The Ultimate Guide to Ryokan Stays: A Japanese Tradition You Can't Miss

A ryokan stay offers an authentic experience of traditional Japanese hospitality, culture, and design. This guide provides a comprehensive look at what to expect, how to behave, and how to enjoy your time at a ryokan. Plus, we’ve highlighted some of the most popular ryokans in Kyoto, Hakone, and Tokyo to help you plan your stay.

Introduction: What Is a Ryokan?

A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn, offering an immersive cultural experience that focuses on relaxation, hospitality, and deep connection with nature. Staying in a ryokan is more than just a place to sleep – it’s an opportunity to experience Japan’s history, customs, and cuisine in an intimate setting.

Unlike modern hotels, ryokans offer guests a taste of Japanese tradition, from sleeping on tatami mats to soaking in natural hot springs. Ryokans are known for their serene atmosphere, attention to detail, and the warmth of their hosts. Whether you're traveling for a few days or as part of a longer cultural tour, staying in a ryokan should be on your Japan bucket list.

In this guide, we’ll break down the essential steps to prepare for your ryokan stay, and we’ll also recommend some of the best ryokans in three iconic locations: Kyoto, Hakone, and Tokyo.

1. What to Expect During a Ryokan Stay

Tatami Mat Rooms

Traditional ryokan rooms are often furnished with tatami mats—woven straw mats used to cover the floor. These mats have been an integral part of Japanese interior design for centuries. The room will usually feature sliding paper doors (shoji), and you may be asked to remove your shoes when entering.

At night, you’ll be given a futon (Japanese bedding), which consists of a mattress placed directly on the tatami floor, along with a duvet and pillows. While this might seem unfamiliar at first, futons are surprisingly comfortable and contribute to a peaceful night’s sleep.

Onsen Baths

Many ryokans are equipped with onsen (hot spring baths), which are a central feature of the experience. Bathing in an onsen is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, believed to provide therapeutic benefits. Ryokans either have communal or private onsens. When using a communal bath, be sure to wash and rinse yourself thoroughly before entering the hot spring, as cleanliness is a fundamental aspect of onsen etiquette.

Traditional Japanese Cuisine (Kaiseki)

Another highlight of staying in a ryokan is the food. A traditional kaiseki meal is a multi-course dinner that features seasonal ingredients, beautifully arranged dishes, and delicate flavors. This meal is often served in your room, and the presentation is an art form in itself. Expect fresh fish, simmered vegetables, rice, soup, and pickles, all designed to be enjoyed in a particular order.

For breakfast, many ryokans serve a traditional Japanese meal with grilled fish, miso soup, rice, and various side dishes.

Customer Service (Omotenashi)

Japanese hospitality, or omotenashi, is known for its thoughtfulness and attention to detail. Ryokan staff will greet you with a warm welcome and ensure that you have everything you need during your stay. The service is typically personalized, with staff offering assistance whenever necessary. In many ryokans, you may even be served tea in your room to help you unwind.

2. How to Behave and Etiquette at a Ryokan

To get the most out of your ryokan experience, there are certain etiquette norms you should follow:

Remove Your Shoes

When entering the ryokan, be sure to remove your shoes at the genkan (entrance) and place them in a designated area or shoe rack. You’ll be provided with slippers to wear indoors, but remember to remove them when entering areas like the bathroom or the tatami rooms.

Bathing Etiquette

If your ryokan has an onsen, always wash and rinse your body thoroughly before entering the communal bath. Use the small stools provided to sit and shower with a hand-held showerhead. Never dip your towel into the onsen water, and remember to keep noise to a minimum.

Treat Your Room with Respect

Japanese culture emphasizes respect for the environment, and this includes the ryokan. Take care of the room, and don’t leave belongings scattered around. If the ryokan offers a yukata (a casual cotton robe), feel free to wear it while relaxing in your room or dining, but be sure to follow the specific dress code for each area.

Respect the Hosts and Fellow Guests

Ryokans often cater to guests who are there to relax, so maintain a quiet and calm demeanor. The atmosphere is typically tranquil, and you should be considerate of others by keeping noise levels low and maintaining an atmosphere of respect.

3. Popular Ryokans in Kyoto, Hakone, and Tokyo

Now that you know what to expect, let's explore some of the top ryokans in Kyoto, Hakone, and Tokyo. These destinations are perfect for those seeking to experience the essence of traditional Japan, combined with excellent hospitality and stunning views.

Kyoto

1. Gion Hatanaka
Located in the historic Gion district, Gion Hatanaka offers a classic ryokan experience in the heart of Kyoto. The ryokan features elegant tatami mat rooms and offers kaiseki meals prepared with seasonal ingredients. Gion Hatanaka is within walking distance of famous landmarks such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Yasaka Shrine, making it an ideal spot to explore Kyoto’s rich history.

Address: 3-5-25 Gionmachi Minamigawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
Website: Gion Hatanaka

2. Tawaraya Ryokan
Tawaraya is one of Kyoto’s most famous and oldest ryokans, known for its impeccable service and luxurious setting. The ryokan’s beautifully landscaped garden and tranquil atmosphere make it a haven for relaxation. Guests can enjoy traditional Japanese meals and peaceful moments in the private gardens.

Address: 273, Nakanocho, Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
Website: Tawaraya Ryokan

Hakone

3. Gora Kadan
Nestled in the picturesque Hakone area, Gora Kadan offers a perfect blend of luxury and traditional ryokan charm. The ryokan’s onsen boasts views of Mount Fuji, and the rooms are equipped with tatami mats, futons, and a serene atmosphere. The kaiseki meals are some of the best in Hakone, focusing on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Address: 1300 Gora, Hakone, Kanagawa
Website: Gora Kadan

4. Hakone Suishoen
Another high-end ryokan in Hakone, Hakone Suishoen provides guests with a private onsen experience in their rooms. The ryokan is perfect for those seeking peace and quiet amidst nature, with lush greenery and mountain views surrounding the property.

Address: 1051-31 Sengokuhara, Hakone, Kanagawa
Website: Hakone Suishoen

Tokyo

5. Hoshinoya Tokyo
For those who want the ryokan experience in the heart of Tokyo, Hoshinoya Tokyo is the place to stay. Located in the Otemachi area, it offers an urban take on the ryokan experience with tatami rooms, kaiseki meals, and a hot spring bath. Guests can enjoy the unique contrast of traditional ryokan atmosphere while being close to Tokyo’s bustling city life.

Address: 1-9-1 Otemachi, Chiyoda, Tokyo
Website: Hoshinoya Tokyo

6. Andon Ryokan
Andon Ryokan is a charming ryokan located in Taito, Tokyo. It combines traditional Japanese elements with a modern flair. The ryokan offers affordable stays with a variety of amenities, including private onsen baths and the opportunity to wear yukata and experience a true Japanese-style evening.

Address: 2-34-10, Nishiasakusa, Taito, Tokyo
Website: Andon Ryokan

Embrace Japanese Tradition Through Ryokan Stays

A ryokan stay is the perfect way to immerse yourself in Japan’s rich cultural heritage while enjoying modern comforts. Whether you're in Kyoto, Hakone, or Tokyo, these traditional inns offer a unique opportunity to experience Japanese hospitality, cuisine, and history.

By understanding the customs and etiquette of ryokans, you’ll be able to relax and fully appreciate the serene atmosphere that makes these accommodations so special. Book your stay at one of these iconic ryokans and enjoy a culturally immersive experience that you’ll never forget.