When the Japanese think of a luxury vacation, many will think of a peaceful Ryokan nestled away in the mountains; a retreat from the hectic life of the city. Unfortunately, not all people working in Japan have the opportunity to escape into the countryside that often. The benefit of this is that there are beautiful Ryokans throughout the country, from the bustling Tokyo to the far more laid-back Kyushu. The atmosphere of a Ryokan is unmistakable. From the moment you walk in, you’ll know that you are truly in a traditional style in. The beautifully minimalist design will follow you to you room, whether you choose to stay on a tradition futon-style bed or in a western style bed, the tatami flooring and décor are unmistakably that of Japanese culture. After a traditional Kaiseki meal, enjoy the star attraction of every Ryokan: the onsen or hot spring bath. Soak your troubles away in either a public or private bath and enjoy the thousands of different types of mineral waters found all across Japan, many claiming different healing properties.
Destinations
Hokkaido
Takinoya is one of the best luxury onsen ryokans in Hokkaido to soak away your strife in some of the top hot springs in Japan. Japanese art graces interior spaces with elegance and taste. The onsen baths boast five types of water with different mineral contents and acidity or alkalinity le | Read More
Hokkaido
The theme for this ryokan is “sanctuary." Everything from the foyer to the guest rooms acts as a barrier against the hardships of life. The design strikes a careful balance between Western sensibilities and Japanese elegance. All of the suites have private hot spring baths to use at your | Read More
Hokkaido
The hot springs in Hakodate have a history of attracting visitors for close to 350 years. Now, it’s your turn to stay in the Hotel Bourou Noguchi Hakodate where you’ll find a modern atmosphere wrapped in nostalgia. There are three types of guest rooms. Twin Suites are suitable for couple | Read More
Hokkaido
A 40-minute drive from Sapporo takes you to this secret lodge in the majestic hills of Jozankei. All Western and Japanese-style rooms and suites come with a private hot springs bath. For meals, you can put your trust in Chef Tomohiro Natsume, who travels to farms and gardens to find seaso | Read More
Hokkaido
The overall design of Otaru Ryotei Kuramure gives nods to traditional Japanese storehouses. The hotel has a total of 19 unique rooms that pull inspiration from both Japanese and Chinese antiques. All rooms have a living room, two bedrooms, and onsen water baths. Some include desirable Bvlg | Read More
Hokkaido
Deep in the Hanazono woods, the Zaborin Ryokan’s subtle and contemporary architecture complements the surrounding nature. There are fifteen private villas furnished with indoor and outdoor hot springs baths. In the central building, guests can enjoy facilities like the bar, library, and | Read More
Hokkaido
The serene atmosphere of this luxury ryokan strives to give you the same feeling as though you were lounging in the shade of a tree in a breezy field. There are twenty-five Japanese and Western-style rooms that each have unique charms. Some feature open-air baths and private saunas. Guests | Read More
Hokkaido
Entering Akan Tsuruga Besso Hinnanoza transports you to a tranquil and serene world away from the hustle and bustle. Through the front door, elegant wood carvings of the local Ainu village’s guardian spirit pop out at you, and the aroma of exposed wood calms your soul. Each of the 5-star | Read More
Tohoku
Only 300,000 people live in Morioka, but the hot springs have attracted travelers for 900 years. Bessou Kakei Morioka stands in a secluded area above Gossho lake. There are only six luxury ryokan suites. All of the rooms are traditional Japanese villas with tatami floors. Each peaceful vil | Read More
Tohoku
There aren't any other buildings in the vicinity of Natsuse inn, and guests can forget city life—which is what "Miyako- wasure" means. The ten rooms combine Japanese and Western influences. Nine have open-air tubs, but one luxury suite has a jacuzzi instead. There are indoor public onsens | Read More
Tohoku
In the charming samurai town Kakunodate, the exclusive Wabizakura inn provides ten cottages. Wabizakura's design combines Japanese and Western influences, and each room is unique in design. All guest rooms have an open-air bath, tatami floor, living room, terrace, and some have private din | Read More
Tohoku
This top luxury ryokan in the Tohoku region stands in a 1,000-year-old onsen town. Yumoto Kissho has Japanese and Western-style accommodations. Some rooms include open-air baths and views of the garden. You can take a dip in the public onsen or reserve a hot spring for privacy. Enjoy a com | Read More
Tohoku
At the tip of a cape in scenic Matshushima, Sakan Shoan lies at the end of a rice paddy-lined road. Stepping into your private quarters, the magnificent scenery of the sea will jump out at you as you settle into your yukata and sip a cup of green tea. All rooms are Japanese style, though s | Read More
Tohoku
Matsushima Ichinobo combines traditional ryokan luxuries with modern amenities to create an unforgettable stay. Every room option includes views of the garden and sea, flat-screen TVs, and air conditioning. Western, Japanese, and family-style rooms are available for bookings, and some unit | Read More
Tohoku
Tucked away in the suburbs of Sendai, Saryou Souen supplies an escape into an ethereal, ancient world. All of its twenty-six rooms are traditional Japanese style and have a view of the garden to help you reconnect with nature. Some units in the main building also come with a balcony. Ten g | Read More
Tohoku
The Gihikan Sakura Rikyu luxury ryokan is in the popular Akiu Onsen area. There are only ten rooms in this exclusive inn, and the amenities and services redefine hotel luxury. All of the accommodations have modern essentials like satellite TV, and some have open-air hot spring baths. Guests | Read More
Tohoku
The eighteen cottages of Onsen Sanso Daikon no Hana stand wrapped in a quaint square of the Zao Forest. Most come with a private open-air bath, and all have Western beds to sleep in as you slumber to the sounds of nature and wake to the morning sun. Four public baths, separated by gender, | Read More
Tohoku
The best luxury ryokans in Japan occupy the most scenic areas of the country. Chikusenso is known for its lush forests and clear streams, and the design of the hotel takes from the natural elements surrounding it. The spacious Western and Japanese rooms combine classic sophistication with | Read More
Tohoku
Along the Aga River, Harataki Ryokan invites you to immerse yourself in nature. Four rooms have private hot springs baths. The others are typical to that of a luxury ryokan room which includes tatami floors and modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and Wi-Fi. You can also choose between vi | Read More
Nikko
This luxury ryokan boasts seven types of Japanese and Western-style accommodations, and some have an open-air bath. You can take in the gorgeous view of Kinugawa River from your large windows or private balcony. In the kitchen, chef John Kanagawa blends French and Japanese cuisine in a per | Read More
Nikko
Conveniently located near World Heritage Site Nikko Toshogu Shrine and Nikko Station, Okunoin Hotel Tokugawa is one of the most luxurious onsen ryokans in Japan. Most of the guest rooms are traditional Japanese-style, and some include large balconies, while others have open-air baths. The | Read More
Hakone
A 10-minute walk away from Hakone Gōra Park, Gōra Kadan once served as the Imperial Family’s summer villa. Now, it’s your turn to rejuvenate in regality. Guests can soak in the free-flowing hot springs and indulge in an authentic kaiseki dinner. Rooms combine Japanese and Western aes | Read More
Hakone
In the foothills of Mt Fuji, you can revitalize your spirit and indulge your senses at Hoken Suishoen. This traditional onsen ryokan is the former property of an aristocrat and now a protected cultural asset. Each unique room can serve the needs of a variety of guests and all offer lavish | Read More
Hakone
Just 700 meters from the Hakone Botanical Garden of Wetlands, Kitanokaze Saryou is an adults only Japanese inn. All ten rooms include a hot springs bath that pumps water from Okuwadani Onsen and balconies. Some have mountain views and in-room saunas as well. For meals, enjoy a tea ceremony | Read More
Hakone
Hakone Kinnotake offers luxurious accommodations for adults. All of the rooms feature minimalist furnishings and Japanese floors with Western bedding, flat-screen TVs, private onsen baths, showers, and yukatas. A personal butler (Nakai-san) attends to every party, and their services includ | Read More
Hakone
From the windows and terraces from this tranquil ryokan, guests can enjoy the changing seasons of the Hakone mountain range and Hayakawa ravine. Every accommodation has a private bath and dining rooms where guests can enjoy meals. The menu changes monthly and features dishes like freshly c | Read More
Hakone
The staff at Hakone Kamon prides itself on giving their patrons the utmost in hospitality. The six rooms on the top floor have open-air tubs, and one even has a foot onsen for soaking your feet as you read. There are nine shared baths of varying water types and sizes and one sauna for guests | Read More
Hakone
The Tsubaki Ryokan aims to suit everyone’s tastes with its uniquely styled rooms and suites. All are Japanese-style but some have Western beds, and bathrooms differ by accommodation. You can choose from having an indoor wooden tub, a private open-air bath, a jacuzzi, or even a sauna. Som | Read More
Hakone
In your spacious Japanese-style room at Sansuirou, you'll wake up each morning to a mountain view. You can choose to sleep on Japanese futons or Western bedding. Many of the rooms also have private open-air baths, but all guests are welcome to bathe in the roof-top hot springs. Guests can | Read More
Hakone
This luxury onsen ryokan sits 700 meters up a mountain range in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Works by local artists in the gallery and atelier welcome guests to KAI Segokuhara as they enter the inn. It might inspire you to try your hand at creating something, and you can as KAI Seng | Read More
Mt. Fuji
Fujisan Onsen Bessho Sasa is an exclusive onsen ryokan that only has three spectacular rooms where you can indulge in silence. From your private open-air bath, you’ll take in the sights of Mt Fuji and the surrounding nature. The water in these tubs come from Mt Fuji herself. The alkaline | Read More
Mt. Fuji
On the shores of Lake Kawaguchi, one of the most scenic places in Japan, Kozantei Ubuya offers views of Mt Fuji to every guest. It’s one of the few traditional Japanese inns to have this sight. Every guest room has large windows in the living rooms, so you can slowly converse with your tra | Read More
Mt. Fuji
The luxurious ryokan Kawaguchi Onsenji Yumedono is only 500 meters away from Lake Kawaguchi. The grand architecture is reminiscent of old Japanese castles. Every guest room has an open-air hot spring bath, and some have access to private gardens. The “Shikibu” suite is the biggest room | Read More
Matsumoto
Myojinkan features spacious indoor/outdoor hot springs baths and massages in the heart of the Tobira area. Most rooms are Japanese-style with large windows and carpeted living rooms. The spacious Western-style accommodations have mountain views. Some rooms also come with indoor or outdoor | Read More
Matsumoto
Hotel Shoho luxury ryokan offers Japanese and Western accommodations 11.3 kilometers away from the Matsumoto airport. Every room has views of the magnificent Northern Alps, and some include private onsen. Guests can soak in the shared indoor/outdoor hot springs, reserve a tub for privacy, | Read More
Matsumoto
KAI is a leading brand of luxury boutique hot springs all over Japan. KAI Matsumoto connects to the Asama hot springs, which were popular with the feudal lords that occupied Matsumoto Castle. All rooms are Japanese-style, and some have private open-air baths and terraces. Dinner consists o | Read More
Takayama
Hojin Hiranoya Kachoan is only a one-minute walk away from Hida’s historic Old Town. All of the accommodations are Japanese-style with tatami (rice straw) floors, but many have Western beds. Some rooms also come with private semi-open-air baths. There are three shared indoor onsen baths | Read More
Takayama
A ten-minute drive away from the beloved Morning Market sits the secluded retreat Hanaougi. The architecture of the peaceful lobby takes after the area’s Gassho-style design heritage. The staff of Hanaougi is very proud of the rich quality of their hot spring water. There are gender- segr | Read More
Takayama
This 160-year-old Gassho-style guest house near Takayama received a TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice award in 2015. The luxurious ryokan Wanosato offers Japanese-style rooms and villas with tatami floors, sliding doors, and private tubs. Guests can unwind in the cypress indoor and bedrock o | Read More
Kaga
Surrounded by golf courses and sightseeing spots, Beniya Mukayu is a cozy 17-roomed inn. Red Pine, Cherry, Maple, and Camellia Trees surround the traditional Japanese guest house, and the Yamashiro Onsen waters from Mt. Yakushi fill its baths. At the Entei Spa, patrons can relax in the hot | Read More
Kaga
The staff of Araya Totoan strives to achieve a level of hospitality as fluid as water—updating with the times, but never deviating from the original spirit. Five of the rooms have open-air baths. There are two shared hot spring baths and a “special bathroom” with private onsen water tu | Read More
Kaga
Located 3 hours by train from Tokyo, KAI Kaga is a hot spring ryokan that draws water from Yamashiro Onsen. The four-hundred-year-old building retains classic architectural elements, and traditional Kaga crafts decorate each room. KAI is a leading luxury ryokan brand, and each location imm | Read More
Kaga
The Yamanaka village is seemingly untouched by time. Deep within forested hills with majestic trees stands the luxury Japanese inn Kayotei. The arrangement of the ten suites follow the Sukiya style of a tea ceremony pavilion, and the hallways have tatami (rice straw) floors. There are Japa | Read More
Ise Shima
The grand Hiramatsu Hotels & Resorts Kashikojima started as a simple restaurant and grew into the luxurious destination it is today. The highly revered on-site restaurant serves seafood like rock oysters and tiger prawns through summer and puffer fish and spiny lobster through the autumn a | Read More
Ise Shima
This luxury onsen ryokan has six mansionette rooms that include living rooms, dining rooms, indoor tubs, and private open-air baths. There are shared and semi-private onsens at your disposal as well. The source of the water is Kashihara Onsen, which is famous for its beautifying effects. A | Read More
Kyoto
Established in 1818, Hiiragiya is one of Japan’s most beloved luxury ryokans. Internationally famous guests like Nobel Prize-winning author Yasunari Kawabata laud this traditional Japanese inn as their home away from home. All twenty-eight rooms have unique layouts and motifs, and some f | Read More
Kyoto
Tawaraya is often argued to be the best ryokan in Japan. Thanks to the staff's impeccable attention to detail and immaculately decorated rooms, this traditional inn draws celebrities and political leaders from all over the world. There are sixteen Japanese-style rooms and two Japanese- West | Read More
Kyoto
The Sumiya Ryokan is in the heart of Kyoto’s most popular sightseeing area. Nearby attractions include Kiyomizu Temple, the Gion Geisha District, and Yasaka Shrine. There are twenty-three Japanese-style guest rooms with private dining rooms, and most include private hot spring tubs. Ther | Read More
Kyoto
Hoshinoya Kyoto is a serene and romantic take on a traditional Japanese retreat. It is on the fringes of Kyoto, and guests must use a private boat to reach its grounds. The clutch of buildings has stood here for over a century, but they have undergone several updates throughout the years. | Read More
Nara
Mt. Kasuga Primeval Forest, a World Heritage Site, is a quiet and secluded place where the only sounds you hear are chirping birds and babbling rivers. Travelers can seek refuge here at the traditional Japanese inn Tsukihitei. There are three Japanese-style rooms, two of which have tubs, o | Read More
Arima Onsen
Arimasansoh Goshobessho is the oldest traditional Japanese inn in Arima Onsen town. The stylish villas and mansionettes blend Eastern and Western sensibilities. The villas have high ceilings and views of the verdant mountains and Kiyomizu Lake, while the mansionettes feature two stories an | Read More
Arima Onsen
The 150-year old Nakanobo Zuien is less than a kilometer from the popular points of interest Kinsengen and Kittebunka Museum. The multilingual staff collectively speaks nine languages with English, Portuguese, and Spanish speakers on duty 24-hours. There are traditional Japanese, modern Ja | Read More
Kinosaki Onsen
You’re sure to have a comfortable stay at this luxury onsen ryokan. The vast area of the Ginka inn covers 6,600 square meters but only has eighteen guest rooms. The Japanese-style rooms and suites have tatami floors, futon beds, and views of the Maruyama River. All accommodations feature | Read More
Kinosaki Onsen
The gardens of Nihsimuraya Honkan display a kaleidoscope of colors brought on by Japan’s four seasons. The sophisticated Sukiya-style architecture will surround you in a traditional atmosphere. All the rooms are Japanese-style with tatami floors and futon bedding, and some accommodations | Read More
Kinosaki Onsen
Deep in the woods near Mount Kuruhi, Nishimuraya Hotel Shogetsutei is one of the most luxurious hotels in Japan to experience traditional ryokan life. There are Japanese, Western, and combined Japanese-Western style rooms, and some accommodations feature private open-air baths. Guests can | Read More
Kurashiki
The luxurious Ryokan Kurashiki is in the historical Bikan district, which is home to many traditional merchant houses. As you stroll around in your yukata robes, you’ll see small boats drifting through the willow tree-shrouded canal. There are eight spacious suites and most feature livin | Read More
Kurashiki
The 100-year old Yoshii Ryokan represents the heart of Kurashiki hospitality. It’s within walking distance from several points of interest, including Shinkeien Garden, Kanryuji Temple, and Kurashiki Archaeological Museum. All guest rooms are “pure” Japanese-style. They feature tatami | Read More
Kurashiki
Three Buddhist temples surround onsen ryokan Santoka, which adds to the traditional atmosphere. There are multiple room types, including Japanese, Western, a combination of both styles, and some accommodations include open-air baths, tea rooms, and private gardens. Guests can also soak in | Read More
Iya Valley
Iya Valley is one of Japan’s most secluded regions, and Iya Onsen is the only hotel in the area. Sheer cliffs cut through the Shikoku Mountains that reflect the changing seasons. The numerous hues combine with the sparkling emerald sea to create a rich tapestry of color. The Japanese-sty | Read More
Miyajima
A three-minute stroll from World Heritage Site Itsukushima Shrine on the sacred Miyajima Island lies the 400-year-old Miyajima Grand Hotel Arimoto. The spacious rooms and suites come in Japanese or Western-style, and some accommodations feature private open-air baths. Guests can stretch ou | Read More
Miyajima
Kurayado Iroha offers some of the best accommodations on Miyajima Island, halfway between Itsukushima Shrine and the ferry terminal. This luxury onsen ryokan boasts traditional accommodations with a modern flair. All rooms are Japanese-style with tatami floors and futon bedding and feature | Read More
Matsue
The staff at Kasuien Minami invite you to experience the wonders and natural beauty of Shimane Prefecture. The spacious guest rooms come in a wide array of styles, including standard Japanese with futons, and Japanese- Western hybrids with beds. All have hypoallergenic facilities and other | Read More
Izumo
According to legend, Izumo is a land inhabited by the gods of love. At hot spring ryokan KAI Izumo, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a mythical land as you cross the main entrance. KAI is a leading brand of luxury boutique Japanese inns, and every branch offers location- specif | Read More
Izumo
At Inishie no Yado Keikumo, you can immerse yourself in traditional Japanese culture with style. Motifs based on Izumo’s myths and legends fill the corridors. The masks, calligraphy, and textiles make you feel as though you’ve stepped into a land of fantasy. All of the Japanese-Western | Read More
Izumo
Conveniently located just ten minutes from Izumo airport, Yuyado Souan envelops you in warm hospitality and serenity. As you step back into history, the soothing sounds of nature and red-carpet service will lift and invigorate your spirit. The 120-year-old luxury ryokan’s rooms have Euro | Read More
Oita
At the foot of the Kuju mountain range, you can take in the scenery from the porch of your private cottage at the luxurious ryokan Flugel. The ten villa suites measure 60 square meters, and Western-style rooms with beds and Japanese-style accommodations with tatami floors and futon bedding | Read More
Oita
Sandwiched between Kinrin Lake and Oita River, Kamenoi Besso offers ryokan-style rooms and cottages. With its exposed wood and thatched roofs, the property seamlessly blends in with the surrounding nature. Guests staying in the main building can choose between Japanese (tatami floors, futo | Read More
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Originally built over a hundred years ago, Sansou Murata's high ceilings and modern facilities seamlessly blend old and new Japan. The independent and uniquely-decorated guest houses will wrap you in tranquility. All rooms are modern Japanese-style and feature semi-open-air hot spring water | Read More
Oita
At Kinmonco, the skillfully placed rocks, bamboo, and paper come together to envelop you into sweet serenity. An oak forest surrounds the villa-style rooms, and the mansionette terrace house overlooks Yufuin town. All accommodations include semi-double beds, mini kitchens, seating areas, | Read More
Oita
Tamanoyu was a facility for Zen priests before becoming a hotel in 1953, but despite updates and modifications, traditional Japanese culture permeates the walls. Sixteen villas dot the 2.5-acre forest, most with a Japanese-style living room, Western twin beds, and private spa baths. There | Read More
Oita
With its classic architecture and modern furnishings, Gahama Terrace captures Beppu’s traditional culture for all generations to enjoy. There are seventeen Japanese and Western-style mansionettes and villas with private onsen baths, and each has a specific characteristic such as an ocean | Read More
Oita
Sanso Kannawaen is only 100 meters from the world- famous Hells of Beppu. The Japanese-style tatami rooms feature European furniture and Simmons beds. Some accommodations feature private open-air baths, and guests in the Premium Suite also have access to a private pool in the summer. Altern | Read More
Kagoshima
A sense of nostalgia and familiarity permeates the atmosphere of Wasurenosato Gajoen. The secluded hamlet comprises of thatched-roof buildings with rustic decor and modern furnishings. There are Japanese and Japanese- Western hybrid accommodations available. Depending on your preference, yo | Read More
Kagoshima
At Kirishima Yukyu No Yado Isshin, nature and modernity exist in harmony where you can experience supreme comfort and hospitality. The seven separate Western and Japanese-Western guest cabins surround a body of water that pristinely reflects the nearby mountains. Units feature indoor grani | Read More
Kagoshima
At the foot of the Kirishima Mountain range, a quiet forest populated by the lilting sounds of birds surrounds Futarishizuka. The five, separate modern-Japanese cottages all feature indoor and private open-air hot springs baths and include unique attributes like a foot bath, sauna, or di | Read More
Kagoshima
On the shoreline of Kyushu’s southern coast, Ibusuki Hakusuikan employs traditional Japanese architecture with a modern twist. All guest rooms follow one of four types, and of each design, there are Japanese-style and Western- style variations. Accommodations include en-suite bathrooms, a | Read More
Kagoshima
The staff of Tenku no Mori goes to great lengths to guarantee their guests absolute privacy. So much so, people often joke that the dress code is your birthday suit. The five villas on the 150-acre property follow the traditions of Japanese architecture. The floor to ceiling windows and | Read More
Japan is known for having some of the most lavish spas, succulent cuisine, and of course, a rich history and culture to captivate any traveler. See below for examples of the luxury you can find in Japan. Browse our collection of exclusive Extraordinary Experiences carefully hand-elected by our professional Japan travel specialists. Our Luxury Hotel Collection lists Japan's grandest, most comfortable hotel accommodations with every possible amenity. Our collection of Luxury Ryokan offer the tranquil atmosphere of a traditional Japanese inn paired with world-famous hot spring baths. Finally, check out our listing of Best Dining Experiences for world-class, Michelin-star restaurants in every major city to appeal to every taste.
Let AJT be your gateway to carefully curated experiences and high-quality travel services as you enjoy the best that Japan has to offer. Only the most authentic, traditional Japanese experiences.
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Stay at one of Japan's ultra-luxurious hotel accommodations. AJT has partnered with the best hotels Japan has to offer. Enjoy the top hotels at great locations to get the most out of your trip.
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After a long day of experiencing Japan, steep yourself in the relaxing atmosphere of a traditional Ryokan, complete with world-renowned hot spring baths.
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Japan offers some of the best dining scenes on the planet. Enjoy dining and culinary experiences you won’t want to miss when visiting Japan.
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