5 Must-Visit Ryokans for Your Next Trip to Japan

5 Must-Visit Ryokans for Your Next Trip to Japan There are countless reasons to visit Japan , but warm hospitality, unmatched design, and rich culture are just a few topping the list. And where better to draw all these elements together than at one of the nation’s many ryokans? Roughly translating to “inn,” ryokans lie at the heart of Japanese culture , known for their home-cooked meals on cushioned floors and snug sleeps on tatami mats. Often built atop natural hot springs, called onsen , communal bathing is also common to these cozy establishments, while sliding paper walls, called shoji doors, are also fundamental to these intimate spaces, cleverly filtering through natural light while maintaining absolute privacy. Nacasa & PartnershotelAn urban take on tradition in TokyoArrow$$Bed & bath:Varies by room (generally sleeps 2 to 3 per room)Top amenities:Spa and wellness facility, central location, onsite restaurantThis sleek hotel may not technically be classed as a ryokan with its 35 rooms and lavish spa complex, but each suite flawlessly adopts its minimalist design to bring the charm of countryside inns to the glitzy capital ofTokyo. Tatami mats topped with low beds, lightwood furniture in every corner, and paper sliding doors are just some details that stay true to Japanese interiors. Rooms may be snug, sleeping just two to three people, but there is the option for a private straw-fenced terrace with a spacious open-air tub, an upgrade from the communal baths in more traditional ryokans.Book Now at ExpediaBook Now at Hotels.com Ryokans are rooted in tradition, and there are plenty of historic places to choose from-but a flurry of new developments has reimagined their iconic Japanese customs for modern audiences. Mineral-rich waters in private bathrooms, low rather than floor beds, and entire ryokan rentals are just some adaptations that have entered the scene-but all share the same goal of immersing guests in the ultimate authentic experience. Whether you’re looking for a bolthole passed through generations or a refreshing take on the lodging style, we’ve rounded up some of the loveliest ryokans for your next trip to Japan . (Or, for a more familiar stay, see our guide to the best hotels in Japan .) This article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller UK.

Preview: ~371 words