Ryokan Holidays

A stay in a ryokan traditional inn is an unmissable experience on any Japan holiday, offering a superb insight into Japanese customs and home life. There are about 70,000 of these inns across the country, where one can spend one night or more nights, like in a hotel, but with a few rules of etiquette. In these beautiful traditional houses, built of wood, paper and bamboo, you will sleep on futon beds, often after you've enjoyed an onsen traditional hot bath, fed by a thermal spring. Another idiosyncracy of a ryokan holiday is the kaiseki dinners that are included in the price. These multi-course gourmet marathons showcase the ryokan's chef at his or her finest, and are served in your tatame-floored rooms. It's a special moment, particularly for gastronomic adventurers. We generally recommend alternating between 'western' style hotels and ryokans on your Japan holiday.

Ryokan holiday ideas

A few suggestions to get the holiday planning process started

  • One Country Japan – Tokyo – Aizuwakamatsu – Sendai – Lake Towada – Kakunodate – Ginsen Onsen – Tsuruoka

    Off-the-Beaten-Track in Japan - Majestic Mountains, Traditional Temples and Samurai Splendour

    Unveil a more serene side of Japan on this 16-day sojourn in the lesser-known Tohoku region

    16 days, from £3900 to £5800

  • One Country Japan – Tokyo – Kanazawa – Hida Furukawa – Kyoto

    Highlights of Japan - Tokyo, the Alps and Kyoto

    Discover the best Japan has to offer on this two-week highlights tour

    15 days, from £4300 to £5500

  • One Country Japan – Kyushu – Fukuoka – Nagasaki – Sukarajima

    Kyushu From Top to Tail - Cities, Hot Springs & Volcanoes

    Discover the vast variety of Japan’s southernmost island on this 16-day trip to Kyushu

    15 days, from £4900 to £6750

  • One Country Japan – Tokyo – Shuzenji – Kyoto

    Essential Japan - From Tokyo to Kyoto by Train

    Head to the Far East for 12 days of quintessentially Japanese culture between Tokyo and Kyoto

    12 days, from £5150 to £6650

  • One Country Japan – Tokyo – Shuzenji – Kyoto – Nara – Ise

    Japan in Style - Shimmering Cities & Serene Spirituality

    Sample the rich culture of Japan during this stylish two-week sojourn on the main island of Honshu

    14 days, from £10450 to £13550

Ryokan Guide

Practical advice and inspiration to help you prepare for your holiday