Best Luxury Hotels in Japan

A land of contrasts, Japan provides an unparalleled tourist experience. Discover the kind of cutting-edge tech that feels lightning years ahead, side by side with a still very prevalent ancient culture and some downright weird attractions. Bathe in natural hot springs or see the cherry blossom in spring. Enjoy a meal at a robot restaurant and go to a vampire, cat or maid cafe. Peruse a parasite museum, have a go at sumo wrestling and ride in a real-life Mario Kart. The cities will astound you, while the rural areas will create the backdrop for a journey of self-discovery among astoundingly beautiful natural landscapes.

Kyoto, Higashiyama Ward

Four Seasons Kyoto

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Rooms 123 Rooms & Suites
Amenities Dining at Brasserie, Mimi's, & the Lounge & Bar, an Onsen Spa, a Fully Equipped Fitness Centre, an Outdoor Pool

Be wowed by the incredible and ancient grounds of the Four Season Kyoto set amongst the ancient and scenic temple district. The hotel sits at the heart of the 800-year-old Shakusuien, a beautiful pond garden thought to have once been the garden of samurai Taira no Shigemori. The garden is so incredible it was immortalized in a 12th-century poem “The Tale of Heike”. The hotel itself is contemporary but rooted firmly in tradition, history and natural beauty. Décor is simple, elegant, and exudes typical Japanese minimalism. Rooms are tranquil, functional and bathed in natural light, some with peaceful garden views – a truly restorative view to wake up to. The hotel also features a stunning Michelin-starred Edo-style sushi restaurant, Sushi Wakon, and a great spa with a menu full of ancient healing rituals. The Four Seasons also offers a whole host of traditional experiences including the opportunity to experience the enigmatic charm of traditional Geishas at a kaiseki (multi-course) dinner featuring performances from the talented artisans, taking part in a traditional tea ceremony conducted by a tea master, and learning the art of making your own chibi-maru lantern with a 10th generation Kojima master.

Kyoto, Higashiyama Ward

Dhawa Yura Kyoto

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Rooms 123 Rooms & Suites with Contemporary Japanese Décor
Amenities Yura Dining offering a Fusion of Japanese & International Cuisines, Yura Bar for Cocktails & Drinks, a Wellness Centre with Spa Treatments & Sauna, a Fitness Centre
More Located in the Heart of KyotoLocated in the Heart of Kyoto

Within walking distance of attractions, this boutique hotel is ideally located close to the Kamo River. Antique and old-world pieces are woven among contemporary furnishings to tell the story of the area’s heritage and showcase traditional Japanese crafts. Grill 54th is the all-day dining venue with an open kitchen cooking up rare Wagyu beef, seafood and local specialities. While 1867 is the lounge bar offering afternoon tea, modern cocktails and pre-dinner drinks. Dhawa Yura also has a 24-hour gym and bedrooms ranging from doubles through to king or twin suites with C.O. Bigelow amenities.

Kyoto, Higashiyama Ward

THE HOTEL HIGASHIYAMA by Kyoto Tokyu Hotel

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Rooms 80 Rooms & Suites, Including Deluxe Rooms & Executive Suites
Amenities Seasonal Japanese Restaurant Kiyomizu, Lounge & Bar, Spa with Treatments, Fitness Centre
More Located in Kyoto's Historic Higashiyama District

Opened in July 2022, this five-star hotel is just a few minutes walk from the subway in an artsy neighbourhood of Kyoto, a prime spot. It provides a sensorial experience of Japanese culture and exudes omotenashi hospitality. 168 rooms are spread across its six floors, in a moody, sophisticated and enveloping design that echoes traditional elements, with warm modern sensibilities and natural textures. The Hotel Higashiyama has a restaurant, a cafe, a fitness centre, a bar, a spa and a tranquil garden that’s set within the inner courtyard of the hotel.

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THE HOTEL HIGASHIYAMA by Kyoto Tokyu Hotel

Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward

Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Rooms 134 Rooms & Suites
Amenities Nijo Kitchen Serving Contemporary Japanese Cuisine, Bar & Lounge for Cocktails, Spa offering Traditional Wellness Treatments, Fitness Centre
More Located near the Unesco World Heritage Site Nijo Castle in the Heart of KyotoLocated near the Unesco World Heritage Site Nijo Castle in the Heart of Kyoto

This secluded retreat was opened by The Banyan Tree Group in 2020, accommodating 25 balconied bedrooms. It faces Nijo-Jo Castle and features interior architecture in a flying geese formation, taking its cue from the castle and Katsura Imperial Villa. The interior design is by the world-renowned Yukio Hashimoto; here the outside is drawn in, with picture windows emphasising its lush garden surroundings; greenery, planting and a calming water feature akin to a serene mini lake with a tree island at its centre. Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto also accommodates the Singular restaurant serving French cuisine, a kitchen and a well-being lounge.

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Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto

Kyoto, Ukyo Ward

Suiran A Luxury Collection Hotel, Kyoto

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Rooms 39 Rooms & Suites with Views of the Bamboo forest or Hozu River
Amenities Kyosuiran Restaurant Serving Traditional Kyoto Kaiseki, the Lounge for Light Meals, a Spa offering Japanese Wellness Treatments, a Fitness Centre
More Located in Kyoto's Arashiyama District

Charming and rural-style, this boutique hotel on the banks of the Hozugawa River is found in the Arashiyama district. It is the former summerhouse of 19th-century industrialist Shōzō Kawasaki and offers many nods to its authentic heritage, such as yukata-dressed staff members and bamboo onsen baths filled with spring water and surrounded by volcanic walls. Its 39 bedrooms have huge floor-to-ceiling windows looking out onto the lush gardens, as well as mod cons such as Bose sound systems and Nespresso coffee machines. Suiran also has two restaurants and treatment rooms.

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Suiran A Luxury Collection Hotel, Kyoto

Kyoto, Higashiyama Ward

Hyatt Regency Kyoto

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Rooms 187 Rooms & Suites
Amenities Grill Serving Grilled Meats & Seafood, Kyoto Cuisine 'jizai' for Traditional Kaiseki Dishes, the Lounge & Bar for Cocktails, a Tranquil Spa, Fitness Centre, Outdoor Pool
More Located in Kyoto's Historic Higashiyama District

Found in Higashiyama Shichijo and set among bamboo groves, the Hyatt Regency is a calming retreat. Although very much an international brand, the property pays homage to the local area with touches such as paper lamps and framed antique kimono fabrics in the bedrooms, alongside welcome luxuries such as deep soaking tubs. Try a signature treatment inspired by local nature at the spa. And dine at the Hyatt’s three eateries; Cafe 33 overlooking the traditional Japanese garden; Trattoria Sette for homestyle Italian dishes; and Touzan, for Japanese meals accompanied by fresh-brewed teas.

Kyoto, Higashiyama Ward

The Westin Miyako Kyoto

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Rooms 499 Rooms & Suites, including Deluxe & Executive Rooms
Amenities Shoraisan for Kaiseki, the Lounge & Bar for Cocktails, & Miyako Teppanyaki for Grilled Delights, Spa, Seasonal Outdoor Pool, Fitness Centre
More Situated in the Historic Higashiyama District, Close to Major Kyoto attractions

Set amongst the Higashiyama Hills the Westin Miyako Kyoto boasts a stunning outlook over the ancient capital. The hotel is ideally located between the two main sight-seeing districts of the city and is one of the oldest Western-style hotels in Kyoto. Popular with visiting famous faces, many of the rooms enjoy stunning vistas as far as the Kitayama Mountains and are decorated simply and functionally. Style may not be at the forefront of this hotel and many aspects of it are still very traditional, but service and facilities are top notch here. The hotel boasts the more casual Aquablu Café restaurant in addition to their Grandview dining room, which from the name you can guess, serves creative continental cuisine whilst enjoying an incredible aspect over the city. At the Westin Miyako you really will be spoilt for choice with facilities. The hotel has multiple boutiques, a tranquil Japanese garden, a business centre, a fitness centre, a hair and beauty salon, plus an in-house florist!

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The Westin Miyako Kyoto

Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward

Hotel Granvia Kyoto

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Rooms 535 Rooms & Suites
Amenities Range of Dining options including the Garden Restaurant, Sky Lounge, & a Traditional Japanese Restaurant, a Spa, Outdoor Pool, Fitness Centre
More Convenient Access to Kyotos Major attractions Located Right next to Kyoto Station

If you’re arriving by train, this hotel couldn’t be more convenient, located within Kyoto Station. It’s large in every sense; there are 537 bedrooms, a swimming pool (only for use by those aged 20 and over), a spa, 14 places to eat and drink, a fitness centre and a guest laundry. You’ll sleep on a Relaxy Angel Bed, with blackout curtains for a great sleep after your long journey. Plus you’ll have a Toto toilet and Hahonico bath products to ensure your comfort. Family and accessible rooms catering for up to five guests are readily available, and many offer some super views.

Osaka Prefecture, Osaka

RIHGA Royal Hotel Osaka

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Rooms 1039 Rooms & Suites
Amenities 20 Dining Options, Wellness Facilities Including Indoor Pool & Gym, Complimentary Shuttle To JR Osaka Station
More Within Proximity To Major Osaka Attractions

RIHGA Royal Hotel Osaka, located in the vibrant district of Nakanoshima, also known as Osaka’s “City of Water,” the hotel has welcomed global dignitaries and royalty since its 1935 inception. Now reimagined as part of IHG’s rapidly growing luxury and lifestyle portfolio, Vignette Collection, it combines time-honoured tradition with modern hospitality.

The hotel features over 1,000 rooms and suites, including a showstopping 700-square-metre suite, and 18 dining venues. Highlights include authentic Japanese cuisine, French fine dining, and contemporary lounges, while guests can also access a state-of-the-art fitness centre and 56 versatile event spaces. Renowned designer Junko Koshino has lent her artistic touch to the hotel’s stylish new uniforms, fusing fashion with heritage.

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RIHGA Royal Hotel Osaka

Tokyo-to, Tokyo, Chiyoda

The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Rooms 250 Rooms, including 11 Suites, with Modern Amenities & Expansive City Views
Amenities Washoku Souten for Traditional Japanese Cuisine, Sushi Restaurant, Teppanyaki Restaurant, Sake Bar, Spa & Wellness Centre with a Sauna, Fitness Centre, Indoor Swimming Pool
More Located in Tokyo's Kioicho District with Direct Access to Nagatacho Station

As one of the newest luxury hotels to grace the Tokyo skyline, Prince Gallery Kiocho boasts a contemporary style and plenty of artistic touches scattered throughout its 26 storeys. For optimum luxury, guests will want to choose one of the eleven spacious suites that can be found on one of the upper floors, where they will be treated to impressive views of the city from the huge picture windows, while the hotels’ Washoku Souten restaurant is the perfect place to sample traditional Japanese cuisine in a contemporary setting.

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The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward

The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Rooms 134 Rooms & Suites, including Deluxe & Premier Rooms & Garden Terrace Suite with Private Garden
Amenities Multiple Restaurants including Kaiseki Mizuki for Elegant Japanese Dining, Sushi Mizuki, Tempura Mizuki & La Locanda for Italian Fine Dining, the Lobby Lounge & Bar for Afternoon Tea & Drinks, The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Fitness Centre, indoor Pool
More Located along the Kamogawa River with easy Access to Kyotos Key attractionsLocated along the Kamogawa River with easy Access to Kyotos Key attractions

This hotel broke ground as the first urban resort to launch in Japan, with 134 guest rooms and suites, four restaurants and bars and a signature The Ritz-Carlton Spa. The brand has collaborated with Pierre Hermé Paris, creator of Haute Pàtisserie, to offer a range of delectable French sweet treats, exclusive to guests. Touches like this are typical of the European luxury meets Japanese culture and tradition of the resort. Set beside the Kamo River, and with views of the Higashiyama mountains, The Ritz-Carlton enjoys a picturesque location that’s close to the popular downtown areas of Gion and Pontocho.

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The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto

Osaka Prefecture, Osaka, Chuo Ward

W Osaka

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Rooms 337 Rooms & Suites Including A Top-Floor Penthouse With Panoramic Views DJ Booth & Chrome Soaking Tub.
Amenities Four Restaurants Offering French-Japanese Fusion Teppanyaki Sushi & Patisserie Along With Two Bars A Spa Fitness Centre LED-Lit Indoor Pool & Pet-Friendly Services.
More Located On Midsuji Boulevard In Shinsaibashi Steps Away From Osaka's Vibrant Nightlife District Dotonbori.

The striking jet black reflective facade of the W hotel (designed by the city’s own world-renowned architect Tadao Ando) sets it apart on the horizon. But inside is a very different story, with bold pinks, blues and purples found throughout. It’s located on Midosuji Boulevard and welcomes guests with a giant uplit W sign made up of chrome balls. An indoor glowing infinity pool adjoins a bar and lounge with DJ beats creating a sophisticated party vibe. The living room and restaurant are separated by a white flowing curtain, creating a sense of cohesion yet separating the function of the spaces.

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