Japanese Ryokan: What It’s Like To Stay In A Traditional Inn

Traveling to Japan is to discover one of the most well-known, exotic and different cultures, if we compare it with the western one. And this is what makes the trip more attractive. If you are looking to get in touch with their traditions, there is nothing like staying in a Japanese ryokan. What does it consist of? Why should you consider it? Find out!

What is a Japanese ryokan ?

A Japanese ryokan is a traditional accommodation. They were born with the objective of hosting visitors in the short term. Specifically, they began to originate in the 8th century during the Nara period as free rest lodges for those travelers who had no place to stay.

In those days it was dangerous to be in the street, so the ryokan served as a refuge and rest. The first were from Buddhist temples to aristocratic houses that gave space for free. However, as early as the 12th century, travelers were charged for the cost of the wood used for heating and cooking.

Little by little, they were gaining popularity, to the point that in the 18th century more than a million and a half people used this type of accommodation. For this reason, a hotel culture began to emerge around these inns that became more sophisticated over the years.

What is it like to stay in one of them?

The experience of staying in a Japanese ryokan is a must try if you are going to travel to Japan. As soon as you enter you will feel like a true Japanese. From the reception, the staff (especially women) will escort you to your room, which can be Western or Japanese style, with a futon to sleep on.

In the bedroom you have a sliding door that leads to the bathroom. Another is a closet where you can store your belongings and put on typical Japanese clothes ( jukata , haori and stockings). And there is a main room with a low table and Japanese chairs.

Depending on the service you have, you will have a choice of shared bathrooms or not. Also a kitchen service that will offer you the possibility of tasting the typical dishes of Japan. You can enjoy gardens to walk around and, in some cases, thermal baths. Luxury is served by the hand of the best Japanese culture

Why stay in a Japanese ryokan ?

Currently, the ryokan  are used as luxury accommodations for visitors from the West. This form of accommodation causes a lot of curiosity among foreign travelers, since they serve to get in touch with Japanese culture, style and gastronomy. That is, a way of feeling Japanese for a day.

Although the prices are now expensive, we recommend that you stay at least one night in one of them to fully immerse yourself in their culture. You can dress in their clothes, follow their schedules, their customs and taste their foods.

How much does it cost to stay in one of them?

Now that we know all about these guest houses, it is worth wondering their price. We must be clear that the final rate will vary depending on the luxury of the Japanese ryokán in which you stay, as well as the services you want to hire.

The simplest accommodations vary from 150 euros per night to almost 500 euros in the most luxurious. Everything will depend on the number of people you want to stay with, since the more people, the lower the price.

If you can’t afford it, you have a very similar option, but slightly cheaper. The minshuku are very similar to a Japanese ryokan. The difference is that these are private houses where they let you stay in the guest room. You must put the bedding yourself and follow the rules.

Staying in a Japanese ryokan is a golden opportunity to come into direct contact with Japanese culture. So now you know, get ready to feel Japanese for a day, enjoy the clothes, the thermal baths, the opportunity to sleep on a futon and, above all, the luck of traveling to one of the most special countries in Asia. Enjoy your trip!