I recently spent two weeks traveling through Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, staying in traditional Japanese hotels. Each city offered its own flavor of hospitality, and I discovered how unique local traditions shape the guest experience even more than location alone.
Here’s how each stay went and why every city’s style and energy felt special.
Tokyo: Calm Retreat in the Bustling Metropolis
In Tokyo, I booked a ryokan-style hotel tucked in a quiet side street of Asakusa. The combination of traditional décor and keen attention to detail felt like a peaceful bubble amid the chaos of the city.
Arrival and Room Setup
I was greeted with a warm welcome and guided to my tatami-floored room. The futon was neatly stashed away, waiting for me later. The low wooden table came with zabuton cushions for comfortable seating.
Kappo Dinner Experience
That evening, I enjoyed a multi-course kappo-style meal right in my room. Each dish was artfully arranged: grilled fish, vegetable tempura, vinegared salads, and lightly seasoned rice. Everything was subtle, fresh, and distinctly Japanese.
Morning Ritual
The next morning began with a simple served breakfast—miso soup, tamagoyaki, and pickled vegetables—before an on-site sento (public bath). I felt grounded and ready to dive into Tokyo’s dynamic neighborhoods.
Kyoto: Timeless Elegance and Ceremonial Calm
In Kyoto, I chose a ryokan near Gion to immerse myself in the city’s serene and historic atmosphere.
Shimomizu Onsen Soak
Fresh from the train, I soaked in the onsen-fed bath. Heated by nearby mineral springs, it soothed my muscles and shifted my mindset from travel mode to Zen mode, much like Kyoto’s peaceful pace.
Kaiseki Dinner
Dinner here was a kaiseki feast—beautiful seasonal ingredients served over eight to ten small courses. I tried yuba, local fish, and seasonal vegetables, each thoughtfully plated on lacquerware.
Tatami Room with Garden View
My room overlooked a stone courtyard with moss and bamboo. Sliding doors and paper lanterns cast soft light. That night, the futon appeared in place of the seating area, rolled out with care.
Zen and Culture
Mornings began with a bowl of matcha and a moment of quiet. I then walked nearby temples with the calm awareness that mirrored my morning in-room rituals.
Osaka: Contemporary Comfort Meets Traditional Touches
My final stop was Osaka. I stayed in a smaller ryokan near Namba, blending traditional elements with modern conveniences.
Compact Space, Smart Design
The room was small but efficient. A low table and zabuton cushions faced floor-to-ceiling shoji screens. The futon was rolled out at bedtime. It felt cozy, urban, and purposeful.
In-Room Buffet
Dinner was a modern twist on traditional fare—rice bowls, miso soup, pickles, and chicken karaage served via tray. It was simple and delicious, and the casual feeling fit Osaka’s easygoing attitude.
Shared Bathhouse
Instead of in-room facilities, the ryokan offered a shared bath—basic, spotlessly clean, and appreciated after a day exploring Dotonbori’s neon chaos.
Friendly Service
The host greeted me every evening with a hot towel and a bowl of oden. We chatted briefly about local life—Osaka residents are known for their friendliness—and I felt welcomed more as a guest than a tourist.
Comparing All Three Cities
While each ryokan shared core elements like tatami floors and futon beds, differences stood out clearly:
Atmosphere
- Tokyo offered calm refinement within a lively city.
- Kyoto felt timeless and ritual-based.
- Osaka was relaxed, modern, and neighborly.
Dining Style
- Tokyo: refined kappo.
- Kyoto: formal kaiseki with seasonal focus.
- Osaka: casual home-style meals.
Bathing Experience
- Tokyo: on-site sento.
- Kyoto: mineral onsen soak.
- Osaka: communal neighborhood bath.
Room Setup
- Tokyo: roomy with designated seating area.
- Kyoto: serene rooms similar to temple architecture.
- Osaka: efficient and cozy with a metropolitan vibe.
Tips for Staying in Ryokan Across Japan
- Book in Advance: Popular spots in Kyoto fill quickly, especially near temples.
- Learn Basic Etiquette: Remove shoes, wear provided slippers, and follow quiet-time rules.
- Plan Bathhouse Time: Public baths attract morning and evening crowds—schedule wisely.
- Pack Light: Futons are comfortable but don’t need most heavy packing.
- Be Ready for Silence: Many ryokan encourage quiet hours to maintain calm.
Final Thoughts
Staying in traditional Japanese hotels across Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka felt like a journey through Japan’s soul more than just its geography. Each style of hospitality reflects the character of its home city: refined energy in Tokyo, ritual serenity in Kyoto, and warm, easygoing spirit in Osaka.
If you want to experience authentic Japanese culture beyond tourist traps, a ryokan stay offers insight into timeless traditions and contemporary life. It’s comfort, community, and curiosity all rolled into one unforgettable travel moment.
