Japan’s 10 Most Luxurious Hotels You Need To Stay In

Who said luxe = extravagant? Let Japan’s luxury hotels prove you wrong! With unparalleled elegance and sleek and minimalist aesthetics, there’s a distinct delicateness and grandeur in Japan’s luxury hotels that you wouldn’t want to miss. 

If Japan has always been on top of your bucket list, then here’s the chance to live up the trip of your dreams! From Tokyo’s high-rise hotels to Osaka’s traditional ryokans, these are our top luxury hotels in Japan:

Where else can you experience pure luxury than at Japan’s first Ritz-Carlton Reserve? In Hokkaido, the premier Higashiyama Niseko Village elevates the resort experience with 50 accommodations boasting majestic alpine views of the nearby Mount Yotei and Mount Niseko Annupuri. This luxury hotel in Japan also features a traditional Japanese onsen, fed by Niseko’s mineral-rich waters, and fantastic omakase-style menus that showcase local seafood and fresh produce.

Its 2,100-acre land transforms into a snowy wonderland of smooth slopes and backcountry trails for ski enthusiasts in the winter. The summer season paints a different picture as lush greenery takes over and transforms the area into a playground for golfers and outdoor enthusiasts.

W Hotel Osaka may be the newest kid on the block, but it doesn’t fall behind when it comes to top-notch amenities and services. The first-ever luxury W Hotel in Osaka, Japan, made its debut early in 2021 along the vibrant Midosuji Boulevard and is slowly making its mark on the local hotel scene. 

Its exterior may be a tad intimidating due to the black facade, but its interiors are a different story. Guests are greeted with vivid splashes of colour, which is reflected in its bright entrance tunnel that dons origami and kirigami art forms and in the hotel’s 337 guestrooms. 

Every nook and cranny of Benesse House is art in itself, and we aren’t exaggerating! The Benesse House is a museum AND resort hotel on Naoshima Island’s south coast. 

Of course, the main attraction is its modern art museum, which sits atop a hill that overlooks the azure sea. Here, both local and international artworks are currently on display. Art also branches outside from the museum—with over 20 art pieces scattered around Benesse House’s lawns and surrounding beaches. Even the rooms in this luxe resort hotel have unique artworks!

As a mecca of luxury hotels, Tokyo in Japan packs many urban sanctuaries for travellers looking for relaxation after hours of touring around the city. If you’re looking for a place with a convenient location and spectacular amenities, Aman Tokyo is the place for you. 

Set on the top six floors of the lofty Otemachi Tower, Aman Tokyo mixes traditional Japanese structures with modern elements and technology. With majestic floor-to-ceiling windows in each guest suite, you get exceptional views of the Tokyo skyline, Imperial Palace Gardens, as well as Mount Fuji in the distance. 

Nestled on the banks of the Kamogawa River, an elegant riverside haven takes shape in The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto. Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Japan’s ancient capital in one of the best luxury hotels in Kyoto, Japan, and enjoy easy access to downtown districts and landmarks, including the Imperial Palace and Nijo Castle.

What you shouldn’t miss out on The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto is its four restaurants, where you can experience a global gastronomic adventure starting with traditional Japanese cuisine followed by sweet treats from its French patisserie. You may also opt for Italian or go all out for the private seafood dining option.

Go unplugged during your Japan trip and experience a secluded nature retreat at Sankara Hotel & Spa. Located on the mystical island of Yakushima, also known as the “Alps of the Sea,” this luxe hotel-slash-country house is tucked between mountains, rainforests, and the ocean. Every angle is a visual treat! 

Wake up to relaxing bird songs and nature sounds in one of its stylish villas. Then, feel even more rejuvenated as you indulge in relaxing spa treatments, such as the Thai-style herbal treatment. When you feel peckish, head over to its magnificent restaurants, where you’ll taste the wonderful flavours of both land and sea.

On the hunt for fantastic glamping experiences in Japan? You might want to check out HOSHINOYA Fuji, one of the best luxury hotels in Japan that takes you closer to Lake Kawaguchi and the iconic Mount Fuji. 

Upon check-in, HOSHINOYA Fuji will provide you with a backpack filled with outdoor essentials—should you decide to explore the outdoors. Then, you’ll find yourself surrounded by the red pine forest as you make your way to your mountain cabin. For the ultimate camping experience, this luxury hotel has set up hammocks around the woods and has open campfires at the Cloud Terrace. 

Amanemu is the second Aman property to launch in Japan and the first hot spring resort by the renowned hotel chain. Indulge in the privacy of your onsen (each of their rooms and villas has one!) and let hours of relaxing soaks soothe your body and soul. 

The journey to zen can also go beyond your hotel room. Amanemu also boasts a  signature Aman Spa that offers exceptional spa treatments. You may also find yourself taking a bath in one of its two large onsen bathing pavilions or meditating inside its world-class yoga studio. At Amanemu, your serenity is top priority.

Sodashi gold-leaf facials, anyone? How about swimming in a world-class underground swimming pool? Deluxe rooms with astonishing views? Elegant ancient pond garden? Tick all those boxes and more at one of the best luxury hotels in Kyoto. Four Seasons Kyoto’s crowning glory lies in its impeccable service and facilities.

Need more convincing? Let its in-house Michelin-starred Sushi Wakon do the talking. Watch renowned Tokyo sushi chef Rai Masuda prepare your menu as you eat round after round on delectable and fresh seafood from the iconic Toyosu Fish Market. Sushi lovers shouldn’t miss out on this opportunity!

If you’re a fan of the Sofia Coppola classic Lost in Translation, then the Park Hyatt Tokyo might tickle your fancy. Relive how film protagonists Bob and Charlotte met at the top floor New York Bar, and have your own melancholic nightcap while you’re at it. 

Movie cameo aside, Park Hyatt Tokyo remains a classic luxury hotel for international travellers revisiting Japan and locals treating themselves to a fun weekend getaway. Its high-class rooms, outstanding dining options, and sterling service are a testament to its reputation.