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NUS professor works in ryokan for a year, offers behind-the-scenes look at Japan’s iconic inns in new book
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NUS associate professor of Japanese studies Chris McMorran (second from left) with NUS students on a study trip to Japan.
PHOTO: CHRIS MCMORRAN
SINGAPORE – Like picnicking under cherry blossoms, walking through vermilion torii gates or catching a glimpse of Mount Fuji’s peak on a clear day, a stay at a ryokan, or traditional inn, is the essence of Japan for travellers.
Between the steaming onsen and exquisite multi-course kaiseki meals, so alluring is the ryokan experience that people around the world repeat visits to Japan’s 50,000 or so inns.
