When in Japan...

Eager to embrace the Japanese culture, we opted to stay in a Tokyo Ryokan rather than a hotel.  These traditional inns originated during the Edo period (1600-1870) and generally feature tatami-matted rooms, communal baths and large common areas.  Many ryokans will serve breakfast and dinner, and we enjoyed the breakfast (particulary the incredible toast) to the fullest.  

During the day, the room is set-up as a living room (with a table, chairs and items for making tea).  In the evening, the room is transformed into a bedroom as the light furniture is moved to the side and some futon mattresses are laid on the floor as a bed.  

The Edo Sakura Ryokan where we stayed was a fairly modern Ryokan, with very clean and remarkably functional rooms and private bathrooms.  There were also public baths available, which we tried, but it was by no means the only choice for getting clean in the morning.    The futons were thin but reasonably comfortable and we slept well during our stay.

Ryokans offer some of the best of Japanese culture – brilliant and functional design, incredible attention to and pride in the small details, hosts that are kind and eager to make you feel comfortable - and offered an unexpected highlight of our trip.