The Hotel Guru
15 Top Design-Led Hotels in Japan

15 Top Design-Led Hotels in Japan

A country famed for its cutting-edge design, Japan boasts an impressive array of unusual hotels. Whether reimagining the classic ryokan aesthetic or embracing contemporary minimalism in the swish skycrapers of Tokyo and Osaka, Japan's architects and designers have created wonderful spaces for couples, groups or families to enjoy. Our list of the top design-led hotels in Japan includes contemporary art museum-hotels, a floating boutique pad, mountain retreats and bold city stays bound to dazzle and delight in equal measure.

For a Reimagined Urban Ryokan

Hoshinoya, Tokyo’s first five-star ryokan, has 84 rooms on 17 floors, each of which acts as its own luxurious guesthouse. Offering an unusual take on Japan's iconic inn culture, the hotel boasts traditional onsen baths, exceptional Japanese cuisine and atmospheric rooms and suites. For design lovers eager to fuse old and new.
Azumi Setoda is owned by the founder of the Aman hotel group, and has been designed by Kyoto architect Shiro Miura. Expect 22 chic rooms in a 140-year-old building close to Setoda's port. A boutique pad with private baths, garden-view terraces and delicious regional dishes. A traditional ryokan reimagined.
The Shinmonzen is one of Kyoto's most striking design hotels. A luxurious, modern take on ryokan style, the hotel boasts nine suites with wooden walls, tatami flooring and big, low beds clad in crisp white linens. The superb art collection includes pieces by the likes of Damian Hirst and Hiroshi Sugimoto. Exceptional.

For City Style

Shiroiya Hotel has to be one of Maebashi's most stylish hotels. Architect Sou Fujimoto and his design team have created minimalist, organic spaces with an industrial edge, clad in soothing grey and white tones. The terrific restaurant, headed by Hiroyasu Kawate, and the impressive art collection are the icing on the cake. Very hip.
Conrad Osaka promises floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the city's skyline from the top floors of Osaka's Nakanoshima Festival West Tower. There's a sumptuous spa, indoor pool and multiple dining options — including KURA. A modernist design favourite with an iconic staircase.
Hotel Gajoen is home to an acclaimed Chinese restaurant, as well as 60 luxurious rooms and suites. Its truly unusual design draw, however, is the vast collection of pre-war Japanese artwork held in the adjoining Hyakudan Kaidan. One for history and art-minded travellers in Tokyo.
Node Kyoto is a hip boutique hotel with the feel of an art gallery. Set slightly west of central Kyoto and Gion, this 25-room property has an industrial feel, with exposed grey concrete ceilings, grey and white decor and quirky modern artwork. The bar and restaurant are seriously cool.

For a Rural Retreat

Amanemu reflects the understated design ethos synonymous with Aman hotels the world over. Gorgeous rooms and suites overlooking the striking Ise-Shima National Park. With restorative wellness treatments and gourmet cuisine, this is a restful, romantic retreat.
Hoshinoya Fuji sits deep in tranquil woodland, with minimalist modern rooms and cabins framed by trees and facing Mount Fuji. A fabulous hideaway for lovers of cutting-edge design and foodies.
Satoyama Jujo is a design-led mountain escape in Minamiuonuma. Marvel at the contemporary art collection, striking outdoor onsen and stellar cuisine. With easy access to skiing, biking and hiking, this is an idyllic choice for active explorers and admirers of crisp, clean interiors.
Shishi Iwa House was designed by internationally recognised architect Shigeru Ban. A gloriously minimalistic pad with light, airy spaces, plenty of pale wood and contemporary artwork in 10 bedrooms, it's a delightful Karuizawa escape. Just an hour from Tokyo by train.
Kinnotake Tonosawa, near Hakone, offers 23 pared-back rooms and suites surrounded by forest. The unique architecture, focusing on clean lines and natural materials, will be a big hit with modern design buffs, whilst foodies will adore the kaiseki cuisine. Private tubs are a bonus.

For Ocean Views

KAI Anjin offers sleek, minimalist rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows framing superb sea views. Set in coastal Ito, the hotel also has inviting rooftop baths, a gourmet restaurant and an impressive record collection. Tranquil, restorative and design-focused.
Benesse House was designed by Tadao Ando as both a hotel and a museum three decades ago. Made up of a series of buildings with pared-back rooms, the property has a superb French restaurant, a burgeoning art collection and an intriguing museum. The Naoshima Island location ensures glorious coastal views. For design lovers of all ages.
Guntû takes ocean views to the next level. A ship boasting 19 indulgent, wood-panelled cabins with private balconies and big bathtubs, this is a hugely romantic choice — and one of the top design-led hotels in Japan. Soak up uninterrupted views of the Seto Inland Sea, enjoy restorative spa treatments and feast on fresh sushi. Bliss.

STILL NOT SURE?

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- Hoshinoya Tokyo (Chiyoda-ku) 84 rooms from £701
  
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  Other Activities  -  Experience the rituals of a typical tea ceremony in the hotel's dedicated tea room, a reflective, minimalist space
  City Style  -  A luxury hotel with each floor acting as an exclusive domain, accessible only by specific guests
  Yoga  -  Try early morning traditional sword training on the rooftop from 6.45am
  Hideaway  -  A restful oasis in the heart of one of the world's busiest cities
  
  Tokyo's first 5-star ryokan fills a 17-floor skyscraper, with each floor acting as an independent guesthouse. Expect utter luxury, whether unwinding in soothing onsens or feasting on exemplary Japanese cuisine. A serene haven for design lovers. Step outside into the heart of Tokyo. Superb. See More
  
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- Azumi Setoda Setoda (Onomichi) 22 rooms from £548
  
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  Designer  -  Designed by Kyoto architect Shiro Miura, the property merges traditional textures and materials with a timeless minimalist edge
  Families  -  The duplexes with ground-floor rooms, a garden, and an upper-level space with tatami mat flooring are ideal for families
  Cycling  -  Ideal for cyclists as Ikuchijima forms part of an idyllic 37-mile (60 km) cycling route known as the Shimanami Kaido
  Historic  -  Set within a century-old former residence and bathhouse
  
  A chic 22-room hotel set in a 140-year-old building near the port. Owned by Aman founder Adrian Zecha, the style and service are well-polished. Interiors are decorated with a contemporary take on traditional ryokan design. With hot baths and very good regional cuisine, this is an indulgent stay. See More
  
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- The Shinmonzen Kyoto (Higashiyama-ku) 9 rooms from £888
  
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  Designer  -  Offering the simplicity of a Ryokan with renowned art works and chic European touches — making this anything but traditional
  Local exploring  -  Gion district is famous for its geisha teahouses, atmospheric narrow lanes, hidden temples and traditional wooden architecture
  Foodies  -  Famed French chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten runs the show here offering Kyoto cuisine with a distinctly modern French touch
  Artworks  -  The property has some big hitters including Damien Hirst, Louise Bourgeois and Hiroshi Sugimoto
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  Behind its traditional machiya-style façade, lies a contemporary ryokan made for design-lovers. Interiors are styled on a traditional ryokan with chic minimalism, tatami mat flooring, and sharp lines but there are also renowned artworks (think Damien Hirst) and plenty of modern touches. Very chic. See More
  
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- Shiroiya Hotel Maebashi (Gunma Prefecture) 25 rooms from £131
  
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  Artworks  -  Art is at the heart of the hotel with the likes of the permanent red digital artwork by Tatsuo Miyajima on display
  Designer  -  Architect Sou Fujimoto has created a design masterpiece offering chic Japanese minimalism with an industrial spin
  Foodies  -  Several dining options range from a chic cafe to a fine dining experience created by a Michelin starred chef
  Great walks  -  Spend the day hiking through the mountains of Gunma — one of the main reasons to visit
  
  The architect has pulled in weighty names in design to create arguably Maebashi's most stylish hotel. Individually styled rooms mix Japanese minimalism with an industrial feel. Well-chosen art can be found throughout while the food is a real lure including a restaurant overseen by Hiroyasu Kawate. See More
  
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- Conrad Osaka Osaka 164 rooms from £351
  
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  Local exploring  -  Nestled in the heart of Osaka, with shops, restaurants and historic sites close by, book this hotel for local exploring
  Foodies  -  With four restaurants and bars to choose from, all with striking city views, foodies are well-catered to at this hotel
  City Style  -  Set in between the Dojima and Tosabori rivers, this sleek city bolt-hole has lots of local charm
  Sights nearby  -  Tour the 16th-century Osaka Castle, one of the city's most famous landmarks
  
  This five-star, luxury hotel is located on the highest floors of the Nakanoshima Festival West Tower in Osaka. The contemporary guestrooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows with views over the spectacular skyline. Head to KURA restaurant for sushi and teppanyaki after sightseeing. See More
  
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- Hotel Gajoen Tokyo 60 rooms from £471
  
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  Families  -  There is a good range of both Japanese and Western style rooms, most of which can easily accommodate families
  Local exploring  -  Set close to museums and tourist attractions, choose this hotel as a base for your local exploring in Tokyo
  City Style  -  Blending classic and contemporary approaches to Japanese hospitality, this hotel offers modern city style
  Foodies  -  Boasting an acclaimed Chinese restaurant available for private hire, this hotel is great for foodies
  Recommended by  -  Small Luxury Hotels
  
  This unique, luxury hotel is home to a museum of Japanese pre-war art in Tokyo. Guests can choose from traditional or modern Japanese-style rooms, or classic Western layouts. Enjoy dinner at stylish Chinese restaurant Shunyuki after browsing the hotel's collection. See More
  
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- Node Kyoto Kyoto (Nakagyo-ku) 25 rooms from £118
  
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  Artworks  -  The rooms and common areas function as a living gallery space, with works by top local and international artists on display
  Designer  -  Moody hues, plush fabrics, and contemporary artworks all set in an industrial style building. A very chic stay
  City Style  -  This is an achingly hip space which is as popular with those from the local art scene as it is travellers
  Bar  -  The capacious bar is the setting for a regular schedule of exhibitions plus chic events and openings
  Recommended by  -  Design Hotels
  
  A hip boutique hotel with the feel of an art gallery with its large private collection of contemporary works. Rooms are simply styled with cool grey hues and pale wooden floors. The largest nine are fitted with bathtubs. Western fare is served in the restaurant while the bar is the place to be seen. See More
  
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- Amanemu Shima (Shima-shi) 28 rooms from £760
  
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  Back to Nature  -  The property is set within Ise-Shima National Park on the Kii Peninsula, a stunning rural spot
  Total relaxation  -  Aman properties are known for their impressive spa treatments: a wellness lover's dream
  Foodies  -  Enjoy exquisite gourmet cuisine at the restaurant made using fresh local produce
  Romantic Break  -  Beautiful surrounds where privacy is key - great for romantics
  Recommended by  -  CN Traveller, Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  Set amongst the rolling hills of Ise-Shima National Park, the upmarket Amanemu provides spacious and luxurious accommodation boasting splendid views. Explore the scenic area or unwind in the onsens. Meals at the restaurant are an absolute must! Get the celebrity treatment at this lovely rural spot. See More
  
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- Hoshinoya Fuji Fujikawaguchiko 40 rooms from £864
  
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  Cycling  -  Use one of the hotel's electric bicycles to explore the area at your own pace, or with an expert guide
  Back to Nature  -  In a secluded woodland setting complete with views of Mount Fiji, this is the perfect retreat
  Kayaking  -  Canoe on the nearby lake and admire the spectacular views of Mount Fuji in the early morning
  Architectural  -  Ultra-modern minimalist cabins designed by Azuma; a hotel for design buffs
  
  A striking design hotel offering an unbeatable location deep in the woodlands with views of Mount Fiji. Interiors are spacious and contemporary with the minimalist design highlighting the epic views. Rooms are individual cabins giving complete quiet and privacy. A luxury nature escape. See More
  
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- Satoyama Jujo Minamiuonuma (Minami-uonuma-shi) 13 rooms from £423
  
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  Skiing  -  Minamiuonuma & neighboring Yuzawa boast more than 20 ski resorts, with ski schools open from December to April
  Foodies  -  The restaurant follows a farm-to-fork ethos, serving gourmet cuisine inspired by the Minamiuonuma region
  Mountain biking  -  Hire bicycles to explore the surrounding mountain trails on two wheels during the summer months
  Back to Nature  -  A perfect destination to reconnect with nature, enjoy long hikes and soak in a hot spring onsen
  Recommended by  -  Design Hotels, Tablet
  
  A small luxury hotel in a spectacular & secluded mountain location. Chic, minimalist rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows and light wooden walls. The exemplary restaurant serves delectable organic fare, and there's a strong focus on art & design. Unwind in the hotel's superb onsen. A spoiling stay. See More
  
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- Shishi Iwa House Karuizawa 10 rooms from £295
  
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  Architectural  -  Expect a sleek natural feel in this small hotel designed by Pritzker Prize laureate Shigeru Ban
  Short break  -  Located just an hour from Tokyo by train, this is ideal for a quick weekend getaway in nature
  Active Holiday  -  Spend your days skiing or hiking before unwinding in a hot spring onsen
  Restaurant  -  Casual dining plus chef prepared in-room meals and the opportunity to order in from nearby (very good) restaurants
  
  A stylish small hotel that cleverly blends with the surrounding nature, designed by renowned architect Shigeru Ban. Expect light open spaces, soft curves, and plenty of wood. Ten expansive rooms have outdoor space, high ceilings, and gorgeous minimalist style. Perfect for a weekend escape. See More
  
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- Kinnotake Tonosawa Hakone (Kanagawa) 23 rooms from £459
  
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  Other Activities  -  Head to the Ōwakudani Valley to marvel at the steaming hot springs from which the Hakone region has become famous
  Total relaxation  -  Hidden away in a forest and with rooms boasting private hot spring baths, this is a very relaxing spot
  Golf  -  Play a round at one of the three scenic golf courses within 30 minutes of the hotel
  Romantic Break  -  A restful and romantic adults-only escape for nature-focused couples
  
  An architecturally stunning hotel in an enviable forest location. Rooms have a modern, organic feel with a touch of traditional Japanese style; think plenty of wood, clean lines, picture frame windows and hot spring tubs. A speciality restaurant serves up "Kyo Kaiseki" style dining. Fabulous. See More
  
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- KAI Anjin Ito (Ito-shi) 45 rooms from £201
  
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  Total relaxation  -  A tranquil spot complete with rooftop hot baths and plenty of local hikes. Just 2 hours from Tokyo, this is an ideal city escape
  Great walks  -  Despite being situated in a city, there are plenty of hiking trails just a short distance from the property
  Sights nearby  -  Take a chair lift up Mount Omuro (an extinct volcano) and enjoy the views from the top
  Restaurant  -  The restaurant serves menus featuring British inspired dishes
  
  A sleek design hotel set in the coastal city of Ito. Minimalist rooms benefit from large planes of glass framing the sea views. With rooftop hot baths, a library that holds a large vinyl collection, and a creative restaurant, this is an undeniably cool stay. See More
  
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- Benesse House Naoshima (Kagawa-gun) 65 rooms from £186
  
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  Romantic Break  -  Lovely accommodation, gorgeous views and a tranquil atmosphere-perfect for a romantic getaway
  Other Activities  -  Keep an eye out for regular events and art talks held in the museum's conference spaces
  Museums  -  The house itself is an acclaimed museum; guided visits are a highlight of any stay
  Beach Life  -  Benesse House enjoys a superb beachfront location on the coast of the Inland Sea
  Recommended by  -  Michelin Travel
  
  This art museum-come-hotel is situated on the coast of Naoshima island. Benesse House's four buildings offer chic minimalist accommodation with floor to ceiling windows and gorgeous views! Enjoy the restaurant's French-inspired cuisine made using local produce. A unique stay, perfect for art lovers! See More
  
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- guntû Tomonoura 19 rooms from £937
  
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  Romantic Break  -  Offering romantic cabins with sea views, in addition to sleek spa facilities, book this hotel for a unique couples' getaway
  Total relaxation  -  Enjoy total relaxation aboard this cruise hotel experience, with attentive staff on hand to cater to your every whim
  Sights nearby  -  Visit national heritage sites on the cruise stops, such as the beautiful Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima
  Restrictions on children  -  The minimum age for guests is 15
  
  This boutique hotel floats in the midst of the Seto Inland Sea in Hiroshima. Minimalist, wood-panelled guest cabins have floor-to-ceiling windows framing panoramic sea views, with open-air terrace baths. Enjoy fresh dishes at the onboard sushi counter before a treatment at the spa. See More
  
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