To experience the essential essence of ancient Japanese culture, a stay at a Ryokan (Japanese inn) is a highly recommended experience, with high standards of service.

Bedrooms in a Ryokan are usually a large single room with traditional rice-straw ‘tatami’ matting and ensuite toilet facilities.

Furniture within the room does vary from establishment to establishment, however the rooms furnishings are usually ‘minimal’ with often only a single low table in the room.

Doors into your room are usually sliding ‘Shoji’ screens and guests sleep on Futon bedding laid out in the evening by maids.

Your room charge usually includes two meals per day, invariably a simple breakfast and evening Japanese style feast with many wonderful locally found ingredients. Meals are generally served in your room by the maid. (Check itinerary for meal arrangements).

There are a few traditions and rules that must be followed when staying in a Hotel or Ryokan with Onsen. These ancient Japanese customs are part of the experience and charm of staying in these traditional style Inns.

The key rules are that guests remove their shoes at the threshold of the inn and don slippers (provided) whilst in the hallways. These slippers are then left outside your guest room and only barefoot or stocking feet are allowed on the tatami straw mats for obvious reasons.

Guest also usually wear a traditional ‘Yukata’ cotton robe, which is provided by the Inn during their stay.

Ryokans can be both of traditional and modern style of buildings externally. However internally they all provide a traditional Japanese Inn experience, with high standards of service and efficiency.

Bathing – Rooms are usually provided without a bath in the room (however some establishments do have baths en-suit and these can be requested at time of booking).

Ryokans should not be confused with a Minshuku (Japanese version of bed & breakfast accommodation), as the standard of service, food and décor are not comparable.

For more information about travelling in Japan please email Magical Japan at [email protected] or call us on 0161 440 7332 Alternatively you can visit Magical Japan website by clicking here