Planning before arriving at a ryokan is half the fun of the trip. Some ryokan provide a shuttle bus service to and from the nearest station so it is worth finding out if this is available in advance. Information is available on the Transport pages of 『yado.com』 or on the official website of tourism associations across Japan.
Reservations
Once you have decided which ryokan you want to stay at, make your reservation through 『yado.com』.
● If you need to cancel your ryokan reservation, please contact us as soon as possible. Please note that cancellation fees may be applicable.
Make sure you know the check-in time at the ryokan.
- ● The latest time for check-in at many ryokan is 6pm because of preparations for the evening meal. You are advised to plan your schedule so that you arrive at the ryokan at the right time.
- ● If you are using public transport to get to the ryokan, a shuttle bus service to and from the nearest station may be provided.
Procedures when staying at a ryokan
- ● Your details will be recorded in the ryokan register and a copy of your passport will be taken at check-in.
- ● You may be asked to provide credit card details for a deposi
- ● After check-in you will be shown to your room. Some ryokan will provide you with tea and snacks at this time.
- ● You will get very tired if you go straight to the baths as soon as you have arrived so why not take half an hour and soak up the Japanese atmosphere of your room?
Some ryokan have such things as swimming pools, foot baths, shops and video game machines so there is plenty to keep you amused in your own way during your stay.
- ● The stated time for dinner should be observed. This will differ from ryokan to ryokan depending on whether meals are served in the individual rooms or in a dining room.
- ● Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks served with dinner are often charged separately so it is advisable to check this before ordering.
- ● You are not permitted to bring your own drinks into ryokan from the point of view of hygiene.
Many Japanese people take one more bath after dinner.
An “Asa Buro” where one has a bath in the morning is seen as the height of luxury by Japanese people.
- ● The breakfast schedule is usually confirmed at dinner the night before.
- ● Breakfast schedules differ from ryokan to ryokan.
- ● Check-out time should be observed and you should aim to leave the ryokan by this time.
- ● If you require a late check-out, do not wait till the last minute. Please contact the ryokan staff and ask if late check-out is possible.