NY Times: Japan’s Onsen Ryokans
Full Article: A Relaxing Tradition Dips a Toe in the 21st Century
A Relaxing Tradition Dips a Toe in the 21st Century
By DANIEL ALTMAN
WHAT happens when Japan’s deeply rooted traditions and its insatiable appetite for new technology collide? The results are on show in a recent wave of hot spring hotels, or onsen ryokans, that merge ancient ideas with concepts from modern design.
Though some Japanese might shudder at the idea of tampering with their age-old retreats, the new features may help ensure the survival of onsen ryokans.