- 2023.12.27
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Your guide to a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn)!
It is said that a ryokan may be the oldest kind of hotel in the world, dating back well over 1,000 years! Therefore, it is a beautiful glimpse into the kind of customs, architecture, art, etc. that is the very origin and foundation of the Japanese hospitality industry today
With 150 years of history, Jyoseikan in Kochi City offers an authentic ryokan experience including traditional Japanese-style rooms with mountain views, rejuvenating hot springs, unforgettable feasts using the finest seasonal ingredients, and more
In terms of ryokan etiquette, each facility can have different styles, so the staff will usually explain it to you when you’re checking in. Today, I would like to focus on three aspects of a ryokan to give you a better idea on what to expect
Hot springs
Relaxing in a hot spring is one of the best ways to enjoy a ryokan stay. In many cases, you will find public baths that are shared by all guests, but if you prefer, you can look for facilities that offer private ones (either in your room or available to reserve for a specific time slot).
Learn more about manners and tips on using hot springs here: https://www.facebook.com/visitkochijapan/posts/pfbid02ERPGbVMLnUhdvuUZSFDQg3tBPhQAeRX26cXNH7168gPE9tfwLVVYgcrik4ha1rBal
Clothing
There is no strict dress code at a ryokan, but generally, you are encouraged to wear a yukata (traditional Japanese garment) in the facility, such as when you’re heading to the hot spring, having breakfast or dinner in the communal/private room, etc. You will usually find yukata in your guest room with an obi (belt) and an outer jacket (great for cooler weather). When you are putting on your yukata over your underwear (and undershirt if you prefer), make sure the right side is underneath the left (the opposite order is only done when dressing someone who has passed).
Meals
Typically, you get breakfast and/or dinner, served at a specific time. In some ryokans, the staff may bring your meal to your guest room, but oftentimes, you will have a space reserved for you to enjoy your meal (for example, on a different floor).
Breakfasts especially at larger facilities can be buffet-style, but dinners are typically set meals (aka a feast)! Dinner is usually kaiseki “Japanese haute” cuisine. You will be able to taste all kinds of seasonal ingredients presented in the most elegant and colorful ways–essentially an edible work of art! There is no particular order in which you are meant to enjoy all the different dishes so just get started and savor every moment!
Jyoseikan
https://maps.app.goo.gl/kYmjPZefkBFkLS4n8
https://en.jyoseikan.co.jp/
Jyoseikan is only 15 minutes to Kochi Castle on foot! Learn more: https://visitkochijapan.com/en/see-and-do/10009
With 150 years of history, Jyoseikan in Kochi City offers an authentic ryokan experience including traditional Japanese-style rooms with mountain views, rejuvenating hot springs, unforgettable feasts using the finest seasonal ingredients, and more
In terms of ryokan etiquette, each facility can have different styles, so the staff will usually explain it to you when you’re checking in. Today, I would like to focus on three aspects of a ryokan to give you a better idea on what to expect
Hot springs
Relaxing in a hot spring is one of the best ways to enjoy a ryokan stay. In many cases, you will find public baths that are shared by all guests, but if you prefer, you can look for facilities that offer private ones (either in your room or available to reserve for a specific time slot).
Learn more about manners and tips on using hot springs here: https://www.facebook.com/visitkochijapan/posts/pfbid02ERPGbVMLnUhdvuUZSFDQg3tBPhQAeRX26cXNH7168gPE9tfwLVVYgcrik4ha1rBal
Clothing
There is no strict dress code at a ryokan, but generally, you are encouraged to wear a yukata (traditional Japanese garment) in the facility, such as when you’re heading to the hot spring, having breakfast or dinner in the communal/private room, etc. You will usually find yukata in your guest room with an obi (belt) and an outer jacket (great for cooler weather). When you are putting on your yukata over your underwear (and undershirt if you prefer), make sure the right side is underneath the left (the opposite order is only done when dressing someone who has passed).
Meals
Typically, you get breakfast and/or dinner, served at a specific time. In some ryokans, the staff may bring your meal to your guest room, but oftentimes, you will have a space reserved for you to enjoy your meal (for example, on a different floor).
Breakfasts especially at larger facilities can be buffet-style, but dinners are typically set meals (aka a feast)! Dinner is usually kaiseki “Japanese haute” cuisine. You will be able to taste all kinds of seasonal ingredients presented in the most elegant and colorful ways–essentially an edible work of art! There is no particular order in which you are meant to enjoy all the different dishes so just get started and savor every moment!
Jyoseikan
https://maps.app.goo.gl/kYmjPZefkBFkLS4n8
https://en.jyoseikan.co.jp/
Jyoseikan is only 15 minutes to Kochi Castle on foot! Learn more: https://visitkochijapan.com/en/see-and-do/10009
