Everything You Need to Know About Ryokans, Traditional Japanese Inns!

A Traditional Form of Lodging

Ryokans trace their origins to the old inns that welcomed travelers and pilgrims as they journeyed along the country’s roads. These inns emerged during the Edo period (1603–1868), at the same time as major highways such as the Tōkaidō, which connects Edo ( Tokyo) to Kyoto. Over time, these establishments evolved into the ryokan as we know them today, with their tatami-mat rooms, futons, onsen (hot springs), and traditional kaiseki cuisine .

Even since the arrival of Western-style hotels, ryokan remain a major symbol of Japanese hospitality and continue to offer an experience sought after by many foreign travelers.

A typically Japanese experience

Meals are generally eaten fairly early—between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. for dinner and between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. for breakfast. Breakfast may be served directly in the guest’s room or in a separate dining hall, depending on the establishment. The cuisine is kaiseki-style, characterized by a variety of small dishes prepared with local and seasonal ingredients.

Enjoying the Onsen

In addition to the rooms and meals, one of the biggest draws of a ryokan is the quality of its onsen hot spring . True havens of relaxation, ryokans feature indoor and outdoor baths (rotenburo), which sometimes offer beautiful views of the surrounding landscape !

You must bathe naked in an onsen, whether it is a private bath or one open to all guests. You must also wash yourself thoroughly beforehand in the area provided for that purpose: entering the water shared by everyone without having cleaned yourself properly would make a very bad impression. Finally, everyone is expected to be respectful of other bathers. Loud conversations and sudden movements in the baths should be avoided. You should also tie back long hair and avoid getting it wet.

Note: Most establishments deny access to the baths to people with tattoos, but they can still enjoy the onsen under certain conditions —for example, by covering them with patches or limiting themselves to private baths. We recommend checking in advance or asking directly at the front desk.

What kind of ryokan should you choose?

There is a wide variety of ryokans, and you can choose one based on your preferences, budget, or the type of setting you’re looking for. Some are small, family-run inns with just a few rooms, while others are large establishments that can accommodate a large number of guests.

The level of luxury also varies widely: simple, affordable ryokans offer a traditional experience without any unnecessary amenities, while high-end establishments feature more spacious rooms and large private baths.

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