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About Japan

Japan is a fascinating country of contradictions: at once famed for its forward-thinking design and creative technology, yet continuing to pride itself on preserving its rich, ancient traditions. With a varied landscape of hot springs, snow-clad mountains, beautiful beaches and cities studded with skyscrapers, Japan is set to dazzle and delight travellers. It’s also a top foodie destination — and with good reason; Tokyo alone boasts 200 establishments with Michelin stars! Accommodation options, too, range from traditional inns with hot spring baths to cutting-edge design hotels and everything in between. In a land where the possibilities are seemingly endless, our Gurus’ list of the best places to stay in Japan is the perfect starting point to planning the trip of a lifetime.

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Japan’s big-hitters are its vibrant cities. Tokyo and Osaka are particular standouts, whilst charming Kyoto is the place to go for teahouses, shrines and the legendary entertainment district. Culture buffs will also adore Nara, Japan’s first capital. Venture to the island of Kyushu to discover active volcanoes, tranquil hot spring towns such as Yufuin, and a plethora of outdoorsy activities. Keen skiers and hikers should consider the resort towns of the northern Japanese Alps — Hakuba, Nozawa Onsen and others — which fuse snow-clad peaks with restful onsen baths. Still further north, the island of Hokkaidō boasts the ever-popular winter sports hub that is Niseko.

Whether you’re travelling as a couple or with friends and family, you’ll find Japan brimming with superb hotels offering warm hospitality, mouth-watering cuisine and a charming blend of old and new. The best places to stay in Japan await!

The Best Places to Stay in Japan

For City Style

  • Aman Tokyo has minimalist interiors designed by Kerry Hill, featuring pale wooden furnishings, slate-grey upholstery and crisp white linens. Suites are soothing and contemporary, the spa is sensational, and Venetian-trained chef Masakazu Hiraki promises some of the best Italian food in the city.
  • Conrad Osaka brings sophisticated minimalist design to the top floors of the Nakanoshima Festival West Tower. Spacious guestrooms and suites offer floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the city's skyline, and there's a chic spa and indoor pool. Dining options include delectable KURA. One for well-heeled design lovers.
  • The Four Seasons Kyoto promises a five-star stay in the heart of the historic city. Highlights include the sumptuous spa, sophisticated guestrooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, and the Michelin-starred Sushi Wakon Restaurant. Pure luxury.
  • Hotel K5 merges Scandi & Japanese styles in 20 hip rooms. One of Nihonbashi's trendiest boutique boltholes, this little hotel is also known for its terrific restaurant: Caveman. In addition there's a coffee shop, cocktail bar and brewery. A romantic pad in a Tokyo building dating back to 1924.

For a Charming Ryokan

  • Yuen Bettei Daita invites guests to unwind in communal hot spring onsen baths (indoor & outdoor) and the soothing Sojyu Spa. Elegant rooms are compact, drawing on typical Japanese elements — tatami flooring, rock gardens and wooden furnishings — and romantic. With Tsukikage serving mouth-watering Japanese fare, this is a very special Tokyo choice.
  • Yoshida Sanso has just five guestrooms set within manicured Japanese gardens in Kyoto. Kaiseki dinners are excellent, there are temples within walking distance and the vibe is low-key and tranquil. Brilliant for couples seeking traditional charm.
  • Hoshinoya, Tokyo’s first five-star ryokan, has 84 rooms on 17 floors, each of which acts as its own luxurious guesthouse. Take a soak in a traditional onsen, feast on exceptional Japanese cuisine, savour a sophisticated tea ceremony and retreat to atmospheric rooms and suites. A wonderful experience.
  • Yufuin Rikka has just six luxurious rooms and suites. The hotel fuses classic Japanese style with modern minimalism to create a more contemporary take on the typical ryokan. Expect crisp white sheets, ergonomic chairs, small balconies and wood-clad walls. Add the gourmet cuisine and onsen baths, and you're in for a romantic treat.

For Families or Groups

  • Ritz-Carlton Okinawa is moments from Kise Beach. A big resort brimming with activities for guests of all ages, the Ritz has a great kids club, wonderful, earthy-toned family suites and three dining options. Grown-ups can kick back at the spa or the atmospheric bar.
  • The Old Modern sleeps up to 14 guests, making it a great family or group choice. Located in Kyoto's Gion neighbourhood and bursting with history, this is an excellent spot for those looking to explore the geisha district on foot, and to benefit from the self-catering facilities of a private house.
  • Suginoi Hotel is a big high-rise hotel in the hills overlooking Beppu and the sea. Spacious rooms, multiple swimming pools, a bowling alley, hot springs and a spa make this a top pick for families, groups or business travellers. Imposing, impressive and brimming with activities for little ones and grown-ups.
  • Arimasansoh Goshobessho offers sumptuous private villas alongside a tranquil stream. Inland from Kobe, this rural retreat invites guests to reconnect with nature whilst staying with friends and family. Feast on gourmet Japanese cuisine, enjoy long leafy walks or soak in the hotel's hot spring bath. Villas feature traditional Japanese woodwork, contemporary design and forest views. For fans of the great outdoors.

For Romance

  • Nanzenji Sando Kikusui is a recently restored heritage hotel in Kyoto with just five suites. Expect slate and wooden accents, gorgeous views of the hotel gardens, and flavoursome cuisine in a restaurant headed by a Michelin-starred chef. Romantic luxury.
  • Hoshinoya Okinawa has minimalist rooms and suites overlooking the ocean in Okinawa, perfect for guests dreaming of a romantic hideaway. Enjoy nature-led spa treatments, hone your karate skills, go horse riding on the beach, or embark on a whale watching tour. An indulgent, exclusive hotel for couples.
  • Setouchi Retreat Aonagi is a beautiful design-led property with chic, minimalist suites overlooking the forest. Expect floor-to-ceiling windows, lots of polished concrete and cool, earthy tones. Superb spa treatments and top-notch kaiseki cuisine complete the romantic picture. For architecture buffs, near Matsuyama.
  • Zaborin sits just above the Zabo natural spring in Niseko. A luxurious choice for romantic couples, the property's 15 villas offer minimalist decor and private onsens with stunning views. Feast on traditional cuisine at the elegant restaurant. Exceptional.

For Ski Holidays

  • Kasara Niseko Village Townhouse offers a hip take on the traditional Japanese townhouse, with multi-bedroom chalets promising a chic stay for groups or families. With a dedicated concierge service, ski storage and well-equipped kitchens, these are a brilliant choice for a private, upmarket stay.
  • Snowball Chalet at Madarao Mountain is a cosy boutique lodge in the heart of Madarao village. Expect atmospheric, alpine-inspired interiors with Japanese accents, and romantic rooms for couples as well as larger spaces for families. Gather around the fire for après-ski drinks in the evening before heading out to dinner. Warm and welcoming.
  • Chatrium Niseko is a chic hotel offering contemporary rooms, suites and apartments with mountain views. Michelin-starred Kamimura specialises in Japanese-French fusion cuisine, perfect for keen foodies to savour after days out on the slopes. Set in Upper Hirafu Village.
  • Sierra Resort Hakuba is a swish property with contemporary rooms yielding forest views and beds topped with crisp white linens. Unwind in spoiling onsens or a refreshing outdoor pool after enjoying easy access to the slopes. Set on 25 acres of grounds near Hakuba, this is a luxurious choice for guests of all ages - and particuarly for keen skiiers.

For an Island Escape

  • Sankara Hotel & Spa offers gourmet cuisine and expansive luxury suites in a gorgeous seaside setting on Yakushima. Set near the south-eastern corner of the island, this boutique hotel also offers beautiful views and rejuvenating massages. Very special.
  • Benesse House is both a hotel and a museum on Naoshima Island. Designed by a reputed architect in 1992, the property is made up of a series of modern buildings with chic, minimalist rooms, some of which offer striking coastal views. Don't miss the museum itself, the burgeoning art collection or the excellent French restaurant. For design-minded couples or families.
  • The Shigira boasts sensational private villas with hot tubs, swimming pools and dramatic coastal views. With seven restaurants to choose from, bicycles and segways for hire, plus snorkelling and golf on your doostep, this is a magical Miyakojima spot. For honeymooners or families, who will appreciate the larger villas.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY HOUSE

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • Fly to Haneda International Airport or to Narita International Airport, both in Tokyo. Most Japanese destinations can be reached by connecting flight or high-speed train from the capital.
  • Tokyo is best navigated by public transport, but you may want to drive if you're exploring beyond the city itself. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Japan is a year-round destination. Summers can be hot and humid, so we'd recommend travelling in spring — famous for the pink blossoms on the country's cherry trees — or in autumn. Winters are brilliant for skiing at mountain resorts such as Niseko or Hakuba.

STILL NOT SURE?

See all » 71 hôtels in Kyoto

  • The Reign Hotel Kyoto (Minami ku Higashikujo Yanaginoshitacho 67-1) 51 rooms from £35

    Value chic  -  With stylish modern design and entry-level rooms starting below $50, this is a very reasonably priced stay
    Boutique  -  With just 51 rooms, sleek contemporary design, and Danish inspired cuisine this is a unique boutique stay
    Families  -  Luxury Deluxe Twin rooms (sleeping up to four) are good for families while kids will love the Loft Rooms
    Designer  -  Japan meets Scandinavia in this stylish minimalist hotel — a fresh option in Kyoto
    Air conditioningRestaurantDisabled access

    A stylish contemporary boutique pitched at great value and offering something a little different to the traditional Kyoto hotels. Sleek rooms are minimalist with a Scandinavia-meets-Kyoto aesthetic. The popular Danish restaurant is worth booking for alone. A hip city base. See More

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  • Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Shijo Kyoto (Nishinotoin-dori, Shimogyo-ku) 278 rooms from £78

    Museums  -  Admire the expansive collection at the Kyoto International Manga Museum for a sense of modern Japanese culture
    Value chic  -  A stylish and affordable city pad, with simple, modern rooms in a good location
    Groups  -  Large rooms with multiple beds are perfect for group trips
    Cycling  -  Hire a hotel bicycle to explore the city on two wheels
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    A contemporary property located in the heart of Kyoto. Sophisticated rooms are minimalist in style with large windows, crisp white linen and soft hues. Indulgent Japanese meals are served in the restaurant and a public bath provides the ideal spot to unwind after a day exploring the city. See More

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See all » 52 hôtels in Kyushu

  • Hotel Mei Fukuoka 36 rooms from £57

    Local exploring  -  There is a never ending supply of museums, parks and historical monuments to keep you busy
    Short break  -  Ideally located close to the Naka river and the eclectic nightlife of the Hakata Ward
    City Style  -  Minimalist modern styling with a real industrial-chic feel
    Value chic  -  Stunning accommodation at bargain basement prices
    Air conditioningViews

    A modern lifestyle hotel close to Fukuoka's highlights. Exposed concrete and steel and chic industrial furniture give a modern minimalist aesthetic to both bedrooms and communal areas, plus there's a cafe lounge for coffee and snacks. A cool urban base that won't break the bank! See More

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  • Jr Kyushu Hotel Nagasaki Nagasaki (Nagasaki-shi) 144 rooms from £60

    City Style  -  A stylish city choice, perfect for exploring Nagasaki whilst on business or on a holiday
    Designer Shopping  -  The hotel sits above the Amu Plaza Nagasaki Shopping Mall, perfect for keen shoppers
    Great walks  -  Take a stroll through the scenic Heiwa Park, just a few minutes from the hotel
    Value chic  -  A sophisticated hotel in a central location, offering very reasonable rates
    Air conditioningRestaurantDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    A smart hotel conveniently located next to JR Nagasaki Station. Light and airy rooms feature soft hues, crisp white linen and simple dark wooden furniture. Find efficient service and massages on arrangement. With easy access to the city this is an ideal property for both business and leisure. See More

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See all » 49 hôtels in Tokyo

  • Andon Ryokan Tokyo 24 rooms from £69

    Value chic  -  A great value hotel in a quiet locality but with easy access to the city's main attractions.
    Learning  -  Cultural activities at the hotel include tea ceremonies & flower arrangement classes
    Local exploring  -  Excellent location for exploring the surrounding neighbourhood on foot
    Great walks  -  Located close to popular Ueno Park, which is lovely for relaxed walks
    Air conditioningNo pets

    A traditional guesthouse in a quiet neighbourhood. Simple rooms have roll down futons, tatami matting, large windows and almost nothing else. Bathrooms are shared. The lounge area is a more contemporary affair with new-age furniture and bold colours. A friendly base for travellers on a budget. See More

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  • OMO5 Tokyo Otsuka Tokyo 125 rooms from £98

    Families  -  With the elevated beds and sofa beds in each room, this is ideal for small families
    Value chic  -  This chic accommodation comes in at a very reasonable price point
    City Style  -  Smart, modern interiors with an industrial feel
    Great walks  -  Sugamo Park is one of many beautiful parks in the area that make for great walking
    Air conditioningRestaurantPet friendly

    A chic, modern, family friendly property in Tokyo's northern suburbs. Compact but cozy rooms are surprisingly spacious with the elevated beds and lots of storage. Communal areas include an all-day cafe (risotto is the speciality), plus a sociable bar and lounge. A smart off-the-beaten-track base. See More

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See all » 39 hôtels in Hokkaidō

  • Grandpapa Niseko (Kutchan-chō, Abuta-gun) 19 rooms from £75

    Groups  -  Budget-conscious groups will appreciate rooms with multiple beds, shared bathrooms and a communal lounge with games area
    Trekking  -  The mountainsides are criss-crossed with hiking trails, perfect for spring, summer & autumn treks
    Skiing  -  Hop aboard the hotel's free shutte service to Niseko's ski lifts for a big day on the slopes
    Value chic  -  A well-located, friendly hotel offering low-cost accommodation close to the slopes
    RestaurantViewsParkingNo pets

    The family-owned Grandpapa offers unfussy accommodation in the ski town of Niseko. Each room comes with a TV and wifi, there's also a common area for socialising in the evenings, karaoke breaks the ice! Unwind in the Yukoro Onsen hot spring located just next-door! A simplistic & very friendly spot. See More

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  • Kitakobushi Shiretoko Hotel & Resort Shari, Hokkaidō 162 rooms from £86

    Local exploring  -  Kitakobushi Shiretoko is ideal for exploring the beauty of the Shiretoko peninsula or just the sleepy village of Utoro
    Families  -  Families are well served here with great room options and a special kids' play area
    Views  -  Mesmerizing views over the Sea of Okhostk
    Great walks  -  The beautiful Shiretoko national park is on the doorstep of the hotel
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantPet friendlyViewsParking

    An upscale resort hotel with stunning views of the Sea of Okhotsk. Exposed wooden beams and earthy colours give the rooms an authentic feel, designed to emulate the natural beauty of Shiretoko; the best offer both private sauna and onsen! Plus sophisticated fusion buffet dining. A crowd pleaser. See More

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See all » 35 hôtels in Hakone

  • Hakone Lake Hotel Hakone (Kanagawa) 48 rooms from £118

    Sauna/Steam  -  The outdoor hot spring bath and steam sauna is surrounded by the Hakone forest in a unique open space
    Views  -  The property boasts breathtaking view over both Lake Ashinoko and the surrounding mountains
    Families  -  An excellent base for both large and small families with loads of facilities and space
    Local exploring  -  Ideally located for taking in Hakone's highlights both cultural and country based
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenViewsParking

    Idyllic resort in the national park with verdant lawns overlooking Lake Ashinoko and mountains beyond. Choose between Japanese or Western bedding and meals. Extensive spa services and public indoor and outdoor hot spring baths. Ideal for families, and as a base for local sightseeing. See More

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  • Fujiya Hotel Hakone (Hakone-machi) 146 rooms from £144

    Country Escape  -  Set in beautifully manicured gardens and offering complete tranquility.
    Restaurant  -  Fujiya- French cuisine, Kikka-so Inn-traditional Japanese kaiseki dinners, whilst Grill Wisteria offers western dishes.
    Swimming Pool  -  Indoor and outdoor pools. Indoor pool uses natural spring water
    Great walks  -  Take gentle strolls through the Japanese gardens.
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A traditional property set in manicured gardens and boasting the title of being one of Japan's oldest hotels. Spacious rooms are light and airy with a distinctly European feel. Numerous hot spring baths offer ample opportunity for unwinding. An elegant setting for relaxing breaks. See More

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See all » 18 hôtels in Osaka

  • Hotel Agora Regency Sakai Osaka (Sakai-ku) 241 rooms from £107

    Business meetings  -  Well-connected to train stations and the Namba business district, this is a good value choice for a business trip
    Local exploring  -  South of central Osaka, the Sakai district is close to the water and well worth exploring on foot or by bicycle
    Cycling  -  Hire bikes from the hotel to explore the Sakai area, or take a guided cycling tour of the main sights
    Other Activities  -  Travel 30 minutes by train with family and friends to see Universal Studios Japan
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolViewsParkingNo pets

    Hotel Agora Regency Sakai enjoys a prime location in Sakai, south of central Osaka. The property provides chic rooms & elegant suites as well as boasting 7 dining options and extensive conference facilities. A more affordable yet smart option for business or leisure, 25 minutes from the airport. See More

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  • Kaneyoshi Ryokan Osaka (Chūō-ku) 15 rooms from £112

    Local exploring  -  Kaneyoshi Ryokan is located in central Osaka, the ideal spot base from which to get to know the city
    Value chic  -  An affordable stay in a central location, perfect for budget-conscious travellers
    Great walks  -  Meander around the city's streets and head down to the water at sunset and enjoy the views
    Sights nearby  -  Be sure to visit the Shitennoji Temple, Tsutenkaku Tower and the historic Osaka Castle
    Air conditioningRestaurantNo pets

    Kaneyoshi Ryokan offers traditional Japanese accommodation - think tatami woven flooring & futon bedding - at affordable rates for couples, friends & families. A simple city stay with Japanese cusine & an onsen bath for long soaks. Within walking distance of popular Dotonbori, in the heart of Osaka. See More

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See all » 17 hôtels in Niseko

  • Grandpapa Niseko (Kutchan-chō, Abuta-gun) 19 rooms from £75

    Groups  -  Budget-conscious groups will appreciate rooms with multiple beds, shared bathrooms and a communal lounge with games area
    Trekking  -  The mountainsides are criss-crossed with hiking trails, perfect for spring, summer & autumn treks
    Skiing  -  Hop aboard the hotel's free shutte service to Niseko's ski lifts for a big day on the slopes
    Value chic  -  A well-located, friendly hotel offering low-cost accommodation close to the slopes
    RestaurantViewsParkingNo pets

    The family-owned Grandpapa offers unfussy accommodation in the ski town of Niseko. Each room comes with a TV and wifi, there's also a common area for socialising in the evenings, karaoke breaks the ice! Unwind in the Yukoro Onsen hot spring located just next-door! A simplistic & very friendly spot. See More

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  • The Green Leaf Village Niseko (Higashiyama Onsen) 200 rooms from £111

    Skiing  -  The powder mecca of Japan (there's miles of pistes too), Niseko is a skiers' favourite - the hotel boasts ski-in ski-out access
    Families  -  Larger rooms with extra beds are brilliant for family trips, and kids will love the games room and outdoor activities
    Active Holiday  -  Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, hiking, snowmobiling and rides in reindeer-led sleighs
    Other Activities  -  Zip across the snowy landscapes on a thrilling snowmobile excursion
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A contemporary property located at the base of Mount Niseko Annupuri. Offering ski-in ski-out access to some of Japan's best skiing. Spend evenings unwinding with a cocktail in the glamourous bar or being pampered in the spa. The service is slick and rooms boast simple chic design. Superb. See More

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