Ryokan: Why Stay in a Traditional Japanese Inn

If you're planning a trip to Japan, you've likely encountered recommendations to stay at a ryokan. 

A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn that goes well beyond a standard hotel. While some first-time visitors may feel intimidated by the cultural protocols and uncertainties surrounding ryokan stays, leaning into these and moving past the differences opens new doors into unique Japan travel experiences. 

This guide will help you understand exactly what to expect, how to choose the right ryokan & how to get the most from your ryokan stay in Japan.

What Makes a Ryokan Different from a Hotel

Let’s start by defining ryokan accommodations, and clearing up some misconceptions. 

The classic ryokan in Japan features outstanding personal service, old-school architectural elements and meticulous attention to detail in everything from room preparation to meal service.

Not every inn calling itself a ryokan offers a genuine traditional experience. And not every Japanese-style room is in a ryokan. 

Also, the physical space of a ryokan is rather different from Western hotels. 

Guest rooms feature tatami mat flooring, with furniture typically limited to a low table and floor cushions. It’s that hallmark “minimalism” that Japan is famous for.

Your sleeping arrangements comprise a futon mattress that staff members lay out each evening and store away each morning. This futon is different from that American “futon” that’s famous for college and single-guy apartments. 

The room entrance includes a genkan (formal entryway) where you remove your shoes before stepping onto the tatami.

Most ryokan include private bathrooms in guest rooms today, though they may be compact. 

A unique experience happens in the public baths, which often feature natural hot spring water (onsen). These baths form an integral part of the ryokan experience, with specific areas or times designated for male and female bathing.

As you can see, the ryokan experience fits well with the concept of slow travel in Japan, stepping back in time and away from devices and crowds.

Price Points & Value Proposition for Japanese Inns

Ryokan stays typically cost more than standard hotels. 

Entry-level ryokan start around ¥15,000 per person per night, with high-end properties easily exceeding ¥50,000 per person. However, the higher rates usually include dinner and breakfast, both substantial meals featuring local and seasonal specialties.

The value proposition extends beyond meals. You're paying for attentive service, access to communal baths and an authentic experience in a somewhat vanishing facet of Japanese culture. 

Many ryokan limit their guest numbers specifically to maintain high service standards, with staff-to-guest ratios far exceeding typical hotels.

Types of Ryokan to Experience in Japan

City Ryokan

Urban ryokan, found in cities like Kyoto, Kanazawa and Takayama, typically occupy historic buildings in traditional districts. Tokyo ryokan are not non-existent, but tend to be more on the edges of the city (still these are often in neighborhoods with local charm and character).

They often feature smaller rooms and may or may not include dinner service, though they maintain traditional architectural elements and service standards. These properties suit travelers who want a taste of traditional accommodation while maintaining easy access to city attractions.

Resort Ryokan

Located in onsen hot spring towns or scenic rural areas, resort ryokan emphasize relaxation and natural surroundings. 

These properties often feature extensive gardens, multiple bathing facilities and elaborate kaiseki cuisine. Many include both indoor and outdoor baths, with some rooms featuring private outdoor tubs. 

Resort ryokan work best when you can stay for at least two nights, allowing time to fully enjoy the facilities.

Historic Ryokan

Some ryokan have operated continuously for centuries, often remaining in the same family for generations. 

These properties typically preserve historical architecture and design while incorporating modern comforts. Many rank among Japan's most expensive accommodations, with strict booking policies and limited availability. You can even find great ryokan in cities and regions of Japan that are hidden gems!

Ryokan Life: A Slice of Old Japan

Check-in Procedures

Ryokan usually have strict check-in times, typically between 3:00 and 5:00 PM. This schedule allows staff to properly prepare rooms and coordinate dinner service. Upon arrival, staff members guide you through the property's layout and explain essential details like dinner time, bath hours & breakfast arrangements.

If your travel schedule dictates that you’ll arrive later than the allotted check-in time, be sure to speak directly with the ryokan staff ahead of time. This is one of the services we’re happy to take care of for clients at Japan Travel Pros, acting as your representative in Japan to tend to details with hotels, ryokan and other service providers – many of whom have limited or little English.

Ryokan Room Features & Etiquette

Your room in the ryokan serves multiple purposes throughout the day, transforming from living room to dining room to bedroom. The minimal furniture allows this flexibility, with staff members rearranging items as needed. A typical room includes:

The main room features tatami mat flooring and usually houses the low table where you'll take meals if you've opted for in-room dining. Windows often overlook a small garden or other scenic view, with screens that can be adjusted for privacy and light control.

The entry area (genkan) includes space for removing shoes and often contains a small closet for storing luggage and the futon bedding during the day. Some rooms include a small ante-room with chairs, offering an alternative to floor seating.

Most rooms feature an alcove (tokonoma) displaying seasonal flower arrangements or art pieces. These items change regularly to reflect seasonal themes and should not be touched or moved by guests.

Many ryokan provide yukata (casual cotton robes) for guests to wear during their stay. These prove particularly convenient for visiting the baths and moving around the property. Staff will explain how to wear the yukata properly and provide appropriate sizes for each guest.

Meals in the Ryokan: A Big Highlight

Dinner typically begins between 6:00 and 7:30 PM, with the exact time arranged at check-in r beforehand. 

Many of the ryokan will offer serve dinner in your room, with staff members carefully timing each course's arrival. The meal often extends over two hours, featuring seasonal ingredients prepared in various styles. This is a unique Japanese experience not to be missed!

Breakfast, usually served between 7:00 and 8:30 AM, offers another special meal. Traditional Japanese breakfast includes rice, miso soup, grilled fish and various side dishes. Some ryokan offer Western breakfast alternatives, though these rarely match the quality of their Japanese offerings.

Ryokan Bath Culture & Protocols

Baths form a central part of the ryokan experience. Most properties offer set bathing hours, typically from early morning until midnight, with a break for cleaning. The bathing area includes:

A changing room with baskets or lockers for clothing and small towels for modesty. You'll receive these towels in your room or at check-in.

The washing area features individual stations with stools, hand showers & toiletries. Thorough washing occurs here before entering the bath.

The main bath may be indoor, outdoor or both, often featuring different water temperatures and mineral content. Some ryokan rotate bath access between males and females to allow all guests to experience different bathing areas.

Making the Most of Your Ryokan Stay

Timing Your Visit

Ryokans can get booked up pretty quickly, especially the nicer ones in the most popular areas of Japan. Look at visiting during shoulder seasons (October-November or May-June) when ryokan rates may be lower and availability higher. Weekday stays often cost less than weekends, with many ryokan properties offering special rates for multiple-night stays.

Booking & Room Selection

Most ryokan offer different room categories based on size, view & amenities. Consider splurging on a room with a private outdoor bath for a special occasion, or opt for a garden view to enjoy seasonal changes. Corner rooms typically offer more privacy and often feature better views.

The majority but not all Japanese ryokan accept credit cards; check ahead of time in the booking process. Remember that Japan is a safe country, and carrying the amounts of cash needed for a ryokan stay is very common.

Many ryokan can be booked online, either on their own website or on third-party (OTA) websites. We encourage clients to book directly with the ryokan, either online or by email/phone. Some ryokan do not require credit cards for advance payment or guarantee and accept cash at the time of stay. If you have any questions or aren’t sure about the booking process, we’re here to help!

Meal Preferences

Let the ryokan staff know about dietary restrictions well in advance. While ryokan can usually accommodate basic preferences (no raw fish, vegetarian, etc.), they need adequate notice to prepare alternatives that maintain their culinary standards.

Cultural Sensitivity

Staff members take genuine pride in maintaining ryokan traditions and appreciate guests who show interest in learning proper protocols. Basic courtesies include:

Following check-in and meal times precisely, as delays can impact service for all guests.

Removing shoes at the entrance and wearing provided slippers in common areas (except on tatami).

Speaking quietly in common areas and keeping phone conversations private.

Ryokan: A Japanese Stay You’ll Remember Forever

A ryokan stay gives you Japanese hospitality traditions while providing a relaxing and unique cultural experience. 

The best way to enjoy ryokan life is to know what to expect and to embrace the differences compared to a standard hotel stay. While the cost may exceed standard hotels, it’s a stay unlike any other, and one you’re likely to remember fondly for many years to come.

Want to find out more about incorporating a ryokan into your Japan trip? Schedule a free Japan travel consultation using the calendar tool below!