What springs to mind when you think of Japan? From sushi to Shinto temples, sumo to stylish gadgets, Japan remains a popular destination for western tourists.

After sorting out your flight details, with many major airports in the UK offering services to Tokyo and Osaka, it's time to decide what kind of accommodation you wish to stay in during your visit.

There are many different types of accommodation you can choose to stay in during your visit to the land of the rising sun. As well as the larger chain hotels located within the bustling city streets, there are a number of smaller establishments tucked away amongst the hustle and bustle and the neon lights:

• If you fancy spending the night in a more traditional dwelling rather than the more upmarket hotels, try searching for a ryokan.

Ryokan are small inns, usually located in scenic areas on the outskirts of cities.

Typical sleeping arrangements involve futons on tatami-matted floors. These establishments also include communal bathing areas, separated by sliding doors, which use water from hot springs to give a feeling of relaxation in an Oriental environment.

Traditional Japanese meals are usually included in the price - though not all ryokan offer this service - and whilst some have communal dining areas, most will bring the meals to your room.

• There are also a number of smaller versions of the traditional ryokan - known as minshuku - which are equivalent to holiday homes and B&Bs.

Facilities could consist of that of a small hotel or just a room in a family home, and often serve as accommodation in villages and towns which are too small to warrant a hotel or ryokan.

• If you'd rather not sleep on a futon, there are many hotels that have facilities that combine Eastern and Western traits, whilst still offering a taste of the Orient.
• There are also a number of hotels where you can spend the night in ‘capsule rooms' - small bunks which include televisions and lockers in the corridors to store your luggage.

Don't worry if you're travelling in a group, for these hotels also offer a number of small rooms that have a lot more space for a little extra money.

Many hotels in Japan are located within the bustling city environments, and tend to be within walking distance of railway stations and tram stops, as well as a wide range of restaurants offering everything from traditional Japanese cuisine such as sushi and ramen noodles to modern fusion-cuisine in Michelin-starred restaurants.

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