The Most Beautiful and Luxurious Hotels to Add to Your Japan Bucketlist
Why let a stay be mere accommodation when it can be so much more? Turn it into an experience in itself — especially at these most beautiful hotels in Japan. From secluded hideaways to surprising sanctuaries in the heart of the city, these hotels are so gorgeous that you might not even want to leave. We’ll let the photos do the talking!
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1. Gora Kadan, Hakone
Gora Kadan is housed in Kan’in-no-miya Villa, a 300-year-old villa that belonged to a member of the Imperial Family.
The rooms are done up in the traditional Japanese style, complete with sliding Shoji screens and tatami mats. Each evening, enjoy lavish kaiseki and shabu-shabu dinners in the comfort of your room.
The property has lovely indoor and outdoor onsens fed by natural hot springs. Even better: the rooms come with large bathtubs, and the suites take it up a notch with private onsens.
2. Aman Kyoto, Kyoto
Hidden away in a forest, Aman Kyoto is a healing sanctuary away from the city’s hustle and bustle. The hotel is a showstopper in all four seasons, with large panoramic windows and a tranquil outdoor terrace.
The rooms have a minimalist sandalwood aesthetic, with large windows that look out onto the surrounding forest. Each stay comes with daily breakfast, Japanese-style afternoon tea, in-room refreshments and beverages, and evening aperitifs.
Have a good soak in the rock-lined onsen, before getting cosy by the fireplace. The hotel has a wide line-up of activities for guests as well, such as a tour of its secret garden, an Ikebana (flower arrangement) session, and the chance to meditate with Buddhist monks.
3. Higashiyama Niseko Village, Niseko
Higashiyama Niseko Village may look like any other hotel from the outside, but wait till you see what lies inside! Sleek yet homely, the alpine resort’s common areas wow with high ceilings and crackling fires.
Enjoy magnificent views of Mt. Yotei from everywhere in the hotel. The rooms’ bathrooms are the star of the show — we mean, just look at that view!
The same view can be enjoyed from the dining establishments, where meals are created with the freshest seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms.
4. Benesse House, Kagawa
Image credit: CNA Luxury
Marvel at various art pieces at Benesse House. Credits: @m__etime
Feel like you’re staying in an art gallery at Benesse House, where you’ll find elaborate sculptures all over the grounds. It consists of four buildings, each with its own concept.
Be transported to a balmy seaside resort with sweeping views of the Seto Inland Sea. Relaxation is the name of the game here; simply sit back, soak in the views, and enjoy.
5. The Shinmonzen, Kyoto
Located in Kyoto’s famous Gion geisha district, The Shinmonzen is a luxury boutique hotel that has omotenashi (the art of Japanese hospitality) at its core.
Gaze out onto the Shirakawa River from your suite, which is decked out in a soothing MUJI-esque feel. There are only nine suites here, each highlighting a native material like stone, bamboo, or lacquer.
Food-wise, opt for an elegant afternoon tea soirée on the riverside terrace, or try renowned Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s fusion cuisine.
6. Hoshino Resorts Kai Sengokuhara, Hakone
Nature becomes part of the experience at Hoshino Resorts Kai Sengokuhara, which boasts splendid vistas at every turn. The hotel is all about immersing guests into Japanese culture, with activities like a nightly workshop where guests can learn how to paint a tenugui (Japanese handkerchief).
For the ultimate indulgence, each room has a terrace that comes with a private outdoor bath. As per usual ryokan practice, each stay normally includes both breakfast and dinner.
Dinner is an exquisite affair here at Hoshino Resorts Kai Sengokuhara, with unique seasonal options — such as a smoking dish resembling the nearby Owakudani volcanic valley.
7. TRUNK Hotel, Tokyo
Bet you never imagined this to be in the heart of Tokyo, huh! Found right in front of Yoyogi Park, TRUNK Hotel has a magnificent infinity pool on the sixth floor. The best part? The pool is heated so that guests can swim in it all year round.
The 25 rooms balance both Japanese and Scandinavian design elements, with a choice of park or city views. Large floor-to-ceiling windows seamlessly merge the boundary between the hotel and the surroundings, allowing guests to feel one with nature.
8. Hotel Cultia, Dazaifu
Travel back in time at Hotel Cultia, which is made of renovated buildings — found around the Dazaifu Tenmangu shrine — from the late Edo and Meiji periods.
Stay in a variety of standard twin rooms, with Japanese design details seamlessly interwoven.
The hotel is especially beautiful in the early morning, and at golden hour, when the sunlight gently streams in through the windows.
9. Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo
Feel on top of the world at Mandarin Oriental, which occupies the top nine floors of the lofty 38-storey Nihonbashi Mitsui Tower. Needless to say, the views from here are unparalleled — on a clear day, you’ll even be able to spot Mt. Fuji!
The same view extends to the rooms and restaurants. You’ll never go hungry: the hotel is home to 12 dining concepts, including molecular tapas, French fine dining, sushi, and a pizza bar. Keep a lookout for the annual wine programme — the 2024 theme is called ‘Generations’, helmed by a sommelier team that spans four generations.
Imagine working out, getting a massage, lounging in the pool, or sweating it out in the sauna — with great views to boot!
10. Setouchi Retreat by Onko Chishin
With only seven suites, Setouchi Retreat guarantees an exclusive experience like no other. We especially like the Art Lounge, which is stocked with various books, and keeps up a steady flow of complimentary wine and juices.
Choose from forest or sea views — we’ve got our eyes on the half-open-air onsen suite, which has a full-flat reclining bath.
How mesmerising is that golden glow? There’s also a heated indoor swimming pool; plus a hot spring jacuzzi and sauna that can be booked for private use.
11. Hakone Honbako, Kanagawa
Go on digital detox at Hakone Honbako, a glorious book hotel snuggled in the mountains. Translating to mean ‘Hakone bookshelf’, the hotel has around 12,000 books in its collection. It’s basically a giant library!
You’ll even find a curated selection of books waiting for you in your room. The rooms have everything you need for a serene mountain retreat, including hammocks and a round bathtub. There isn’t a television in the room but, if you feel like cosying up with a film, head to the movie theatre in the basement.
Feel your tensions melt away at the indoor and outdoor baths, before settling in for a sumptuous Italian meal.
12. Hotel Gajoen Tokyo
A museum-hotel of sorts, Hotel Gajoen is a feast for the eyes. Adorned with more than 2,500 pieces of Japanese art, the hotel is part of the ‘small luxury hotels of the world’ group.
Its guestrooms are modelled after traditional tearooms, with a touch of modernity in its bathrooms. Choose from lovely garden or city views; plus, each room even comes with a steam sauna and whirlpool bath.
The grounds are lovely for a languid stroll too. Don’t forget to snap a shot of the majestic gate at the entrance!
13. Treeful Treehouse, Okinawa
Yes, you can actually live out your Tarzan dreams in a surreal treehouse hotel in Okinawa - welcome to Treeful Treehouse!
There are three types of treehouses, each more gorgeous than the last. Don’t worry about having to rough it out; the treehouses contain all the creature comforts of a typical hotel room: shower and bath, refrigerator, amenities, wine cellar, desk, and even a coffee maker.
The sustainable resort does its part for its planet by using only electricity generated by its solar panels (no fossil fuels, thank you very much!), and building its treehouses at a height that won’t disrupt the natural ecosystem.
14. Aman Tokyo, Tokyo
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.
15. The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto, Kyoto
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.
16. HOSHINOYA Fuji, Yamanashi
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.
17. Amanemu, Ise-Shima
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.
18. Four Seasons Kyoto
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!
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