A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn — and staying at one is one of Japan's most distinctive experiences. The multi-course kaiseki dinner, yukata robes, tatami rooms, and communal onsen baths combine into something unlike any hotel stay. Here's what to expect.
What Makes a Ryokan Different
Traditional ryokan include: tatami-floored rooms with futon bedding (laid out by staff while you're at dinner) · yukata robes worn throughout the inn · kaiseki multi-course dinner (often 8–12 dishes) · Japanese-style breakfast · communal or private onsen baths · highly attentive staff (okami and nakai).
Types of Ryokan
Onsen ryokan: Built around natural hot spring baths — Hakone, Nikko, Kinosaki Onsen, Beppu, Yufuin. The bath is the centerpiece. Urban ryokan: In Kyoto or Kanazawa — traditional architecture and cuisine without necessarily having onsen. Minshuku: Budget ryokan equivalent — family-run, simpler food, shared bathrooms, ¥8,000–¥12,000/person.
What Kaiseki Dinner Involves
A typical kaiseki dinner has 8–12 courses: sakizuke (amuse-bouche) · hassun (seasonal platter) · soup · grilled fish · simmered dish · steamed dish · vinegared dish · rice and pickles · dessert. Eat slowly — these meals take 90 minutes to 2 hours. Dietary restrictions can usually be accommodated with advance notice.
Onsen Bathing in Ryokan
Most ryokan have communal baths (separated by gender) and some have private outdoor baths (kashikiri rotenburo) bookable by the hour. Shower before entering. No swimwear. Tattoos: some ryokan prohibit entry to communal baths — check when booking. Timing: early morning baths (6–8 AM) are least crowded.
Ryokan Etiquette
Remove shoes at the entrance and keep them in the provided locker. Wear yukata in public areas and to dinner (it's expected, not casual). Knock before entering rooms. The okami (inn manager) may greet you on arrival — a brief bow and thank-you is appropriate.
Pricing
Budget ryokan: ¥8,000–¥15,000 per person (including 2 meals). Mid-range: ¥15,000–¥30,000. Luxury: ¥30,000–¥80,000+. Prices are typically per person, not per room, and include dinner and breakfast.
Best Ryokan Destinations
Hakone: Most accessible from Tokyo — 90 min. Mt. Fuji views possible. Kinosaki Onsen (Hyogo): Charming onsen town; stroll between 7 public baths in yukata. Yufuin (Oita): Mountain valley with boutique ryokan and morning fog. Kanazawa: Traditional culture without the Kyoto crowds.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a ryokan cost per night?
Budget ryokan start around ¥8,000–12,000 per person. Mid-range ryokan with dinner and breakfast typically cost ¥18,000–35,000 per person. High-end ryokan range from ¥40,000–100,000+ per person.
What is included in a ryokan stay?
Most traditional ryokan include dinner (usually kaiseki, 8–12 courses) and breakfast, both served in your room or a private dining space. Yukata robes and toiletries are provided. Access to the onsen baths is always included.
Do you have to speak Japanese to stay in a ryokan?
Not necessarily. Many ryokan catering to tourists have English-speaking staff or use translation apps. Booking in English is possible through platforms like Booking.com, Jalan, or Rakuten Travel.
What should I wear in a ryokan?
Ryokan provide yukata (lightweight kimono) and tabi socks for wearing around the property, including to the baths and dinner. Wearing your yukata outside your room is expected and encouraged.