Ryokan Seikan-so: "Charming ryokan for the budget-savvy Nara visitor "

Rating:	★★★
Category:	Other

The higher-end ryokans are going to be a bit expensive and usually is a per person charge instead of per room. What should a budget-conscious traveler do when confronted by accommodation rates of JPY 25K (per head) and upwards?

In my case, one of the many delightful finds I had in Nara, Japan was this charming little ryokan. This is ideal for backpackers who want more than a dorm room, but have the desire to try Japanese-style accommodations but of the inexpensive type. Conflicting reality versus fervent wish, but no need to fear!

Like a glimmering jewel in an unassuming crown, Ryokan Seikan-so has this quite charming garden which has manicured shrubs, trees and azalea bushes - you can have a good view of this so when you make a reservation, remember to ask for a room facing said garden. Since this is located in a quiet neighborhood which is approximately 10 minutes walk south of Nara Park, you have already have a couple of good reasons to stay here.

As per usual with traditional Japanese buildings, the rooms wrap around the inner garden I waxed enthusiastic about. The con side though is that the last time I stayed here, it could be seen that the rooms were beginning to show their age. To get around this, I think of this as being "historical not-just renovated" and note that this ryokan dates from 1916.

A friendly and accommodating couple own and manage it, and since they speak English, that is another bonus, The husband was quite helpful with tips on how to go around Nara, the wife reassured me when I was a bit late for my arrival and I bet she was the one who prepared the breakfast for the following day (where I stuffed myself with rice and pickles amongst other things).

Japanese or Western breakfast is available and do tell them about your preference before turning in. Breakfast is another charge, approximately USD 4 to 8 for now.

The ryokan closes around 11 pm, so if you are thinking of drinking out all hours and just coming back very late, please reconsider. I myself sped back and had a splashing time by myself in their hot bath before snuggling into my comfy futon. (Remember to shower and wash before you wallow in their tub).

There are 9 units and the bathroom is common (typical of a ryokan).
There is a discount for children under 10 years old.
The room has an airconditioner, hot water pot with tea and a not so modern looking tv. There is no phone. The room I stayed in had tatamis of course (I don't think they have western style bedrooms).

I made my booking through http://www.itcj.jp/.
Though no reservation fee was charged, you will be asked to input your credit card details as guarantee. I paid around JPY 4,200 for my one night stay (meal excluded) charged to my credit card (Amex, Visa and Mastercard are accepted).

Since I used JR Pass, I popped out of Nara Station (asked a schoolgirl through mime and waving of arms), then went across the street and used the bus. Since it loops, do not be concerned if you take a bus going either way. Be sure to get out at the right bus stop (a sign inside the bus helps you find out where you are) and its a short walk from then on towards an inner street. There is also a map from Welcome Inn Reservation Center site to help you find your way to this ryokan in Central Nara.

Ryokan Seikan is found in:
29, Higashi-Kitsuji-cho,
Nara City, Nara Pref. 630-8327
Phone and Fax #: 0742/22-2670
Email: seikanso@chive.ocn.ne.jp

Options on how to get there:

a) 15 minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station (this is easier unless you have a JR pass which you really want to use).

b) 25 minutes walk from JR Nara Station (wouldn't recommend this if you are carrying a lot of things).

c) Loop bus 1 to Kitakyobate stop (~5 to 10 minutes) from JR Nara Station.