Wednesday newsletters always feature a luxury hotel and/or flight review.

A few weeks ago, I enjoyed a lovely trip with one of my best friends in scenic Japan. The hotels we stayed at were spectacular, and the flights to/from Japan were not bad either. You can read my trip reports here:

• Trip report: Japan Airlines B77W Business Class London to Tokyo
• Review: Amanemu
• Review: Aman Tokyo 
• Review: Hyatt Regency Hakone
• Review: Park Hyatt Tokyo
• Review:  St Regis Osaka (today)
• Review: Andaz Tokyo
• Review: The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto
• Trip report: British Airways B77W Business Class Tokyo to London

Today (August 24, 2016): Review of  The St Regis Osaka (Japan). 

• Location: Google Maps
• Address: 3-6-12 Honmachi, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 541-0053, Japan
• Hotel website: St Regis Osaka
• Tip: enjoy complimentary VIP amenities when booking via Virtuoso

The St. Regis Osaka is located along the famed street of Midosuji, also intimately known as the Champs Elysées of Osaka. An eloquent expression of comfort and refined Japanese aesthetics, Osaka’s finest hotel offers an abode of tranquillity and comfort, with its 160 rooms and suites elegantly appointed with refined furnishings and rich textures. Lavishly furnished with all the amenities one would expect from a contemporary residence, each room features opulent marble bathrooms with deep soaking tubs, walk in closets and picturesque city views.

The St Regis Osaka features in my top 10 list of the best luxury hotels in Japan.

In this review (more info below my Youtube clip & slideshow):

• Pros & things I like
• Cons & things to know
• My verdict
• Tips for future guests & save money
• Best time to visit
• How to get there

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PROS & THINGS I LIKE

• Osaka is Japan’s third largest city (after Tokyo and Yokohama) and one of the country’s major economic hubs. Yet, the metropolis has long lacked luxury hotels, until the St Regis Osaka filled that gap when it opened in 2010. Currently, it’s still the most luxurious hotel in Osaka, although competition in the city’s luxury hotel industry remains weak.

• Located along Midosuji Avenue or Osaka’s Champs-Elysées, which is lined by a fabulous border of gingko trees that cast lovely shade in the summer, the St Regis property enjoys a very central setting in the heart of the city’s business district. The hotel is also very conveniently located for leisure travelers since it’s situated at the northern end of Shinsaibashi-suji, a covered shopping street featuring major stores and boutiques that runs all the way to Osaka’s main entertainment district.

• The hotel sits on top of the Hommachi Station of the subway’s Midojsuji Line, which brings you in ten minutes to either Shin-Osaka station (where the bullet trains stop) or Namba station (the region’s major train and subway hub), making the hotel an excellent base to explore Osaka as well as nearby cities. Nagoya, Kyoto, and Hiroshima can all be visited on day trips from the hotel by (bullet) train.

• Designed by famed Japanese architect firm Nikken Sekkei, The St Regis Osaka features a contemporary, modern decor. It stands 27 stories above the city in a modern skyscraper, affording impressive urban panorama’s from all rooms, including views of the Abenobashi Terminal Building, Japan’s tallest skyscraper (300 m or 984 ft).

• The hotel’s ground floor feature a small but elegant lobby, with a gorgeous crystal tree at its center, inspired by the beautiful palm trees that surround the city.

• From the moment guests enter the hotel, they are escorted by a doorman to the elevators that brings them to the high-ceilinged, main lobby on the hotel’s 12th floor. The latter features two reception desks (where check-in is done) and several lounge areas, and represents the hotel’s main social scene as the space is connected to the zen garden (with rooftop lounge), the St Regis bar, and the Italian restaurant (more on that below).

• Guest can bask in the tranquillity of the hotel’s outdoor rooftop zen garden, which is located adjacent to the main lobby area and is designed as a traditional Japanese rock garden. This miniature stylized landscape garden features carefully composed arrangements of rocks and pruned trees, seemingly floating over the gravel floor that is raked to represent ripples in water. There’s a terrace bar in one corner, which is an excellent spot for quiet respite, with comfortable seating coupled with light food and cocktails.

• Located at the far end of the main lobby, the distinguished St Regis bar is a sophisticated space, where guests can sink into one of the plush velvet armchairs and admire its artful ambience, while having afternoon tea or unwinding over handcrafted speciality cocktails, such as a Shogun Mary.

• An eloquent expression of comfort and refined Japanese aesthetics, the hotel’s 160 rooms and suites offer an abode of tranquillity and comfort. Accommodations come in six categories, and during my visit, I stayed in a so-called Grand Deluxe Premier Room, which was elegantly appointed with refined furnishings and rich textures. The room featured two plush queen-sized beds (that came with wonderful soft sheets), a separate walk in closet, a large writing desk with comfortable chair, and a cozy sitting area next to the large windows overlooking the city’s skyline. The lavish marble bathroom included a double vanity, a superb rainforest shower, and a separate tub with built-in LCD television.

• Similar to other St Regis properties, the hotel provides its guests exclusive Remède bath amenities, which are among my favorite toiletries in the luxury hotel industry.

• If you are hungry, you won’t need to venture outside since the St Regis Osaka boasts two exclusive restaurants. Rue D’or, a classically inspired and moderately priced bistro, is located on the ground floor and provides authentic French cuisine matched with the freshest Japanese produce. The hotel’s signature Northern Italian grill restaurant, La Veduta, is located next to the St Regis bar on the 12th floor and composes multi-course dining and lavish buffets that bring diners on a Tuscan epicurean sojourn with prices to match.

• The decently sized breakfast buffet is served in La Veduta restaurant and features a wide selection of both Western and Japanese food items. The buffet is complemented with a cook to order a la carte offering (e.g. eggs, steak, or pancakes).

• The hotel’s Iridium Spa is located on the 14th floor. Exclusive to the St. Regis brand, the Iridium Spa offers pampering treatments in an exquisite sanctuary for the body and soul. Adjacent to the spa, there’s a small but well-equipped fitness centre that provides hotel guests with a satisfying workout.

• While in residence, guests enjoy St Regis butler service, 24 hours a day. The St Regis Butler Service has been the signature of the St Regis experience for over one hundred years. From (un)packing your bag, ironing your clothes at no charge, freshening up the room, or running a bath, no request is too small or unattainable no matter the hour of the day.

• WiFi is complimentary, as long as you have made your reservation on the official hotel or Starwood website.

• Service is impeccable. The hotel’s excellent staff is extremely polite and speaks good enough English.

• The hotel is managed by the legendary St Regis Hotel Group (part of Starwood hotels), which is one of the world’s most exclusive hotel brands.

CONS & THINGS TO KNOW

The St. Regis Osaka does not disappoint as the city’s most prestigious address. The accommodations, contemporary decor, zen garden, wonderful bar, and butler service are what shines the most. However, while the hotel succeeds in most areas, it lacks in a few others:

• The St Regis Osaka does not have a swimming pool, which is somewhat disappointing given that the property was newly built only 5 years ago and since most other 5-star hotels in Japan come with impressive pools.

• The spa is extremely expensive (but that’s not different from most other luxury hotel spas in Japan) and there are no other facilities to enjoy other than treatment rooms (no sauna, steam room, or hot tub).

• The hotel charges different rates for single or double occupancy of the room. While I did not like that – this was the first St Regis hotel that I ever stayed at enforcing this kind of policy as well as the only hotel in Japan I visited during my holiday – solo travelers will applaud the lower rates.

• While the breakfast buffet is decently sized, it does not compare to the lavish breakfast buffets that is served at similar five-star properties across the country and at its sister St Regis hotels around the world. The buffet is displayed around the rather small open kitchen and consequently, the breakfast choices are rather limited (but the items on display are yummy).

MY VERDICT

• Location: 8/10
• Design: 8/10
• Pool: not applicable (no pool present within the hotel)
• Resort grounds: not applicable (city hotel)
• Rooms: 8/10
• Food: 8/10
• Spa: 8/10
• Service: 9/10
• Value for money: 8/10
• Overall experience: very good: 8,1/10

TIPS FOR FUTURE GUESTS & SAVE MONEY

• Save money: read my tips for getting the best deal at a luxury hotel like The St Regis Osaka (and/or receive many free perks).

• Save money: enjoy complimentary VIP amenities when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD food & beverage credit).

• Save money: book your room with an additional 20% off making use of a Best Rate Guarantee.

• Starwood Preferred Guests (SPG) with Gold or Platinum status are well treated, with – amongst other benefits – free high-speed WiFi, complementary room upgrade (when available), early check-in or late check-out  (when available), and free breakfast (SPG platinum). Click here to read our review of the SPG program (with pros & cons).

• Read my tips for preparing your trip in time. Passport and visa requirements differ from country to country. Please check with your local authority before booking.

• Book a room on the hotel website or the official SPG website to enjoy complimentary WiFi.

• Make sure you get a card in Japanese with the hotel address. Some cab drivers have no idea where this hotel is and showing them the hotel address in Japanese prevents that problem.

BEST TIME TO VISIT 

Japan enjoys all four seasons, with cherry blossoms usually at their best in late March and early April. The summer sees the largest amount of precipitation and humidity in Osaka, while autumn brings fresh, cool temperatures and light breezes. Winter is temperate, dry and often sunny.

HOW TO GET THERE

The trip from Kansai International Airport – the closest airport to the St Regis Osaka – takes approximately 50 minutes by car.  The hotel is also accessible from the airport by city rail or train, or by an airport limousine with a city rail transfer. The hotel is a short walk from Exit 7 at Hommachi Station of the subway Midojsuji Line.

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The post Hotel review: The St Regis Osaka (Japan) appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.

Today (July 18, 2016): things to see & do in Japan.

For a long time, Japan was a blind spot on my travel map, but finally, that’s a thing of the past after I traveled through the country a few weeks ago. Remarkably, Japan is not very popular with tourists, because of the lack of iconic landmarks, language troubles (most Japanese people don’t speak English very well), and expensive lifestyle (transport, food, and accommodations). And that’s a shame, because Japan is a fascinating country that should be on your bucket list, since it represents a unique and inspiring blend of traditional and ultramodern culture. While preparing my travel itinerary, I found the website Japan Guide to be very helpful in particular, and I highly recommend it. Here’s my list of the top 10 things to see and do in Japan.

What is your favorite attraction in Japan? Do you think I missed one? Leave a comment or take my poll below.

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10. SAMPLE ON STREETFOOD IN OSAKA

With over 19 million inhabitants, Osaka is Japan’s third-most-populated city (after Tokyo and Yokohama), yet one that is often overlooked by overseas tourists. Indeed, it lacks famous landmarks, traditional Japanese architecture and alluring natural scenery that are present other Japanese cities. But Osaka’s reputation as a gourmand’s paradise and Japan’s food kitchen makes up for that. The city is flourishing with a plethora of restaurants, from Michelin starred dining to delicious, cheap eateries. When visiting the city, you cannot leave without enjoying some of Osaka’s most famous street food, which includes Takoyaki (ball-shaped octopus fritters), Okonomiyaki (a cabbage pancake), and Kushikatsu (deep -fried skewered meat and vegetables).

• Japan Guide link: Oasak food guide

9. CLIMB MT. FUJI IN HAKONE NATIONAL PARK

The Hakone National Park, known as the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, is one of the most popular destinations among Japanese and international tourists looking for a break only 100 km (60 mi) from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. The area is a nature lover’s paradise, with relaxing hot-springs (onsen), dense forests, and scenic lakes centered around legendary Mt. Fuji, with 3,776 meters (12,388 feet) Japan’s highest mountain. Hakone is the park’s most popular destination since it features the iconic image of the red Hakone shrine on the shore of Lake Ashi, with Mt. Fuji as a backdrop. For the more adventurous, it’s possible to climb Mt. Fuji in one day during summer time, which offers an incredible experience, with spectacular, 360-degree views of Lake Ashi, the Hakone mountains, and the Owakudani Valley.

• Japan Guide link: Hakone National Park

8. SNORKEL OR SCUBA DIVE IN OKINAWA

Okinawa is Japan’s southernmost prefecture, consisting of a few dozen, small islands that stretch over 700 km (more than 400 miles) of ocean from Kyūshū to Yonaguni-jima, and are closer to Taiwan than Tokyo. With its subtropical climate, emerald blue seas and snow-white sand beaches, Okinawa has long been a popular destination for Japanese travelers looking for a relaxing beach break, and the islands are gaining international popularity as well. The seas surrounding Okinawa’s islands are considered among the world’s most beautiful with coral reefs and abundant marine wildlife. Consequently, snorkeling and scuba diving are among Okinawa’s top attractions.

• Japan Guide link: Okinawa islands

7. GET UP EARLY FOR TOKYO’S TSUKIJI FISH MARKET

Tsukiji Market is the world’s largest fish markets and one of Tokyo’s most popular tourist attraction, especially for  jet-lagged tourists with predawn hours to fill. Indeed, the unique and chaotic atmosphere of scooters, trucks, sellers and buyers hurrying around to trade over 2,000 tons of fresh fish per day should not be missed. The main reason for visiting the market is to observe the live tuna auctions at 5 am. However, public access to the tuna auction is limited to 120 per day, the maximum number which the market’s infrastructure can accommodate. It’s also very popular to have a sushi breakfast in one of the restaurants in the neighborhood. The Tsukiji Market is scheduled to move to a new site in Toyosu in November 2016.

• Japan Guide link: Tsukiji Fish Market

6. TOUR NARA, JAPAN’S ANCIENT CAPITAL

Nara was the country’s first permanent capital from 710 to 794, lending its name to the Nara period. Although often overlooked by visitors, Nara is second only to Kyoto (cf below) as the richest collection of traditional sites in Japan. Home to the Japan’s most ancient and largest temples, Nara is bursting with mythical shrines, Buddhist monasteries, and lovely Zen garden, which collectively form the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara” or Nanto Shichi Daiji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nara’s top attraction is Todaiji Temple, the world’s largest wooden building and once the most powerful Buddhist temple in Japan, which still houses the country’s largest bronze Buddha.

• Japan Guide link: Nara

5. STAY OVERNIGHT AT A RYOKAN

Staying overnight at a traditional Japanese inn or ryokan is an unforgettable experience. These rustic accommodations find their origin in the Edo period (1603-1868), when they served travelers along Japan’s highways, and you can still find them in Japan’s more rural areas and mountains. They typically feature tatami matted floors, sliding doors, minimalist interiors, and common bathing areas or ofuro (usually segregated by gender). Ryokans are known for their excellent food, and dinner and breakfast are mostly included in the room rate. Meals consist of traditional Japanese cuisine known as kaiseki, which features seasonal and regional specialties, and are mostly served within the room. While offering a memorable and authentic experience, Ryokans are far from cheap, with room and meals that can reach ¥150,000 per night.

• Japan Guide link: ryokan

4. HIKE IN HOKKAIDO’S UNTAMED WILDERNESS

Comprising 20% of Japan’s land area but only 5% of its population, Hokkaido – the northernmost and least developed of Japan’s four main islands – feels like a world apart. With its unspoiled wilderness, secluded hot springs (onsen) and mountainous scenery, Hokkaido is a nature lover’s paradise. In summer, the area attracts hikers, cyclist and campers who come to explore the great outdoors in the magnificent national parks and perhaps hope to catch a glimpse of Hokkaido’s most famous inhabitant, the Ussuri brown bear. In winter, Hokkaido transforms into a world-class ski and snowboard destination. The small town Niseko boasts the finest powder in the country and has three major ski resorts to match: Niseko Village, Niseko Annupuri, and the Grand Hirafu/Hanazono.

• Japan Guide link: Hokkaido

3. MAKE A TRIP TO MIYAJIMA ISLAND

Miyajima Island, less than an hour outside the city of Hiroshima, has long been regarded as an Island of Gods on the beautiful Seto Inland Sea. It is a romantic and historical island where Itsukushima Shrine, a World Heritage site, is located, along with the virgin forest of Mt. Misen, and numerous preserved shrines, temples and historical monuments. Miyajima Island is most famous for its giant torii gate, which at high tide seems to float on the water, a sight that is ranked as one of Japan’s three best views. There are numerous hiking trails on the islands, the bests ones leading up Mt. Misen, thereby affording spectacular views of the Seto Inland Sea. There are also wild deer on the island that have become accustomed to people.

• Japan Guide link: Miyajima Island

2. VISIT HIROSHIMA’S PEACE MEMORIAL PARK

A Unesco World Heritage Site, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial  – commonly knowns as Genbaku Dome or A-Bomb Dome  – is a tangible link to one of the darkest pages in human history. The building, which ones served as a location to promote Hiroshima’s industries, was the only structure left standing in the area where the first atomic bomb exploded on 6 August 1945. Through the efforts of many people, including those of the city of Hiroshima, it has been preserved in the same state as immediately after the bombing as a memorial to the more than 70,000 people who were killed instantly, and another 70,000 who suffered fatal injuries from the radiation. Not only is it a stark and powerful symbol of the most destructive force ever created by humankind; it also expresses the hope for world peace and the ultimate elimination of all nuclear weapons.

• Japan Guide link: Hiroshima Peace Memorial

1. EXPLORE KYOTO’S ANCIENT SITES

Built in 794 on the model of the capitals of ancient China, Kyoto served as Japan’s imperial capital for more than 1,000 years until 1868. Due to its historic and cultural value, the city was dropped from the list of target cities for the atomic bomb and spared from air raids during World War II, resulting in the survival of countless temples, breathtaking shrines and other historically priceless structures. Kyoto now boasts a stunning collection of UNESCO World Heritage sites that illustrate the development of Japanese wooden architecture and the art of Japanese gardens. Highlights include Kinkaku-ji (The Golden Pavilion), Gion (geisha district), the Kiyiomizudera temple, and the Fushimi Inari Shrine (famous for its tore gates). Also make sure to visit Arashiyama’s famous bamboo groves: standing amid these soaring stalks of green bamboo is like being in another world.

• Japan Guide link: Kyoto

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The post Top 10: things to see & do in Japan appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.

Monday newsletters always feature top 10 travel lists to inspire.

Today (July 18, 2016): Top 10 best luxury hotels in Japan.

Japan’s colourful shrines, fascinating geisha districts and age-old Buddhist temples stand witness to the country’s rich cultural heritage and ancient history. From the famous monuments in the stunning imperial city of Kyoto to the bustling capital of Tokyo with its dizzying dimensions and flashing neon lights, there is no shortage of major attractions to visit and explore in the land of the rising sun. With the recent opening of some ultra luxe Aman, Ritz-Carlton and Andaz properties, the country now offers a portfolio of exclusive hotels to match the unique cultural experience. And there are more exciting resorts opening in the near feature, with the Four Seasons Kyoto and The Chedi Tomokomai high on my bucket list. To help you plan your travels to Japan, I have compiled a top 10 list of the country’s best luxury hotels.

There is more information below the slideshow. Think I missed one? Share your favorite Japanese hotel in the comments section, or take my poll below!

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10. SUIRAN, A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL, KYOTO

Set along the peaceful Hozu River, an authentic Japanese-style experience awaits at Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Kyoto. A harmonious blend of relaxing heaven and the modern conveniences of a vibrant city, the hotel is perfectly poised to offer access to some of Japan’s most important national treasures. With an intimate collection of 39 guestrooms, including 6 specialty rooms, this retreat is inspired by traditional Japanese touches and culture offering a truly enriching and indigenous experience. Guest rooms are  decorated with tasteful Kyoto design furnishing, and some rooms are equipped with open-air bath with natural Arashiyama spa water. For a locally inspired meal, the restaurant and comfortable café offer a variety of gourmet options.

• Hotel website: Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel

9. HYATT REGENCY HAKONE RESORT & SPA

Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort and Spa is a resort located in Gora in Kanagawa Prefecture in the central region of Honshu, Japan, an area famous for its onsen (hot springs), museums and sightseeing spots, as well as the renowned views of Mount Fuji. The resort offers accommodations with a total of 80 spacious Japanese and Western-style guestrooms and suites, all of which have a private sun terrace or balcony. Guests enjoy Japanese cultural experiences, such as some guestrooms featuring tatami (rush mat) floors, an onsen, and a yukata (a traditional garment that is worn around the hotel). The hotel’s intimate lounge has its own fireplace, which is a perfect decor for the chilly winter evenings.

• Hotel website: Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort & Spa
• Tip: enjoy complimentary VIP amenities when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and a complimentary lunch for up to two people per room once during stay).
• Review: read here my review of the Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort & Spa.

8. BENIYA MUKAYU, YAMASHIRO

Nestled in the mountains, Benita Mukayu – a Relais & Chateaux property – is a haven of peace with a zen-like atmosphere. Founded in 1928 in the spa town of Yamashiro, Beniya Mukayu is located on the road from the revered Kyoto to the world heritage sites Shirakawago-Gokayama, close to Kanazawa. The hotel’s architecture elegantly emphasizes contrasts between light, shade and neutral colours. Every room has its own private open-air hot spring bath, with a wonderful view of the authentic Japanese garden. The traditional tea ceremony performed by the owner, yoga lessons given every morning, the finest Kaga style Kaiseki cuisine served on locally crafted crockery, as well as invigorating medicinal spa treatments, combine to make Beniya Mukayu a peaceful haven.

• Hotel website: Beniya Mukayu

7. SANKARA HOTEL & SPA, YAKUSHIMA

The hill overlooking the sea where Sankara Hotel & Spa is located, is an area where subtropical forests and the subalpine climates intersect. This is a perfect location to enjoy the rich fragrance aroma of greenery and a sumptuous, refreshing breeze. The luxury hotel has a retreat atmosphere and a sophisticated and chic interior design, perfect for an adult getaway. Five types of guest rooms, ranging from suites to villas, are available. The hotel has its own brand of linens and amenities that are gentle on both your body and the environment. Whatever your interests may be, give into the relaxing flow of the island by walking in the ancient rainforest, looking for a delectable meal unique to the island, or just enjoying a luxury vacation.

• Hotel website: Sankara Hotel & Spa

6. PARK HYATT TOKYO

From the moment a guest walks in and collects the room key on a sterling silver key ring, it is clear that a stay at Park Hyatt Tokyo will be an “over-the-top” experience. Perched on the top floors of a modern skyscraper, the famous Park Hyatt Tokyo hotel is an elegant oasis of space and calm overlooking Tokyo and the Kanto Plain all the way to Mount Fuji. The spacious rooms feature stylishly appointed interiors, with earthy hues of deep green and brown set against ebony furnishings, and a rich warmth from the fine woodwork, hand-tufted carpets, and natural-fibre woven wall coverings. Sofia Coppola’s beautiful movie Lost in Translation (2003) was filmed at the Park Hyatt Tokyo.

• Hotel website: Park Hyatt Tokyo
• Other accolades: Park Hyatt Tokyo also features in my top 10 lists of luxury hotels made famous by movies and the best luxury hotels in Tokyo.
• Tip: enjoy complimentary VIP amenities when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD food & beverage credit).
• Review: read here my review of the Park Hyatt Tokyo.

5. ST REGIS OSAKA

The St. Regis Osaka is located along the famed street of Midosuji, also intimately known as the Champs Elysées of Osaka. Upon arrival, guests pass by the hotel’s Crystal Tree, inspired by the beautiful palm trees surrounding the city, and are greeted by one of the St. Regis butlers. An eloquent expression of comfort and refined Japanese aesthetics, Osaka’s finest hotel offers an abode of tranquillity and comfort, with its 160 rooms and suites elegantly appointed with refined furnishings and rich textures. Lavishly furnished with all the amenities one would expect from a contemporary residence, each room features opulent marble bathrooms with deep soaking tubs, walk in closets and picturesque city views.

• Hotel website: St Regis Osaka
• Tip: enjoy complimentary VIP amenities when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD food & beverage credit).
• Review: read here my review of The St Regis Osaka.

4. ANDAZ TOKYO TORANOMON HILLS

Reflecting Japan’s contemporary urban culture, guests can expect a dazzling experience at this hotel. Located in a 52-story skyscraper, Andaz Tokyo offers 164 rooms, of which eight are specialty suites. Abundant natural materials are largely used for the décor, reflecting the traditional Japanese nature-oriented architectural style. From the tower’s apex on the topfloor, Andaz brings unprecedented rooftop flair to this city’s dining and entertainment scene, with breathtaking views from the rooftop bar and the city’s highest stand-alone wedding chapel. The Toranomon neighborhood will be the scene of the Tokyo Olympics in 2020.

• Hotel website: Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills
• Other accolades: Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills also features in my lists of the best new luxury hotels of 2014 and the top 10 best luxury hotels in Tokyo.
• Tip: enjoy complimentary VIP amenities when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD food & beverage credit).
• Review: read here my review of the Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills.

3. THE RITZ-CARLTON KYOTO

The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto describes itself as an international modern-day luxury ryokan. Creating an experience that seamlessly blends the centuries-old traditions of Kyoto with the finest services and facilities that The Ritz-Carlton is renowned for, the property’s ladies and gentlemen truly bring to life the cultural heart of Japan. The hotel is built on banks of the Kamagawa River on land that was gifted to the original owners in the early shogunate era five centuries ago. The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto has 134 rooms and suites, and enjoys panoramic 180 degree views of the Higashiyama mountains in the East which turn a rich shade of imperial purple at sunset. Competition is on the way, with the Four Seasons Kyoto due to arrive this autumn.

• Hotel website: The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto
• Other accolades: The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto also features in my list of the best new luxury hotels of 2014.
• Tip: enjoy complimentary VIP amenities when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD resort credit).
• Review: read here my review of The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto.

2. AMAN TOKYO

Occupying the top six floors of the recently-built Otemachi Tower, Aman Tokyo is an urban hotel sanctuary high above the atmospheric whirl of tradition and modernity that epitomises Japan’s capital city Tokyo. The hotel draws its design inspiration from traditional Japanese residential structures, with classic Japanese materials such as timber, Washi paper and stone blended to great effect with modern technology and luxurious fabrics. The hotel is managed by Aman, the world’s most exclusive hotel brand, and has 84 rooms and suites, all with unique layouts, magnificent city views and every contemporary convenience. Each room has a large furo, a deep soaking tub intrinsic to the Japanese ritual of bathing. There is also a continuous reference to nature, from the hotel’s inner garden in the phenomenal lobby, to the fabrics and art incorporated into the design.

• Hotel website: Aman Tokyo
• Other accolades: Aman Tokyo also features in my lists of the hottest luxury hotel openings of 2014, the 10 best Aman hotels in the world, the top 10 most amazing hotel lobbies in the world, the top 10 best luxury hotels in Tokyo, and my 10 favorite luxury hotels in the world.
• Tip: enjoy complimentary VIP amenities when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD food & beverage credit).
• Review: read here my review of Aman Tokyo.

1. AMANEMU, ISE-SHIMA NATIONAL PARK

Aman’s newest property tops my Japan luxury hotel list. Celebrating Japan’s ancient onsen (mineral hot spring) tradition in scenic Ise Shima National Park, Amanemu opened in March 2016 and is perched on the verdant rolling shores of Ago Bay, known as the Bay of Pearls, on the west coast of Honshu, Japan’s main island. Each of its 24 Suites and four Villas have a private onsen, making the resort the first Aman to integrate mineral hot springs. The design throughout embraces a classical Japanese aesthetic, giving pride of place to natural materials and soothing hues while framing the exceptional natural surroundings. Amanemu features an exceptional spa, with two large onsen bathing pavilions that are complemented by a watsu pool, four treatment suites, a gym and a yoga studio.

• Hotel website: Amanemu
• Tip: enjoy complimentary VIP amenities when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD food & beverage credit).
• Review: read here my review of Amanemu.

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