Accomodation
There are 3 types of accommodation that are offered on our suggested itineraries in Japan:
Western-style Hotels
These hotels offer all the amenities of higher-end hotels elsewhere in the world, with excellent service and comfortable rooms. Amenities include swimming pools, gyms, TV, air-conditioning and heating. Staff at these hotels can speak English and will be ready to assist you.
Ryokan, or traditional Japanese Inns
The famous ryokan of Japan offer the first time visitor a chance to stay for a night in elegant and traditional surroundings. Rooms are usually large, with a central low table. The flooring is traditional straw tatami matting. Guests sleep on futon beds laid out in the evening while they are eating dinner.
Most ryokan have a communal heated bath, and in areas with geothermal activity, ryokan offer thermal onsen or hot-spring spa baths. Bathing is sex-separate. In addition, some ryokan have private washing and bathing facilities. Japanese communal baths are for soaking and relaxing: washing and scrubbing are done beforehand at shower booths near the bath. There are often both outdoor and indoor pools of varying temperatures and saunas or steam baths that will help you combat any winter chill!
The price per night includes an elegant dinner of traditionally prepared local ingredients, and a simple breakfast the following morning. yukata, a light dressing gown, is provided for each customer, and is typical (but not obligatory!) lounging wear in the ryokan. It is worth noting that slippers are provided and that any other form of footwear may not be worn on the tatami mats in your room.
Minshuku, or Japanese Pension
Minshuku are family-owned and run pensions. They are the Japanese equivalent of western "Bed and Breakfast", and offer the visitor a chance to experience a little of Japanese daily life. They offer fewer amenities than ryokan, but are clean and comfortable and more affordable, with a delicious dinner and a hearty breakfast included in the price.