A Ryokan is a traditional Japanese style inn which is popular throughout Japan and can be found abundantly in hot springs regions. Staying at a Ryokan is a great way to absorb the authentic Japanese lifestyle and hospitality. Ryokans feature different elements such as tatami floors, futon beds, Japanese style baths, and local cuisine. Guest will experience a full Japanese experience with a traditional Japanese dinner (kaiseki) while wearing a yukata (traditional Japanese robe, similar to a Kimono).

Ryokans are unlike hotels since it is more of an experience to stay at one rather than just a place to rest your head. There are various kinds of Ryokans in Japan that come in all different shapes and sizes along with different budgets. Some ryokans are large hotel-like facilities and some are small family run units with just a few rooms. It is well worth it to at least stay a night at a Ryokan when you visit Japan for a unique experience.

A Ryokan room typically features Japanese decor with tatami (woven-straw) matting, and futon beds, most rooms are minimalistic with little to no furniture and a Zen atmosphere. Guests trade in their shoes and street clothes for traditional yukata (Japanese robe) and slippers. Ryokans typically feature onsite onsen hot springs and serve multi-course kaiseki dinner and Japanese breakfast.

Onsens are very popular in Japan as bathing is an important part of Japanese culture. Most Ryokans in Japan feature hot springs and unique onsen culture with many travelers who make their journey to ryokans just to enjoy the hot springs. Relaxing in a Japanese onsen is therapeutic, but there are a few tips to follow when bathing in an onsen.

Onsens are gender-separated (very few are communal) and swimsuits are not permitted, a private onsen allows you to bath in privacy. Guests must pass through a changing room, shed your clothes, shower off and head to the onsen with your small and large towels. The small towel can be used to take out the onsen and to cover yourself before entering the water, the towels must not go in the water!

The Japanese do not commonly have tattoos, as they are seen as symbols of the Japanese underworld. If you have a tattoo and are a non-Japanese guest at an onset typically this does not apply to you, but if a Japanese guest complains you might be asked to leave. If it is possible try to cover your tattoos before entering the onsen with a bandage, if this is not possible it might be best to select a private onsen.

There are several different kinds of onsens found throughout Japan including indoor, outdoor, private, and shared. Mostly all onsens are gender separated as bathers wear no clothing. An outdoor onsen is typically one of the best to visit as bathers can soak up the refreshing waters and the spectacular natural landscape and surroundings which can include mountains, rivers, and vibrant traditional gardens.

A private onsen is a great way to enjoy the hot springs experience without the need to be nude and exposed to strangers. Private onsens can be enjoyed with your partner, family members or friends. Private onsens can feature a beautiful hinoki wooden bath in a spacious, private bathing area or a large stone rotenburo (open-air bath) which may overlook a beautiful Japanese garden.