Read our guides about Japan
Kakunodate (Japan)
A heritage-style hotel in Kakunodate, just steps from the station in a historic samurai district. Interiors are minimalist yet rich with Edo-era charm with period details galore. In-room breakfasts feature local rice and miso. A quiet, atmospheric base for exploring seasonal Akita.
Fujikawaguchiko (Kawaguchi)
A chic property perched on a hill with spectacular views of Mount Fuji. Rooms are traditional in style with tatami mats, roll down futons and the best have outdoor foot spas. Indulgent hot spring baths and a spoiling spa are utterly pampering. The ideal spot to completely unwind.
Fujikawaguchiko (Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi)
A contemporary ryokan boasting spectacular views of Mount Fuji. Offering both Western and traditional Japanese rooms complete with hot spring baths, private terraces and chic clean design, this is a real gem. Feast on traditional Japanese cuisine made with seasonal produce. Utterly relaxing.
Matsumoto (Nagano)
A tranquil resort nestled in the outskirts of Matsumoto. Sleek, modern rooms with elegant traditional furnishings including latticed shoji sliding doors. Eight types of bath fed by the Asama hot spring, daily musical recitals and superb kaiseki cuisine complete the picture. Fabulous!
Tokyo (Chiyoda)
A grand hotel set within Tokyo's train station. With 1915s style and a real east meets west charm. Rooms are enormous and boast large sash windows, chandeliers and antique furniture. Housing a range of bars and restaurants this is an ideal choice for both business and travellers.
Fukuoka
A chic boutique property set in the heart of the city. Contemporary rooms feature bright works of art, luxury bathrooms separated by a glass screen & small terraces. Boasting a patio garden complete with pool, a hip bar & two atmospheric restaurants. A fabulous choice for romantic breaks and events.
Hayama (Hayama)
A serene getaway on Hayama's Morito Coast, where city bustle meets tranquil beach vibes. With a palette inspired by nature, its decor and ambience soothe the soul, reflecting the ever-changing moods of Hayama. The restaurant serves up local flavours against a backdrop of Mt. Fuji and Enoshima.
Miyajima
A traditional waterfront ryokan on Miyajima. Rooms offer a variety of styles and themes, each with unembellished, sleek furnishings and some with great views. The restaurant serves authentic cuisine using the freshest local ingredients plus there's a large hot spring bath and a roof terrace.
Yufuin (Yufu)
A boutique property set atop a hill with a great vantage of the scenic mountain surroundings. Japanese-style rooms with private sitting areas and onsen baths offer a comfortable and authentic experience. With a multitude of outdoor pursuits in the area, this is the perfect rural escape.
Nikko (Kinugawa)
A stylish hotel surrounded by mountains in Nikko. Rooms are spacious and elegant, a handful with open-air hot spring baths. Facilities include a restaurant, karaoke room, kids' play area, and a glittering atrium. Add in a pool, floating garden and wonderful views, and there's something for everyone.
Karuizawa
A smart modern hotel close to Old Karuizawa. A wide range of contemporary rooms and suites cater to both Japanese and Western tastes and feature local artworks; some come with private balcony. Two restaurants, plus wellness centre with onsen. Ideal base for exploring the stunning Shinshu mountains.
Toyooka
Backed by the forested foothills of Mt Daishi, this hot spring hotel boasts minimalist Western & Japanese style rooms, the best feature forest views & open air baths. The hotel offers a relaxed restaurant/bar, private dining & specialty seasonal seafood dishes. Casual elegance in a tranquil setting.
Kyoto (Nishikyo-ku Kyoto-shi)
A stunning riverside property set in thick forest that dramatically changes colour along with the seasons. Traditional rooms include paper screens, picture windows and Japanese mats; the larger rooms have wooden baths. Dine on inventive regional dishes in a superb setting. The perfect rural escape.
Hakone (Ashigarashimo )
A luxurious hotel, part of the Hoshino Resorts group, designed on a traditional ryokan but with a definitively contemporary style. Spacious rooms have floor to ceiling windows to admire the forest views and guests can choose from Japanese or Western design. Featuring a large onsen and superb dining.
Nara
A charming Edo-period ryokan located within Nara Park. Twelve traditional rooms feature Japanese style furnishings and architecture; some with balcony and cypress wood tub. Communal baths and superb local haute cuisine complete the picture. A fantastic base for local exploring.
Hakuba (Kitaazumi District)
A boutique tented camp set in the Japanese Alps. Tents are cosy and rustic with feather-down duvets, simple minimalist furniture, and large private deck spaces. Gourmet cuisine is Italian with well-chosen wines. A rejuvenating outdoorsy stay with fire pits, stargazing, and wonderful mountain views.
Yamanouchi (Yamanouchi-machi, Shimotakai-gun)
A small boutique luxury property boasting spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Choose from traditional Japanese or chic contemporary rooms. Find a whole floor dedicated to various kinds of hot spring baths for the ultimate relaxation experience. A spoiling stay.
Kyoto
Ten traditional machiya townhouses boasting wonderfully luxurious interiors set within the complex of Kyoto Imperial Palace West. Rooms are light, spacious and decorated with that appealing Japanese minimalist style. A calm base just minutes from the city's main sights.
Kyoto (Higashiyama Ward)
A traditional wooden 'machiya' set in the geisha quarters of Gion. having undergone a full renovation by renowned Kyoto-based architect Geoffrey Moussas the small property is a chic, yet authentic, holiday home. Featuring just two rooms it's an ideal base for families or groups.
Kyoto (Higashiyama Ward)
A 100-year old wooden machiya house set in the historic geisha area. Featuring just two bedrooms; one with traditional tatami mat floors and a futon bed and the other western-styled. With a fully equipped kitchen and living room, this is the ideal spot for families or friends to hire exclusively.
Kurokawa Onsen (Kumamoto)
A traditional wooden property set overlooking the Tanoharu River in the Kurokawa Onsen hot-spring area. Atmospheric rooms are reminiscent of design from the end of Edo Period yet with modern comforts such as western beds and flat-screen TVs. A charming rural escape, with a luxurious feel.
Niseko (Hokkaido )
An alpine gem nestled in Japan's majestic Annupuri ranges. Modern interiors blend with traditional elegance, creating a soothing haven. From Michelin-star dining to ski-in, ski-out access, indulgence meets adventure. Serenity with a dash of luxury set against the awesome backdrop of Mount Yotei.
Aichi (Aichi)
A traditional village retreat, where the beauty of nature blends seamlessly with Japanese architecture. Relax in gassho-style charm amidst rocky mountains and lush tea plantations. Embrace the open-air baths, exquisite kaiseki cuisine, and the gentle embrace of a 150-year-old tree. A serene stay.
Tokyo (Higashi-Shinbashi, Minato-ku)
Stylish, nearing futuristic, both inside and out. This sleek property takes luxury to another level. Contemporary rooms with free standing bathtubs overlooking the Tokyo skyline. An award-winning restaurant, exceptional service & a superb spa make this a real gem. You'll be left wanting for nothing.
Gunma Prefecture (Gunma Prefecture)
Modern, comfortable hotel in Kusatsu, a top hot spring resort. Surrounded by forest, the ethos here is all about rest and relaxation; this is reflected in the decor with warm wood accents throughout. Rooms come in both Japanese and Western style and there's delicious kaiseki cuisine.
Onomichi (Japan)
An avant-garde retreat merging tradition with artistry in the mountains of Onomichi. Inside is a serene cocoon of white washi, creating a tranquil vibe that whispers calm and creativity. Boasting a curated library, a vibrant café-bar, & seasonal dining rooted in local produce. A haven for the senses
Nagasaki (Nagasaki)
A tranquil retreat infused with luxury, on the serene Gotō Islands. The elegant design maximises natural light and breathtaking vistas with natural tones and floor-to-ceiling windows. Boasting spring-fed onsen baths and a menu rich in local Goto beef, it's a sanctuary for both body and soul.
Kyoto (Minami-ku)
This boutique hotel is nestled behind an almost indiscernible doorway in the Minami Ward of Kyoto. Interiors feature modern architecture inspired by traditional Japanese design, from the lobby bamboo lightbox to the suites' sakura ceilings. Start the day with a gourmet breakfast before sightseeing.
Kanazawa (Ishikawa)
A renovated hotel close to downtown Kanazawa. Positioned above an Italian restaurant within a machiya (traditional townhouse), guests get the accommodation (two rooms) to themselves. Authentic details are blended seamlessly with modern comforts, plus there's a tranquil inner garden. A hidden oasis.
Mino
Period house turned hotel offering an oasis of relaxation amidst a bustling town. Interiors are minimalist in style, and the original features of the property stand out against the contemporary fixtures and fittings. No restaurant, but plenty close by. Lovely peaceful garden. A stylish choice.
Kyoto
Comprising of just seven suites, this boutique property offers a luxurious and intimate stay in the heart of the city. The spacious modern rooms' design is inspired by traditional Japanese style. Regional dishes are served in the customary way (in-room) and each suite has a large spa bath.
Kyoto (Nakagyo-ku)
Old meets new in this trendy Ace Hotel offering set in central Kyoto. The landmark brick building has been artfully updated mixing traditional Japanese design with retro-inspired American style. With a hipster cafe, three restaurants, bikes on offer & a rooftop bar — this is an undeniably cool stay.
Nasu (Nasu-Machi)
A stylish agriturismo set amongst mountains, farmland, forests and hot springs just an hour (by bullet train) outside Tokyo. Chic rooms are contemporary in design with sharp lines, and plenty of glass and wood. There are two restaurants, a spa, and hot springs. A family-friendly escape to nature.
Matsumoto
A charming hotel in the foothills of the alps close to River Azusa. Rooms offer traditional Japanese décor with woven tatami flooring, futons and soft colourings; some have private outdoor onsens. Leafy gardens, indoor/outdoor hot-spring baths and tranquil surroundings make this the perfect escape.
Beppu (Kyushu)
Nestled in Beppu's heart, this 4 star ryokan blends modern comfort with traditional Sukiya-style rooms. Its elegant decor and serene ambience invite tranquility and relaxation. Boasting private hot springs and exquisite local cuisine, it's a haven for peace-seekers and food lovers alike.
Hakuba (Nagano)
A luxury resort set amidst a picturesque forest and boasting access to no less than four ski resorts. Rooms are chic and contemporary with large windows allowing the outside in, crisp white linen and indulgent bathrooms. A number of onsens and expansive outdoor pool aid utter relaxation. Fabulous.
Numazu (Numazu)
Tucked away in Numazu's lush pine forests, this retreat marries an historic 1907 teahouse with a guest room addition, where traditional sukiya style meets modern minimalism. Boasting natural springs, a contemplative pond and exquisite seafood, it promises a tranquil escape in a picturesque setting.
Kurokawa Onsen (Kumamoto, Kyushu)
This 4* ryokan in a serene valley by Mt. Aso, is a haven of tranquility and traditional Japanese charm. Its decor blends timeless elegance with a touch of modern comfort. With tatami-clad rooms, 6 hot spring baths, & a culinary journey through Japanese cuisine, it's an immersive cultural experience.
Kyoto (Kitakarasuma-cho )
This contemporary hotel is located in the Minami Ward of Kyoto. Smart guestrooms blend Japanese custom with modern style, featuring traditional futon beds on raised wooden platforms and tatami seating areas with low armchairs. The spacious suites make this hotel perfect for a family stay.
Yamanouchi (Yamanouchi)
This charming hotel neighbours Snow Monkey Park in Senjukaku. The elegant, Japanese-style rooms have traditional tatami flooring and a low table with seating cushions. Soak in the hotel's natural hot spring baths after a day tracking the macaques on the park trails.
Osaka
A hip, urban party pad in central Osaka. Beautifully conceived rooms feature modern, sleek designs alongside plush comfort and incredible city views from floor-to-ceiling windows. Three restaurants, various bars, lively DJ sets and a pampering spa complete the picture. A chic city base.
Beppu (Oita)
A grand hotel located on the lush hills overlooking Beppu. Spacious luxury rooms boast epic views. A series of spoiling onsens (hot water springs), eateries, lounges, karaoke rooms and a bowling alley make this a special stay for couples, families or groups. A perfect base for exploring the region.
Takayama (Gifu)
A traditional, high end, timber-fronted ryokan, dating back to 1934, in the centre of Takayama's Historic District. Perfect for an authentic experience with a hot spring onsen, futon beds, tatami-matted floors, and elaborate kaiseki dinners served in your room. An authentic stay.
Hakone
A peaceful historic hotel in the mountains of Hakone, where you'll find traditional Japanese-style rooms, with Tatami flooring, simple decor and warm colours. With soothing onsen baths, open air hot springs, relaxing massages and mouth-watering local cuisine. An unforgettable experience awaits.
Iwate (Hachimantai)
This 5* gem marries luxury with alpine splendour, in the heart of Hachimantai. Inside, the decor syncs with nature, offering a serene, modern vibe. Boasting a world-class ski resort, onsen, & a farm-to-table dining experience, it's an oasis of indulgence. A perfect blend of opulence and adventure.
Miyakojima (Okinawa)
A luxurious seaside resort on Irabu Island, offering a serene escape in a near-tropical paradise. With minimalist elegance and plush comforts, its rooms and suites are a haven of peace, most boasting breathtaking sea views. Indulge in the spa, dine on exquisite French cuisine, or unwind by the pool.
Hakone (Hakone-machi)
The luxurious Gora Kadan is located amidst the mountainous beauty of Hakone's countryside. Formerly the holiday choice of the imperial family, it boasts chic and spacious traditional Japanese accommodation but with Western-style beds. A top-class and incredibly peaceful stay!
Tokyo (Shibuya)
Tokyo's first truly hip boutique hotel, perfectly placed in the trendsetting Shibuya district. The emphasis here is on reuse and recycle- almost everything has had a previous life before it was lovingly coaxed into the hotel. Chic rooms, fantastic food, an outrageously fun bar and an inspired ethos.
Kyoto (Minamiku )
This opulent boutique hotel is located in the heart of Kyoto. Indulgent guestrooms have marble walls and crisp, white linens, set off by brass accents and selected design pieces. All suites come with a complimentary iPad for guest use, one of many thoughtful touches that make this hotel stand out.
Tokyo (Chiyoda-ku Nagatacho 2-10-3 )
Contemporary Japan at its finest. Boasting an unbeatable location on the edge of the Imperial Palace gardens and with views of Mount Fiji. Classically styled rooms are minimalist, smart and (unsurprisingly) feature all the mod cons. Housing the well-renowned Suiren restaurant and a superb spa.