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What is a ryokan (Japanese inn)?
A ryokan is a type of accommodation that embodies the traditional Japanese style of lodging. It typically includes Japanese-style rooms, tatami mats, futon bedding, hot springs, yukata (light cotton kimono), and dinner and breakfast. While not all ryokans share the same elements, the charm of a ryokan lies in the opportunity to experience a truly Japanese pace of life within its premises.
A ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) is a type of accommodation where the stay itself becomes the purpose of the trip.
A ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) is more than just a place to sleep in a bed. The charm of a ryokan lies in the fact that it incorporates a quintessential Japanese evening routine: taking off your shoes and stepping onto the tatami mats, changing into a yukata (light cotton kimono), soaking in a hot spring, enjoying dinner, and starting the day with breakfast.
The difference from a hotel lies in the "flow" of the experience.
Hotels are often used as convenient bases for travel and sightseeing. Ryokans (traditional Japanese inns), on the other hand, offer an experience where the time spent from arrival to the following morning becomes the entire experience. Hot springs, meals, and time spent in the room all come together as one.
Why is it a popular tourist destination in Japan?
A stay at a traditional Japanese inn offers a complete experience in one evening: relaxing in a Japanese-style room, wearing a yukata (light cotton kimono), soaking in a hot spring, and enjoying seasonal cuisine. The opportunity to experience Japanese lodging culture, something you can't get just by sightseeing, is what makes it so popular.
Focus on how you spend your time rather than the luxury itself.
Luxury ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) aren't the only type of inn you can stay at. What's important is whether meals are included, whether there are hot springs, whether there are private baths, how to get there from the station, and whether your arrival time coincides with dinner time. You're more likely to be satisfied with an inn that fits your needs.
A typical evening at a Japanese inn
Even if it's your first time, knowing the basic flow of a ryokan (Japanese inn) will help you relax and enjoy your stay.
Arriving before evening
If you're staying at a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) that includes dinner, arriving between 15 PM and 17 PM will allow you to enjoy the hot springs and your time in your room more easily.
We went to dinner after taking a dip in the hot springs.
The experience of going to dinner in a yukata (light cotton kimono) after a bath is one of the quintessential moments of staying at a traditional Japanese inn.
Enjoy a morning bath and breakfast.
The experience of staying at a traditional Japanese inn is truly enhanced when you include the hot springs the next morning, a Japanese breakfast, and the quiet time before check-out.
A trip where staying at a traditional Japanese inn is a good fit.
Traditional Japanese inns (ryokan) are ideal for travelers who want to explore more than just a place to sleep.
A trip centered around hot springs
This is perfect for a trip where you don't want to go out too much after arriving at the inn, and instead want to relax and enjoy the hot springs, meals, and time in your room.
My first experience staying in Japan
Since a Japanese-style room, yukata (traditional Japanese robe), meals, and hot springs are all included in one night, it's easy to create memories that truly represent a trip to Japan.
Anniversaries and leisurely trips
Choosing your meals, private baths, and room atmosphere can easily make your overnight stay feel special.
A trip spent quietly at an inn
This is ideal for people who want to minimize sightseeing and cherish the time they spend at their accommodation.
Learn about different types of accommodations
Ryokan (traditional Japanese inns), minshuku (guesthouses), and pensions each offer a different sense of connection to the travel experience.
What is a guesthouse?
A small guesthouse that offers a glimpse into local life. Perfect for travelers who want to enjoy local cuisine and a close connection with the people.
ペンションとは
A small, Western-style inn. This type of accommodation is ideal for enjoying the highlands and nature, as well as family and friends' trips.
What is a ryokan (Japanese inn)?
This inn offers a truly Japanese experience, including a traditional Japanese room, hot springs, meals, and yukata (traditional Japanese robes).
Ryokan FAQ
Here are some things you should know before staying at a traditional Japanese inn for the first time.
Do all Japanese inns have hot springs?
It's not always the case. Some inns have hot springs, while others don't. If hot springs are a priority for you, be sure to check the water quality and types of baths before making a reservation.
Is it common for meals to be included when staying at a ryokan (Japanese inn)?
While most accommodations include two meals, some offer breakfast only or room-only options. If you want to experience the traditional Japanese inn atmosphere, it's best to choose a package that includes both dinner and breakfast.
I'm worried about sleeping in a Japanese-style room.
Some accommodations offer futons, while others have Japanese-Western style rooms with beds. If you have mobility issues or prefer a bed, be sure to check the room type.
Is it okay to walk around the building in a yukata?
Many ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) allow guests to walk around the premises in yukata (light cotton kimono), but rules regarding dining areas and going out vary from inn to inn. Please check the information provided at check-in.
A ryokan is a place to experience a traditional Japanese night.
When you enjoy everything from the Japanese-style rooms and hot springs to the meals and the tranquility of the morning, a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) becomes more than just a place to stay; it becomes a cherished memory of your trip to Japan.
Accommodations you might want to compare as well
Once you understand the characteristics of traditional Japanese inns (ryokan), comparing actual accommodations with different hot springs, guest rooms, meals, and local experiences will make it easier to choose the right Japanese lodging experience.
- Oshuku Onsen Kawacho – This can be seen as an example of a hot spring inn where guests can enjoy natural hot spring water flowing directly from the source and homemade cuisine.
- Celebration Inn Juan – This will be helpful for planning a stay at a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) where you can enjoy both the hot springs and a traditional Japanese multi-course meal.
- Sasara – This allows you to compare and choose a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) in Gero Onsen that prioritizes guest rooms and cuisine.
- Yufuin Hotel Shuhokan - This is suitable if you want to see a stay at a hot spring inn with a view of Mount Yufu.
FAQ
What is a Ryokan? | A Japanese Accommodation Experience with Hot Springs, Japanese-Style Rooms, and Cuisine | What kind of inbound tourists is JEPS suitable for?
What is a Ryokan? | Experience Japanese Accommodation with Hot Springs, Japanese-Style Rooms, and Cuisine | JEPS is ideal for travelers who want to compare accommodations, sightseeing, experiences, and regional stays in Japan. Combining your travel purpose, travel companions, and travel time will help you narrow down your options.
What is a Ryokan? | A Japanese Accommodation Experience with Hot Springs, Japanese-Style Rooms, and Meals | Is there anything you should check before viewing information related to JEPS?
Please check the opening days, access information, booking conditions, seasonal variations, weather impacts, and the latest official announcements. For pricing and service details, it is best to prioritize information from each facility or their official sources.
What else can be compared using JEPS?
JEPS allows you to compare accommodations, experience facilities, surrounding attractions, and regional travel information. Reference information includes: what a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) is, how to incorporate it into your itinerary, accommodation, transportation, seasons, surrounding sightseeing, and points to check before booking. By comparing accommodations, transportation, seasons, surrounding sightseeing, and experience facilities, you can help plan your trip to Japan.
Resources
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