Stay in one of Japan’s Ryokan Collection hotels to access a new world in luxury travel experiences. Choose from one of the Heritage, Contemporary or Traditional design hotels across Japan for a premium stay coupled with curated authentic experiences based on Japanese culture and traditions.
For generations, Japanese people have been turning simple daily tasks into expressions of art. From traditional tea ceremonies to the art of flower arrangement, there is a unique beauty in the movements and precision expressed in these traditions. The Ryokan Collection have cultivated many forms of traditional artistry for travellers to experience. Here are the top five.
Learn the way of Japanese Tea Ceremony (Sumiya ryokan)
Sadō, Japanese Tea Ceremony, is a widely regarded art form steeped in tradition. To witness a traditional tea ceremony is a thrilling experience but to learn the techniques and customs of making, serving and drinking Japanese tea is very exclusive. Sumiya in Kyoto is an authentic style ryokan. Having been around for 100 years, Sumiya is the perfect place to learn the art of tea making and to deepen your appreciation of Japanese culture.
Dine with Geisha at a prestigious Ochaya (teahouse) in Kyoto
Even when Geisha were plenty, to be hosted by one was a rare experience. Today, this is truer than ever with only six “Hanamachi” (Geisha district) left in Tokyo and five in Kyoto. Experience the meticulously trained Geisha (geiko) and Geisha in-training (maiko) perform dancing, singing, flute and shamisen (a three-stringed Japanese guitar), and engage in games and conversations with them while enjoying seasonal cuisine and sake.
Zen Meditation at Hokyoji Temple (Beniya Mukayu ryokan)
Take part in a seated Zen meditation (zazen) at the second oldest Soto Zen temple in Japan. Built in 1278, this temple is steeped in history and doesn’t usually let outside visitors in. You can join the monks for a humble lunch before beginning your spiritual journey to Zen. Learn to breathe, concentrate, focus and engage in positive introspection with a guided zazen meditation.
Ikebana Art of Flower Arrangement (Kifu-no-sato ryokan)
Known as Ikebana or Kadō, the Japanese art of flower arrangement focuses on three main structural elements: line, form and mass. Through private guidance from an Ikebana master while staying at the Kifu-no-sato ryokan, learn to create an arrangement unlike any other. You can display your arrangement somewhere in the Kifu-no-sato ryokan, or in your hotel rooms.
Soak in the Onsen Hot Springs (Zaborin ryokan)
Soak in one of Hokkaido’s top private hot springs. Each of the 15 villas at the Zaborin ryokan are equipped with a private indoor and outdoor hot spring bath (onsen), with the waters coming from the Zaborin’s own spring. Known as ‘gensen kakenagashi’, this style of free-flow hot spring water is highly prized in Japan, making for a very exclusive experience.
The Ryokan Collection consists of 32 luxury ryokan traditional Japanese inns and Japanese small luxury hotels. Each is carefully selected from all over Japan featuring the very best in service, tradition and culture.
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