Introduction of Ryokans and Ryokans in Eastern Japan (Miyamaso Takamiya, Shikisai Ichiriki, Ujo-no-yado Shintsuta, Kannon Onsen) Special Feature 200806

Enjoy the benefits of staying at Ryokan
Enjoy the Japanese way! A unique, heart-warming experience

Booking a stay in a 'ryokan' (Japanese style inn) is a most pleasant manner for the foreign traveler to encounter the national culture and learn first-hand about ancient customs and the art of Japanese courtesy. Owners and staff at the inn consider it a pleasant duty to ensure the pleasure and comfort of their guest by paying attention to the smallest detail.

Click the Ryokan name for more detail.

Welcoming Guests
A pleasant and memorable stay for the guest!

Hospitality, superb food and gracious service best describe a traditional Japanese 'ryokan' (inn). The classic courtesy of a deep bow from 'nakai-san' (room attendant) headed by the 'okami' (manager) welcomes guests at the door. The 'okami' genuinely provides as close to motherly care and warmth as any weary traveler is likely to receive anywhere. From the owner through to the maid, the spirit of congenial yet respectful service is the essence that defines Japanese courtesy and genuine desire to be kind and helpful to the stranger far from home.

Okami
The 'okami' is the 'mother-spirit' of the inn and as such she'll happily bear the greatest responsibility to ensure the guest's comfort and pleasure; often she is also an owner's wife.

Japanese Style Rooms
Comfort, courtesy and tradition in a Japanese-style inn.

A guest room is called 'washitsu' (Japanese-style room) with the usual fresh-scented 'tatami' floor made of woven rice straw that is found

everywhere in the Japanese home. The 'futon' (bedding) is laid directly on the 'tatami', however, some low beds may be offered in some 'ryokan' for the comfort of foreigners. Soon after arrival, the 'nakai-san' in charge will bring a serving of tea and sweets, a gesture of hospitality deeply rooted in Japan.

Japanese style garden and other facilities
A 'ryokan' offers classic Japanese architecture, traditional gardens, souvenirs all-in-one!

The discerning guest will discover in a 'ryokan' the Japanese love of nature expressed in unique Japanese-style gardens. Featuring seasonal trees, bushes and flowers, with natural stones and sand carefully arranged to produce diverse landscapes in miniature, the garden is an integral part of Japanese architectural expression. Conveniently, a souvenir shop is often available to purchase mementos and local specialties.

Traditional Japanese Meals
A ryokan's menu is a symphony of colour, aroma and gourmet food!

The knowledgeable traveler who prizes fine food can do no better than dine in a 'ryokan'. 'Washoku' (traditional Japanese fare) not only titillates the palate but is presented in the most exquisite fashion to delight the eyes. Prepared with pride by the house chef, using only fresh and delicious ingredients, each elaborate dish is politely explained by the attendant for the diner's added enjoyment.

Onsen / Open-air hot spring bath
Rejuvenate body and soul in a 'ryokan's' hot spring!

Japan is known world-wide for the abundance and excellence of its mineral and hot waters springing from a volcanic geology. The therapeutic effects of an 'onsen' (hot-spring) have been acknowledged for centuries and a 'rotenburo' (open-air bath) set within a marvelous landscape is a memorable way to indulge one's body and soul in the 'ryokan' of your choice.

The etiquette of 'onsen' shower room facilities!

Entering or exiting a shared bathroom in an 'onsen', the user is good to wear a 'yukata'. Proper etiquette requires the bather to first remove all clothing in the changing room, place it in an empty basket and shower before entering to soak in the tub in order to maintain clean water for those that follow. Public shower rooms are gender separated and a swimming suit is not required or desired.

Yukata
As is 'de rigueur' in every Japanese home, guests are provided with slippers to be worn inside, for obvious reasons. Sets of 'yukata' (traditional Japanese wear), 'haori' (a loose jacket worn over the 'yukata') and 'obi' (sash) are provided along with usual toiletries.