Imagine: Stepping into a world where ancient traditions meet modern comfort, where the gentle scent of wood and the whisper of nature guide your senses. This is the experience I had during my honeymoon in Japan, at a charming ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn.
A Glimpse into Japan’s Cultural Heritage
The ryokan, nestled in the heart of Kyoto, was a testament to Japan’s rich heritage. Its modern exterior held secrets of a bygone era, its curved eaves and tranquil garden inviting us into a world of serene beauty. The lobby, a harmonious blend of contemporary style and traditional Japanese aesthetics, showcased elegant lacquerware, exquisite ceramics, and captivating art pieces. It was like stepping into a museum of Japanese craftsmanship.
A Room of Simple Elegance
Our room, a haven of natural materials and minimalist design, was a true embodiment of the Sukiya style. We entered, leaving our shoes at the threshold, as tradition dictates, and donned the soft slippers provided for us. The room, though small, was filled with a sense of calm, its natural materials creating an atmosphere of serenity. The lack of a television was a welcome break from the digital world, allowing us to reconnect with ourselves and the present moment.
Sleeping on the Floor: An Uncommon Comfort
The futon mattress, unrolled on the tatami mat floor, offered a unique sleeping experience. Despite being thin, it surprisingly proved cozy and comfortable. While I found it challenging for my back, I was intrigued by the potential health benefits of this traditional sleeping style. The firm surface, some studies suggest, can align the spine, promoting good posture and reducing back pain. Plus, the futon’s compact nature made it a practical space-saving solution, a valuable asset in a small room.
A Ritual of Relaxation: The Private Bath
Our ryokan boasted a private onsen, a hot spring bath, where we could unwind after a day of exploring. While not a genuine hot spring, it was a relaxing haven nonetheless, filled with soothing hot water. The room included a shower area where we were encouraged to rinse off before entering the bath, following local customs. The experience was both invigorating and calming. The intensely hot water, though initially challenging, became incredibly relaxing once we adjusted the temperature by adding some cool water.
A Taste of Traditional Japan: The Japanese Breakfast
Our ryokan offered a choice of breakfast options, but we opted for the traditional Japanese breakfast, an exquisite culinary journey of flavors and textures. The main dish featured grilled salmon, grated daikon radish, and a small omelet, accompanied by miso soup and an assortment of small bowls filled with local greens, seaweed, steamed broccoli, carrots and tofu, and rice. The breakfast was a delicious and light affair, providing a wholesome start to our day.
A Honeymoon to Remember: Culture, Comfort, and Back Pain
Our stay at the ryokan was a unique and memorable experience, a blend of cultural immersion and comfort. While the sleeping on the tatami mat floor proved challenging for my back, I wouldn’t trade the experience for anything. The ryokan was more than just a place to stay; it was a window into the heart of Japanese culture. The tranquility of the space, the simple elegance of the rooms, and the rituals of the onsen, all combined to create a sense of peace and rejuvenation. I left the ryokan with a deeper appreciation for Japanese traditions, a newfound respect for the simplicity of life, and a lingering sense of calm that carried me through the rest of my honeymoon.
