Best hotels in Japan

The vast temple grounds, covering a total area of about 45,000 square meters, are divided into two parts: the East Wing, called the Garan, and the West Wing, called the Tanjōin. The Garan, where the Kondo, the five-storied pagoda, and other buildings stand, has been part of the temple since the temple's foundation. The Tanjōin, with the Mieido at the center, is the site of the Saeki family's former residence, where Kobo Daishi was born. Together, they show Zentsūji’s connections with Kobo Daishi’s birth and family life.

Located just a 1-minute walk from Uno Station and a 3-minute walk from Uno Port, this conveniently situated location is ideal as a base for exploring the Seto Inland Sea and its islands, expanding the possibilities of your trip. The sea breeze and beautiful scenery are right beside you, as the hotel offers Superior Twin, Premium Deluxe, and Corner Suites that all feature balconies with ocean views. Enjoy the beautiful, ever-changing scenery of the Seto Inland Sea to your heart's content.

Tucked away on Shinmachi-dori, the very street that hosts the Gion Festival each July, Hotel Vista Premio is a rare blend of contemporary convenience and traditional Japanese hospitality. With 84 rooms designed around warm wooden accents and thoughtful bathroom layouts (yes, your bath, loo and washbasin each get their own space), it's a practical base with a fantastic location - Nijo Castle and Nishiki Market are within strolling distance and for anything further afield, you're a seven-minute walk from the subway. And when you return, the the lobby's beautiful tsuboniwa garden is the perfect spot for some R&R.

Hotel Green Plaza is a resort Hotel with a classic modern interior that boasts open-air baths with magnificent views of Mt. Fuji. Conveniently located for sightseeing in Hakone with good access to Sengokuhara, Owakudani and Ashinoko. Providing an ideal mix of value, comfort and convenience, it offers an idyllic setting for a family trip.

Kanazawa often gets called "Little Kyoto," but this castle town on the Sea of Japan has a charm entirely its own — think gold leaf artisans, preserved geisha quarters and one of Japan's most celebrated gardens. Positioned right in the thick of it, this contemporary hotel (the brand's first in the Hokuriku region) puts Omicho fish market five minutes away on foot, with samurai streets, Kenrokuen Garden and the castle all within easy reach. The real draw? A design that weaves local craft into every corner — Kaga Yuzen fabrics, Wajima lacquerware touches, lighting edged in gold leaf — and a rooftop bathhouse overlooking the greenery of the castle park.

Once the capital of Japan, Kyoto is a true marvel with hundreds of serene temples, ravishing gardens and a whopping 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Ideally located to explore these gems, the Vista Premio is a modern hotel in the heart of Kyoto, known for blending contemporary luxury with the traditional charm of this historic city. The hotel offers a comfortable and convenient base for exploring Kyoto's rich cultural heritage. It is also in close proximity to Kyoto’s bustling downtown area, where you can explore its food hub, the Nishiki Market.

A sanctuary that captures the city's essence. Its design deeply respects Kyoto's rich heritage, offering a warm, intimate atmosphere. Each detail, from the patterns to the weavings, tells a story of the local culture. The hotel is conveniently located, allowing easy exploration of historical sites and local life. The rooms, a blend of cosy modernity and traditional aesthetics, promise comfort and a touch of Kyoto's charm.

As you enter the Four Seasons, there will be one word on your lips: paradise. Built alongside an 800-year-old pond garden, splendid with cherry blossoms, bubbling pools and a maze of pathways, the hotel brings this sublime atmosphere into every space. Light cypress wood and shoji paper lanterns, tall ceilings and vast windows, and large floral displays see to that. The Four Seasons sits within Kyoto's temple district, and there will be plenty of opportunity to explore whether that's on one of the hotel's curated tours or a sightseeing bicycle ride. And there's always time for enjoying a taste of Kyoto's kappo cuisine.

Located amidst the bustling streets of Shinjuku, the Keio Plaza Hotel has one of those take-your-breath-away views of Tokyo. Spread across two towers and multiple floors, there are over 1,400 rooms, all with views of Tokyo through the enormous picture windows – the highest even get a glimpse of Mount Fuji on the clearest day. What's more, it's only a few minutes away from one of the city's major train stations, meaning you can zip off to just about anywhere at a moment's notice. In between real-life adventures, let your tastebuds do the travelling at one of 20 restaurants in the hotel, offering everything from teppanyaki to French-Italian fusion.