Single traveler searching for ryokan

I am having trouble finding ryokan accomodations, no matter what date I key in I get a no room available response. My travel days are very flexible, I can travel anytime,is there a best time to book ryokans as a single occupant?

what site are you using? and what are your dates?

As a solo, your option is very limited but not impossible..
Where are you going?

Try "Japanese Guest Houses." They are at
www.japaneseguesthouses.com

I have used them to book ryokan accommodation a few times. Yes, it can be harder to find places that accept single guests, but not impossible.

Best wishes

Thanks for all the responses. I can travel anytime after july 2013...and planning to stay for a month. The itineray depends on accommodation availability although I plan to visit Tokio, Mt Fuji area, Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Nagasaki and possibly Okinawa if I have the time.I am looking for a more traditional japanese experience rather than the more westernized accommodations...I have tried several sites and in all I get the same response...no rooms avaialble even though the site allows for a single person option.

I think you are trying to book far too early. Try booking next spring (3-4 months before you travel).

It's possible that you are booking too far ahead. I'm guessing if you tried to book a date in October this year you could if it says they have single rooms on the site.

Tourists have exactly the same problem in Europe with hotels and trains..trying to book too far in advance....

By the way old timers like me still manage to travel everywhere without booking, or only at the last minute, as I fly standby never sure that I will fly the day I want to.

Also many western style budget hotels do offer a Japanese experience...not the bedding but the automated toilets, the staff, the Japanese breakfast...

Thank you for the advice...will do some research on Japan prior to the trip and will keep your advice in mind to try to book three or four months in advance.