Luxury vacations are quickly becoming the norm rather than an exception. Such getaways offer the opportunity to relax, rejuvenate, and heal tired bodies and souls in swanky resorts, hotels, and ryokans. If you’re planning on going for a luxury holiday in Japan, you’d be hard-pressed to find better destinations than the locations below.

• Suiran | Kyoto

Nestled on the riverbank of the jade green Katsuma River, this century-old villa, which was originally the home of local industrialist Kawasaki Shōzō (the founder of Kawasaki Heavy Industries), offers guests 39 tastefully decorated rooms nestled inside a colorful garden of pine trees. 17 out of the 39 rooms here have an attached Onsen (hot spring), so you don’t even have to leave your room to take a bath.

However, if you do decide to venture out a little, you will be greeted with numerous breathtaking natural and cultural wonders, such as the dreamlike Arashiyama bamboo forest and the Tenryu-ji Zen Buddhist Temple.

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Arashiyama bamboo forest. Image courtesy of Curt Smith

The Most Expensive Hotel Suites in Tokyo

• Aman | Tokyo

Aman is an oasis of tranquility in the heart of Tokyo. Bask in the opulence of Aman while gazing at gorgeous views of the Imperial Palace Gardens, Mount Fuji, and downtown Tokyo. With its 84 spacious rooms, a world-class Mediterranean restaurant aptly named “The Restaurant” (really!), and a community bath, this urban resort offers an easy and luxurious way to recharge your batteries. 

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Select rooms at Aman have a view of the beautiful Imperial Palace Gardens. Image courtesy of Guilhem Vellut

• The St. Regis Osaka | Osaka

The St. Regis Osaka offers unrivaled comfort and a frenetic cultural experience to guests. Luxuriate in your room’s opulent and stylish décor, lounge on the plush fittings, and enjoy the full amenities (which even include a Nespresso machine). Maybe give a quick look at the hotel’s spa or posh Italian restaurant.  

Universal Studios Japan is one train stop away (6km) from the St. Regis Osaka. Image courtesy of Pixabay

If you’d like a change of pace, walk over to the theater and food district in nearby Dotonbori. Or perhaps take a train to Universal Studios Japan and spend a day trying out the rides and watching the performances at the theme park. If shopping is more up your alley, head on over to the Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Arcade, a 600-meter long covered mall. 

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