Iwaso Miyajima Ryokan

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.

Minimalist design, contemporary cool, modernist chic. This hotel/museum fuses nature and art together with its striking architecture and artwork dotted all over the secluded Benesse House complex. Sculptures, installations and paintings are dispersed throughout the hotel; in bedrooms, on the grounds, and in the main galleries.

With just 11 guest rooms and suites, most of which offer an expansive view of the stunning, Seto Inland Sea, guests can enjoy the natural beauty and remote setting of this luxury complex. Four different buildings are centred around the museum, each with its individual style and distinctive suites.

Benesse House Hotel is ideally located in the heart of a buzzing, developing art scene, on Naoshima island. Numerous art projects, programs and exhibitions are fast emerging and can be easily visited during your visit. Hotel guests can also enjoy exclusive, after-hours access to the Benesse House museum.

After a day of exploring the island, or the surrounding islands for that matter, relax in the spa and wine and dine in one of their excellent on-site restaurants, each offering fresh, local produce and fine cuisine.

A former art museum, Setouchi Aonagi went through an extensive renovation process, where the design was stripped right back and the building returned to its former glory. The result is a modern, minimalist boutique hotel characterized by crisp, clean lines, wooden furnishings and a neutral colour scheme. There are also beautiful pieces of modern art throughout the hotel.

There are just seven suites, each with large glass windows that afford spectacular views out over the blue waters of the Seto Inland Sea. The hotel’s elevated position ensures guests can really appreciate their natural surroundings.

There are two pools, one indoor and one outdoor, as well as a hot spring Jacuzzi, sauna and spa room. Seasonal dishes using ingredients sourced from local farms and fishermen is served at the restaurant where guests can enjoy the unique flavours of Japan’s mouth-watering cuisine.

Relax in contemporary luxury at the Mandarin Oriental. Located in the heart of Tokyo, this hotel offers serenity above a ever-growing metropolis.

When you arrive in the 38th floor lobby, you’ll find yourself stunned by the dramatic views over the city’s skyline. The 157 guest rooms and 21 suites are heavily inspired by the Japanese aesthetic, blending futuristic luxury with a typical Japanese understanding of sense of space, aesthetically capturing the country’s rich culture within the modern luxury that Mandarin Oriental are renowned for.

Step out of your hotel and you’ll be in the middle of Tokyo’s metropolis, just a five minute walk from Ginza shopping district. After a busy day enjoying the buzz of Tokyo, relax in the Sense Tea Room or head to the Mandarin Bar and enjoy a signature cocktail by their award-winning chief bartender whilst listening to live jazz.