Ryokan Stays
Other FAQ's
Staying in a ryokan in Japan is a uniquely special and memorable experience that offers a deep connection to traditional Japanese culture and hospitality.
Unlike Western hotels, a ryokan immerses guests in Japanese customs, architecture, and lifestyle, often in serene natural settings or historic towns.
Guests are welcomed with warm hospitality, known as omotenashi, and often served green tea upon arrival. Rooms feature tatami mat flooring, sliding shoji doors, and futon bedding laid out in the evening.
Many ryokan have onsen (hot spring baths), where guests can relax in steaming mineral-rich waters, often with scenic views.
One of the highlights is the kaiseki dinner, a multi-course meal prepared with seasonal and local ingredients, beautifully presented and served in-room or in a traditional dining hall. Breakfast is usually a Japanese-style meal with grilled fish, rice, and miso soup.
Guests are typically given a yukata (light kimono) to wear during their stay, adding to the relaxed, immersive experience. Silence, etiquette, and respect for traditions are valued, creating a calm, reflective atmosphere.
A stay at a ryokan is not just about accommodation — it's about experiencing Japanese culture in its most authentic and refined form. It's peaceful, personal, and deeply rewarding.
What Is a Ryokan?
A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn that offers a cultural experience steeped in history, simplicity, and omotenashi (Japanese hospitality). Expect:
Tatami-mat flooring
Futon bedding
Shoji sliding doors
Communal baths (onsen)
Seasonal multi-course meals (kaiseki)
They're found across Japan, especially in hot spring (onsen) towns, mountain areas, and historical cities like Kyoto, Hakone, and Takayama.
What to Expect
Check-In
Staff will welcome you warmly, usually with green tea and a sweet.
You’ll be given a yukata (a light cotton kimono) to wear during your stay.
Shoes are removed at the entrance and swapped for slippers.
Room Features
Rooms are minimalist: tatami floors, low tables, sliding paper doors, and often no bed (yet).
While you're at dinner, staff will prepare the futon bedding on the floor.
A private toilet and sink may be provided, but baths are often shared.
Ryokan Etiquette & Traditions
Shoes & Slippers
Remove shoes at the entrance.
Use provided slippers indoors, but take them off when stepping onto tatami.
Use toilet slippers in the bathroom, and don’t wear them elsewhere.
Wearing the Yukata
You can wear the yukata anywhere inside (and often outside) the ryokan.
Wrap the left side over the right — the opposite is used for funerals.
Use the obi belt to tie it around your waist.
Bathing Etiquette (Onsen or Shared Baths)
Shower first before entering the bath.
Soak quietly — no splashing or swimming.
Do not bring towels into the bath.
Tattoos may not be allowed — check in advance.
Meals: Kaiseki Dinner & Japanese Breakfast
Kaiseki Dinner (Dinner is usually included)
Served in your room or a dining hall.
A multi-course haute cuisine meal, highlighting regional and seasonal ingredients.
Dishes include:
Appetizer (sakizuke)
Soup (suimono)
Sashimi (otsukuri)
Grilled dish (yakimono)
Steamed dish (mushimono)
Fried dish (agemono)
Pickles, rice & miso soup
Dessert
Meals are a central part of the ryokan experience — dietary restrictions should be communicated when booking.
Japanese Breakfast
Includes grilled fish, rice, miso soup, pickles, tofu, and seaweed.
Usually served early (around 7–8 AM) in a dining room or your room.
Sleeping: Futon on Tatami
Your futon will be set up while you dine.
Bedding is firm but cozy, often with a duvet and extra layers if it’s cold.
In the morning, staff may pack away your bedding.
Top Tips
Check-in is usually between 3:00–6:00 PM.
Dinner is served early, often starting between 6:00–7:30 PM.
Late arrivals may miss dinner, so plan to arrive on time.
Wi-Fi may be limited or absent, especially in traditional countryside ryokan.
Many ryokan only accept cash or charge extra for card use — bring yen.
What to Bring
Personal toiletries (some ryokan provide minimal amenities)
Comfortable socks (tatami is delicate, no shoes allowed)
A book or journal for a screen-free, peaceful evening
Staying in a ryokan is a truly immersive cultural experience that offers a chance to slow down, appreciate Japanese aesthetics, and enjoy exquisite food and scenery.
It's not just accommodation — it’s a memory you’ll treasure long after your trip ends.
