Hidden behind an original sandstone facade in Balmain, Sydney’s only Ryokan (a traditional Japanese Guest House) has recently opened.

Owner Linda Evans, whose love affair with all things Japanese craft, fashion and culture began in the late 60’s with the ‘Samurai’ TV show, has opened the doors after an extensive renovation to reveal an exquisite boutique inn specialising in Edo-Period hospitality.

Once inside the lobby area, remove your shoes and step into a pair of Japanese slippers. Slide back the shōji (paper screen) doors and you’ll hear a constant trickle coming from the serene koi fish pond. As your host guides you to your room you’ll catch your first glimpse of a zen garden filled with bamboo, ume blossom, and Japanese maple trees.

Being super boutique, there are only two traditionally appointed rooms to choose from at Ryokan Gojyuan. Both the Matsu No Ma (pine) and Take No Ma (bamboo) are tatami-matted rooms with hidden TVs and bedding which your host deftly lays out prior to bed time and tucks away again in the morning. The aesthetic is ‘old’ but you have all the creature comforts including a modern bathroom.

The most important part of the Ryokan experience comes in the form of relaxing in a hot Japanese soaking bath. The wooden communal bath filled with sand filtered, heated water (up to your shoulders) has been purpose built from Nakatsugawa (Gifu Prefecture) and runs continuously during your stay. Just remember to shower outside the bath before hand.

Breakfast is included but we suggest you book a kaiseki (traditional multi-course Japanese dinner). Share a conversation and stay with Linda, it’s an experience you won’t soon forget.

Ryokan Gojyuan
208 Darling Street Balmain 2041
Tel : +612 9810 3219