Nagano was our second stop out of Tokyo, and our first experience staying in a ryokan guest house. We found Chuokan Shimizuya Ryokan on Booking.com. With grass mats and sparse furnishings, it seemed huge in comparison to our city hotels. We took advantage of the baths, relaxed with tea in our room, used the window seating area, and thoroughly enjoyed our hosts. Plus, this was the best Japanese breakfast of our trip.  Read more about ryokans and other types of accommodations we’ve stayed in in Japan right here at TravelPast50.com.