Duration
14 days / 13 nights
Price Per Person
Interests
Architecture, Heritage
Destinations
Japan

Experience the best of fascinating, beautiful, and unique Japan. This 14-day journey of luxury travel and hotels showcases a balanced and eclectic mix of Tokyo’s trendy and famous districts, Kyoto’s historical temples, Kanazawa's handicraft culture, Naoshima's contemporary art, and Osaka's gastronomic obsession. From traditional to ultra-modern and everything in between, the sights and experiences of this classic trip are nothing less than quintessential Japan.

This itinerary is an example. It’s designed to inspire you and provide you with thoughtfully curated ideas. You can choose to do this exact itinerary or completely personalize it. All trips are 100% bespoke.

Highlights

  • New & Old Tokyo: Experience the confluence of ultra-modern and old traditions in capital Tokyo which boasts ancient temples, Showa-era memorabilia shops, dazzling digital art, and surreal architecture.
  • Iconic Kyoto: Kyoto’s treasured ancient sites still stand after being largely spared during WWII. Visit the must-see temples and shrines amongst Kyoto's collection of over 1,600.
  • Art Islands: Admire popular and obscure contemporary art in the middle of the Seto Inland Sea. The Art Setouchi Triennale, one of the biggest art festivals in Japan, is held every three years amongst these islands. 
  • Osaka Street Eats: Snack your way through Osaka, nicknamed The Nation's Kitchen. Street food unique to Osaka includes deep fried skewers, octopus balls, and Osaka-styled savory pancakes. 

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Tokyo

Touch down at Narita International Airport where you will be met and privately whisked to Tokyo, Japan's exciting capital, an hour's drive away. Futuristic yet rooted in tradition, ordered yet chaotic, Tokyo has something for everyone. Check in to your luxury hotel of choice and get rested up for the adventure ahead.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Spread across the top six floors of the Otemachi Tower in Tokyo’s financial district, this lofty hotel presents city superb views and is just steps from Tokyo Station and Ginza shopping district.

History: This newly built-hotel is the first ever ‘city’ hotel from the luxurious Aman Resorts, a group that has over two dozen resorts in their portfolio spread across four different continents.

Services: The wealth of services here all take advantage of the stunning views, whether you’re treating yourself to a massage in the spa, enjoying fine Mediterranean cuisine in the 33rd floor restaurant or doing laps in the infinity pool.

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Aman Tokyo Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: The Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo, is located 38 floors above street level in a district of Tokyo called Nihonbashi, a business district often referred to as the “center of Japan”.

History: Of all Tokyo’s business districts, the 400-year-old Nihonbashi is the only one that still retains much of its old world charm.

Service: This is the only hotel in Tokyo to have been awarded Six-Star International Diamond status by the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences, recognizing the hotel’s reputation for excellence.

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Mandarin Oriental Tokyo Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

High-tech: in-room amenities.

Pool: Large 65-foot swimming pool and equally sizable hydrotherapy pool.

Views: Superb views of the Imperial Palace.

Location: Within walking distance to the shopping paradise of Ginza.

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The Peninsula Tokyo Preferred Hotel
About

Pioneering a new direction in luxury hospitality, Aman’s sister brand Janu opened its first hotel in the much anticipated Azabudai Hills development in the heart of Tokyo. This urban oasis offers 122 guest rooms and suites, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of Tokyo Tower or the area’s surrounding greenery.

If our Preferred Hotel is unavailable, this accommodation is a reliable alternative and has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 2

Tokyo

Start your exploration of Tokyo at its iconic fish and fresh markets: First, see the newer relocated Toyosu fish market, followed by a stroll through the original Tsukiji's outermarket. Although the famed inner fish market has moved to Toyosu, the outermarket still remains at the original site and offers visitors around 500 whoelsale and retail shops selling fresh produce and seafood as well as ready to eat food and kitchen items. While here, we suggest you take the opportunity to savor the freshest and best-quality sushi breakfast in the world. For foodies and those seeking the unique, choose the ultimate experience of shopping at the market with a Michelin-starred sushi chef, then go back to his restaurant for a hands-on lesson on the art of sushi making. Then, take in some history at the informative Edo Tokyo Museum and stroll through the Imperial East Gardens. Wrap up the day with a visit to the Mori Museum and panoramic views of the metropolis found at the Tokyo City View. 

Tokyo
Tokyo

Day 3

Tokyo

See Tokyo's most colorful and oldest temple, Sensoji, which is the most widely visited spiritual site in the world. The pathway up to the temple, called Nakamise, is lined with shops selling traditional goods and snacks adding to the bustling convivial atmosphere. A short distance away is buzzing Akihabara, Tokyo's electric town best known for its electronics and underground youth culture. Maid cafes, video game arcades, pachinko parlors, and shops selling manga, anime, and dolls can all be found here. Stimulate your senses even further at teamLab's  digital art exhibition which showcases dynamic interactive installations of mirrors and colorful LEDS. Wind down your exciting day with a trance-inducing fire ritual at a local temple. The fire is believed to burn away negative energies and many visitors come to make wishes and have their personal belongings such as phones and purses blessed by the fire.

Day 4

Tokyo

Continue your exploration of Tokyo today with a visit to the well-known and revered Meiji Jingu Shrine, located within the peaceful Yoyogi park. Next door is funky, trendy Harajuku, and Japan’s version of the Champs-Elysees, known as Omotesando. Stroll the lanes lined with international high-end shopping mingled with kawaii fashion boutiques, crepe shops, vintage stores, and animal cafes. Take a moment to sip a coffee accompanied by a kitten, miniature pig, hedgehog, or owl. Enjoy different flavors of Tokyo and spend your afternoon exploring two lesser-visited characteristic neighborhoods, Shimokitazawa and Daikanyama. Also known as Shimokita, this hip cultural quarter is the place to go for old-Tokyo vibes with mural-painted lanes lined with stylish stores for vintage clothes and vinyl, brewpubs, and craft cafes. Daikanyama is a laid-back sophisticated area dense with upscale low-rise architecture, beauty salons, small exclusive boutiques, and open-air cafes.

Day 5

Kaga Onsen

Today is it onward to Kanazawa, known for its well-preserved Edo-era districts, gold leaf production, and traditional handicrafts. Travel by bullet train at 160 miles an hour, a quick journey of only 2.5 hours long. Upon arrival, head straight to Omicho market where you sample your way and choose amongst over 180 shops and restaurants. After lunch, take a short walk over to the popular 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art and get lost amongst its maze of interconnecting rooms and galleries. Also a staple in Kanazawa is the Kenrokuen Gardens, one of the three great gardens of Japan. Finally, stroll amongst the charming samurai and tea districts where you can sample matcha tea or the Instagram-able soft serve cone covered in gold leaf. After your tour of the city, drive along the coast to the quiet Kaga region to either Yamashiro or Yamanaka Onsen and check into your ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn. Tonight you will be treated to an elaborate kaiseki dinner, a multi-course meal of seasonal ingredients and a point of pride of ryokans.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: This ryokan is located in one of Japan's most picturesque areas, within a short distance of tourist sites such as Kanazawa and Shirakawa go.

History: Beniya Mukayu is perched on the hillside of Yakushiyama, a sacred place of Hakusan Mountain Buddhist worship, on the same premises where in old times there used to be a temple for monks to study Buddhist scriptures and cure people with hot spring baths and medicinal herbs.

Service: The owners of this boutique ryokan, Mr. and Mrs. Nakamichi, and the staff provide warm, personalized service to each guest.

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Beniya Mukayu Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Located along the Kakusenkei Gorge and a short distance from Koorogi Bridge, guests of the Kayotei have ample opportunity to view picturesque surroundings.

Intimacy: All 10 sukiya style suites are meticulously decorated to inspire a deep feeling of serenity in guests.

Authenticity: From accommodations to cuisine to the opulent bathhouses, the staff has worked hard to ensure guests can enjoy an unadulterated, traditional Japanese experience.

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Kayotei Preferred Hotel
Kaga Onsen
Kaga Onsen

Day 6

Kaga Onsen

Take a morning stroll along the town's small main street, filled with cafes, restaurants, and galleries displaying local crafts such as lacquerware and ceramics. Depending on your interest, we will arrange appointments at exclusive ateliers to meet the artisans and watch their craft in the making. Return to your luxury ryokan and spend the rest of the day as you wish, whether relaxing in your private hot spring stone bath, enjoying the sculpted gardens, or walking along the picturesque gorge nearby.

Day 7

Kyoto

Travel onward today by bullet train to the cultural capital of Japan, Kyoto, home of over 1,600 temples and shrines. Dive straight in with a visit to Nijo Castle the stronghold and residence of the Tokugawa shoguns (warlords) who once wielded power over the emperor for over 200 years. Stop by Nishiki Market, a five-block long shopping street where you can find seasonal foods and Kyoto's specialities. Get a taste of old Kyoto as you stroll uphill along Higashiyama's main street lined with wooden buildings and traditional merchant shops. Narrow lanes branching off offer small shops and restaurants that have been catering to visitors and pilgrims for centuries. At the top of the hill, come upon the famed Kiyomizudera, the Pure Water temple.Its Otowa Waterfall has three separate streams that are said to grant different benefits to those who drink the water. As the sun sets, meander your way down to Gion, the geisha district, just as it comes alive. If you're lucky, you may glimpse a geisha making her way down the cobbled streets to a teahouse.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Nature: Aman Kyoto's palette is the inviting green of forest scenery and the warm, woody tones of shelter. So aligned with its surroundings, the hotel changes with the seasons; Taka-An's menu puts the spotlight on seasonal produce, while the floor-to-ceiling windows showcase how the passing months shape the landscape.

Culture: Kaiseki banquets, matcha and mochi afternoon tea, tranquil and contemplative gardens, indoor and outdoor onsen bathing facilities, options for futon bedding and tatami mat flooring – the entire property has been designed with an immersion in both nature and culture in mind, so guests can experience true Japanese hospitality.

Wellness: A stay at the Aman Kyoto is not just a quiet retreat to return to after a day of sightseeing in Kyoto, but also an oasis designed to replenish the body and mind. The in-house spa specializes in Shiatsu massage, onsen pools are fed by the mineral-rich waters of local hot springs, while private yoga sessions in a forest clearing release stress and tension.

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Aman Kyoto Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Nestled at the foot of Higashiyama Mountain, alongside a thousand-year-old ikeniwa pond, Four Seasons Kyoto is located just ten minutes from Kyoto’s city center, within the temple district, making it an ideal base from which to explore the nearby shrines and historic landmarks, as well as the more modern attractions of Japan’s elegant former capital.

History: Having opened it’s doors in October 2016, Four Seasons Kyoto - the second site for the Four Seasons brand in the country - may have been five years in the planning, but the atmosphere of urbane tranquility of the Zen inspired interiors has made an indelible impression on a city known for its sense of style and sophistication.

Service: Four Seasons Kyoto provides the very best in round-the-clock luxury service, complete with 24-hour concierge and room service, manned with English-speaking staff ready to cater for to guests’ wants and needs.

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Four Seasons Kyoto Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Nestled in pristine forest, Hoshinoya Kyoto is in the perfect environment for de-stressing. The protected forests surrounding the resort are wonderfully revitalizing.

Service: Guests enjoy traditional Japanese hospitality in an authentic ryokan environment.

Comfort: Hoshinoya is a hybrid-ryokan combining the traditional features of a ryokan with contemporary luxury furnishings, including large comfortable beds.

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HOSHINOYA Kyoto Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Sitting on the serene banks of the stunning Kamogawa river within walking distance of several famous streets and popular sights, this hotel couldn’t have a more perfect location. Plus, it’s only a 20-minute taxi ride from the Kyoto airport.

History: Paying homage to rich Japanese culture, the fourth Ritz-Carlton in Japan opened in Kyoto in February of 2014.

Service: Guests can count on dependable, high-level service at the Ritz-Carlton, where a luxury experience is guaranteed, complemented by extremely helpful staff.

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Ritz-Carlton Kyoto Preferred Hotel
About

Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto is tucked away next to Nijo-jo Castle, at the Kyoto home of the Kitake, a branch of the Mitsui Family. This land has been in the care of the family for more than 250 years.

If our Preferred Hotel is unavailable, this accommodation is a reliable alternative and has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Kyoto
Kyoto

Day 8

Kyoto

Start today with a moment of zen at Japan's most famous rock garden at Ryoanji temple followed by taking in the stunning Golden Pavilion at Kinkakuji. Then, head across towards the mountains where you will find Tenryuji, the greatest of the city's five great Zen temples. This Arashiyama area is especially scenic and can be enjoyed at Togetsukyo Bridge, the bamboo forest, and the monkey park atop a hill. If you wish, take a pleasure cruise of the Sagano river atop a traditional boat or the sightseeing train that travels along the riverside.

Day 9

Kyoto

Just an hour's drive away is the ancient capital city of Nara, an unmissable daytrip from Kyoto. Nara is home to some of Japan's oldest, largest, and historically significant temples including Todaiji, Kasuga Grand Shrine, and Isuien. Aside from the temples, Nara is known for its friendly Sika deer found wandering the deer park being hand-fed crackers by visitors. For a special experience, opt to arrive early morning at the deer park where we can arrange for the deer to be called by French horn especially for you. Also visit Naramachi, the former merchant district which has preserved traditional residential buildings and warehouses. On the way back to Kyoto, stop by Fushimi Inari, the famous shrine with thousands of red torii gates.

Day 10

Naoshima Island

Depart from historical and spiritual Kyoto for modern and creative Naoshima Island. Train, car, and ferry will get you to this small art island in the Seto Inland Sea. Dotted with art museums, installations, and sculptures, Naoshima is the premier destination for contemporary art. Even the island's municipal buildings and schools were designed by a modern architect. Explore the various art museums and spaces such as Chichu Museum, Art House Project, Ando museum, and Lee Ufan Museum. While on Naoshima, you will be staying at Benesse House which is a resort and modern art museum. Hotel guests have the added privilege of after-hours access to its impressive museum.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Located on an island in the middle of the inland Japanese sea, and the closed mainland ferry port of Uno Port, guests can take a direct 20 minute ferry to the island.

History: In 1989, Naoshima International Camp was completed and with that, brought a rise in tourism to the island, which also in turn brought development in the way of Benesse House in 1992.

Service: This hotel is the ideal stop for lovers of modern art, who will appreciate the convenience of not only having stunning works of art in their rooms, but also a museum in the hotel itself.

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Benesse House Preferred Hotel
Naoshima & Seto Inland Sea Islands
Naoshima & Seto Inland Sea Islands

Day 11

Naoshima Island

Explore neighboring art islands, Teshima and Inujima, which are less visited hidden gems. Teshima offers Christian Boltanski's "Les Archives du Coeur" where you can listen to other visitors' recorded heartbeats and the Teshima Art Museum, an awe-inspiring structure shaped like a drop of water. The tiny Inujima is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to get to and enjoy the Seaside Inujima Gallery and Seirensho Art Museum.

Day 12

Osaka

Today head to the final destination of your classic Japan journey, Osaka. A big and bustling city similar to Tokyo, Osaka is its own unique regional identity from its straight-talking locals to its food obsession. After settling into your hotel, in the late afternoon take to the Osaka skies at the top of the Umeda Sky Building for a bird's eye view of the metropolis. Then, as the sun sets and the city lights illuminate the city, head to Dotonbori, a colorful evening gastronomic wonderland. Feast your eyes on the eclectic neon lights and extravagant signage while tasting popular street foods such as takoyaki (octopus dough balls), deep fried meat and vegetable skewers, and okonomiyaki (Japanese-style savory pancake). This is the place to find weird and obscure, even controversial, cuisines such as pufferfish, whale, and horse meat.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Situated in the heart of Kita, one of Osaka's two main city centers, there is no shortage of tourist attractions, shopping destinations, and sights to see that are all easily accessible from the Conrad Osaka.

Dining: Osaka has a reputation as a city of foodies, and the dining options at the Conrad Osaka live up to this reputation with everything from traditional Japanese dishes to cloud-like gourmet cakes available.

Comfort: Beds are comfortable and inviting, bathrooms come with indulgent bathtubs and luxury amenities, and the expansive views set one’s mind at ease.

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Conrad Osaka Preferred Hotel
About

In the heart of Osaka's Midosuji area lies the St. Regis Osaka, an elegant five-star hotel composed of 160 guest rooms and suites over 12 categories.

If our Preferred Hotel is unavailable, this accommodation is a reliable alternative and has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Osaka
Osaka

Day 13

Osaka

In the city known as the Nation's Kitchen, it is only right to start the day at Kuromon Ichiba market. Stretching for over 3.5 miles long, the lively market plies shoppers with giant palm-sized oysters, flawless white strawberries, wagyu beef kebabs, and countless tempting delicacies. Sample your way through the market or choose to dine at one of the many casual eateries. Then, visit the Momofuku Ramen Museum, dedicated to the instant noodles and its creator and founder, where you can craft your own cup noodles. Spend the rest of the day exploring historical sites such as Osaka Castle, Tenmangu Shrine, and the moving International Peace Center. If it is the season, take the opportunity to go to a Japanese baseball game and experience this slice of modern culture that has taken the sport to fanatical heights.

Day 14

Departure

The last day of the trip is yours to spend as you like, whether resting before your flight, strolling around the city on your own, or buying last-minute souvenirs. When you are ready, a private car will take you to Osaka's international airport for your flight home.

Suggested Hotels For Days 1–4

Aman Tokyo
Preferred Hotel

Aman Tokyo

Since its opening at the end of 2014, Aman Tokyo has been one of the most talked-about luxury hotels in the city. The most striking thing about it is its location; spread across the top six floors of a 40-storey tower in the Otemachi business district, the panoramic views are simply incredible. What’s more, all of the 84 rooms and suites take full advantage of the lofty position with floor-to-ceiling windows letting light in during the daytime, while also framing the breathtaking lit-up cityscape at night. Aman Tokyo has also received praise for its impressive interiors, which have been inspired by minimalistic design, including the use of camphor wood, washi paper and stone surfaces throughout the rooms as well as traditional Japanese facilities such as large ‘furo’ baths. Situated on the 33rd floor, both guests and non-guests can enjoy the fine Mediterranean food at the hotel’s signature restaurant, not forgetting more of those incredible views across Tokyo stretching as far as the Imperial Palace Gardens and Mount Fuji in the distance. Elsewhere, there is a spa, enclosed garden area, swimming pool, wine cellar, cigar lounge and a whole host of other facilities to keep guests entertained.

Mandarin Oriental Tokyo
Preferred Hotel

Mandarin Oriental Tokyo

Located 38 floors above street level, the Mandarin Oriental Tokyo is a world away from the hustle and bustle below. The rooms and suites here are some of the largest in Japan and each offers soaring views across the city through floor-to-ceiling windows, amplifying a sense of serenity and detachment. The bathrooms are divided from the rooms by a pane of glass covered by a wooden blind; with the flick of a switch, privacy is achieved or the room is washed in daylight. All accommodations have an in-room entertainment system with iPod docking station, high definition LCD televisions in the bedroom and bathroom, wired and wireless high speed Internet access (for a fee) and your choice of preferred pillow type from the property’s extensive pillow menu. The restaurants in the hotel are some of the most highly regarded in the world; Signature (contemporary French), Sense (Chinese) and the Tapas Molecular Bar have each been awarded Michelin stars. Other restaurant options include Ventaglio (Italian), Oriental Lounge (continental bakery), Gourmet Shop, K’shiki (breakfast is served here and Japanese and continental food is served throughout the day) and the Mandarin Bar. The excellent spa has four treatment rooms and five private spa suites, and encompasses a 1,500-square-foot fitness center with the latest cardiovascular and weight training equipment.

The Peninsula Tokyo
Preferred Hotel

The Peninsula Tokyo

Mere steps from the Imperial Palace sits Tokyo’s newest luxury hotel, The Peninsula Tokyo. Located in Marunouchi district just a short walk from the shopping paradise of Ginza, the hotel is perfectly located for business or pleasure. With a total of 314 elegantly decorated rooms and 47 suites, the Peninsula Tokyo’s accommodations are among the most spacious in all of Tokyo, and offer plenty of amenities including espresso machines, complimentary Internet access, multifunction fax machines, nail polish drying machines, and shoe shining service. The hotel’s culinary options include Cantonese cuisine at the Hei Fung Terrace, regional Japanese fare at Kyoto Tsuruya, and International food and beverages at Cirque Culinaire and Peter. For relaxation, enjoy the hotel’s state of the art health club with pool complex, undergo a “spa journey” at the Peninsula Spa by ESPA, or try a leisurely jog around the Imperial Palace. Other amenities include a business center and a boutique store that offers food, gifts and souvenir items.

Janu Tokyo

Janu Tokyo

Pioneering a new direction in luxury hospitality, Aman’s sister brand Janu opened its first hotel in the much anticipated Azabudai Hills development in the heart of Tokyo. This urban oasis offers 122 guest rooms and suites, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of Tokyo Tower or the area’s surrounding greenery. A ‘Modern Urban Village’, Janu Tokyo delivers a vibrant dining scene consisting of 8 distinctive dining venues, including two Japanese outlets, a Chinese restaurant, a patisserie, a grill restaurant and a vibrant Italian food emporium, a bar, and lounge and garden terrace. Facilities include one of Tokyo’s largest wellness facilities (4,000 sqm), which offers group classes such as spinning, boxing, yoga, and Pilates, as well as simulated golf training, circuit training, and a well equipped gym. Additionally, wellness therapies are offered in seven dedicated treatment rooms, and a sprawling hydrotherapy and thermal area, centered around a 25-meter heated swimming pool. Taking cues from traditional Japanese culture, the hotel also has a separate pool lounge as a place for socializing, besides two spa houses. This hotel is a 1-hour drive from the Narita International Airport (NRT).

Suggested Hotels For Days 5–6

Beniya Mukayu
Preferred Hotel

Beniya Mukayu

Quaint Yamashiro Onsen in Kaga, about an hour from Kanazawa, is a place famed for hot springs dating back 1,300 years, and nowhere is this history better experienced than at Beniya Mukayu, a haven of peace with a Zen-like atmosphere. This ryokan, traditional Japanese inn, has 16 rooms facing the unique forest garden, all featuring minimalistic contemporary interior design and private outdoor hot spring baths. A stay at Beniya Mukayu is a holistic experience; starting with a tea ceremony by the ryokan’s owner Mr. Nakamichi your stay can be a cultivated lesson in Japan’s many methods of relaxation. Other highlights include: signature Yakushiyama treatments and amenities based on hot spring water and medicinal herbs at the Entei spa; Japanese kaiseki meals served at the Horin restaurant, all made with the finest ingredients from a wide range of locally sourced products. From Kanazawa, Beniya Mukayu is a one-hour drive or a 30-minute express train ride followed by a 15-minute car ride.
Kayotei
Preferred Hotel

Kayotei

Located outside of Kanazawa, Kayotei is a traditional Japanese ryokan set within the forested hills of Yamanaka Onsen in Kaga. The Kayotei boasts 10 Sukiya suites arranged in the traditional style of a tea ceremony pavilion mixing antique tansu chests of drawers, low-polished oak tables, hand-painted screens, traditional ceramic pieces and modern sculptural designs. The ryokan includes two indoor communal baths sourced from natural hot springs. The baths are glassed in on three sides, providing guests with onsen views of natural forest scenery. Kayotei’s chefs prepare Japanese Kaiseki cuisine served in tatami rooms.

Suggested Hotels For Days 7–9

Aman Kyoto
Preferred Hotel

Aman Kyoto

The highly anticipated Aman Kyoto brings an even higher level of luxury to the historic and cultural ancient capital. A blend of authentic, traditional ryokan hospitality and contemporary spaces, the Aman Kyoto offers travelers a respite in the heart of one of Japan's most visited cities. The secluded 80-acre property is situated in a hidden garden close to the Golden Pavilion at the foot of the Mountain of Hidari Daimonji, within easy reach of Kyoto's impressive collection of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Scattered among the grounds is a series of standalone pavilions. The four guest pavilions house 24 guest rooms (choose between garden or stream views) and a pair of two-bedroom villas overlooking the forest canopy. Each room captures a contemporary, minimalistic style with nod to the quintessential ryokan feel; walls of windows bringing the outside in to spacious, light-filled interiors. Facilities include separate Arrival, Living and Spa pavilions. The signature restaurant, Taka-An, showcases Japanese haute cuisine in the form of the kaiseki banquet - a multi-course dining experience made using the season’s finest local produce. The Living Pavilion offers an inviting spaces with a central fireplace for guests to enjoy home-cooked Kyoto obanzai-style cuisine and afternoon tea. The Spa Pavilion’s onsen bathing facilities use water from a local spring and the range of treatments highlight local, natural ingredients such as green tea, black beans, sake and cold-pressed camellia oil.

Four Seasons Kyoto
Preferred Hotel

Four Seasons Kyoto

Inspired by the tranquility and contemplative calm of the region’s many temples and Zen gardens, Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto features 110 standard rooms, 12 suites, 57 condos and a Presidential Suite, which at over 2,600 square feet, is the largest hotel suite in Kyoto. The restrained chic of designer Agnes Ng’s modern ideas, allied with traditional design elements such as bamboo groves and shoji paper-walls, create an extraordinary set of contemporary, yet classic, accommodations – with a peaceful vibe, enhanced and completed by the gentle crash of water from the Waterfall Garden. The hotel features two restaurants, bar, lounge and even a tea house where guests can find a range of tantalizing treats and refreshments to expedite their relaxation – set off to perfection by a team of expertly trained, confident and multilingual service staff.

HOSHINOYA Kyoto
Preferred Hotel

HOSHINOYA Kyoto

Opened in December 2009, HOSHINOYA Kyoto is a brand-new private retreat located on the banks of the Oigawa River in the city’s Arashiyama neighborhood. The property’s 25 rooms, all with river views, reflect the heritage and modernity of Kyoto itself, combining traditional ryokan dwelling with contemporary western comfort. The Arashiyama area is a designated scenery protection area, regarded equally for its cherry blossoms in the spring and brilliant foliage in the autumn. With its famous Togetsukyo Bridge, Arashiyama evokes “old Kyoto” at its best, as no new buildings are permitted. The property itself was the private vacation home and library of Suminokura Ryoui, a wealthy Kyoto merchant, until its conversion to an inn about 100 years ago. HOSHINOYA’s Library Lounge and bar, whose shelves hold many books on Kyoto’s history, looks out on the contemplative water garden, while its traditional landscape garden incorporates a view of Arashiyama Mountain using the ancient technique of shakkei, or "borrowed scenery." HOSHINOYA Kyoto has a sister property in Karuizawa.

Ritz-Carlton Kyoto
Preferred Hotel

Ritz-Carlton Kyoto

Just steps away from the popular streets of Gion, Kawaramachi and Pontocho, the Ritz-Carlton hotel is the perfect gateway for seeing Kyoto’s famous sights. Respecting the ancient traditions and culture of Kyoto, the extravagant space is inspired by the natural surroundings and traditional architecture. Famous for Zen Temples, palaces and gardens, Kyoto's atmosphere is incorporated in the Ritz-Carlton’s design. Built in the style of a traditional Meiji House and courtyard, a stay here is truly a cultural experience. A four-story waterfall is featured in the hotel entrance amidst patterned motifs. Luxury Ritz-Carlton touches include high-thread count linens, plush Japanese “IMABARI” robes and towels, Kyoto soap and seasonal bath salts, LED TVs and touch-panel environmental controls for automatic drape closure. Accommodation amenities include a concierge service, swimming pool, banquet room, babysitting service, sophisticated dining and drinking options, as well as an indulgent spa for any pampering needs. 

Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto

Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto

Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto is tucked away next to Nijo-jo Castle, at the Kyoto home of the Kitake, a branch of the Mitsui Family. This land has been in the care of the family for more than 250 years. A contemporary twist on the quintessential Japanese tearoom aesthetic, the Mitsui Kyoto is composed of 161 guest rooms and suites, all decorated in earthy tones and furnishings sourced from natural materials. Some room types feature private onsen. There is a thermal spring spa on-site, which offers onsen healing baths (both private and shared), as well as a gym and massage treatments. In terms of dining, guests can enjoy four diverse dining venues: Gastronomy Teppan for a surprising fusion of French cuisine and Japanese teppanyaki, Forni for Italian, The Garden Bar, and SHIKI-NO-MA for private dining and tea ceremony. Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto is approximately 15 minutes by car from Kyoto Train Station.

Suggested Hotel For Days 10–11

Benesse House
Preferred Hotel

Benesse House

Comprised of five elements - sculpture park and museum, hotel, boutique, restaurants and a spa - Benesse House is one of the most unique properties in Japan. Every room has its own individual design and artwork, with 65 guest rooms and suites across four buildings: Museum, Oval, Park and Beach, all designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando. In addition to housing the property's modern art museum, Museum has a lecture room that guest speakers are often invited to. Oval is set on a hill and connected to Museum by monorail; Park is where the bulk of Benesse House's facilities, such as its French restaurant, Terrace, its spa and shop are housed; and Beach is one of Ando's few buildings constructed chiefly of wood and is generally reserved for long-term guests. Inside Museum, there are two restaurants, Issen for Japanese and a separate cafe where guests and patrons can relax between viewings. The spa has a wide array of treatment options and is open from 11:00-22:00 with last appointments taken at 20:00.

Suggested Hotels For Days 12–13

Conrad Osaka
Preferred Hotel

Conrad Osaka

Conrad Osaka is a 5-star hotel that boasts stunning views and a central location. Situated in Osaka's Kita district, guests are a 15 minutes' walk from Nakanoshima Park, and a castle, museum, and church are all accessible by foot. There is an abundance of artwork in the lobby and scattered throughout the hotel. Rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows, inviting beds, and indulgent bathrooms, and upgraded accommodations feature access to the Executive Lounge that offers complimentary breakfast, afternoon tea, and evening cocktails. There are a number of gourmet restaurants on the 40th floor, such as a sushi and teppanyaki restaurant and a noteworthy crustacean bar. In particular, Atmos Dining boasts an extensive breakfast buffet in the morning and a mixture of Western and Asian dishes throughout the day. The spa is a highlight, and there is also an indoor heated pool, 24-hour gym, and a fitness center.

St. Regis Osaka

St. Regis Osaka

In the heart of Osaka's Midosuji area lies the St. Regis Osaka, an elegant five-star hotel composed of 160 guest rooms and suites over 12 categories. All accommodations have city views and are beautifully decorated in Kyoto silks, with 300-thread-count sheets, carefully-selected art and ceramics, as well as classic Japanese motifs, such as gingko and cherry blossom. Guest rooms are appointed with state-of-the-art amenities, as well as Japanese-style bathtubs and SOTHYS or Remède bath products. Hotel facilities include a 24-hour fitness center and the IRIDIUM featuring SOTHYS spa. For dining, guests can choose from Rue d’Or for classically-inspired French bistro cuisine, La Veduta for innovative Northern Italian dishes, WAJO for prime cuts of beef served teppanyaki-style, the Boulangerie Rue d'Or for baguettes and pastries, or the The St. Regis Bar for a menu of sophisticated cocktails, afternoon teas, and small plates. The St. Regis Osaka is located a 20-minute drive from Osaka International Airport and a 10-minute drive from Osaka Train Station.

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