A ryokan stay is one of Japan’s most distinctive travel experiences — tatami floors, futon bedding, kaiseki multi-course dinners, and private or communal onsen. This guide covers the different types of ryokan, what’s included, and how to book.
Types of Ryokan
- Onsen ryokan: The classic type; located in an onsen resort area (Hakone, Kinosaki, Kurokawa, Arima). Rate typically includes dinner and breakfast (nippaku-nishoku).
- Historic ryokan: Old buildings with registered cultural significance; some date back centuries. Prioritise atmosphere and history over modern facilities.
- Modern ryokan (neo-ryokan): Contemporary design with traditional hospitality principles; often found in city centres. May not include onsen.
- Budget ryokan (yado): Simpler facilities with the core tatami/futon experience at lower price points; meals may be optional or not included.
What’s Typically Included
- Accommodation: Tatami room with futon laid out by staff in the evening.
- Yukata: Cotton robe provided for wearing around the inn and to the baths.
- Dinner (kaiseki): Multi-course dinner of seasonal local ingredients, served in your room or a dining room. One of the highlights of a ryokan stay.
- Breakfast: Traditional Japanese breakfast — rice, miso soup, grilled fish, pickles, egg.
- Onsen access: Communal indoor and outdoor baths; some rooms have private baths (kazoku-buro or in-room rotenburo).
How to Book
- Booking platforms: Jalan and Rakuten Travel are Japan’s main domestic booking platforms (Japanese language). Ikyu specialises in luxury ryokan. International platforms (Booking.com, Expedia) list some ryokan but with less complete inventory.
- Direct booking: Many ryokan have English-language websites and prefer direct email enquiries for complex requests (dietary restrictions, room type, private bath). A simple enquiry email in polite English is usually welcome.
- Advance booking: Popular ryokan in Hakone and Kinosaki book out 1–3 months ahead, especially for weekend and Golden Week dates.
- Price: Budget ryokan start from around ¥8,000 per person per night (including meals). Mid-range ¥15,000–¥30,000. Luxury ¥50,000+.
Ryokan Etiquette
- Remove shoes at the entrance (genkan) and put on indoor slippers.
- Change into yukata on arrival; wear yukata to the baths and common areas.
- Meals are served at fixed times; inform the inn in advance of dietary restrictions.
- Tipping is not practised in Japan; excellent service is standard.
- Check-in is typically 3–4 pm; check-out 10–11 am.
For related content, see the ryokan guide, Japan onsen guide, and onsen etiquette guide.