21
Jun

Japan is a country with an interesting culture and tradition. It is no wonder, therefore, that a lot of Japanese art, food, and style are incorporated into the Western world today. One of these is the tatami room, which are popular in Japanese-styled homes, hotels, and restaurant worldwide. It is even said that a visit in Japan can never be complete without experiencing the coziness and uniqueness of a Japanese tatami room.

The tatami room goes way back in the history of Japan. In the 19th century, it used to be present in every Japanese home and was used for formal meetings involving samurais. Today, Japanese homes still have at least one tatami room, now mainly used as a guest room or reception room.

Tatami rooms can be distinguished by its three main components: the tatami mats, shoji, and tokonoma. Tatami mats are made using rice straw, woodchip boards or Styrofoam, and covered with woven rice. Tatami mats are the traditional flooring used in tatami rooms. The shoji, on the other hand, is a sliding panel that can be used as decoration or partition between different rooms. It is made of wooden panels with rice paper covering on both sides. They can either be plain or containing floral design. The tokonoma is an alcove, a recessed space in the room, with raised floor where art is displayed. In traditional Japanese homes, it used to hold huge scrolls that hung on the wall with flower arrangements on the floor below the scroll.

Another important feature of a Japanese tatami room is the limited furniture, due mainly to the fact that tatami mats are easily scratched; usually only a small table and sitting cushions are present. Also, a tatami room is not a tatami room without a low ceiling. Just like traditional Japanese homes, tatami rooms have a height of only about 6 feet. The Japanese have an interesting perception of room height as tradition dictates that they sit on the floor with their backs straight rather than on chairs and couches.

A tatami room is simply a work of art just by itself, and its coziness and uniqueness are unlike any other. These are what keep the tatami rooms popular for both locals and foreigners alike. In this world full of change, the tatami room is one of the few things that have survived the transition from the traditional to modern society through the years. It is something that Japan and its people are truly proud of.

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05
Oct

Japan is a mesmerizing nation of islands integrated beautifully with amazing technology and  modern lifestyles. If you are planning a trip to Japan, then prepare to be spellbound by the charm and tenderness of the country. The accommodating nature and geniality of the people, the rich history, and the bustling modernity of the cities make Japan a place well worth visiting. To explore Japan to the fullest, and to ensure that you get a taste of Japanese culture, don’t miss staying at a hotel in Japan. Japan’s hotels can be your home away from home while allowing you to experience aspects of a new culture.

Hotels in Japan range from the grand and ostentatious to the cozy and family-owned.. Whether you’re looking for short or long term, luxurious or modest, Japan’s hotels can offer accommodations to fit your needs.  Hotel staff make every effort to ensure your stay is comfortable. If you’re still not convinced, take a look at the five following reasons to stay at a hotel in Japan.

1.       Find a new hotel experience

While Japan has numerous chain hotels with western-style accommodations and furnishings, Japan has one unique living style to share with visitors: the “Ryokan” is a Japanese style hotel or inn.  These hotels can be modest or luxurious, and often feature traditional Japanese meal services.  Many ryokans utilize traditional Japanese futons rather than a mattress, and staff will enter the room to set them up while you are away.  Get a taste of traditional Japan by staying at a ryokan rather than a regular hotel!

2.       Be at ease

Japanese service is famous world-wide for being outstanding, and the hotel industry is no exception.  Allow yourself to be pampered during your hotel stay.  Feel safe knowing your belongings will be secure.  Enjoy laundry and dry cleaning services at some hotels, and take advantage of hotel recommendations for food and entertainment.

3.       Find the accommodation that’s right for you

Whether you are looking for a high end long term stay or a humble, traditional stay in a family owned inn, hotels in Japan range in price and services so widely that every visitor is sure to find their perfect solution.  Every major city in Japan has a wealth of information regarding accommodation.  Rest assured you’ll find the location that’s perfect for you.

4.       Affordability

If you’re a traveler on a budget, there are solutions available for you.  While cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Okinawa boast impressive, resort-like hotels, there are also a widespread number of quality establishments at affordable prices.  Don’t be afraid to explore the wealth of accommodation options!

5.      Enjoy Yourself!

Staying at a hotel during your visit to Japan will allow you to more thoroughly enjoy your travel experience.  Don’t worry about cooking, cleaning, and laundry.  Relying on the services of your hotel will give you more time to plan your adventure in Japan!

Take these 5 things into consideration when booking your trip to Japan – staying in a hotel is an excellent solution for any traveler!