With its culture firmly rooted in ancient culinary, artistic and religious traditions, Japan offers an incredible experience to any traveller. Located in many of Japan’s main cultural hubs, Marriott Bonvoy’s selection of luxury resorts are designed to reflect the sophistication and beauty of Japanese culture, while offering guests an incomparable taste of luxury.

The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko

Standing proud as an ancient site of Buddhist and Shinto mountain worship, Nikko is a stunning mountain backdrop for The Ritz-Carlton Nikko, one of the most exquisite five-star hotels in Japan. Nestled within the Nikko National Park on the scenic Lake Chuzenji and overlooking Mount Natai, The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko is a breathtaking hotel surrounded by Nikko’s often snowy peaks. With the hotel’s elevated yet typically minimalist architectural design, styled in line with Japanese custom, and its minimalist interior décor, the natural beauty of Nikko is transported indoors to treat guests to an oasis of tranquility.

Luxury suites feature traditional engawas, or porches: a nod to the traditional design from the Nikko region. Guest rooms open up to a view of the Lake, and the Lakehouse is a beautiful restaurant immersed in its natural surroundings, from which guests can view the setting sun over the lake. The attentiveness of the staff completes the experience for guests, who enjoy impeccable and personalised service throughout their stay. Guided by members of staff, guests can enjoy unique experiences such as star gazing, hiking through protected wetlands, strolling the precincts of centuries-old sanctuaries, or meditating under waterfalls. For those looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, a trip to The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto is the perfect option.

Hotel Mitsui Kyoto, a Luxury Collection Hotel & Spa

Home to numerous ancient gardens and palaces, some of which constitute an important Japanese UNESCO World Heritage site, Kyoto sets the scene for another standout Marriott Bonvoy hotel in Japan. The luxury Hotel Mitsui harmonises with nature and history, tying in traditional Japanese aesthetics and practices in terms of its architecture and design. Guests can choose to spend the hours in the hotel’s warm, private Onsen, a relaxing and elegant thermal spa perched below the hotel. This tranquil space measures over 100m2 and includes an open-air bath for soaking in natural hot spring waters, which originate from a natural hot spring located about 1000m below the hotel.

A central garden at the heart of the hotel can be viewed from anywhere in the property, which perfectly ties in a sense of peace and harmony with nature. The boutique concierge team goes above and beyond, from making restaurant reservations before guests’ arrival and ensuring that guests make the most of their trip to this fascinating city through tailored itineraries. Guests can dine in any of the hotel’s three excellent eating venues: FORNI, TOKI and THE GARDEN BAR, which is set in downtown Kyoto. Alternatively, guests can order room service at all hours of the day. The ultra-personalised, delicate and accommodating service at this hotel, combined with the state-of-the art design and facilities makes for a breathtaking stay.

The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto

Within the Ritz-Carlton’s incredible international portfolio of luxury resorts, the Ritz-Carlton Kyoto is a standout. Positioned on the banks of the Kamogawa and offering sweeping views of the famous Higashiyama mountains, the Ritz-Carlton Kyoto stands proud as the first luxury urban resort in Japan. Designed in quintessential Japanese style, the resort effortlessly captures the Japanese blend of simplicity and balance. From the moment guests enter the hotel, the elegant and minimalist design creates an impressive sense of calm which stays with guests throughout their stay. Guests can navigate the surrounding area using the hotel’s own electric bikes, as local immersion is an important part of the guest experience.

The hyper-personalised concierge service elevates the guest experience and means that guests can arrange for individual excursions to some of the most stunning nearby landmarks. There are four restaurants and bars to choose from within the resort, and with specialty restaurants showcasing particular Japanese cooking traditions from kaiseki cuisine to tempura, guests are sure to get their culinary culture fix. To relax and rejuvenate, the hotel’s spa features a bubbling waterfall and seven treatment rooms, as well as a 20-metre swimming pool, steam room and sauna. Set within easy walking or cycling distance from Kyoto’s main attractions, the Ritz-Carlton provides a haven of tranquillity within the city.