Embracing Digital Transformation How Japan’s Traditional Onsen Ryokans Are Pioneering the Future of Work

The Digital Shift in Traditional Industries Post-Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated digital transformation across numerous sectors, including Japan’s traditional onsen (hot spring) ryokans, once thought resistant to change. This shift has not only improved service quality but remarkably enabled a three-day weekend for employees, a significant leap in an industry renowned for its meticulous customer service reliant on extensive manpower.

Overcoming Staffing Challenges at Tsurumaki Onsen’s ‘Motoyu Jin’ya’

‘Motoyu Jin’ya’, a ryokan in Kanagawa’s Tsurumaki Onsen, has emerged stronger post-pandemic, achieving increased revenue and a three-day weekend for staff. President Miyazaki Tomoko credits the success to a restructuring of old regulations and systems during the pandemic. The ryokan faced severe staffing challenges, with veteran employees leaving and a dearth of new hires. To combat this, Miyazaki divided the staff into four teams, rotating shifts to ensure continuous operation, and extended daily work hours to ten, with a four-day work week. This initiative not only complied with labor laws but also fostered a supportive work…