Back in June, six of our Travel Designers spent ten days travelling through Japan, following a classic ‘first timers in Japan’ route through the country.
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They travelled by Shinkansen between cities, stayed in everything from Tokyo high-rises to traditional ryokans and experienced Japan much as they would: dinner with geishas, sumo training, temples and shrines, tea ceremonies, street food, nightlife and plenty more along the way.
Centuries-old shrines sit beneath skyscrapers. Immaculately manicured gardens offer moments of complete calm before you step back into streets filled with neon, restaurants, fashion, technology and nightlife. One neighbourhood can feel almost entirely different from the next.
A surprise standout, with spacious rooms, views across Tokyo Bay and Tokyo Tower and one of our favourite pools of the trip. Slightly removed from the busiest sightseeing areas, but a great choice for couples, families and clients who value space and facilities.
âThe rooftop pool and outdoor jacuzzi was a real highlight for me. The views over Tokyo from up there were incredible.â – Josie Turner
Our pick for food lovers, with ten restaurants and bars and a particularly convenient location for continuing through Japan by Shinkansen.
âThe dining was phenomenal with a great atmosphere. The Pizza Bar on 38th was ranked #2 in the world, and with only eight seats, reservations need to be made well in advance.â – Josie Turner
High above Shinjuku and surrounded by karaoke bars, restaurants, arcades, nightclubs and the bright lights of Kabukicho.
“It is like being in Times Square. For those wanting an authentic Japanese Izakaya (traditional bar), I would head to Golden Gai where there are plenty of places to drink and eat” – Matt Shock
Tucked into the Japanese Alps, Takayama feels a world away from Tokyo. Beautifully preserved wooden streets, sake breweries and morning markets sit against a backdrop of mountains and rice fields, offering a slower pace and a glimpse into a more traditional side of Japan.
Our choice for travellers who want a traditional stay without sacrificing location. You’re right in Takayama, within walking distance of the morning market, sake breweries, restaurants and historic streets.
âThe location is brilliant for exploring Takayama, and I loved being able to use the shared onsen at the sister property across the road. It’s on the fifth floor with gorgeous views.â – Natalie Homan
The more immersive of the two. Tatami floors, futon beds, traditional dining and beautiful communal onsens make this somewhere we’d recommend for the experience itself. Some ground-floor rooms also have private outdoor onsens and gardens.
âI absolutely loved this ryokan. It felt like stepping back in time, and the outdoor onsens were spectacular.â – Matt Shock
Kyoto is where Japanâs history and traditions really come to life. Ancient temples, vermilion torii gates and traditional streets sit alongside bustling markets and modern city life, while tea ceremonies and centuries-old customs offer a glimpse into a culture that remains deeply connected to its past.
Built around an extraordinary 800-year-old heritage pond garden, this was one of Kyoto’s most peaceful stays. With spacious rooms, an excellent pool and kids club, it’s particularly strong for families without ever feeling like a family hotel.
âThe 800-year-old pond garden is what sets this hotel apart for me. It gives the whole property such a peaceful atmosphere. Also, the breakfast pancakes were genuinely the best I’ve ever had.â – Mikkel Legarth
Capella Kyoto is a new, low-rise property in the quieter Miyagawa-cho district, moments from Gion and right beside Kenninji, Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple.
There are just 89 rooms and suites, with beautiful woodwork, Japanese art and light, calming interiors. Six suites have their own private onsen, while guests staying in other categories can hire a private onsen.
âI absolutely loved Capella Kyoto. The finish is exceptional and it was by far one of my favourite hotels we saw in Japan.â – Alice Adler
Osaka is Japan at its most lively and laid-back. Neon-lit streets, tiny izakayas and bustling food stalls give the city an infectious energy, with locals gathering over everything from sashimi and tempura to its famous kushikatsu. Itâs less polished than Tokyo and less traditional than Kyoto, but full of personality.
A completely different pace from the streets of Tenma. Opened in 2025, Patina has huge rooms, impressive wellness facilities and an incredible position directly opposite Osaka Castle.
The trade-off is location: this isn’t the hotel for someone who wants Dotonbori and nightlife immediately outside the door. For couples, design lovers and wellness-focused clients who want somewhere calmer, it works brilliantly.
âThe rooms are huge, the wellness facilities are excellent, and I think it has one of the best views of Osaka Castle in the city.â – Clare Bullock
After ten days travelling through Japan, one thing stood out above everything else: the culture. From sumo and tea ceremonies to ryokans, onsens and temples, tradition is woven into everyday life in a way that makes Japan feel unlike anywhere else.
Our verdict? Japan thoroughly deserves its place on your travel list.
