"How did it strike you on arrival?OK, so we're not in Kansas anymore—got it. And that's the point to booking this budget-friendly, modern-but-definitely-traditional ryokan a stone's throw from Senso-ji, where the front doors slide open and staff shuffle about kimonos. It's not the Tokyo of today, but it's totally, thankfully Japanese. Nice. What’s the crowd like?Certainly younger and undoubtedly more open to experience—guests staying here are game to explore. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.The twin-room, stated clearly, is Japanese-style with tatami-mat floors, and just a few Japanese antiques here and there (be careful not to knock over any ceramics). Ceilings are humble (read: low) and the mood is cozy (yes, small, but larger rooms are available), and a little worn around the edges, but for a hostel-style booking you'll still have your own private bathroom and a flat-screen TV in the corner. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?If you can't handle the futons, you might be looking at a fitful night's sleep. There's always the hopeful option of doubling down: Ask nicely, and with luck, you might be able to get a second futon for extra cushioning. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.Expect nothing special from the room's private bathrooms except a toilet and a shower. The communal bathrooms, however, are a cultural immersion. There’s one cypress-wood bath and one in black granite. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?There's free Wi-Fi—and it works! Room service: Worth it?At any traditional ryokan, room service is half the charm. Order the breakfast (the only option available) and expect equal tradition: Set up in the room, there will be too many tiny plates to count. Bottom line: worth it, and why?Arrive without expectations, and this will be a cultural entrée. Do you need to stay a full week? Not necessarily. If you're wary, consider making this just one of your bookings." - Keith Flanagan
