A Hakone guide to private-onsen rooms, ryokan, historic hotels, and higher-end stays near Tokyo.
A practical guide to choosing a Kyoto ryokan stay, from classic inns and strong meal stays to modern rooms, nearby nature stays, and Kyoto townhouses.
A practical guide to the best Kyoto areas and hotels, based on route, day trips, luggage, evenings, budget, and when to add one special stay.
I recommend Kyoto for most first trips. Compare Osaka for nightlife, hotel prices, day trips, and airport access, with advice on when to split your stay.
Compare six Miyajima ryokan for traditional rooms, meals, sea views, and family stays, with advice on baths, ferry access, and what to check before booking.
My advice on Tokyo’s best areas and hotels, from Omotesando and Shibuya to quieter Kagurazaka and Yanaka, with options for couples, families, and nights out.
Compare eight ryokan in Fukuoka and nearby, from traditional city inns to countryside stays, with advice on rooms, hot springs, meals, and getting there.
Compare four ryokan with private onsen near Fukuoka, with advice on room baths, reservable family baths, meals, and getting there without a car.
These are the Nara ryokan I would check first for temple access, kaiseki dinners, private baths, and different budgets, plus who each one suits best.