How a ryokan stay works

Step by step

1. 01

   Entrance

   Take your shoes off and change into slippers. Staff may walk you to your room.

2. 02

   Welcome tea

   Tea and a sweet in the room. Confirm your dinner and breakfast times.

3. 03

   Yukata

   Wrap left side over right (right-over-left is for funerals). You can wear it around the inn and to the bath.

4. 04

   Meals

   Served at fixed times — in your room or a dining area.

5. 05

   Onsen & futon

   The big bath follows the same rules as a sento. Staff often lay out your futon while you're at dinner.

Next, you might wonder

• Checking in at a hotel in Japan
• How to bathe in an onsen