If you’re planning a trip to Japan, one of the most authentic cultural experiences you can have is staying at a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn. Unlike standard hotels, ryokans combine history, hospitality, and local traditions—often with direct access to relaxing onsen hot springs. For travelers who want to go beyond sightseeing and truly immerse themselves in Japanese culture, a ryokan stay is unforgettable.
What Is a Ryokan?
A ryokan is a Japanese-style inn with roots dating back to the Edo period (1603–1868). These establishments were originally rest stops for samurai and travelers, but today they are cherished cultural institutions. Ryokans differ from hotels in both design and philosophy:
- Rooms are outfitted with tatami mat flooring, sliding paper doors (shoji), and futons instead of Western beds.
- Décor emphasizes natural materials, minimalism, and harmony with the surroundings.
- Hospitality is centered on omotenashi—Japanese-style care and consideration for guests.
For many, a ryokan stay is about slowing down, appreciating seasonal beauty, and enjoying a deeper cultural connection.
Why Stay at a Ryokan?
There are several reasons travelers seek out ryokans instead of modern hotels:
- Authentic Cultural Experience – Sleep on futons, wear yukata robes, and enjoy tea ceremonies.
- Onsen Access – Many ryokans are located in hot spring towns, offering serene indoor and outdoor baths.
- Gourmet Dining – Ryokans typically serve kaiseki cuisine, a multi-course meal that highlights seasonal ingredients and regional flavors.
- Peaceful Atmosphere – Ryokans are designed for relaxation, often with gardens, tatami lounges, and quiet common areas.
- Scenic Locations – Many ryokans are found in the countryside, mountains, or near lakes and rivers, creating a tranquil escape.
What to Expect During a Ryokan Stay
Staying at a ryokan is very different from checking into a Western-style hotel. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Arrival and Welcome
- Guests are greeted with tea and a small sweet.
- Shoes must be removed before entering the room.
2. Room Setup
- Rooms feature low wooden tables and zabuton cushions.
- At night, futons are laid out by staff and stored away during the day.
3. Wearing a Yukata
- Guests receive a yukata (light cotton kimono) to wear around the inn.
- Yukata can be worn to meals, baths, and while walking in nearby onsen towns.
4. Meals
- Dinner and breakfast are usually included.
- Expect kaiseki ryori, a multi-course meal featuring local delicacies, sashimi, grilled fish, seasonal vegetables, and hotpot dishes.
- Breakfast is often a set Japanese meal of rice, miso soup, pickles, grilled fish, and tamagoyaki (Japanese omelet).
5. Onsen Bathing
- Many ryokans feature communal hot spring baths.
- Baths are usually separated by gender.
- Guests are expected to wash thoroughly before entering the bath.
- Some ryokans offer private open-air baths (rotenburo) or in-room baths.
Ryokan Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts
To make the most of your stay, it’s important to follow ryokan etiquette:
- Do remove shoes before entering tatami areas.
- Do wear the yukata provided.
- Don’t wear swimsuits in onsen baths.
- Do wash and rinse before soaking in the hot spring.
- Do arrive on time for dinner, as meals are served at fixed hours.
- Don’t be loud in public spaces—ryokans are places of rest and tranquility.
How Much Does a Ryokan Stay Cost?
Prices vary widely depending on location, luxury level, and whether meals and private baths are included.
- Budget Ryokans: ¥10,000–¥15,000 per person per night ($70–$120).
- Mid-Range Ryokans: ¥20,000–¥35,000 per person per night ($150–$250).
- Luxury Ryokans: ¥50,000+ per person per night ($350+).
Keep in mind that prices often include dinner and breakfast, making them good value compared to hotels plus dining.
Best Onsen Towns for Ryokan Stays
Japan is dotted with famous onsen towns where ryokans thrive. Some of the most popular include:
Hakone (Near Tokyo)
Just 90 minutes from Tokyo, Hakone offers Mt. Fuji views, beautiful ryokans, and abundant onsen.
Kusatsu Onsen (Gunma Prefecture)
Famous for its high-quality sulfuric waters, Kusatsu is one of Japan’s most historic onsen towns.
Kinosaki Onsen (Hyogo Prefecture)
A charming town where guests stroll in yukata from bathhouse to bathhouse.
Beppu (Oita, Kyushu)
One of Japan’s most famous hot spring destinations with countless ryokans and unique hot spring experiences.
Yufuin (Oita, Kyushu)
A peaceful countryside town with luxury ryokans, farm-to-table meals, and scenic mountain views.
Gero Onsen (Gifu Prefecture)
Known as one of Japan’s top three hot springs, Gero is home to many traditional ryokans.
How to Book a Ryokan
Booking a ryokan is slightly different from reserving a hotel:
- Use English-Friendly Booking Sites – Websites like Rakuten Travel, Booking.com, and Japanican often have ryokan listings.
- Book Early – Popular ryokans sell out months in advance, especially during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.
- Check for Meal Plans – Many ryokans only offer room + meals packages.
- Consider Accessibility – Some ryokans are remote and may require train, bus, or taxi access.
FAQs About Staying at a Ryokan
1. Do I have to wear a yukata? No, but it’s highly encouraged and part of the experience. Most guests enjoy wearing it around the ryokan.
2. Are tattoos allowed in ryokans? Some ryokans have restrictions. It’s best to check in advance. Many places are becoming more tattoo-friendly, and private baths are a good option.
3. Can I stay at a ryokan with children? Yes, though some luxury ryokans cater more to adults. Family-friendly ryokans exist in major hot spring towns.
4. Is English spoken at ryokans? In popular tourist areas like Hakone and Kyoto, staff may speak English. In rural ryokans, communication may be limited, but hospitality transcends language.
5. Do ryokans have Wi-Fi? Some do, but many encourage unplugging and relaxing without technology.
6. How many nights should I stay? Most travelers spend one or two nights. Longer stays are possible but can be costly.
A stay at a ryokan in Japan is more than just accommodation—it’s a cultural journey. From sleeping on tatami floors and soaking in onsen baths to dining on exquisite kaiseki cuisine, ryokans offer a uniquely Japanese experience that can’t be found anywhere else. Whether you choose a simple countryside inn or a luxury onsen ryokan with private hot springs, the memories will last a lifetime.
If you’re planning a trip, check out our full onsens directory to find the best onsen towns and ryokans across Japan.
For more information go to Japan Ryokan and Hotel Association www.ryokan.or.jp