The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko

The serene Tobira Onsen Myojinkan sits surrounded by the forest deep in the mountains above Matsumoto city. It combines the elements of a traditional Japanese ryokan inn with all the creature comforts of a modern luxury hotel for a wonderfully relaxing rural retreat.

45 rooms all enjoy their own onsen bath, either indoors or outside, and guests have the option of either sleeping on a simple futon over tatami mats or a Western-style bed. There are a number of natural hot spring baths here, open day and night, each offering blissful views of the stunning forest scenery accompanied by the sounds of murmuring brooks, tranquil bird song and conifers swaying gently in the breeze.

Unlike other ryokans, where simple Japanese Kaiseki cuisine served in-room is the only dining option, there are three restaurants here serving modern Japanese delicacies and organic macrobiotic French as well as Kaiseki.

When not relaxing at Myojinkan, guests can explore the forest and nearby scenic areas of the Japanese Alps, as well as take trips into the historic Matsumoto city.

Embracing the minimalism of traditional Japanese architecture, Aman is a stylish, bespoke hotel that will offer you an array of amenities and easy accessibility to the city’s sights.

Each of the 84 guest rooms and suites have unique layouts with uncompromising city views and every contemporary convenience. You’ll find the design inspiration evident throughout the hotel, from traditional Japanese residential structures to the use of classical materials such as camphor wood, washi paper and stone alongside modern luxurious fabrics. The hotel also offers an exquisite dining experience in their elegant mediterranean fine dining restaurant on the 33rd floor with views of the Imperial Palace Gardens and Mount Fuji.

Take a dip in the infinity pool on the 34th floor, high above the hustle and bustle of the city or head to the spa to relax after a long day of exploring the city. You’ll also enjoy Ginza, the upmarket shopping area just a pleasant 15 minute walk away.

A world away from the hustle and bustle of Japanese city life, immerse yourself in the relaxed culture of Japan’s southern Islands. HOSHINOYA promises to modernise the traditional Japanese ryokan offering you an authentic stay with modern comfort and conveniences.

With just 48 villas on the remote island of Taketomi, you’ll find yourself in paradise. Architecturally the hotel mirrors the local culture. The single-level, wooden villas, which are surrounded by stone walls and topped with red tiles, seem almost Mediterranean to the western eye, however, inside the Japanese influence is apparent. With spacious, minimalist decor and the use of light wood, relax in contemporary Japanese tranquility. During your stay, dine in the hotel’s restaurant. The chef define’s his cuisine as Ryukyu Nouvelle, a brand new style of Okinawan food based on French cuisine. With a new menu every evening savour this truly unique culinary experience.

Relax on the white sand beaches, take a water buffalo cart ride or scuba dive to experience one of the world’s top spots for watching manta rays. With a variety of activities there is something for everyone to enjoy in this bespoke resort.

Traditional Japanese aesthetics can be found throughout the luxury Four Seasons in the centre of historic Kyoto. Lanterns brighten interiors filled with artisanal furnishing and sleek hardwood floors while fusuma screens and urushi lacquerware create an engaging cultural experience.

The guest rooms enjoy balconies with incredible views overlooking the fascinating cityscape, Shakusuien Pond Garden or the distant Higashiyama Mountains. Upon imperial purple carpets, a custom Four Seasons bed waits after freshening up in a private rain shower oasis. The suites contain spacious living areas with sofas, coffee tables and marble-topped desks, natural light streaming in through floor-to-ceiling windows. Special touches such as shoji paper lamps and tatami-inspired wall panels contributes to a rich and contemporary residence.

Savouring views of the beautiful 12^th-century Myoho-in Temple, the Presidential Suite consists of Asa-no-ha hexagonal patterns and an approach to artisanal décor that authentically and intimately captures the essence of Japan.

The Four Seasons has two restaurants. Brasserie boasts a relaxed atmosphere and a simple yet delicious menu. Locally-sourced ingredients combined with modern cooking techniques contribute to seasonal dishes throughout the day and into the evening.

Sushi Wakon operates under the skilled hand of Michelin-starred Chef Rei Masuda, preparing a fine-dining extravaganza at the 200-year-old, 10-seat Hinoki counter.

Drink tea while relaxing beside the 800-year-old pond garden, taking in the true essence and mystery of the Land of the Rising Sun. Additionally, the Spa is a haven of healing, restoring your mind and body to a state of blissful serenity.