Ryokan (inn) Ryokan (inn) A is a type of traditional Japanese inn that has existed since the eighth century A.D. during the Keiun period, in which the oldest hotel in the world, Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan, was created in 705 A.D. Another old ryokan called Hōshi Ryokan was founded in 718 A.D and was also known as the world's second oldest hotel. Such inns also served travelers along Japan's highways. They typically feature "tatami"-matted rooms, communal baths, and other public areas where visitors may wear yukata and talk with the owner. Ryokan are difficult to find in Tokyo and other large cities because
Wakura Onsen Wakura Onsen Wakura Onsen has existed as a resort for 1,200 years. It was originally discovered by a fisherman who noticed an injured crane bathing its wing in the warm water. Mention of the onsen was first made in early Heian period documents, but full scale development dd not begin until after improvement of access by railway in the Meiji period. The center of Wakura Onsen is the "ryokan" Kagaya, a 20-floor hotel capable of holding approximately 1,300 guests. The onsen has two other hotels and 34 "ryokan." Other hotels and "ryokan" in the vicinity include: Wakura Onsen is approximately