Best Ginzan Onsen Ryokans for First-Time Visitors
Planning a trip to Japan but unsure about which Ginzan Onsen Ryokan to choose? With so many options and unique features, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Don’t worry, I’ve been there too! This guide is for anyone looking to experience the best of Ginzan Onsen Ryokans, from those with private onsen to tips on how to book the perfect stay. By reading this article, you’ll discover how to find a ryokan that suits your needs, save money, and make your trip unforgettable. Let’s dive in and get you one step closer to that dream onsen getaway!
Best Ginzan Onsen Ryokans for First-Time Visitors
Best Ryokan in Ginzan Onsen
The best ryokans in Ginzan Onsen are picked for their great location, fantastic service, and whether they have private hot springs. One of the most popular, Notoya Ryokan, is over 100 years old! Its charming exterior makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a time machine and landed in old Japan. Another favorite is the Kosekiya Bekkan, which blends beautiful traditional wooden design with a splash of modern flair, attracting travelers from all over. The level of care and hospitality at both places is top-notch, so no matter which you pick, you’ll get the full Japanese onsen experience.
Here’s a tip: Check the features and reviews before booking to find the perfect match!
Notoya Ryokan
Notoya Ryokan is a historic ryokan, a true symbol of Ginzan Onsen, established way back in 1892. The stunning wooden building is designed with a bit of early 20th-century charm, giving you a taste of Ginzan Onsen’s delightful atmosphere.
Recommended points:
- Historical architecture: This wooden building has been around for over 100 years and gives you the feeling that you’ve traveled back to Japan’s Taisho Era (1912-1926).
- Hospitality: Experience the classic Japanese-style hospitality that has been perfected over generations.
- Onsen with a touch of elegance: The ryokan has indoor and outdoor hot springs, and the view from the outdoor baths is especially breathtaking—just like in the movies!
Kosekiya Bekkan
Kosekiya Bekkan is a traditional wooden ryokan with that warm, cozy vibe that Ginzan Onsen is known for. The rooms have sweeping views of the hot spring town, and the ones along the river are super popular.
Fun fact: This ryokan is said to have inspired some scenes from Spirited Away, so it’s a favorite spot for fans both in Japan and abroad.
Recommended points:
- Fantastic view of the hot spring town: Rooms offer scenic views of the resort and river, perfect for relaxing.
- Traditional Japanese atmosphere: The beautiful wooden architecture sets the stage for a truly authentic Japanese stay.
- Quiet and peaceful: Even though it’s located right in the heart of the resort, it’s still wonderfully quiet and relaxing.
- Warm hospitality: The staff’s hospitality makes you feel like you’re staying in your own home (but with hot springs and a much nicer view).
Ginzan Onsen Ryokan Booking
Planning ahead is key when booking a ryokan in Ginzan Onsen. During the winter months, when the area gets flooded with visitors from Japan and beyond, it’s essential to book early. Reservations can fill up months in advance, so it’s best to secure your spot around six months ahead of time if you’re looking to visit during the peak season from December to February. Use the official websites or English-speaking travel booking sites to make it easier, especially if you’re coming from abroad. Don’t forget to check cancellation policies and the fine print too.
If the dates you want are already booked, don’t panic! Cancellations can happen closer to your stay—sometimes as early as a month or even a week before—so keep an eye out and you might just get lucky.
Spring and fall are also popular times to visit, so for those seasons, aim to book at least three months in advance. The earlier you act, the better your chances of snagging your dream ryokan!
Does Ginzan Onsen Ryokan Have Private Onsen?
Most ryokans in Ginzan Onsen do offer private onsen (personal baths). The super popular Fujiya Ryokan and Senkyo no Yado Ginzanso even let you reserve your private bath time in advance. Private baths are great for couples and families who want to enjoy a relaxing soak without worrying about others. Just keep in mind that private baths are usually on a time limit, so be sure to check when booking. If you’re feeling fancy, treating yourself to a private onsen is a great way to pamper yourself.
Fujiya Ryokan
Fujiya Ryokan is a newly renovated ryokan that combines modern design with traditional charm. All rooms face the Ginzan River, and you can admire the resort right from your window. The ryokan also has an artsy vibe, kind of like walking through a gallery.
Recommended points:
- Modern design: The simple yet chic interior mixes tradition with modern comforts, perfectly complementing the hot spring resort vibe.
- Unique design: Every corner of this ryokan has something different to offer, so it feels like a fresh experience each time.
- Private onsen: There are 5 unique private baths where you can soak in peace.
- Delicious food: You’ll love their creative dishes, which highlight local ingredients—dinner is especially a hit!
Sengyo no Yado Ginzanso
Ginzanso is a large ryokan nestled in a quiet, nature-filled area where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the main resort. Its spacious open-air bath is a big draw.
Recommended points:
- Large open-air bath: Surrounded by greenery, the bath gives you a different view each season.
- Spacious rooms: Perfect for families or groups, with plenty of space to unwind. Some rooms even have their own semi-open-air bath!
- Peaceful location: Being a little off the main resort area gives this ryokan a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.
- Ginzan Onsen hot springs: The high-quality springs here are known for their health benefits, so you’ll leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Key Differences Between Ginzan Onsen Hotels and Ryokans
Ginzan Onsen has both “hotels” and “ryokans,” and they’re not quite the same thing. Hotels are equipped with modern conveniences and tend to offer more of a Western-style experience. Ryokans, on the other hand, offer a traditional Japanese vibe, complete with tatami mat rooms and authentic Japanese meals. Both options have hot springs, but ryokans provide a deeper dive into Japanese culture, making them ideal for first-time visitors. In the end, which one you pick really depends on what kind of trip you’re looking for.
However, I personally recommend that travelers coming to Japan from far away stay in a ryokan. Even I, a Japanese person, prefer ryokans to hotels.
Ginzan Onsen review winter
Ginzan Onsen is highly praised by visitors, and it’s not hard to see why. The old-timey charm of the area, mixed with the beautiful nature around it, draws people in. The winter scenery, in particular, is a crowd favorite—the snow-covered town lit up at night is nothing short of magical. Visiting Ginzan Onsen in winter feels like you’ve stepped into a fantasy world. The inns and bridges twinkling with lights, the snow gently falling—it’s the kind of place that makes you forget about your cold toes! Plus, soaking in a hot spring while looking out at the snowy view is something you won’t soon forget. Even though you’ll need to bundle up for the cold, it’s absolutely worth it. The ryokan food and hospitality are top-notch, especially the Japanese dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. To avoid the busy tourist crowds, visiting on weekdays is your best bet for a peaceful stay.
Best Month to Visit Ginzan Onsen Ryokans and Tips for Saving Money
What is the best month to visit Ginzan Onsen?
Choosing the best month to visit Ginzan Onsen depends on what kind of experience you want, but winter is by far the most popular. From December to February, the snowy scenes are picture-perfect and attract many visitors. It’s like a postcard come to life! The hot spring town, blanketed in snow, is something everyone should experience at least once—but don’t forget to bring your winter gear! Outside of winter, mid-April is lovely for cherry blossom season, and late October to early November is a great time to catch the fall leaves. These seasons offer stunning views too, and are perfect for those who want to skip the winter crowds.
Ginzan Onsen Ryokan prices
The price of staying at a ryokan in Ginzan Onsen can vary quite a bit, depending on the time of year and the type of room. During peak winter season, some ryokans charge over 30,000 yen per person per night, while off-season rates can drop to around 20,000 yen. Most ryokans include dinner and breakfast in the room rate, so you’ll be treated to an amazing Japanese meal featuring seasonal ingredients. By planning ahead and booking early, you can score a good deal for your stay.
How many days to stay in Ginzan Onsen?
Staying one or two nights at Ginzan Onsen is recommended. One night gives you enough time to explore the hot spring town and enjoy a soak, but two nights will allow you to really unwind. A two-night stay is perfect if you want extra time to enjoy sightseeing or outdoor activities like hiking around the area. If you’re planning a short trip, make sure you plan ahead so you can squeeze in all the highlights.
Can you do a day trip to Ginzan Onsen from Tokyo?
While technically you could do a day trip from Tokyo to Ginzan Onsen, it’s not something I’d recommend. There are two main ways to get there: by bullet train and bus or by airplane and bus.
- By Shinkansen and bus: It takes about 3 to 3 hours and 15 minutes one way from Tokyo Station to Oshida Station (6,600 yen for a ticket + 5,850 yen), and 35 minutes one way by local bus from Oshida Station (1,000 yen).
- By plane and bus: 1 hour one way from Haneda Airport to Yamagata Airport (11,150 yen), 1 hour 15 minutes one way from Yamagata Airport by bus (2,000 yen).
While you could wake up early, zoom over to Ginzan Onsen, dip your toes in the hot springs, and then rush back to Tokyo, you’d barely have enough time to enjoy the experience. Staying overnight is definitely the way to go if you want to fully enjoy the atmosphere.
Note: during the busy winter months, there will be restrictions on admission for day-trippers from late December 2024 to the end of March 2025. (The end of this restriction has not yet been determined at the end of March). Day-trippers are subject to admission restrictions, while overnight guests and visitors with reservations at restaurants are not subject to admission restrictions. Day-trippers will not be allowed to enter the Ginzan Onsen area after 16:00 until 10:00 the next day. If you wish to enter, you must purchase an admission ticket. Admission tickets will be available for purchase online, but details have not yet been released. If you do not purchase an admission ticket but stay in the restricted area for an extended period of time after 4:00 p.m., you will be penalized, so please be sure to follow the rules.
Do you wear clothes in an onsen?
In traditional Japanese onsen culture, people don’t wear clothes when bathing—yep, you bathe naked. It might sound a bit intimidating at first, but that’s just how it’s done! If you’re not quite ready to take the plunge, don’t worry—some places(Fujiya Ryokan etc) offer private onsen where you can soak in your own space. Just check with the ryokan beforehand since each one has its own rules about private baths. You might feel a bit shy at first, but trust me, you’ll relax and get used to it in no time!
What is Ginzan Onsen famous for?
Ginzan Onsen is famous for its charming townscape and historic buildings. The area has a retro vibe, especially with the architecture from the Taisho era (1912-1926) lining the river. In winter, the snow-covered scenery and the town lit up at night are especially breathtaking. Ginzan Onsen isn’t just a paradise for hot spring lovers—it’s also a foodie’s dream, with tasty local specialties and delicious Japanese meals that keep visitors coming back. It’s the perfect place to rejuvenate both body and mind.
Ginzan Onsen ryokan Spirited Away
Ginzan Onsen is also known for being a real-life inspiration for the Studio Ghibli movie Spirited Away. Fans flock to the historic “Kosekiya Bekkan” ryokan, which looks like it came straight out of the movie. If you’re a Ghibli fan, visiting Ginzan Onsen is like stepping into the world of Spirited Away—definitely worth checking out!
Is it worth going to Ginzan Onsen?
Yes, Ginzan Onsen is absolutely worth a visit! The town’s nostalgic vibe, welcoming hospitality, and beautiful natural surroundings make it a must-see. The winter scenery, with the snow and hot springs, is something you’ll never forget. Even during busy seasons, Ginzan Onsen keeps its quiet, peaceful atmosphere. If you want to experience a traditional Japanese hot spring town, this is the place to go!
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Ginzan Onsen Ryokans for Your Stay
Here’s a quick recap of what we’ve covered so far to help you choose the best ryokan for your trip:
- The key to choosing the best ryokan
Consider location, service, and whether private hot springs are available. The historic Notoya Ryokan and Kosekiya Annex are particularly popular choices. - Early reservations are the secret to success
Ginzan Onsen gets super crowded in winter, so booking early is a must. For peak season, aim to book about six months in advance to secure your spot. - How to enjoy private onsen
Many ryokans have private onsen, so you can relax without worrying about other guests. It’s a great option when you want to treat yourself to some extra luxury. - Guideline for number of nights
One night is enough to enjoy the town, but two nights will give you a more relaxed experience. Plan ahead if you want to see all the sights in the area. - Ginzan Onsen in winter is the best!
The snowy night view of the town is straight out of a Ghibli movie. It’s truly a magical sight. - Day trips from Tokyo are not recommended
While it’s possible to visit Ginzan Onsen from Tokyo in a day, the travel time and limited stay make it a rushed experience. It’s better to spend the night and enjoy it fully. - How to enter a hot spring is simple
Don’t worry about the whole “naked” thing—everyone’s in the same boat! Once you try it, you’ll get used to it quickly. - A sacred place for Ghibli fans
If you’re a fan of Spirited Away, Ginzan Onsen is a must-visit. Staying at a ryokan here will make you feel like you’ve stepped into the movie.
With these tips in mind, you’re sure to have an amazing stay at Ginzan Onsen. This is a place where Japan’s rich tradition and natural beauty come together to give you the ultimate healing experience. So pack your bags and get ready for a trip to Ginzan Onsen!
