What is a ryokan?

Stay the Japanese Way

Ryokan are traditional Japanese hotels offering an experience in authentic hospitality. Expect tatami-mat rooms, hot springs (onsen), yukata robes, and multi-course kaiseki cuisine featuring seasonal ingredients. Guests receive heartfelt service from the proprietress (okami) and attendants (nakai), making for a truly special stay. Though often more expensive than hotels, the tranquil atmosphere and deep cultural immersion are worth the cost for those seeking a unique and private experience.

Ryokans: the essentials

What to Expect from a Ryokan

A ryokan is a place to forget the daily grind and relax at a leisurely pace. The tatami-mat guest room is multi-purpose; during the day it’s a living area, and at night, staff will prepare it for sleep by laying out futon bedding on the floor. Should you need anything, your attendant (nakai) will assist you. You may even be welcomed by the proprietress (okami), the host who embodies the ryokan’s spirit of hospitality.

Who a Ryokan Is For?

In recent years, many ryokan, particularly those in tourist destinations, have increased their English-language information and menus to accommodate overseas guests. While not all staff speak English fluently, they will do their utmost to assist you with the Japanese spirit of hospitality, so please rest assured.

Solo Traveler
This is an ideal opportunity to savour quiet moments and reflect on oneself.Read a book or simply gaze at the scenery. Indulge in luxurious private spaces with exclusive baths and in-room dining.Occasionally, enjoying conversation with the chambermaid allows you to experience the unique warmth of the local people.

Couples
A romantic space unfolds for you to spend special moments together.We recommend our rooms with private open-air baths. Enjoy the hot springs undisturbed, relaxing together in complete privacy.Stroll through the beautiful gardens in yukata, savour a leisurely meal in your private dining room – create unforgettable memories.

Families
The spacious Japanese-style room offers a homely space where you can relax comfortably, even with children.The private bath (family bath), where you can enjoy the hot springs without worrying about others, is particularly recommended for those with small children.The experience of sleeping together on futons laid out side by side will surely become a special, enjoyable memory for the children.

Groups
One of the finest aspects of staying at a ryokan is how spending time with friends deepens your bonds. Savour kaiseki cuisine while conversing leisurely in private dining rooms or guest rooms, and relish the tranquil evenings. Sharing the same space and experiencing Japanese culture together will strengthen your ties.

For Foodies
At the Ryokan, you can savour the finest seasonal ingredients the region has to offer. The “kaiseki cuisine” prepared by our head chef is a culinary work of art, exquisite not only in flavour but also in its beautiful tableware and presentation.Savouring the dishes slowly alongside local sake will itself become the ultimate purpose of your journey.

For Culture Enthusiasts
Ryokan are not merely lodgings; they offer an experience of traditional Japanese architecture and aesthetic sensibility. The spirit of Japan resides in every detail: the hanging scrolls in the alcove, the poise of the garden, and each pillar layered with history.The stay itself becomes a profound cultural experience, deepening your understanding of Japan's history and stylistic beauty.

Pro Tips

Key points for booking a ryokan are as follows:

• Book early (3 to 6 months in advance is advisable)

• Aim for weekdays or dates around public holidays

• Check the cancellation policy

• Secure your travel arrangements early, alongside your accommodation

During peak seasons such as New Year, Golden Week, or cherry blossom season, ryokans often fill up several months in advance, making a booking 3 to 6 months ahead advisable. Weekends and the middle of public holiday periods tend to be particularly busy, so targeting weekdays or dates just before or after is recommended. Ensure you also confirm cancellation policies and travel arrangements well in advance.

Furthermore, to fully enjoy your stay at a ryokan, please note the following points:

• Maintain quiet behaviour within the premises

• Wash your body before entering the communal baths (tattoos are often prohibited)

• Observe house rules such as curfew and lights-out times

• Enjoy room service meals and the traditional Japanese room layout

• Carry cash in case credit cards are not accepted

• Confirm accessibility features beforehand

As tranquillity is cherished throughout the premises, please keep noise levels low in corridors and guest rooms. In the communal baths, wash your body before entering, and note that tattoos may be prohibited. While respecting curfews and house rules, savour the unique ryokan experience, including the Japanese-style rooms and meals.

What to Wear at a Ryokan / Etiquette

Seasonal clothing: Dress according to the season—light layers in summer, warm layers in winter, as traditional buildings may not have strong heating or cooling.

Shoes: Always remove your shoes at the entrance and use slippers provided by the ryokan. See the image below for an example. 

Yukata: A casual cotton robe is usually provided; wear it around the ryokan and to meals for a traditional experience.

Onsen etiquette: Wash your body before entering the bath, and note that tattoos may not be allowed. Check out the onsen pictured below. 

Privacy: Respect the quiet atmosphere and the private space of other guests.

Where to Find Ryokans

When selecting a ryokan, consider both the location of the Ryokan and the experiences you wish to have. In Tokyo, Asakusa offers the charm of the old downtown; in Kyoto, Gion or Higashiyama are ideal for temples and traditional streetscapes. For hot springs, ryokans in spa towns like Hakone, Beppu, or Atami are recommended. While locations near major stations are convenient as bases for day trips, bear in mind the trade-offs: central areas are convenient but bustling, while quieter areas offer tranquillity but may be less accessible.

Getting There and Around

Many ryokans are located along JR lines or within easy reach of major stations.

If you plan to visit multiple cities, using a JR Pass makes travelling smooth and convenient. After arrival, in addition to trains and buses, utilising Pocket Wi-Fi (available for collection at the airport before check-in) makes it easy to check directions and transport information, providing peace of mind. Furthermore, using a Meet and Greet service, where staff welcome you at the airport and guide you, ensures smooth travel even on your first visit to Japan.

Plan and Book

Ryokans offer a uniquely Japanese experience, from tatami rooms to hot spring baths and seasonal cuisine. They’re perfect for travelers seeking both tradition and relaxation. We’ll be adding more stay types soon—stay tuned. In the meantime, browse JapanDen’s hotel picks for easy planning.

More to Know

The roots of the ryokan lie over 1,300 years ago in free lodgings for travellers. Around 400 years ago, these evolved into “hatago” inns that provided meals. In modern times, they became intertwined with onsen culture, establishing the present-day style. It is truly a place where the history of Japanese travel and hospitality is condensed.

FAQs About Ryokan

Here are some frequently asked questions about Ryokan.

Q. Can I not enter the hot springs (public baths) if I have tattoos?

A. Many public baths refuse entry to those with tattoos. We recommend booking a ‘private bath’ or a ‘room with an open-air bath’ to enjoy the hot springs without issue.

Q. Can you accommodate dietary requirements such as food allergies or vegetarianism?

A. Most can, but you must specify your exact requirements (e.g., allergies, vegetarian) at the time of booking. Last-minute requests are very difficult to fulfill.

Q. When and how should I wear the yukata provided in my room?

A. Always fold it with the left side over the right, then tie the sash. Feel free to ask staff for assistance. You can wear your yukata anywhere inside the inn.