(N4-N3) THE ULTIMATE ONSEN GUIDE: Ryokan Etiquette & Essential Phrases - NIHONGO CANDY (Ep. 136)

♨️ THE ULTIMATE ONSEN GUIDE: RYOKAN ETIQUETTE & ESSENTIAL PHRASES

Traveling to Japan for business or leisure? A stay at a Ryokan (hot spring inn) offers deep relaxation, provided you know the unspoken rules.

Here is your quick guide from NIHONGO CANDY Episode #136.

1️⃣ KEY POINT 1: The Check-in & Room Protocol Unlike western hotels, Ryokan staff explain facility hours upon arrival. • Confirm Meal Times: You will be asked to choose a time for dinner and breakfast. This is strict in Ryokans to ensure the food is fresh. • Yukata Sizing: You are provided with a Yukata (light kimono) for lounging. If the one in your room doesn't fit, don't hesitate to ask for a change immediately.

2️⃣ KEY POINT 2: Dining (Kaiseki) Sophistication Ryokan meals are often traditional multi-course Kaiseki cuisine. • Allergies: Communicate dietary restrictions clearly before the meal starts (e.g., "I cannot eat shrimp"). • Drink Ordering: Elevate your experience by asking for Jizake (local sake) recommended by the staff.

3️⃣ CULTURAL TIP / ETIQUETTE: The Onsen Rules To travel like a sophisticated local: 🔹 Wash First: Always wash your body and hair thoroughly at the washing station before entering the communal bath. 🔹 Towel Discipline: Never let your small towel touch the bathwater. Place it on your head or set it aside on the rim.

4️⃣ QUICK PHRASE SHEET (Save this! 👇)

🗣️ Requesting check-in: "Check-in, onegai shimasu. Yoyaku shiteiru [Name] desu." (Check-in, please. I have a reservation under [Name].)

🗣️ Communicating allergies: "Sumimasen, [Food] ga taberaremasen. Haitte imasen ka?" (Excuse me, I can't eat [Food]. Does this contain any?)

🗣️ Asking for recommendations: "Osusume no nihonshu wa arimasu ka?" (Do you have a recommended sake?)

🎧 Master the pronunciation here:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/13G4GesMbLHzllZ8wQpNxM

#JapanTravel #BusinessJapanese #WELC #OnsenEtiquette #Ryokan