deb

we are heading for japan in a couple of months and a friend has recommended that we stay at a ryokan with friends of hers that can guide us in kyoto. my husband is quite leary about sleeping on the floor. he keeps mentioning holiday inns and of course i'm wanting to experience the culture. can anyone give him reasons that he can feel REST assured of comfort?

Margot

Hello Deb, It has been a few years since we visited Japan but did stay in a ryokan. You will actually sleep on roll-away mattresses (they go in a cupboard during the day) and they like to place them in a certain direction. We found the pillows very uncomfortable as if they were filled with beans so I put a towel on top. Do remember to remove your shoes. The people are so charming and the food was served as only the Japanese can--very daintily. Enjoy.

Florence

Yes, sleeping in Japanese room on tatami mats and a double layer of futon (roll-away mattress) is very, very confortable. You can assure your husband he'll be rested after a night in a traditional inn. Kyoto has some of the most elegants, refined ryokan in all Japan and an occasion to stay in one should not be sneezed at. Being introduced by someone living in Kyoto usually means you'll be treated much better than usual mortals, so enjoy !

leo

Deb,<BR>How lucky you are to have someone guide you through Kyoto and the Ryokan experience. There are lots of "rules" that need to be followed, but it is a wonderful cultural experience and not to be missed. I imagine you can stay in more westernized hotels for other nights in Japan if you husband wishes, but take advantage of the Ryokan. <BR><BR>Rule one is ONLY SOCKS on tatami mats. Off the mats and throughout the ryokan you wear slippers, and in the bathroom you switch your slippers for special "toilet slippers" <BR><BR>My only problem is that I am tall and getting off the floor was harder that rolling out of bed, but the futon are quite comfortable. You husband should not worry about a good night sleep. Have a WONDERFUL time.<BR>

Florence

For up to date information on Kyoto, have a look at<BR>http://www.kyotoguide.com<BR><BR>I always take a copy at the Tourist information center right across Kyoto station, since it has accurate maps and all kinds of informations on what's on for the current month.<BR>

Cass

Florence has asked me to pass along an alert: Japanese authorities are limiting animal and furniture shipments after discovering many Japanese beds had been nibbled. An outbreak of Futon Mouse disease is feared.

deb

thanks for all of your suggestions and info.