takahan
The setting for the book Snow Country, authored by Nobel Prize-winning Yasunari Kawabata, is based on Takahan Ryokan’s location.
Stay in this 900-year-old inn and experience the warmest Japanese hospitality amid views of the beautiful Yuzawa town below.
Location: Yuzawa, Minamiuonuma District, Niigata
Type of ryokan: Traditional
Amenities offered: Private onsen, indoor and outdoor hot springs, traditional Japanese cuisine, library, theater, table tennis, massage, beauty salon
Price: $$$
Overall rating: 4.2/5 stars
18. Sado Ryotsu Shiizaki Onsen
This is an affordable option on Sado Island for a ryokan experience with a view of the ocean or Lake Kamo.
Location: Haraguro, Sado, Niigata
Type of ryokan: Traditional
Amenities offered: Private onsen, indoor hot spring, traditional Japanese cuisine
Price: $$
Overall rating: 4.6/5 stars
19. Iwamuro Onsen Fujiya
Fujiya is a traditional ryokan that caters to the old and young.
Have your pick between Japanese-style rooms or Western-style rooms that have beds instead of futons.
If you’re traveling as a family, book the private onsen for some bonding time together.
Location: Iwamuroonsen, Nishikan Ward, Niigata
Type of ryokan: Traditional
Amenities offered: Private onsen, indoor and outdoor hot springs, traditional Japanese cuisine, karaoke room, kids’ play area
Price: $$
Overall rating: 4.2/5 stars
20. Hana To Hotaru Yu No Sato Yukiguni
The top-notch service from the staff here will make your stay at this ryokan feel like home. Enjoy a free breakfast and a hearty meal of local Japanese dishes for dinner.
Then, venture out to the famous Matsunoyama Onsen, one of Japan’s three most effective medicinal hot springs.
Location: Tomaru, Nakauonuma-gun, Tsunan, Niigata
Type of ryokan: Traditional
Amenities offered: Private onsen, indoor and outdoor hot springs, traditional Japanese cuisine
Price: $$
Overall rating: 4.9/5 stars
21. Yahatakan
A modest ryokan hotel on Sado Island where you can enjoy an onsen bath outdoors surrounded by the Japanese pine garden.
Location: Yahata, Sado, Niigata
Type of ryokan: Modern
Amenities offered: Private onsen, indoor and outdoor hot springs, traditional Japanese cuisine
Price: $$
Overall rating: 3.8/5 stars
22. Tabist Sakadojo Minami-Uonuma
Experience authentic Japanese culture at this ryokan, located close to sightseeing spots like the Suzuki Makino Memorial Museum and the Untoan Shrine.
The great service and warm hospitality from the staff will make you feel right at home.
Location: Sakado, Minamiuonuma, Niigata
Type of ryokan: Traditional
Amenities offered: Private onsen, indoor hot spring, traditional Japanese cuisine
Price: $$
Overall rating: 4.6/5 stars
23. Kougakuro
Whether you’re looking to visit the Akakura Onsen for a bath or go skiing at the Akakura Onsen Ski Area, Kougakuro ryokan is conveniently located nearby.
Location: Akakura, Myoko, Niigata
Type of ryokan: Traditional
Amenities offered: Private onsen, indoor and outdoor hot springs, traditional Japanese cuisine
Price: $$
Overall rating: 4.2/5 stars
24. Ryokan Hatsune
Hatsune is a family-run ryokan with traditional Japanese rooms.
In addition to local Japanese cuisine, they also have an Italian chef to provide you with a variety of dishes for your meals.
Location: Tagami-cho, Minamikanbara-gun, Niigata
Type of ryokan: Traditional
Amenities offered: Private onsen, indoor and outdoor hot springs, traditional Japanese cuisine
Price: $
Overall rating: 4/5 stars
25. Hotel Hoho
You can see Mt. Taho and Mt. Matsutake from all guest rooms.
Relax your senses with this forest bathing every morning and complete it with a healing soak in the Niigata onsen.
Location: Iwamuroonsen, Nishikan Ward, Niigata
Type of ryokan: Traditional
Amenities offered: Private onsen, indoor and outdoor hot springs, traditional Japanese cuisine, mineral bath
Price: $
Overall rating: 4/5 stars
26. Hotel Hanabun
Stay in this comfortable and cheap ryokan with private onsen for a very affordable price.
Experience authentic Japanese culture with a soak in the milky white waters of the hot spring and indulge in their daily handmade soba (buckwheat noodles).
Location: Tsubame Onsen, Myoko City, Niigata
Type of ryokan: Traditional
Amenities offered: Private onsen, indoor and outdoor hot springs, traditional Japanese cuisine
Price: $
Overall rating: 4.9/5 stars
27. Park Lodge Sekine
This ryokan is only 10 minutes away from the Ikenotaira Onsen Ski Resort. Soak in the healing onsen waters when you return from a day of skiing.
Then, enjoy a hearty homemade Japanese meal for both breakfast and dinner.
Location: Sekikawa, Myoko, Niigata
Type of ryokan: Traditional
Amenities offered: Private onsen, indoor hot spring, traditional Japanese cuisine
Price: $
Overall rating: 4.7/5 stars
Niigata Ryokan With Private Onsen – What Is A Ryokan?
A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn and is one of the first hotels in the world.
Many people choose to stay in a ryokan to experience authentic Japanese culture and customs. This includes:
- Living in a room with tatami (straw mat) floors.
- Sleeping in Japanese futon beds, which are laid out for you at night and put away during the day.
- Dressing in a yukata, a bathrobe that looks like a light summer kimono made of cotton.
- Soaking in an onsen hot spring bath several times a day.
- Eating nourishing multi-course (kaiseki) meals for breakfast and dinner, prepared from locally sourced and seasonal ingredients.
- Experiencing warm Japanese hospitality, or omotenashi, throughout your stay.
Although the customs and traditions in a ryokan may seem rigid and overwhelming for tourists new to the country, it is all meant to ensure a relaxing and enjoyable stay for all guests.
Most ryokans are old buildings with shared amenities.
In such close quarters, respect and cooperation from everyone will go a long way to make the environment as peaceful and pleasant as possible.
Besides, when traveling to foreign lands, my motto has always been, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” Immerse yourselves in the local culture!
What Is The Etiquette At A Japanese Onsen?
It may seem like there are a lot of rules surrounding a trip to the onsen. The key is to remember that onsens are a place for cleaning the body and relaxing.
The rules and etiquette make much more sense when you understand this.
1. You must be naked
Yes, you read that right. You have to strip completely naked before you enter the onsen.
Clothing, towels, and even swimsuits are considered “dirty” and will sully the onsen waters.
If the thought of being naked in front of other strangers in a public bath leaves you in a cold sweat, consider staying in a ryokan that has a private onsen like the ones mentioned in the list above.
That being said, with the onsen culture so predominant in Japan, no one really cares what you look like naked since everyone else is anyway.
2. Wash before entering the onsen
Along with the principle of keeping the onsen waters clean for everyone, make sure you wash your body (and maybe hair) in the shower area before entering the onsen.
Most places will provide soap and shampoo, but you can bring your own. Then, rinse off thoroughly so that no soap residue remains.
3. Use the towel, but keep it out of the onsen
Use the small towel provided to cover your nether regions when moving from the shower area to the onsen and back again. But take care not to get it into the water.
A good idea is to leave it at the side. Or do what most Japanese do and simply put it on your head while soaking in the onsen.
4. Tie up long hair
If you have long hair, bring along a hair tie to put it up and keep it out of the water.
Even if you’ve washed it before entering, nobody wants to see strands of hair floating around on the waters of the onsen while taking a bath.
Similarly, dunking your head underwater is a big no-no.
5. No diving, splashing, or swimming
An onsen is not a swimming pool. Activities like diving, splashing, and swimming are strictly prohibited and are grounds for being asked to leave.
6. Enjoy in silence
Continuing from rule 5, remember to be considerate of other guests. An onsen is a place to relax, cleanse, and purify the body and mind.
You can talk to your friends, but try to keep it down, or best of all, enjoy the bath in silence.
Most onsens are built to have a view of the surrounding nature, so take the time to absorb it and emerge from your bath completely refreshed and rejuvenated.
7. Dry off when you leave
Try to dry off as best you can with the towel when you leave the bath and before you enter the changing room.
It is not recommended to take a shower as you will wash off all the beneficial minerals.
A tip for your onsen adventure is to remember to drink water before and after your bath.
The hot water can be very dehydrating, so don’t soak more than 10-15 minutes each time, and don’t take more than three baths a day.
Most onsens have strict rules around tattoos, as it has long been associated with the yakuza (Japanese mafia).
If you have one, it is a good idea to check with the counter before you enter whether they allow guests with tattoos in.
Some onsens have changed their mindsets in recent times, but to be sure, your best bet is to book a private onsen at one of the ryokans or hotels.
Benefits Of Staying At A Niigata Ryokan With Private Onsen
1. Privacy and relaxation
If you’re still feeling anxious about going into a public onsen bath in the nude, a private onsen will solve your problem.
You’ll get the whole onsen to yourself and not have to be self-conscious about your body.
And if you have a tattoo, whether it’s small or big, don’t worry. There won’t be any rules stopping you from entering the onsen since nobody else is there to see them.
Having exclusive use of the onsen bath also means that you can enjoy it without being disturbed.
Come back after a long day of sightseeing and soak in the healing waters whenever you want and for as long as you like. Talk about the ultimate relaxation!
2. Cultural experience
A ryokan offers the best way to experience authentic and traditional Japanese culture.
From the tatami floors, sleeping in futon beds, and eating kaiseki meals to the finest service and hospitality, a ryokan has it all.
Having a relaxing onsen bath in the privacy of your own room makes the experience all the more special.
3. Health benefits
Immersing your body in the onsen water can be a holistic healing experience.
Aside from the many health benefits of an onsen bath, the culture surrounding hot spring baths in Japan has made it a time for relaxation and healing.
4. Beautiful scenery
The location of the onsens in ryokans surrounded by nature also means that you can enjoy your bath while forest bathing at the same time.
This is why onsen ryokans remain popular destinations for a retreat in Japan.
Niigata prefecture has stunning landscapes of mountains, rice fields, and the Sea of Japan.
A hot bath with a view right in the comfort of your room is a luxury worth indulging in at least once in your life.
5. Quality time with loved ones
With a private onsen all to yourself, you can enjoy some bonding time with your family or partner.
Relax in the waters and enjoy each other’s company without having to be rushed for time or worry about other people.
Tips For Choosing The Right Niigata Ryokan With Private Onsen
What is your budget?
Set a budget for your trip and choose a ryokan that fits within that budget.
There are budget-friendly ryokans that will cost less than JPY10,000 (USD67) per person per night and luxury ryokans that go upwards of JPY40,000 (USD267) per person per night.
It will cost more to stay near cities than the countryside. For the same reason, ryokans near Kyoto with private onsen are more expensive than the ones in Niigata.
A cheap ryokan with private onsen in Kyoto can get you more luxury in Niigata at the same price.
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Where is it located?
Niigata is a large prefecture that offers various landscapes and sights. Choose a Niigata ryokan with private onsen that is convenient for your sightseeing plans.
If you’re planning on going skiing, choose a ryokan that is near a ski resort. If you’d like to visit cultural and tourist attractions, choose one nearby.
What type of experience are you looking for?
There are traditional ryokans that provide rooms with tatami floors and futon beds, and there are modern ryokans that come with more amenities.
Choose one that will satisfy the type of travel experience you are after.
What type of onsen is there?
Ryokans typically have communal baths that are gender-segregated and found both indoors and outdoors.
If you want access to a private onsen, find out from the ryokan before booking whether one is available and if there’s a fee required.
Some ryokans offer it as part of the room plan (inside the room). Others offer it free of charge, while those that don’t usually charge per hour of use.
What do the reviews say?
I always check online reviews to see what other guests say about the rooms, the service, and the cleanliness of the place.
Make sure you read reviews from reputable travel sites like Google and TripAdvisor.
Go through some of the most recent comments to get the latest updates.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Niigata?
The best time to visit Niigata is during the summer months of July and August. The weather is perfect for outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, and camping.
With its location along the coastline of the Sea of Japan, a stay at a ryokan onsen near Senami Onsen Beach would be the perfect family getaway.
You can also go to the beautiful Sado Island and visit Futatsugame Beach, which has earned two stars in the Michelin Green Guide.
But I can’t talk about summer in Niigata without mentioning the famous Nagaoka Festival.
It is one of the three largest fireworks displays in Japan and attracts millions of visitors every year in August.
You have to see and experience the elaborate and stunning displays for yourself, especially the Phoenix at the end.
FAQs On Niigata Ryokan With Private Onsen
Do Ryokans Have Private Onsens?
Yes, most ryokans in Japan have private onsens. Some have a private bath in the guest room as part of the room plan. Others have a separate bathing area where the private onsen requires prior booking but can be free for guests or charged per hour of use. These offer more privacy and luxury than public onsens.
How Much Does It Cost To Go To Ryokan Onsen?
The average cost to go to a ryokan onsen is between JPY15,000 – 25,000 (USD100 – 167) per person per night. This can vary depending on the location, season, and type of ryokan. There are budget ryokans that charge less than JPY10,000 (USD67) per person, while some luxury ryokans can go up to JPY50,000 (USD334) per person.
How Much Does A Private Onsen Cost In Japan?
The cost of a private onsen in Japan is, on average, between JPY2,000 – 3,000 (USD13 – 20). This price depends on the location (city) and varies by ryokan. Some are free for guests staying at the ryokan, while others are charged per one-time use, usually within an hour. Some luxury ryokans can charge JPY5,000 (USD33) and above.
Which Is The Best Onsen Town In Niigata?
Tsukioka Onsen is the best onsen town in Niigata. It’s famous for its emerald green waters that boast one of the highest sulfur content in Japan. Women love to visit this onsen as the water is known for making the skin smooth and soft. You can also visit the Northern Culture Museum, try local sake, and see geisha performances.
So, get out your calendars and start planning your trip today.
Don’t wait too long because these Niigata ryokans with private onsen are in high demand during the peak seasons of winter and spring and are fully booked months in advance.
Use the tips I shared to find yourself the perfect Japanese ryokan that fits your budget and enjoy the most relaxing getaway in the beautiful city of Niigata.
Whether you’re going skiing, cherry blossom viewing, exploring the outdoors, or even sake tasting, I’m sure you will come back from your stay at the Niigata ryokan with private onsen completely refreshed and recharged.
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