What is a Ryokan? Ryokans are the best way to experience Japanese culture and enjoy the true comforts of Japanese hospitality and service.
Hot springs have a very long history in Japan, and they are an intimate part of Japanese culture. There are over 3,000 "onsen" ,or hot springs, in Japan. Many can be found at the ryokans available on Japanese Guest Houses.
The ancient capital of Japan for over 1,000 years, Kyoto remains the most historically important city in Japan. At first glance, Kyoto appears to be like any other Japanese city. It is a sprawling metropolis with a population of over 1.5 million people, and it possesses prosperous industrial and technological sectors. However, with a good map in hand and some planning in mind a visitor will quickly discover the incredible richness of Kyoto's past. There are over 1,700 Buddhist temples, 300 Shinto shrines, palaces and gardens, and some of Japan's top museums and galleries are located in this city. Although there is so much to see and do in Kyoto, even a short-time visitor can soon get an appreciation of what this ancient imperial capital has to offer.
Please, select only your top 3 ryokans per destination so we can check the ones you really like!
Alternative Destinations - staying at a ryokan is an important part of your Japan experience but Kyoto might not be the ideal location for this during high season. Try a hot spring ryokan or a nearby destination in the Kansai Area, Rural Kyoto, Nara, Lake Biwa or Kurashiki. If you have a JR Rail Pass then you will be able to be more flexible. Enjoy Japan!
Kyoto is wonderful but you might also enjoy a few days in rural Japan. Your host will show you around her neighborhood and town. In the evening she will prepare home cooked meals grown from her organic garden and you will chat about Japanese culture.
