Ryokan– category –

I’ve often encountered English speakers having a bit of difficulty pronouncing the Japanese word "ryokan." Some of them say "Ri-o-kan," while others say "Ryo-o-kan." Why is that? It might be because the sounds "りゃ (rya)," "りゅ (ryu),"...

Do I need to tip at a Japanese ryokan? I have been asked this question by foreigners planning to travel to Japan or those interested in Japanese ryokan(旅館), especially Americans. When I first travelled to the UK, I recall giving tips t...

For foreign visitors to Japan, one of the highlights of traveling in Japan is staying at a traditional ryokan and enjoying the communal or in-room onsen (温泉: hot springs)offered there. Large ryokan typically have communal baths, often ...

Have you ever heard of the word "yukata (浴衣)"?This is a traditional Japanese summer garment, and it's been experiencing a resurgence in popularity among younger people, so you may often see it in Japan as part of summer fashion. During...

Staying at a traditional Japanese inn, or "ryokan(旅館)", is a wonderful opportunity to experience Japan’s unique culture and traditions, especially if it’s your first time. If you’re interested in Japanese culture, it would be a missed ...