There are countless reasons to visit Japan, but warm hospitality, unmatched design, and rich culture are just a few topping the list. And where better to draw all these elements together than at one of the nation’s many ryokans? Roughly translating to “inn”, ryokans lie at the heart of Japanese culture, known for their home-cooked meals on cushioned floors and snug sleeps on tatami mats. Often built atop natural hot springs called onsen, communal bathing is also common to these cosy establishments, while sliding paper walls, called shoji doors, are also fundamental to these intimate spaces, cleverly filtering through natural light while maintaining absolute privacy.
Ryokans are rooted in tradition, and there are plenty of historic places to choose from – but a flurry of new developments have reimagined their iconic Japanese customs for modern audiences. Mineral-rich waters in private bathrooms, low rather than floor beds and entire ryokan rentals are just some adaptations which have entered the scene, but all share the same goal of immersing guests in the ultimate authentic experience. Whether you’re looking for a bolthole passed through generations or a refreshing take on the lodging style, we’ve rounded up some of the the loveliest ryokans for your next trip to Japan – or for a more familiar stay, see our guide to the best hotels in Japan.
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