The most beautiful hotels in Japan
Japan offers a captivating blend of tradition and modernity that is beautifully reflected in its hotels. From minimalist aesthetics to opulent designs, the country provides a diverse array of accommodations that cater to various tastes and preferences.
When selecting a hotel in Japan, aesthetics play a crucial role. Traditional ryokans, often set amidst serene gardens, showcase tatami mats, shoji screens, and futons, creating an authentic cultural experience. On the other hand, contemporary hotels in bustling cities like Tokyo and Osaka feature sleek lines, innovative designs, and cutting-edge technology, offering luxurious comforts with a modern twist.
Additionally, many hotels are strategically located to present stunning views of iconic landmarks, such as Mount Fuji or the historic temples of Kyoto. This combination of beauty, design, and breathtaking surroundings makes choosing the right hotel in Japan an enriching part of the travel experience, elevating your stay into something truly memorable.
Whether you seek a tranquil retreat or a vibrant urban escape, Japan’s hotels promise not just a place to rest, but a feast for the senses.
Hoshino Resorts KAI Beppu
Hoshino Resorts KAI Beppu is a luxury onsen (hot spring) ryokan-style hotel located in the coastal city of Beppu, one of Japan’s most famous hot-spring destinations. The hotel is operated by Hoshino Resorts, a well-known Japanese hospitality company specializing in upscale traditional accommodations.
The design of Hoshino Resort Kai Beppu was handled by Kengo Kuma, one of Japan’s most renowned architects. Kuma is known for his innovative approach to architecture, particularly his ability to merge traditional Japanese design principles with modern aesthetics. His work often emphasizes natural materials, local craftsmanship, and the integration of the environment with the built space. This philosophy is evident at Kai Beppu, where local stone and timber are used to blend the resort into the Beppu landscape, maintaining a natural, serene atmosphere.
Kuma’s designs always strive to integrate the natural world with human spaces, and this is clear at Kai Beppu, where the resort features large windows, open-air baths, and terraces that take advantage of the beautiful hot spring town’s landscapes. The baths and rooms are oriented to maximize views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
Rooms combine modern comfort with traditional Japanese style: tatami flooring, low beds or futons, sea views with large windows facing the bay, minimalist Japanese décor.
Guests can enjoy kaiseki cuisine, a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner made with seasonal ingredients.
Akan Tsuruga Bessou Hinanoza Hokkaido
Akan Tsuruga Bessou HINANOZA is a luxury Japanese ryokan-style hotel located on the shores of Lake Akan in Akanko-onsen, Kushiro, Hokkaido, Japan.
The hotel is in Akanko Onsen, a hot spring resort area on Lake Akan in eastern Hokkaido, known for nature, wildlife (like marimo algae), and scenic landscapes.
Akan Tsuruga Bessou HINANOZA, is a premium ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) offering an elegant and serene atmosphere with spacious suites, many with private open-air hot spring baths (onsen) overlooking the lake. There are about 25 suites, each with unique interiors and beautiful views.
The hotel’s design mixes traditional Japanese aesthetic (tatami floors, shoji screens) with modern comforts.
The ryokan serves traditional Japanese cuisine, often in multi-course kaiseki meals highlighting local Hokkaido ingredients.
Besides private baths in rooms, there are public onsen facilities and spa treatments.
