Hoshinoya Fuji

With 34 spectacular national parks protecting ancient forests, snow-capped mountains, steaming hot springs and tranquil lakes on one of the world's most captivating collections of islands, Japan is a wonderful destination for outdoorsy travellers. Keen birdwatchers, nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts will find landscapes criss-crossed with picturesque woodland and rocky promontories. Our Gurus have put together a selection of the top hotels in Japan's national parks, perfect for magical escapes with family and friends, or as a couple. From five star luxury hotels to traditional ryokans we've uncovered a range of properties for all tastes and budgets. The beautiful Ise-Shima National Park, the Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park, the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, and the Akan-Mashu National Park await!

FOR the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Hakone Retreat Villa 1/f

  • Hoshinoya Fuji is a superb, nature-focused escape in a secluded lakeside location. Minimalist modern cabins are tucked within the forest, promising uninterrupted views from tranquil waterfront balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows. A romantic hideaway for lovers of cutting-edge design, foodies and quiet couples.
  • Hakone Retreat Villa is a hugely romantic, adults-only hotel in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Book one of 11 suites and kick back by the wood-burning stove with forest views, blissful private spa baths and chic, pared-back design. Fabulous.
  • Yama No Chaya is extremely unusual in that it's perched on a suspension bridge across a mountain stream in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Listen to the murmuring of the water below as you enjoy a soothing massage or onsen soak, before kicking back with drinks on your terrace. A tranquil ryokan with classic, tatami-matted interiors in 15 restful rooms.

For the Shiretoko National Park

Kitakobushi Shiretoko Hotel & Resort

  • Kitakobushi Shiretoko Hotel & Resort is a stylish base for Shiretoko National Park adventures. This seaside retreat offers stunning ocean views, rooms with private onsen and saunas, and a standout fusion buffet. Ideal for families, hikers, and nature lovers alike.

For the Kaigan Quasi-National Park

Halekulani Okinawa

  • Oceanfront indulgence meets natural wonder at Halekulani Okinawa on Okinawa’s pristine coast. With world-class dining, private pools, snorkelling tours, and spa treatments, this is an upscale base for exploring the beach-fringed beauty of Kaigan National Park.

For the Unzen-Amakusa National Park

Unzen Kyushu Hotel

  •  Perfectly placed near Unzen National Park, Unzen Fukudaya is a charming ryokan that blends tradition style with modern comfort. Unwind in forest-view hot springs, savour exquisite kaiseki cuisine, and explore volcanic trails just minutes from your door.
  • Tucked within lush Unzen-Amakusa, Unzen Kyushu Hotel is a boutique stay offering villa views, steaming hot springs, and easy access to volcano hikes and ancient temples. A perfect launchpad for scenic walks, ropeway rides, and tranquil forest escapes.

For the Shikotsu Toya National Park

Kitayuzawa Mori no Soraniwa

  • Nestled by Shikotsu Toya National Park, Kitayuzawa Mori no Soraniwa is a family-friendly resort with tatami-style rooms, outdoor hot springs, and a large pool. Ideal for nature-filled days, hiking trails, and relaxed evenings under the stars.
  • Sink into natural hot springs after a day hiking mountain trails at Kuriya Suizan. With chef-led dining, tranquil gardens, and open-air baths, this stylish inn blends comfort with outdoor adventure in the heart of Shikotsu-Toya National Park.

For the Nikko National Park

Nikko Hoshinoyado

  • Immerse yourself in forested beauty just steps from ancient shrines and the famed Shinkyo Bridge at Nikko Hoshinoyado. Stylish rooms, open-air hot springs, and stunning woodland views make this a serene base for hiking and heritage in Nikko National Park.
  • Sitting on Lake Chuzenji with Mt Nantai views, The Ritz-Carlton Nikko is an elegant hideaway offering fusion dining, forest hikes, and a rare Ritz-Carlton onsen. A serene and stylish base for discovering waterfalls, temples, and trails in Nikko.

For the Lake Biwa National Park

L'Hotel du Lac

  • Escape to the shores of Lake Biwa for sleek villas, lake view dining, and serene nature trails at L'Hotel du Lac. Perfect for couples or families, this peaceful retreat blends gourmet experiences with wildlife, culture, and the raw beauty of Kohoku’s national park.

For the Ashizuri Uwakai National Park

The Mana Village

  • The Mana Village is an eco-chic coastal resort offering cliffside walks, organic dining, and stargazing soaks. Surrounded by rugged parkland and marine life, it’s an immersive way to explore Japan’s southernmost national park in comfort and style.

For the Ise-Shima National Park

Amanemu

  • Amanemu offers understated luxury in a spectacular location within the striking Ise-Shima National Park. Expect chic, minimalist rooms and suites, rejuvenating wellness treatments and delectable cuisine. Perfect for romantic couples or those in need of a nourishing retreat.
  • Shima Kanko Hotel The Bay Suites is a large luxurious option in the Ise-Shima National Park. Book this one for enormous suites with floor-to-ceiling windows and stunning views, sunset garden, spa and sauna and a variety of restaurants offering Japanese and French cuisine.

For the Akan-Mashu National Park

Akan Tsuruga Besso Hinanoza

  • Akan Tsuruga Besso Hinanoza is a beautiful ryokan overlooking Lake Akan, in the Akan-Mashu National Park. Pick this place for the generous suites, which boast lake views, private hot spring baths and traditional seating areas. The multi-course kaiseki cuisine highlights the region's best ingredients. Very luxurious.
  • Akan Yuku no Sato offers spectacular vistas from the shores of Lake Akan. Traditional rooms and suites with tatami matting and low seating areas have views over the lake. Steaming indoor and outdoor onsen baths invite guests to unwind in blissful surroundings. A more classic choice, and a larger hotel.

For Shikotsu-Toya National Park

Lake View Toya Nonokaze Resort

  • Lake View Toya Nonokaze Resort, on the banks of Lake Tōya in Hokkaidō's other national park, Shikotsu-Toya, is a very special addition to a nature-focused Hokkaidō holiday. Adventurers and well-heeled design lovers can expect beautiful views from chic, minimalist rooms. Take a long soak in the rooftop infinity pool, unwind in the spa and savour delicious cuisine at three restaurants. Superb.

Still not sure?

18 Top Hotels in Japan's National Parks

The Lake View Toya Nonokaze Resort

Hokkaidō (Abuta gun)

The Lake View Toya Nonokaze Resort enjoys a lakeside location and offers chic, contemporary accommodation boasting spectacular views. Unwind in their open air bath and make the most out of the on-site duty-free shops. Enjoy exquisite meals at each of their restaurants. A truly magnificent escape!

  • Total relaxation - Soak up tranquil lake views from the infinity onsen after enjoying revitalising spa treatments
  • Hotel Entertainment - Gather in the karaoke room for fun-filled evenings of belting out your favourite tunes
  • Great walks - Enjoy scenic mountain treks or lakeside strolls with friends and family
  • City Style - A swish contemporary lakeside hotel for art and design lovers
from £208 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Kitayuzawa Mori no Soraniwa

Hokkaidō (Kitayuzawa)

Located a minute away from Shikotsu Toya National Park, Kitayuzawa Mori no Soraniwa offers chic rooms with Western-style beds and traditional tatami (woven-straw) seating areas. Rooms also features TVs and fridges. Bask in the sun as you relax by the pool!

  • Families - A brilliant family choice, with a lively games room and children's play area, flexible accommodation and a large pool
  • Back to Nature - Kitayuzawa Mori no Soraniwa is just minutes from beautiful Shikotsu Toya National Park, ideal for keen adventurers
  • Sights nearby - Date's historic Zenkoji Temple is a must-visit for culture enthusiasts
  • Great walks - Follow hiking trails through the nearby Shikotsu Toya National Park
from £141 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Akan Yuku No Sato

Hokkaidō (Akankohan)

An elegant property on the shores of Lake Akan. Expansive rooms enjoy spectacular views and are designed in a traditional Japanese style complete with tatami mats, paper shutters and beds at floor level. The restaurant makes the most of the island's quality seafood and restful onsens await. Superb.

  • Total relaxation - Unwind amidst picturesque lake and mountain views, relaxing in hot spring baths after hikes and gym sessions
  • Romantic Break - A soothing, romantic escape for couples and spa-goers on the edge of the lake
  • Museums - Delve into the region's past at the Natural History Museum
  • Sights nearby - A 10-minute walk from the stunning Akandake-Jinja Shrine
from £232 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Akan Tsuruga Besso Hinanoza

Hokkaidō (Akankohan)

A boutique property comprising of 25 individually designed suites. Rooms are contemporary yet the style is traditional. Find floor to ceiling windows, large terraces with outdoor free standing baths, tatami mats and shoji paper screens besides all the mod-cons. An utterly spoiling stay.

  • Romantic Break - A gorgeous, upmarket take on the traditional ryokan experience for a memorable couples' hideaway
  • Fishing - Lake Akan is well known for its excellent fishing, and the hotel can organise guided excursions
  • Total relaxation - Unwind in luxurious suites with beautiful open air onsen baths and lake views
  • Cycling - Hire bikes to cycle around Lake Akan and to explore Hokkaidō more widely
from £673 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Amanemu

Shima (Shima-shi)

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.

  • 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
from £760 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Unzen Fukudaya

Unzen (Unzen-shi)

Unzen Fukudaya is located a few miles outside Unzen, just a short distance from the National Park. This ryokan offers smart traditional accommodation and you can choose between rooms with Western beds or Japanese futon bedding. Cosy communal areas complete with wood-burning stoves.

  • Foodies - Unzen Fukudaya's restaurant serves splendid kaiseki cuisine, perfect for foodies eager to experience classic Japanese fare
  • Total relaxation - Unwind in the public, forest-facing baths or treat yourself to a rejuvenating massage
  • Sights nearby - The striking Unzen Hot Spring is definitely worth visiting
  • Trekking - Enjoy scenic hikes in the Unzen National Park
from £118 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

L'Hotel du Lac

Nagahama (Shiga)

L'Hotel du Lac enjoys a tranquil setting on the banks of Lake Biwa. This property's private villas offer sleek contemporary accommodation, as well as a fine dining restaurant that reflects the produce and food culture of the Kohoku area. A wonderful retreat for a family trip or romantic break!

  • Foodies - Restaurant SOWER specialises in using the finest local ingredients & fermentation methods to create gourmet dishes
  • Great walks - Beautiful nature walks through Lake Biwa National Park yield wildlife sightings and striking panoramic views
  • Country Escape - A relaxing rural escape on the banks of Lake Biwa, perfect for couples or families
  • Tennis Court - Challenge friends and family to a game on the hotel's four tennis courts
from £378 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Hoshinoya Fuji

Fujikawaguchiko (Fujikawaguchiko)

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.

  • 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
from £830 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Yama No Chaya

Hakone (Hakone)

This traditional Japanese guesthouse is nestled on a suspension bridge across a mountain stream in Hakone. Guestrooms have classic tatami areas with the option of futon beds and a terrace where you can hear the murmuring of the water below. Relax and rejuvenate with a spa aromatherapy treatment.

  • Foodies - Enjoy a daily-rotating menu of cuisine based on the hotel's unique dashi, drawing on seasonal, local ingredients
  • Romantic Break - With stylish suites, a charming restaurant and tranquil setting, book this hotel for a hideaway couples' break
  • Spa breaks - Offering traditional Japanese aromatherapy treatments, book this hotel for a restorative spa holiday
  • Great walks - Explore the walking trails in the gardens at the Choanji Temple, a temple of the Soto school of Zen Buddhism in Sengokuhara
from £150 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Unzen Kyushu Hotel

Unzen (Obama-cho)

This stylish resort is nestled in Japan's first national park in Unzen. A grand, pillared entrance gives way to contemporary guestrooms and a selection of private villas with exposed stone walls and valley views from a terrace. Eat at the classic Japanese dining room after park exploring.

  • Back to Nature - Set in the midst of the beautiful Unzen-Amakusa National Park, book this hotel for an authentic back-to-nature retreat
  • Local exploring - With historic sites and a national park a stone's throw from the hotel, there is lots to explore during a stay here
  • Foodies - Guests can enjoy Japanese and Western cuisine in the hotel's chic dining room - perfect for foodies
  • Sights nearby - Visit the historic Manmyō-ji Temple, located close to the hotel; the hotel was founded over 1300 years ago
from £284 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Halekulani Okinawa

Okinawa (Kunigami-gun)

A luxury hotel boasting a spectacular coastal setting on Okinawa island. Light and spacious rooms, suites, and villas all have ocean views. The best have private pools and natural hot springs. From gourmet dining to island-specific wellness programmes, this is an indulgent getaway.

  • Foodies - There are four restaurants, the most acclaimed of which is innovative SHIROUX which is headed by a two Michelin star chef
  • Back to Nature - Set on the coast within the beautiful Kaigan Quasi-National Park, this is a place to come and unwind in nature
  • Beach Life - Placed on the idyllic Okinawan coastline with gorgeous white sand beaches
  • Swimming Pool - Five outdoor pools; the suites and villas come with their own private pools
from £357 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Shima Kanko Hotel The Bay Suites

Shima (Shima City)

A luxurious all-suite hotel set within Ise-Shima National Park. Capacious suites boast spectacular views from floor-to-ceiling windows and the best come with in-room spas. For foodies, the restaurant options range from Michelin-starred dining to a kaiseki-ryori culinary voyage. A spoiling stay.

  • Back to Nature - With spectacular views of the coast and Ise-Shima National Park, this is a stunning escape to nature
  • Foodies - There are several acclaimed restaurants including Michelin-starred La Mer
  • Watersports - Shima Nature School offers kayaking and sailing amongst other activities
  • Golf - Play a round at the scenic Kintetsu Kashikojima Country Club
from £327 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Hakone Retreat Villa

Hakone (Kanagawa)

A stunning adults only hotel in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Accommodation in eleven independent cottages features rustic chic, minimalist decor, with wood-burning stoves and lovely woodland views. Relax in private hot spring baths or at the Konosha Spa and enjoy delicious cuisine. Dreamy.

  • Total relaxation - Calm and bliss is guaranteed at the private hot spring baths, or the large public bath in the forest sourced from Owakudani
  • Foodies - Eat Hyoseki serves traditional Kaiseki courses with creative, modern flair, or French cuisine from a wood burning oven
  • Romantic Break - No children under 12 allowed, beautiful suites, great food and indulgent outdoor hot spring baths. Perfect for two!
  • Spa breaks - A selection of relaxing holistic, herbal and hot stone massages and treatments are on offer
from £595 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The Ritz-Carlton Nikko

Nikko

A glamorous property on the shores of Lake Chūjenzi. Elegantly designed rooms blend minimalist and traditional styles and large windows lead to private porches with either lake or mountain views. The Western fusion cuisine is superb, plus there's the Ritz-Carlton's only onsen! Fabulous.

  • Spa - Enjoy a full body massage or have your troubles melt away in the outdoor and indoor hot spring-fed onsen
  • Views - The rooms offer stunning views of either Lake Chuzenji or Mt Nantai
  • Outstanding location - Situated within Nikko National Park on the shores of Lake Chujenzi
  • Hideaway - An absolutely serene location below the Kegon falls
from £687 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Kitakobushi Shiretoko Hotel & Resort

Hokkaidō

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.

  • 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
from £86 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The Mana Village

Shikoku (Shikoku)

An enchanting coastal resort in the Ashizuri Uwakai National Park, offering a unique blend of natural beauty & luxury. Its design harmonises with the surrounding landscape, with serene decor & breathtaking views. A renowned Italian restaurant, hot springs and an organic farm set it apart!

  • Romantic Break - Dine under the stars at Azzurrissimo, crafting a romantic tale with ocean vistas and Italian flair
  • Total relaxation - Unwind in open-air baths, gazing at the Pacific under a blanket of stars
  • Sights nearby - Explore Ashizuri's majesty on eco-friendly scooters, bikes, or a tuk-tuk ride
  • Diving - Dive into Tosashimizu's clear waters with scuba and snorkelling adventures
from £544 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Nikko Hoshinoyado

Nikko (Tochigi)

A modern ryokan set in the beauty of Nikko National Park. Warm, spacious rooms are stylishly decorated, overlooking the woodland beyond. There's a restaurant boasting wonderful views, plus a hot spring bathhouse with open-air soaking tubs. A lovely peaceful setting yet close to many city highlights.

  • Back to Nature - A lovely setting in a National Park, tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the towns and cities
  • Local exploring - The property is close to several shrines such as Toshogu and Futarasan, plus Rinnoji Temple
  • Sights nearby - A few steps will take you to Shinkyo Bridge, a sacred spot at the entrance to the Nikko Mountains
  • Great walks - The perfect location for walks around the hotel enjoying its gorgeous National Park setting
from £186 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Kuriya Suizan

Hokkaidō (Hokkaido)

A food-focused hot spring inn in the Shikotsu-Toya national park. Simply designed Japanese & western style rooms are created with relaxation in mind, blending modern luxury with traditional charm. Plus there's an open-kitchen restaurant where interaction with the chef is encouraged! Unwind in style.

  • Foodies - The hotel's restaurant boasts an extensive menu of Japanese cuisine, with dishes crafted from the freshest local ingredients
  • Total relaxation - Indulge in total relaxation with geothermal hot springs and luxurious amenities, nestled in Minami Ward's tranquil beauty
  • Romantic Break - Escape to a world of intimacy in Jozankei, where open-air baths and serene gardens set the stage for romance
  • Fishing - Cast a line in the tranquil fish pond at Jozankei Farm, where the joy of fishing merges with the beauty of Sapporo's landscapes
from £317 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Written by Saskia Walker

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