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A ryokan is a Japanese-style accommodation - a traditional Japanese hotel, so to speak. Ryokans can be found all over Japan, in big cities like Tokyo as well as in small villages. However, you will most often find ryokans in resort towns near onsen (the famous hot springs; here we have an article about it).
There are many different types of ryokans, from small, family-run guesthouses to ryokans that are as big as hotels and have several hundred rooms.
Why should I stay in a ryokan?
Ryokans are perfect for experiencing Japanese culture firsthand! They are usually furnished in the typical Japanese style, and authentic dishes are usually served. The atmosphere here is absolutely unique. This traditional accommodation is equally popular with Japanese holidaymakers and tourists - and for good reason! Budget travelers should definitely not miss out on this unforgettable experience!
How much does it cost to stay in a ryokan?
Of course, there are ryokans in different price categories, from budget offers to luxury accommodations. On average, overnight stays in a ryokan cost between 120 and 200 euros per night per person. However, food (dinner and breakfast) is included in this price!
What is there to eat in ryokans?
Both dinner and breakfast are usually offered. Ryokans are known for their excellent cuisine and serve "Japanese gourmet cuisine" (Kaiseki Ryori). This usually consists of several courses and various dishes. Local and seasonal specialties are on the menu - you often get dishes in ryokans that you won't find in other regions of Japan. Dinner is usually served between 6.00 p.m. and 7.00 p.m. Breakfast consists of a classic Japanese combination of rice, miso soup, tsukemono, grilled fish, tofu, fried egg or onsen egg, salad, vegetables, natto and tea. In some cases, a "western" breakfast may also be offered. If you want to know exactly what comes on the table at a typical Japanese breakfast, we have a post for you here:
How are ryokans furnished?
In your room in the ryokan you will not find Western furnishings, but tatami mats on the floor and futons instead of a bed. There is also usually a low table in the center of the room. In ryokans, you usually have your own private bathroom. There is often also a beautiful bath or spa area and a carefully maintained garden. Larger ryokans are sometimes also equipped with a restaurant, bar, karaoke or games room.
Yukata – The right clothes for ryokans
Ryokans usually wear specific, traditional clothing: A bathrobe that resembles a kimono, but is slightly lighter and made of cotton. This bathrobe is called a yukata, and it is usually provided by your ryokan. The yukata can be worn in the spa area as well as as loungewear. Guests in ryokans also wear it for breakfast, dinner and even walks outside - but primarily in onsen resort towns.
Ryokans we can recommend
Ichinao, Tokyo
Ryokan Ichinao welcomes you to Tokyo, 100 meters from Belle Salle Shinjuku Park and 200 meters from Geino Kadensha with air-conditioned rooms and a shared bathroom. This accommodation is located near attractions such as Shinjuku I Land, Belle Salle Shinjuku Grand Hall and LOVE Obhousing. The ryokan offers family rooms. Each room at the ryokan is equipped with a wardrobe. Source: booking.com
Toemu Nozawa, Nozawa Onsen
This property is located just a 10-minute walk from the Nozawa Onsen ski resort. The rooms in the cozy ryokan are fitted with tatami mats and futon beds. A low table and a TV can also be found in the room. Guests can relax in a large public bathhouse. There are barbecue facilities on the roof terrace. - Source: Booking.com
Oyado Koto No Yume, Takayama
Oyado Koto No Yume hotel welcomes you just a 2-minute walk from Takayama Station. Enjoy Japanese-style rooms with colorful interiors. The hotel features hot springs baths, a restaurant with breakfast and free Wi-Fi in all areas. This ryokan is featured in the Michelin Green Guide Japan.
Rooms are fitted with tatami mats and traditional futon beds. You will find a 40-inch flat-screen TV, a refrigerator, a coffee maker and a green tea set. Each room also comes with a bathroom with a shower, bathtub and toiletries. - Source: Booking.com
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