Heihachi Chaya Honest Review: Does It Have an Onsen or a Bath? (Kyoto)

About Heihachi Chaya

Heihachi Chaya is a traditional Japanese restaurant with over 440 years of history, where you can enjoy authentic Kyoto cuisine. From the dining area, guests can relax while overlooking a peaceful riverside view. In addition to dining, visitors can also experience a Japanese-style bath and a traditional Japanese sauna.

The Japanese-style sauna is different from Finnish-style saunas or modern spa facilities. It is a calm and understated space designed as part of Japan’s traditional bathing culture, focusing on gently warming the body rather than intense heat or stimulation.

This blog provides an honest review based on my personal experience of visiting Heihachi Chaya many times, highlighting both its strengths and its limitations so that visitors know exactly what to expect.

Facility Information

Important Notes:
The bathing facilities cannot be used for bathing only. They are available only to guests who have lunch, and an additional fee is required. Advance reservation is mandatory, so please check the official website below for contact details and booking information.

Here is the official website of Heihachi Chaya.

Business Hours

11:30 AM – 3:00 PM

Bathing Fee:
¥2,200 (towels included)

Meal Prices:
¥3,850 – ¥9,350 (service charge not included)

Rating: ★★★★☆ (20 stars total)

Bath Variety & Quality　★★★★☆

The bathing facilities at Heihachi Chaya are not a natural onsen, and they do not offer a wide variety of baths. However, because the bath is usually enjoyed in a nearly private setting, it may feel more comfortable for visitors who are not used to bathing nude in Japan.

This is the only place in Kyoto where you can experience a traditional Japanese-style sauna, making it a truly special and unique facility.

The photo below shows the interior of the sauna, where guests lie down to relax. The temperature is relatively mild, allowing you to warm your body slowly and comfortably.

Atmosphere & Authenticity　★★★★★

With over 400 years of history, Heihachi Chaya has a unique atmosphere that only a long-established ryotei can offer, allowing visitors to strongly feel the essence of Kyoto. The property also features an authentic Japanese garden, where simply taking a walk can be deeply relaxing.

Even when compared to other traditional restaurants or bathing facilities, Heihachi Chaya stands out as a place where the atmosphere of Kyoto can be felt especially strongly.

Comfort　★★★★★

There is no dedicated space for lying down or resting indoors, but after bathing, guests can relax by spending time in the Japanese garden, which offers a calm and comfortable atmosphere.

Towels and drinking water are provided, so there is no need to bring anything yourself.

My recommended plan is to take a bath around 11:00 a.m., then relax in the Japanese garden, followed by a meal in a private dining room.

The private room requires an additional fee of around ¥3,000, but it offers a luxurious and peaceful setting. From a relaxation perspective, it is well worth the extra cost.

Accessibility for Tourists　★★☆☆☆

Access is somewhat inconvenient, as the location is not close to major train stations.

The bathing facilities cannot be used on their own and are only available as part of a daytime lunch plan. While this may not be ideal for first-time onsen or bathing experiences, it offers a valuable opportunity to experience the deep history and traditional culture of Kyoto, making it well worth the visit.

Scenic Value / Surroundings　★★★★☆

Although it is about a 30-minute walk from Heihachi Chaya, there is a cable car nearby that provides access to Rurikoin Temple and Enryaku-ji Temple on Mount Hiei. In addition, Heihachi Chaya is located along the route from central Kyoto to Sanzen-in Temple, making it easy to include in a well-planned sightseeing itinerary.

FAQ

Q1. Is Heihachi Chaya a natural hot spring?

A.　No, it is not a natural onsen.
Rather than hot springs, this facility is focused on enjoying a traditional Japanese-style sauna experience.

Q2. Is day-use bathing available?

A.　Day-use is available, but advance reservation is required.

Q3. Is there an outdoor bath?

A.　No, there is none.

Q4. Is there a cold plunge bath or an outdoor relaxation area?

A.　The bath consists of a warm bath only.
There is no designated outdoor relaxation area, but guests can enjoy fresh air and relax in the Japanese garden after bathing.

Q5. Are guests with tattoos allowed to bathe?

A.　Yes, guests with tattoos are allowed to use the facilities.

Q6. Can tourists and foreign visitors use the facility?

A.　Yes, it is available. Please be sure to make a reservation in advance.

Q7. Are towels and amenities provided?

A.　Yes, they are provided.

Q8. Who is this place recommended for?

A.　People who feel uncomfortable being seen nude by others.

Travelers visiting Japan for the second time who want to experience a deeper side of Kyoto.

Q9. Who might not find this place suitable?

A.　People who are specifically looking for a natural onsen.

Those who find making advance reservations inconvenient.