
December 2025, 7

While Kyoto is famous for its classic tourist spots like Arashiyama, Gion, and Fushimi Inari Taisha, recently there's been an increase in travelers who want to relax and unwind while experiencing the unique atmosphere of Kyoto. In fact, Kyoto and its surrounding areas boast numerous attractive facilities that combine natural hot springs, private open-air baths, glamping, and villa accommodations. These are perfect for couples and families alike. This article compiles a list of recommended accommodations in Kyoto and its surrounding areas where you can enjoy hot springs. Use this as a reference when planning your Kyoto trip to find the perfect hot spring inn for you.
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When people think of hot spring resorts in Japan, many think of Hakone, Arima, and Beppu, but Kyoto actually has hot spring resorts as well.
For example, there are many relaxing areas surrounded by nature, such as Ohara Onsen, Kizu Onsen, and Yuhigaura Onsen.
| Characteristics of Kyoto hot spring inns | Message |
|---|---|
| Hot Spring "Aioi-no-Yu" | Relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing in Kyoto, and experience the unique Japanese hot spring culture. |
| Onsen | You can enjoy bathing while gazing at scenery such as mountains, the sea, and gardens. |
| Private bath | Couples and families can use it without worrying about those around them. |
| Private open-air bath | A completely private space for a greater sense of relaxation |
| Kyoto cuisine | Enjoy Kyoto ingredients, seafood, wagyu beef, kaiseki cuisine, BBQ, and more. |
| natural environment | A variety of locations including mountainous areas, coastlines, lakesides, and forests. |
| Glamping | Enjoy a comfortable outdoor experience without needing any camping equipment. |
When people think of accommodation in Kyoto, they often picture traditional inns or luxury hotels, but recently, glamping and villa-style accommodations have also become popular.
Glamping is extremely popular in Japan, allowing you to enjoy nature in comfortable facilities without having to set up your own tent.
Some glamping facilities in Kyoto offer amenities such as natural hot springs, open-air baths, private BBQ areas, saunas, and private pools.

Amanohashidate is one of Japan's three most scenic spots. It offers a resort-like atmosphere, surrounded by the sea and mountains, a stark contrast to the city of Kyoto.
The hotel boasts private baths with natural hot spring water, offering a relaxing and peaceful environment.
During the day, you can enjoy sightseeing at Amanohashidate and the boathouses of Ine, and in the evening, you can spend a luxurious time relaxing in a hot spring and having a BBQ.


This facility is popular with travelers who prioritize private baths.
It offers a high degree of privacy and is ideal for couples, married couples, and family trips.
The BBQ featuring local Kyoto fish and Japanese Black beef is also a major draw.


A popular facility where you can enjoy the feeling of a seaside resort.
You can enjoy an open-air hot spring bath and BBQ while gazing at the Kyoto seascape from the terrace.
Unlike typical hotels in Kyoto city, this hotel offers a relaxing and open atmosphere, which is its main appeal.


A villa-style accommodation located between Amanohashidate and Ine.
All rooms are equipped with a private pool and a private hot spring bath.
It's also recommended for family trips, group trips, and anniversary celebrations.
You can also enjoy BBQ and authentic dishes made with local Tango ingredients.

Located near Yuhigaura Beach, this glamping facility boasts stunning sunsets.
You can enjoy a relaxing stay at a hot spring resort while taking walks along the beach and watching the sunset.
Beach activities are also popular from spring to autumn.

An all-inclusive glamping facility.
Guests can enjoy hot springs, a large public bath, drinks, and various activities during their stay.
The Yunohana Onsen area is recommended for those who want to relax in peace and quiet near Kyoto.

If hotels in Kyoto are fully booked, or if you want a Kansai trip that offers a more natural experience, the Shiga/Lake Biwa area is also a great option.
Located within about an hour's drive from Kyoto, this resort offers lakeside accommodations, private hot spring villas, nature experiences, and more.

A glamping facility where you can enjoy views of Lake Biwa and natural hot springs.
All rooms have natural hot springs, and lakeside BBQs are also popular.

This facility emphasizes outdoor experiences such as bonfires, nature, and BBQ.
This is recommended for those who want to experience a different kind of Japanese travel than staying in a typical hotel.


A nature-friendly villa located near a row of metasequoia trees.
Each room has a private hot spring bath, and you can enjoy the forest scenery that changes with the seasons.


A luxury villa-style accommodation equipped with an indoor pool, hot springs, and sauna.
Perfect for group trips or private tours.

If you're visiting Kyoto for the first time, the Kameoka/Yunohana Onsen area is recommended as it's convenient for sightseeing within the city.
If you want to enjoy ocean views, the Amanohashidate and Yuhigaura areas are popular choices.
If privacy is a priority, choose accommodations with private open-air baths in the rooms or private baths available for rent.
Spring: Cherry blossoms and hot springs
Summer: Amanohashidate, Lake Biwa, beach BBQ
Autumn: Hot springs with autumn foliage
Winter: Snowscapes and natural hot springs
Kyoto has a different charm in each of the four seasons.
Kyoto and its surrounding areas offer a wide variety of accommodations where you can enjoy natural hot springs, glamping, villas, and BBQ.
If you want to enjoy the culture of the ancient capital, Kyoto city or Yunohana Onsen are recommended. If you want to experience Kyoto by the sea, Amanohashidate or Yuhigaura are good choices. If you prioritize nature, the Lake Biwa and Shiga area is a great option.
Experience a special Kyoto trip unlike any other, with our unique hotel offerings.

He is an editor at Resort Glamping.com, a glamping-focused media outlet visited by approximately 100 million people a month. He has written over 150 articles introducing glamping facilities and experience reports, and is involved in a wide range of glamping facility services, from planning and development to operation and customer acquisition consulting.






























