Duration
14 days / 13 nights
Price Per Person
Interests
Spirituality, Amazing Landscapes
Destinations
Japan

This 14-day tour will take you on a journey of a lifetime through Japan’s stunning landscape and sacred sites. Prepare to hike up Mount Aso, one of the world’s largest active volcanoes. Marvel at the breathtaking and unforgettable scenery of the Kirishima volcanoes. Uncover the fascinating history and traditions in the ancient capital of Kyoto. Let your stress melt away while basking in natural hot springs. Experience Japanese mythology as you watch the sacred dances of Yokagura at the Takachiho shrine. Explore the world-class metropolitan city of Tokyo and take advantage of some of the best shopping, entertainment, culture and dining the world has to offer.

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

• Great Outdoors: Hike to the highest peaks on Kyushu to see the Kuju volcanoes and stay in a hot spring lodge.

• Kyoto: Immerse yourself in culture and history in the ancient capital, paying visits to Kiyomizudera Temple and the Silver Pavilion, then contemplate along the Philosopher's Path.

• Folklore: Learn about Japan's creation myths with a sacred dance performance at a shrine in Takachino - a town nestled amongst fabled rock formations.

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Tokyo

Explore the sights and sounds of Tokyo, the center of the world's most populated metropolitan area. You’ll be met at Narita International Airport and taken to central Tokyo via train for a leisurely walk around the city. You’ll pay a visit to the Toyosu Fish Market, Japan’s largest and busiest fish market, and walk the streets of Akihabara, a district famous for its many electronics and anime shops. In the evening, enjoy a Japanese feast before you settle down in your luxury hotel.

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

Kyoto

Watch the scenery zip by as we travel by bullet train to the ancient capital of Kyoto. Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch followed by a visit to Ginkakuji, also known as the Silver Pavilion, a famous Buddhist temple along Kyoto’s eastern mountains. Walk along the Philosopher’s Path and witness the beauty of a canal lined with hundreds of cherry trees. Take in the tranquility of the Kiyomizudera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Finish the day with a delicious dinner and relaxing stay at a traditional ryokan (traveller’s inn) or the classy Ritz-Carlton on the Kamogawa river.

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 3

Kyoto

Discover the Ryoan-ji Temple, home to a garden that is considered to be one of the finest examples of Japanese rock garden design. Explore the Arashiyama district by taking a stroll on the Togetsukyo Bridge and visit the famous bamboo groves behind the Tenryuji Temple. After lunch, you are free to roam the city until the evening. Take the opportunity to further sightsee in central Kyoto or take in the beautiful scenery of mountains and river by boat ride along the Sagami River.

Day 4

Kuju Highlands

Travel to the highest peaks on the island of Kyushu and see the Kuju volcanoes. Hike to a hot spring lodge surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Enjoy a hearty dinner and rest comfortably overnight at the lodge.

Hotel Options
About

One of the highest hotels nestled into the Kuju highlands, Resonate Club Kuju is a simple-yet-comfortable option. Rooms are colorful, if not entirely stylish, but come with free parking, refrigerators, humidifiers, and high-speed internet.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 5

Mount Aso

Embark on a picturesque hike to the Kuju-dake peak and Naka-dake peak before departing. You’ll travel by car to the Kurokawa hot spring village and stop to take a dip in the soothing and therapeutic waters. Next, we’ll head to Aso, the largest active volcano in Japan. Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner and rest in a comfortable nearby ryokan.

Hotel Options
About

This luxury hotel is not your typical ryokan, possessing a far more modern Japanese style than the more classic abodes. There is an outdoor hot spring bath that is full of water drawn from a hot spring source, as well as a library/lounge, both of which make excellent guest relaxation areas.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

About

This 10-room ryokan has been said by some to feel more like a traditional Japanese home than a hotel, and many enjoy this homey, more personal atmosphere. Here, guests are invited to take a step back in time, into Japan’s historical hospitality of centuries-past.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Mount Aso
Mount Aso

Day 6

Mount Aso

Take the Sensuikyou cable car to the top of Mount Aso and hike along the crater’s edge through fields of lava rocks. Be dazzled by brightly-colored volcanic rocks and unique geological formations. Absorb the breathtaking sights at the top of Taka-dake and Naka-dae. Head back to the guesthouse for a rewarding meal and overnight stay.

Day 7

Takachiho

Take a drive along the Aso Panorama highway and stop for a leisurely stroll through the lovely countryside. Continuing by foot, we will arrive at Takachiho, a town that sits along a gorge where fascinating rock formations have been integrated into local folklore. Witness the sacred dances of Yokagura at the Takachiho shrine, which delve into the mythical tales of Japan’s creation.

Hotel Options
About

Nestled into a quiet part of Takachiho, Ryokan Shinsen is the most comfortable ryokan in the area. It offers guests a choice of maisonnette and Japanese-style rooms, many of which can sleep larger groups.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 8

Aya

Cycle along the peaceful countryside near Takachiho and partake in a picnic lunch. After, we will travel by road to Aya. Once arrived, we’ll take a short walk to the Teruha Suspension Bridge, a bridge 460 feet above the Aya River. If you are visiting during the spring, appreciate the beauty and colors of the cherry blossoms surrounding the nearby mountains.

Hotel Options
About

Designed by world-renowned Japanese architect, Kengo Kuma, the tranquil Garden Terrace Miyazaki Hotel is located approximately 10 miles from Manpuku-ji Temple and Aya Castle. There are only 12 rooms at Garden Terrace Miyazaki, and room types include Deluxe Rooms, Standard Rooms and Japanese Rooms.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Aya
Aya

Day 9

Nichinan

Tour the historic Aya Castle. Try your hand at Japanese pottery making, weaving and aizome orimono (indigo-dyed fabric) at a local craft center. During the drive to Nichinan, enjoy the spectacular coastline. Stop to stretch your legs at the Udo-jingu Shrine, enclosed within a cave. Nichinan is a historical treasure with well-preserved Edo period samurai houses and Obi Castle. Visit the former residence of the Ito clan and stop at a teashop to enjoy fresh green tea and traditional Japanese sweets. Spend the evening at a charming seaside hotel.

Hotel Options
About

Located in Miyazaki Prefecture on Kyushu Island, the 84-room Nichinan Kaigan Nango Prince Hotel offers Twin Rooms and Double Rooms. Each room comes with a refrigerator and air conditioning.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 10

Kirishima

This morning depart for the Kirishima volcanic range. Witness the dramatic landscape as hot steam spews out of numerous volcanic openings as we hike to the top of the Takachiho-no-mine Peak. After the climb, continue on a walk near the volcanic vents and experience the Shiratori hot spring where you will partake in an unforgettable outdoor mineral bath.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Set in the heart of forested greenery and babbling rivers in the aromatic oasis of Japan’s natural beauty, the Wasurenosato Gajoen is the very essence of enticing serenity.

Service: The attentive concierge service will address any request or accommodation with the utmost in professional care and consideration.

History: For forty years, Tateo and Etsuko Tajima have welcomed guests to their peaceful and natural oasis of cottages which are aptly named “Wasurenosato”, meaning Retreat Village.

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Wasurenosato Gajoen Preferred Hotel
About

This luxury resort is unlike most Japanese hotels. Set amidst lush, natural surroundings, Tenku no Mori exudes a classical boutique inn kind of atmosphere, and with only five rooms, it lives up to its self-proclamation of a ‘private resort’.

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 11

Kirishima

Take a day-trip to Kagoshima, home of the Shimazu clan, a powerful feudal family. Tour Sangen-en, the clan’s elegant villa and gardens situated across from an active volcano. Explore Kagoshima during free time in the afternoon. Return to Kirishima for the evening.

Kirishima
Kirishima

Day 12

Tokyo

Travel to Chiran, a town full of historic Samurai houses and home to the air base used by Kamikaze pilots in World War II. Try homemade soba and udon noodles in an authentic, local restaurant for lunch. Depart for the sandy beaches in the south near the Kaimondake volcano and visit Yamakawa beach, where thermally heated mineral water bubbles to the surface. Dress in a cotton yukata robe and bask in the warm sand. Fly onward to Tokyo from Kagoshima airport.

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 13

Tokyo

Immerse yourself in the abundance of shopping, entertainment, culture, and dining that Tokyo has to offer. The city’s history can be appreciated in many excellent museums and in the Asakusa district. Say your goodbyes to newfound friends at a farewell dinner.

Day 14

Departure

On your final day, you’ll say goodbye to Japan, though you’ll take with you the memories you created. Your guide will help you transfer to Tokyo’s Narita airport for your flight home or to your next exciting destination.

Suggested Hotels For Day 1

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 2–3

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 Day 4

Resonate Club Kuju

Resonate Club Kuju


One of the highest hotels nestled into the Kuju highlands, Resonate Club Kuju is a simple-yet-comfortable option. Rooms are colorful, if not entirely stylish, but come with free parking, refrigerators, humidifiers, and high-speed internet.  There are two restaurants here - Meteor, which serves Western cuisine, and Sum Heart, which cooks up traditional Japanese dishes. The hotel is far from the nearest form of public transportation, being an hour’s drive from the nearest train station, and just under two hours from the airport. But there’s plenty to do here, from enjoying a dip in the healing waters of the outdoor bath, nature walks in the surrounding hillsides, star gazing, horseback riding, undergoing a detox program, and even being entertained by live music on the weekend. 


Suggested Hotels For Days 5–6

Hoshino Resort Kai Aso

Hoshino Resort Kai Aso


This luxury hotel is not your typical ryokan, possessing a far more modern Japanese style than the more classic abodes. There is an outdoor hot spring bath that is full of water drawn from a hot spring source, as well as a library/lounge, both of which make excellent guest relaxation areas. Massage is also available for those who wish to treat themselves, and a shop is on-site for those who require some retail-therapy. Rooms are spacious, with separate living rooms and private onsen baths, as well as welcoming touches like humidifiers, bathrobes, high-speed internet, and more. The hotel is located within the highlands of a national park, at 3,280-feet elevation; a 70-minute drive from Narita Airport. Guests can enjoy outdoor activities like nature walks and horseback riding in this lush, natural environment. 


Iyashino Sato

Iyashino Sato


This 10-room ryokan has been said by some to feel more like a traditional Japanese home than a hotel, and many enjoy this homey, more personal atmosphere. Here, guests are invited to take a step back in time, into Japan’s historical hospitality of centuries-past. Ideally-located in Aso, often referred to as the heart of local Kumamoto, the traditional abode welcomes curiosity and inspires insight into the country’s culture and history. Guests may enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine at the hotel’s Higo Road Chaya restaurant, though the main attraction here is the healing waters of the hotel’s outdoor onsen baths, which contain sodium magnesium sulfate. Complimentary WiFi is available to guests throughout the hotel. Guests will also find its location convenient, being only 30 minutes from Tokyo Station, and the same distance from Kumamoto Airport. 


Suggested Hotel For Day 7

Ryokan Shinsen

Ryokan Shinsen


Nestled into a quiet part of Takachiho, Ryokan Shinsen is the most comfortable ryokan in the area. It offers guests a choice of maisonnette and Japanese-style rooms, many of which can sleep larger groups. The well-appointed residences come with modern, luxurious touches, like massage chairs, open-air baths, floor heating, and more. For dining, there is a choice of five huts, which all serve up authentic Kyoto cuisine, with ingredients sourced from different parts of the country. Guests are treated to their very own unique set of bamboo chopsticks to enjoy throughout their stay - a quaint touch. A tearoom is also on site, where guests can get a taste - literally - of Japan’s tea culture. The hotel is a lengthy drive from the airport - an hour and a half - but some guests enjoy the sense of seclusion this brings. 


Suggested Hotel For Day 8

Garden Terrace Miyazaki

Garden Terrace Miyazaki

Designed by world-renowned Japanese architect, Kengo Kuma, the tranquil Garden Terrace Miyazaki Hotel is located approximately 10 miles from Manpuku-ji Temple and Aya Castle. There are only 12 rooms at Garden Terrace Miyazaki, and room types include Deluxe Rooms, Standard Rooms and Japanese Rooms. Designed to blend in with the surrounding environment, the hotel features bamboo-clad walls in its public areas, as well as a courtyard with bamboo trees and small pools. The hotel also has a lounge with a library and a central chapel with floor-to-ceiling windows. Dining options include a French-influenced restaurant called Forest, which features local Miyazaki seafood, as well as Tikusai, which offers teppanyaki cuisine. The hotel is located a 20-minute drive away from Miyazaki Airport.

Suggested Hotel For Day 9

Nichinan Kaigan Nango Prince Hotel

Nichinan Kaigan Nango Prince Hotel

Located in Miyazaki Prefecture on Kyushu Island, the 84-room Nichinan Kaigan Nango Prince Hotel offers Twin Rooms and Double Rooms. Each room comes with a refrigerator and air conditioning. During the summer season, enjoy a dip in the outdoor pool or relax in the outdoor hot springs overlooking the ocean. Seasonal water activities include kayaking and scuba diving. The on-site restaurant within the hotel focuses on seasonal, local ingredients and the hotel lounge serves light meals. The hotel is located an approximate 1-hour drive away from Mizayaki Airport.

Suggested Hotels For Days 10–11

Wasurenosato Gajoen
Preferred Hotel

Wasurenosato Gajoen

Encased in luxuriously rich forest and crisply flowing rivers, this incredible hotel is the epitome of elegant serenity. Set in one of the most naturally exquisite prefectures of Japan, this area is an adventurer’s dream, complete with ocean, forest and ancient volcano remains. The perfect placement of traditionally designed cottages - inclusive of modern amenities - within lush and undisturbed greenery makes this destination a superb oasis of tranquility. Guests have the option to stay in a choice of ten different rooms, each one featuring natural beauty, charming architecture and unique cultural elements. A renowned restaurant with a variety of finely crafted culinary delights readily welcomes guests at a moment’s notice. A gorgeously maintained golf course and a relaxing spa are the perfect activities in which guests may immerse themselves during their stay in paradise.

Tenku no Mori

Tenku no Mori

This luxury resort is unlike most Japanese hotels. Set amidst lush, natural surroundings, Tenku no Mori exudes a classical boutique inn kind of atmosphere, and with only five rooms, it lives up to its self-proclamation of a ‘private resort’. Guests can enjoy their meals in private dining rooms, where they’ll be served scrumptious local foods that include organic vegetables and free-range meat. Lovers of the great outdoors will be happy here, with 360-degree panoramas of the surrounding majestic mountains - perfect for those who are into hiking and/or photography. The hotel, despite its off-the-beaten-track feel, is located only a 30-minute drive from the Kagoshima airport. 

Suggested Hotels For Days 12–13

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).

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