Q&A on Elegant Strolls and Stays at Japanese Onsen Ryokans

By MOOK Editorial Department
 
Experiencing the simple, natural scenery and streets of the hot springs in Kyushu is a deeply relaxing reward for visitors to the area. Staying at a local ryokan, slowly exploring the hot spring town while soaking in the serene atmosphere of the quiet village and enjoying the scenery along the way, makes for a blissful time of one night, two meals, and three hot spring soaks. In your free time, you can also admire the beauty of the garden—it’s truly delightful. Taking some time to understand a few key points about ryokan etiquette in advance can make your precious hot spring experience even more perfect.

What should I pay attention to when eating?
The dinner at an onsen ryokan is mainly kaiseki cuisine. After being seated, the server will ask what drink you’d like. These drinks are not included and must be paid for separately, with the cost appearing on the next day’s bill. Additionally, the rice in kaiseki is usually served last—unlike Chinese meals where you eat rice with each dish. After the meal, simply return the utensils and bowls to their original positions, and place the bowl lids back as well.

Traditional ryokan may ask about your breakfast time after dinner. The next day, your meal will be ready and waiting at the designated time—so don’t oversleep.

The general serving order (or how to enjoy the dishes) may vary by location, and nabe (hot pot) is also commonly part of the kaiseki meal. It’s okay if you’re unsure about the order—there’s no need to be overly formal, just relax and enjoy your meal.

What if kneeling is too tiring?
Many ryokan serve meals on tatami mats. You don’t have to force yourself to sit rigidly “kneeling”—men can sit cross-legged, and women can place their legs to the side for greater comfort.

Can I wear a yukata outside?
After checking into your room and listening to the nakai (ryokan attendant) explain the facilities, you can change into a yukata. At an onsen ryokan, it’s perfectly fine to wear a yukata for meals, hot spring baths, or strolling in the garden. If there’s a nearby hot spring town, you can also wear it outside—but remember to change into guest slippers.

How do I wear a yukata?
Wearing a yukata is quite simple: put it on, then arrange the left lapel over the right, and wrap the obi belt around your waist one or two times and tie it securely. If you have trouble, just ask the nakai for help.

 
Learn more hot spring ryokan tips in Kyushu Complete Self-Guided Trip »»

www.mook.com.tw/app.php?op=appinfo&appid=16