Japan

A personal favourite of an erstwhile emperor, this is Hakone’s – and possibly Japan’s – most prestigious accommodation. From its flawless dining experience and faultless staff to its idyllic setting and beautifully appointed rooms, it’s the closest thing to perfection.

Hakone Ginyu takes full advantage of its mountainside setting, with private balconies, traditional rooms and hot spring onsen baths featuring some of the region’s best views.

Disappear into a world of teahouses, riverside pavilions and onsen soaks as you explore the Japanese Alps in style.

Experience rural Japan at its finest, with one of the country’s most luxurious properties, hosting stunning bay views from private villas.

With balconies, moat-side restaurants and designer rooms that look out over the Imperial Palace, this luxury offering enjoys a privileged setting. The stateliness continues in everything from spa treatments to 'kaiseki' feasts.

For a slice of modernity among Hakone’s traditional ryokan inns, The Hyatt Regency presents designer rooms, international dining and daily complimentary champagne.

Once the Kyoto retreat of the imperial family, Hoshinoya’s rich heritage is manifested in riverside timber rooms, secret teahouses and dining from a chef with a triple-Michelin-starred CV.

Luxurious and homely in equal measure, this is a traditional welcoming ryokan with genuine hot spring baths and exceptional kaiseki cuisine in tranquil surroundings.

This coastal property is unique not only for its views over Miyajima’s famous floating shrine, but its rooftop 'onsen' pool too – the ideal end to a day spent exploring the island’s ancient heritage and dining on 'kaiseki' banquets in the comfort of your room.

Rest your eyes from Kyoto’s dazzling array of golden temples and vermillion shrines with the Ritz-Carlton’s designer sensibilities. Here, en suites are marble, the views spectacular and the service second to none.

Discover Japan’s ancient heritage in the Hyatt’s traditional ornamentation – a reflection of Kyoto’s centuries-old Buddhist temples – before uncovering the country’s more contemporary delights in spa treatments and your room’s delightful minimalist design.

Japan’s network of ryokan inns has hosted travellers for centuries – a tradition that Yamanochaya continues with multi-course dining, rice-paper rooms and the country’s famous omotenashi hospitality.

A peaceful retreat set in an enchanting garden, Aman Kyoto blends ancient traditions with contemporary design.

Based between the 28th and 37th floors of the imposing Shiodome Skyscraper, this is one of Toyko’s finest hotels – a stylish, ultra-modern offering in the heart of Japan’s bustling capital.