Luxury Japan Wellness Journeys
made for you
Thermal springs
Sink into the healing waters of traditional onsen
Exquisite cuisine
Savour fresh and healthy Japanese specialties
Beautiful foliage
Relax amid pink cherry blossoms or autumn leaves
Ancient heritage
Learn how wellness and spirituality intertwine
Steaming onsen, tranquil tea ceremonies and Zen meditation
Japan is a country of volcanic islands, geothermal hot springs and ancient practices that underlie many modern interpretations of wellness. Outside of its major cities, scattered across the verdant countryside and sloping mountains, you’ll find endless oases where natural beauty, spirituality and sensory pleasures converge. The result is a vast selection of wellness experiences and retreats that invite you to reconnect with yourself and the world around you.
Drawing on natural geothermal heat, Japanese onsen (hot springs) include both public and private baths with mineral-rich waters and often spectacular settings. Many of our favourite Japanese ryokans feature luxurious thermal spas and/or individual onsen that you can enjoy in the privacy of your room.
In Japan, wellness and cultural heritage are inextricably linked. To enhance mental clarity and emotional balance, you can participate in a guided meditation session rooted in the ancient principles of Zen Buddhism. The same principles are reflected in traditional tea ceremonies, which have turned the practical acts of preparing, serving and sipping matcha into a timeless ritual.
Our travel designers have journeyed across this country in search of remarkable wellness experiences. Speak with us for insights into its most luxurious retreats, authentic activities and extraordinary destinations, and start planning a transformative Japanese wellness tour.
Highlights
Soak in Japan’s thermal springs in the lovely resort towns of Yamashiro and Yamanaka
Enjoy a multi-course meal of kaiseki cuisine: the traditional complement to a Japanese tea ceremony
Follow in the footsteps of Japanese philosopher Kitarō Nishida on the meditative Philosopher’s Walk in Kyoto
Visit Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines to learn how these two religions have shaped Japanese wellness culture
Try forest bathing (shinrin-yoku), which invites you to spend time outdoors while being fully mindful of your surroundings
In Japan, meditation and mindfulness are woven into many of the most meaningful travel experiences. This makes it a dream destination for authentic wellness journeys that don't just skim the surface, but inspire lasting change.
Keith Jarman
Senior Travel Designer
Luxury accommodation in Japan
Why book with Jacada?
Personalised design
We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.
Authentic experiences
Our expert guides and brilliant travel concierges are hand-picked to provide a genuine experience, bringing your destination to life with care and passion.
Responsible travel
Our luxury trips are designed with responsible travel principles that prioritise travel experiences that are both good for you and good for the planet.
Japan trip inspiration
Where to go in Japan
Hakone
Endowed with more than its fair share of natural beauty, Hakone in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a town with water at its heart – including plenty of hot springs.
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Hiroshima and Miyajima Island
Hiroshima has emerged as a thriving and internationally minded community, while Miyajima Island is a peaceful oasis just an hour away.
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Ise Shima National Park
From its magnificent vistas and peaceful coves to its stark mountains and dense forests, Ise Shima National Park is a cultural and culinary landmark in Japan.
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Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park
Jigokudani is the ultimate location to watch adorable snow monkeys interact, bond and chill out in the warm waters of geothermal pools.
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Kanazawa
A thriving historical centre, Kanazawa escaped destruction in World War II, leaving it standing as a beautifully preserved example of medieval Japan.
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Kyoto
Ancient and contemporary aspects of Japan collide in Kyoto, creating a fascinating cultural hub full of shrines and palaces.
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Matsumoto
The charming town of Matsumoto offers an attractive departure point for hikes in the beautiful and sacred mountains of Kamikochi.
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Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is Japan’s highest mountain, a picture-perfect snow-capped cone that dominates the landscape of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.
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Mount Koya
Revered as a dwelling place of the gods since ancient times, Mount Koya rises mysteriously from the Kii Peninsula.
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Naoshima Island
Its laid-back pace, lovely beaches and bright weather lend Naoshima a wonderfully Mediterranean atmosphere, but it’s art enthusiasts more so than sun-seekers that flock here.
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Okinawa
With a dreamy subtropical climate and some of the best beaches in Japan, Okinawa attracts travellers in search of sunny weather and seaside relaxation.
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Osaka
Osaka is a marvellous metropolis brimming with contemporary architecture, animated nightlife and delicious street food.
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Sado Island
Sado is a rural spot for summer getaways defined by rocky coasts, green hills and quaint fishing ports far from the frenzy of daily life.
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Shikoku
Shikoku is a wonderful place to appreciate some of Japan’s most beautiful natural scenery and sacred sites, including the 3,000-year-old Dogo Onsen.
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Takayama
Takayama’s remote location means that it’s remained somewhat isolated from the rest of Japan, helping to create and conserve its unique cultural character.
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Tokyo
Japan’s capital is a city of excitement and bright neon lights set against the backdrop of the towering Mount Fuji.
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Yamashiro and Yamanaka
For more than a thousand years, Japanese holiday-makers have been coming here to soothe their souls in the therapeutic waters of natural hot springs.
Discover moreWhen to visit Japan
Japan is beautiful all year round, with weather conditions and temperatures varying between islands. For wellness trips, we highly recommend visiting during the cherry blossom season in spring (March–April) or in autumn (October–early December) to see golden, orange and red leaves. The gorgeous colours of these natural phenomena make each experience even more magical.
That said, spring and autumn can be crowded in certain destinations. For a quieter wellness holiday, consider travelling in winter (December–February). The chilly temperatures and snowy landscapes will provide a perfect contrast to cosy accommodations, steaming hot springs and warm cups of tea.
Cosy getaways
December–February
Cherry blossoms
March–April
Autumn colours
October–December
Plan your trip to Japan
Your trip, your story
We craft trips deeply personal, delightfully surprising and entirely one of a kind. Every Jacada journey begins in conversation with a travel designer, a specialist in their destination of expertise. Behind each journey is a wealth of insight, gathered over years of on-the-ground exploration.
Once you’re booked, you’ll meet your concierge. Based in the region you’re visiting, they’ll take care of all the details so your mind is at rest. They make the trip truly special – and truly yours.
