

Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto: A Serene Hilltop Retreat
Perched high above Kyoto’s historic Higashiyama district, Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto is an architectural masterpiece that redefines luxury in the ancient capital.

Azumi Setoda: A Contemporary Ryokan Rooted in Tradition
Set along the shores of the Seto Inland Sea, Azumi Setoda redefines the ryokan experience by blending contemporary elegance with centuries-old traditions.

What to Look for When Booking Your Accommodation
Unique hotels with a deep sense of place and culture can become as memorable than the journey itself. Here’s what I discovered after staying in 57 hotels last year.

A Private Island Hot Spring Hotel: Kumano Bettei Nakanoshima
From its secluded surroundings to its famed outdoor onsen, Kumano Bettei Nakanoshima is the ideal retreat for weary travellers. Here’s what to expect at this private island hot spring hotel.

Luxury Meets History: A Stay at Tachibana Ohana, Fukuoka
Japan offers a diverse range of hotels to accommodate every kind of traveller. Those venturing to Fukuoka will find a luxurious experience intertwined with historical roots at Tachibana Ohana.

8 Design Hotels for Your Next Japan Itinerary
From luxury ryokans to modern architectural showcases and intimate design spaces to traditional machiya townhouses, Japan offers a wealth of unique options for the inquisitive traveller. Here are 8 of my favourite Design Hotels.

Timeless Craft and Modern Luxury: A First Look at Six Senses Kyoto
Winding pathways, hand-painted handicrafts, and a towering bamboo garden – Six Senses Kyoto is the latest addition to the city’s luxury design hotel scene.

The Best Honeymoon Hotels in Japan: From Tokyo to Kyoto
A trip to Japan offers a blend of long-standing cultural traditions and once-in-a-lifetime experiences, making it a perfect destination for celebrating newlyweds.

A New Ryokan for Japan’s Famous Art Island: Roka Naoshima
Known as the first ryokan on Naoshima, Roka is the perfect retreat for a secluded stay on an already peaceful island. Here’s everything you need to know…

1920’s Bank to Boutique Design Hotel: K5 Tokyo
Located in a renovated 1920s bank, K5 Tokyo is a masterclass of Japan-meets-Scandinavian design, progressive dinning, and a breath of fresh air to Tokyo’s commercial quarter.

7 Unique Ryokans to Add to Your Japan Bucket List
Looking to dive deeper into Japan’s culture and history? Traditional Japanese inns might just be the unique accommodation option you’ve been looking for.

Roku Kyoto: A Retreat in the Foothills of Mount Takagamine
A retreat-style resort tucked away in Kyoto’s Takagamine mountainside that celebrates traditional Japanese design merged with modern-day minimalism.

Bulgari Hotel Tokyo: Italian Glamour Meets Japanese Heritage
Located in central Marunouchi District, the brand new Bulgari Hotel Tokyo brings luxury Italian design with a touch of minimalism to Japan’s capital.

A Stay at Rakudo-An: Art & Design in the Japanese Countryside
Set in Tonami Plain, Rakudo-An is a more than 100-year-old restored farmhouse that’s ideal for a quiet and traditional Japanese escape.

Kyoto’s Understated Art Hotel: The Shinmonzen
Created in Paris, built in Kyoto, and designed by the one-and-only Tadao Ando, The Shinmonzen is located riverside in the heart of Kyoto’s Gion District.

Kyushu’s Modern Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton Fukuoka
The first of its kind in on the island, The Ritz-Carlton Fukuoka combines low-key luxury and traditional crafts into one of the area’s most enticing accommodation options.
Download Your FREE Tokyo Neighbourhoods eBook
Kickstart your Tokyo travel plans with my latest snapshot guide, featuring 10 of my favourite Tokyo Neighbourhoods. I’ll take you to some of my favourite hidden corners and offer a more thoughtful, slower way to appreciate Tokyo, away from the usual tourist traps.