Today, we’re pulling back the curtain on one of the most enchanting ways to experience Japan — staying at a ryokan. If you’ve ever dreamed of sleeping on tatami mats, slipping into a steaming onsen, or savoring a multi-course kaiseki dinner crafted with local, seasonal ingredients — a ryokan stay is the ultimate expression of Japanese hospitality and tradition.

To help us explore this beautiful corner of Japanese culture, I’m joined by two very special guests: Ms. Ritsuko Nakamura, the okamisan, or head of Ryokan Kurashiki, and Ms. Kumi Sato, the okamisan of Takachiho Ryokan Shinsen.

In Japan, the okami-san holds a deeply respected role, preserving centuries-old customs and caring for guests with a level of warmth and grace that words alone can’t fully capture. It’s rare to hear directly from these remarkable women, so while they may have been a little nervous, they were truly excited to share with you. I hope you’ll lean in and savor this unique chance to hear about Japan’s ryokan tradition.

We talk about what makes a ryokan stay so transformative, from the seasonal beauty outside your window to the artful simplicity within. If you’re planning a trip to Japan, or simply curious about the Japanese art of slowing down, this episode is for you.

Book your stay HERE.

Listen to hear:

• 05:54 – What is a Ryokan
• 09:49 – Who the Ryokan is for
• 11:25 – Why these Ryokans are particularly unique
• 15:07 – How our guests build the relationships with the Artisans
• 15:59 – About behind the scene details of the properties
• 19:13 – What is trending in Japan
• 22:13 – When to visit the country
• 25:02 – How they have designed over the top experience for guests
• 28:17 – About their favorite memories of past guests
• 33:50 – What you will learn about the world and humanity by staying in a Ryokan