ryokan
Latest
Small wonder
Roka, an intimate ryokan, is now welcoming art lovers on the island of Naoshima. It offers exquisite interiors, fine food and soothing open-air baths in each of its 11 rooms.
Kyoto’s The Shinmonzen brings Tadao Ando design to a discreet nine-suite stay
Distilling the charms of the traditional Japanese ryokan and elevating the experience with bespoke design were the goals of the hotelier behind The Shinmonzen.
Inner beauty
In sleepy Maebashi, businessman Hitoshi Tanaka transforms a defunct ryokan into an architectural destination, with Sou Fujimoto leading a six-year renovation of the historic Shiroiya Hotel.
Rest assured
Whether you’d plump for an oasis of calm in Cuba or a remarkable fjord-side conversion in Norway, we’ve got your getaway plan covered.
Woodland retreat
Less than two hours from Tokyo and set amid hot springs, the Nest Inn Hakone is a tranquil haven.
Make with tradition
He runs one of the best hotel groups in the country and is out to change how staff behave. But it’s tough getting people to speak out in Japan.
Sleeping beauty
In Uwajima, southern Japan, a restored ryokan guest house has reawakened local pride. This simply presented style of accommodation whispers its quality and is a subtle sign of better things to come.
Inventory
A few of our favourite things, including a new mobile phone by Bic and a waste disposal unit by Loofen. Plus, where to find the best ryokan at the foot of Mount Fuji.
Inventory no. 12
A Japanese inn special: the Masuichi Kyakuden Brewery hotel in Obuse, plus our great spring gift guide.
The Inn Crowd
Japan’s simple, pared-down ryokan are setting new standards in service and design. One remodelled inn by architect Kengo Kuma introduces a western audience to the pleasures of the traditional Japanese inn.
