Ryokans with infant / small child

We will be travelling around Japan Alps and wanting to stay in Ryokan. We will travel with two young children, age 5 months and 2.5 years.

Would children of that age normally be charged as "occupants" by a Ryokan, or would they stay free?
Advice appreciated. Thanks.

Actually in many Ryokans, young kids are not allowed. You should call ahead before making your reservations to confirm that it's ok to take them.

Whether a child is charged or not usually depends on whether the child needs indivisual beddings and meals.

It is true however that some top class ryokans may not appreciate small children. On the other hand, minshuku is always family-friendly, and also usually has a fixed price per town.

Minshuku is typically a family-run lodge where meals are made by that family. Therefore the guests need to lay the provided sheets by themselves and help set the table, but it's fun and laid back.

Thanks for the comments!