The Chilling Detail To Know Before Staying In A Ryokan In Japan

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The Chilling Detail To Know Before Staying In A Ryokan In Japan” offers a friendly heads-up on an essential consideration before booking your stay in these traditional Japanese inns. While ryokan provide a rich cultural experience with their authentic design, soothing onsen baths, and gourmet kaiseki meals, they can also be quite cold, especially in the winter months. According to travel expert Rick Steves, many ryokan lack central heating, making your stay a bit more frosty than you might expect. While most ryokan will offer small heaters to warm your sleeping area, stepping out to use the bathroom can still be an icy venture. However, with a few warm layers and some creative heating solutions like heated toilet seats and kotatsu tables, you can still enjoy a cozy and memorable experience. So, if you’re planning a winter visit, come prepared to embrace the chill with a smile! Have you ever dreamed about immersing yourself in traditional Japanese culture by staying in a ryokan? Ryokan, the charming traditional inns that dot the Japanese landscape, can offer an enchanting experience, complete with authentic interior design, local onsen (hot spring) culture, and multi-course kaiseki meals. However, there’s a chilling detail you should know before booking your stay. So let’s dive in and explore the cold, literally, side of ryokan that travel guru Rick Steves has shared with the world!

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The Chilling Detail Revealed: No Central Heating

Rick Steves’ Cold Ryokan Encounter

While ryokan promise a unique cultural experience, they also come with an unexpected quirk: many of these traditional inns do not have central heating. Rick Steves himself described an icy night in a Kyoto ryokan where he could see his breath inside his room due to the freezing temperatures. If you’re someone who isn’t fond of dealing with the cold, this detail is crucial for planning your trip.

Why Ryokan Lack Central Heating

The absence of central heating in ryokan isn’t a result of negligence but rather an effort to maintain traditional Japanese architectural design. Historically, Japanese homes and inns were built to be open and airy, ideal for summer breezes but not so kind in winter months. This architectural authenticity is part of what makes staying at a ryokan so special, but it also means modern comforts like central heating are often forgone.

Preparing for Cold Weather in a Ryokan

Understanding Japan’s Climate

Though Japan might commonly be associated with cherry blossoms and warm weather, it actually experiences quite a range of climates. Tokyo’s average temperature in January hovers around 40 degrees Fahrenheit but go a bit further north to Sapporo, and you’ll find temperatures chilling at around 25 degrees Fahrenheit.

City	Average January Temperature (°F)
Tokyo	40
Sapporo	25

Heating Options Available in Ryokan

Despite the lack of central heating, ryokan usually offer various forms of heating:

Small, Portable Heaters: These are typically placed in the sleeping area but may not heat the bathroom or hallways. The heaters might vary in effectiveness and style.
Wall-mounted Heating Units: Controlled by a remote, these units heat specific rooms but can be a bit tricky to operate, as the buttons are often in Japanese.

Both heating options have their quirks, but they can prevent the bone-chilling cold Rick Steves described.

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Tips for Staying Warm in a Ryokan

Heated Toilet Seats

One delightful surprise: many ryokan offer heated toilet seats. So, those night trips to the bathroom don’t have to be as brutal as you might expect.

Bathing Facilities

Another way to fend off the cold is by taking advantage of the bathing facilities available at the ryokan. Whether it’s a private onsen tub or a shared bath, these warm baths can be especially soothing in the evening when temperatures plummet.

Kotatsu: Your Heated Friend

The kotatsu is a traditional Japanese heated table covered with a thick blanket. Simply tuck your legs under the table and enjoy the toasty warmth. This traditional piece of furniture can be quite a lifesaver on a cold night.

Hot Japanese Tea

You’ll often find a kettle and traditional Japanese tea, like sencha, in your room. A hot cup of tea can provide not only warmth but also a lovely, comforting experience.

Utilize the Provided Slippers and Yukata

Ryokan typically offer slippers and a yukata (a light robe). For extra warmth, wear your coziest undershirt and a pair of thick socks underneath the yukata. Small hacks like these can make a big difference in your comfort level.

More Warmth Hacks You Should Know

Layering is Key

One practical way to combat the cold is by layering your clothing. Bring along thermal wear and warm socks. Layering allows you to adjust to changing temperatures throughout the day and night.

Pack Portable Heat Packs

Consider bringing some portable heat packs, known in Japan as “kairo.” These can be placed in pockets or under the covers to provide extra warmth.

Conclusion

Staying at a ryokan in Japan is an unparalleled experience that offers a deep dive into the country’s cultural richness. However, the lack of central heating can indeed be chilling, especially in winter. By being well-prepared and making use of the various warmth hacks we’ve discussed, you can enjoy your traditional stay without the discomfort of freezing temperatures.

Travelers, like Rick Steves, have braved the cold and still found beauty in the traditional ryokan experience. Armed with this knowledge, you can more confidently plan your stay, knowing exactly what to expect and how to stay warm. So go ahead and book that ryokan! The blend of cultural immersion, stunning surroundings, and even the cold can create unforgettable memories.

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