Experiencing a traditional inn
What it’s like to spend a night at an Onsen Ryokan in Beppu
Spending a night at an onsen ryokan in Beppu is a unique and culturally rich experience that offers relaxation, traditional hospitality, and a taste of Japanese lifestyle. Here’s what to expect:
Check-In and Greeting: upon arriving at the onsen ryokan, you’ll be warmly welcomed by the staff, often dressed in traditional attire. They will guide you through the check-in process and provide you with information about the facilities, meal timings, and onsen etiquette.
Accommodation: your room in the ryokan will likely be a traditional Japanese-style room with tatami flooring, low wooden furniture, and futon bedding that is prepared for you during dinner. Some ryokan might offer modern amenities as well, such as a private bathroom or Western-style bedding; check online when booking, or discuss with your tour company for advice on the best option for you.
Onsen Baths: one of the main highlights is the onsen (hot spring bath). Many onsen ryokan have indoor and outdoor baths, separated by sex. Make sure you follow the onsen etiquette of washing thoroughly before entering the baths. The tranquil atmosphere, soothing warm water, and scenic surroundings create a serene experience.
Yukata and Geta: you’ll be provided with a yukata (a light cotton robe) and sometimes geta (traditional wooden sandals) to wear during your stay. The yukata is comfortable and perfect for moving around the ryokan and onsen areas. You can wear underwear underneath your yukata to avoid any potentially embarrassing encounters when sitting at floor seating, for example during meals!
Dining Experience: ryokan are also known for their elaborate and exquisite meals, often featuring local and seasonal ingredients. A kaiseki-style dinner will be served in your room or a private dining area. The multi-course meal can be considered a work of art, beautifully presented, and each dish is thoughtfully prepared to showcase flavours and textures.
Relaxation and Tranquillity: the ryokan’s ambiance is designed for relaxation. You can unwind in your room, enjoy a cup of green tea, or explore the garden or common areas, together with the typically traditional architecture. Some ryokan even offer lounges with views of the surrounding nature.
Cultural Experiences: some ryokan offer cultural activities like tea ceremonies, origami, or traditional music performances. Participating in these activities can deepen your understanding of Japanese culture and help make the most of your time at the inn.
Laying out the Futon: at bedtime, a staff member will set up your futon bedding. Sleeping on tatami mats with a cosy futon is a comfortable and authentic experience, and much more comfortable than first-time visitors often expect. You can always ask for more bedding if required too.
The next morning: in the morning, you can enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast, which often includes rice, miso soup, grilled fish, and other side dishes.
Checking-out: after breakfast, you’ll need to check out by the designated time. You can leave your yukata and geta in your room, or return them to the front desk. Often the proprietors will see you to the entrance as the last sign of excellent omotenashi (Japanese customer service).
Spending a night at an onsen ryokan in Beppu offers a blend of relaxation, cultural immersion, and rejuvenation. It’s a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and embrace the tranquillity and beauty of Japanese traditions and hospitality. Keep in mind that specific experiences may vary depending on the ryokan you choose, so it’s a good idea to review the website or contact them directly for details before your stay.