Ryokans are Japanese-styled inns from
centuries ago and are more than just a place to stay. They offer the visitor
a chance to experience traditional Japanese lifestyle; from tatami (rice
mats) covered floors and futon beds to Japanese styled baths and local
cuisine presented in an authentic
manner. They are a window into life in Japan in the old days. Ryokans
originated sometime in the 17th century, and their primary purpose was to
serve those travelling along Japanese highways such as the famed Tokaido road
between Tokyo and Kyoto.
They are typically stationed in a
quiet, idyllic setting,
often next to natural hot springs. While there are quite a few city ryokans
in urban areas, seek out the ones next to the hot springs, known as onsen
ryokan, for a tranquil
Japanese holiday. The key to having a great time at a ryokan is to understand
Japanese traditions beforehand. A quintessential
ryokan experience would start when hosts greet their visitors at the street
door. After the customary bowing, your shoes are replaced with slippers.
According to Japanese tradition, it is considered impolite to ask for your
shoes before the stay is over. Tea is served in a large entrance hall, where
people can sit and talk, after which guests are shown to their rooms.
A typical ryokan room is usually
covered in tatamis and has a sleeping area, at times a step higher. With
little furniture, apart from a comfortable floor seating made up of cushions,
the rooms are aesthetic and
minimal. The sliding doors open to a veranda with spectacular views of a manicured garden. Often, at the
centre of the room, there is a firepit called irori. Most modern ryokan rooms
are now equipped with television, a mini-bar and a safe for valuables. A blue
and white-patterned yukata (cotton robe) is provided to guests, and during
winters, a tanzen gown can be worn over it.
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VOCABULARY
1.
Authentic (adj.) - done or made in
the traditional or original way [= genuine]:
Example: authentic
Japanese food
2.
Idyllic (adj.) - very peaceful, happy, and enjoyable
Example: an idyllic summer day
3.
Tranquil (adj.) - pleasantly calm,
quiet, and peaceful:
Example: a small tranquil village
4. Quintessential (adj.) - being a perfect
example of a particular type of person or thing [= typical]:
Example: He was the quintessential Japanese.
5.
Aesthetic (adj.) - connected with beauty and the study of
beauty:
Example: the statue's aesthetic [=artistic]
6.
Manicured (verb) - to make (something, such as a lawn or a
garden) look neat, smooth, and attractive
Example: She spends her weekends working in her
garden and manicuring her lawn.
QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION
1.
Tell us about your Ryokan experience.
2.
Discuss some of your country’s culture.
3.
Share your experience about other country’s culture.
