Originally Posted by abmj-jr
Likewise, the need to vacate the establishment for several hours during the day can cut into my nap possibilites. .... For me, a night or two in a ryokan is wonderfully relaxing and a highly rewarding cultural experience. Much longer would wear a little thin.
Not all ryokan will kick you out during the day; there was no such suggestion or restriction at Hiiragiya in Kyoto. However, naps are an essential part of my life on the road, and the Hiiragiya staff were a bit dumbfounded (but ultimately helpful) in doing up the futon at 3pm.
All that said, I think 2 nights at a nice ryokan is an ideal length of time to relax, chill out, and be mothered unmercifully (including being stuffed like a goose). Besides, once a Westerner has mastered the Ritual of the Footwear, few challenges remain.