Experience Japanese culture while staying at a traditional inn. “Ryocance” at Kinnotake Resort

Hello, I’m Rina, a writer for Kodawari Times.
When it comes to accommodations recommended for those who want to experience the essence of Japan, ryokan inns are the perfect choice. With their traditional Japanese architecture and the unique experience of sleeping on futons laid out on tatami mats, they offer a truly special atmosphere.
At “Kinnotake Resort,” which I’m introducing today, they offer “Ryocance,” an overnight program designed to immerse guests in Japanese culture. Why not experience Japanese culture while enjoying a luxurious stay?

 

What is Ryocance?

Kinnotake Co., Ltd. operates five ryokan and four restaurants in Hakone, a famous hot spring resort area near Tokyo. The company offers a range of traditional Japanese ryokan that provide luxurious accommodations, including the historic “Matsuzakaya Honten” in Hakone’s Ashinoyu Onsen—established 364 years ago—and “Kinnotake Tonosawa,” where every guest room features its own open-air hot spring bath.

“Ryocance,” a concept proposed by Kinnotake Resort, combines the words ‘ryokan’ (traditional Japanese inn) and “vacance” (vacation).
It is an accommodation program that allows guests to experience Japanese culture—such as japanese tea ceremony, calligraphy, Yosakoi dancing, and sushi-making—while staying at the resort.

Since these experiences take place right on the resort grounds, there is no travel time to other locations, and you can avoid the hassle of making separate reservations. This plan is highly recommended for those who want to enjoy Japanese cultural experiences during their limited time in Japan.

Ryocance Official Website: https://kinnotake-resorts.com/ryocance/

 

Ryokan staff serve as instructors

One of the key features of “Ryocance” is that the instructors are the ryokan staff themselves.
A ryokan is not merely a place to stay; it is a place that embodies Japan’s unique spirit of hospitality, and the staff place great importance on the “spirit of hospitality” in their service.
As a result, you can enjoy a Japanese cultural experience that is thoughtful, easy to understand, and warm.

Many of the staff members at Kinnotake possess uniquely Japanese skills, such as a facilities manager with 15 years of experience in the tea ceremony, a young staff member with experience in Yosakoi dancing, and a calligraphy practitioner with a black belt.

Drawing on their personal experiences with Japanese culture, these staff members provide a more authentic and meaningful experience through live demonstrations and insightful commentary.

 

Recommended Ryocance Experiences

Nigiri Sushi Experience

You can learn how to make nigiri sushi alongside a skilled chef and enjoy the freshly made sushi along with a warm clear soup.

Japanese Tea Ceremony Experience

This experience is planned and led by a 77-year-old staff member with 15 years of experience in the tea ceremony. In a serene setting, you can savor matcha while experiencing Japanese aesthetics and etiquette.

Yukata Dressing Experience

At this historic inn, which has been in business for 364 years, you can choose your favorite pattern and experience having a traditional yukata put on for you.

Samurai Experience

A package that lets you experience the essence of the samurai spirit. You can don authentic armor and have your photo taken.

Yosakoi Dance Experience

This is an activity where you can have fun getting active while experiencing Japan’s traditional festival culture.

 

Enjoy Japanese culture at a ryokan

Since you’ve gone to the trouble of staying at a traditional inn, you’ll want to relax and experience Japanese culture at the same time. “Ryocance” is the perfect plan to make that wish come true. Why not enjoy a special stay at Kinnotake Resort, where the culture of Japanese hospitality is deeply rooted, including a historic inn with a 364-year history? Our warm and welcoming staff will be happy to introduce you to Japanese culture.

[Accommodations Offering the Ryocance Experience]
・Kinnotake Tonosawa
Address: 191 Tonosawa, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa 250-0315

・Matsuzakaya Main Store
Address: 57 Ashinoyu, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa 250-0523

For more details, please visit the official Ryocance website.
https://kinnotake-resorts.com/ryocance/