An economical and interesting way to experience Japan while traveling is to stay at a Japanese Inn. This is not a chain group but each inn is different with its own facilities and services. Generally the inns are small and are run by a family, similar to an expensive ryokan.
Most inns are Japanese style with tatami mat rooms and a shared bathroom for guest.
Japanese Inns are usually less expensive than a business hotel and cost around 3 - 4,000 per person. Japan Travel Phone is a nationwide telephone service for those in need of English language assistance and travel information. The service has been extremely helpful in collecting information on travel in Japan and places to stay that are inexpensive. The moral of the story is when you call tell a white lie and indicate youre visiting friends in Miyazaki. Another helpful number for English speaking help that is listed in the Yomiuri Shinbun is the Japan Hotline.