Asia’s ski resorts offer considerably more variety than their reputation for Japanese powder might suggest. Hokkaido is famous for its remarkable snowfall, the Japanese Alps have steep terrain and traditional mountain villages, and South Korea combines Olympic-standard facilities with convenient access from major cities. China’s expanding ski industry offers another alternative, while the Himalayas provide a more adventurous experience.

The 2026–2027 season brings additional opportunities to explore the region. The Ikon Pass has expanded its Asian network, adding destinations in Japan and China, including Madarao, Beidahu and Lake Songhua. Established resorts have also continued investing in lifts, accommodation and visitor facilities.

From internationally renowned destinations to less crowded mountains, these are some of the best ski resorts in Asia for the coming winter.

1. Niseko United, Japan – Hokkaido’s Famous Powder Destination

Scenery of people enjoying skiing in in in Hokkaido, Niseko Hirafu ski resort

Niseko is the undisputed international star of Japanese skiing. Located on Hokkaido, the resort receives enormous quantities of snow as cold Siberian air crosses the Sea of Japan. Its exceptionally light powder attracts skiers and snowboarders from around the world, particularly between December and February.

Niseko United comprises four interconnected ski areas: Grand Hirafu, Hanazono, Niseko Village and Annupuri. Together, they offer everything from gentle beginner slopes to demanding tree runs and extensive powder terrain. On clear days, the distinctive volcanic cone of Mount Yotei dominates the landscape.

The resort is equally impressive away from the slopes, with excellent restaurants, traditional hot springs and a wide selection of accommodation. Grand Hirafu has the liveliest atmosphere, while Hanazono is particularly appealing for contemporary luxury and ski-in, ski-out convenience.

Accommodation location makes a considerable difference when exploring all four areas. For a useful comparison of hotels in Niseko for the 2026–2027 season, Skipedia.org provides options ranging from traditional Japanese properties to modern mountain resorts.

2. Rusutsu Resort, Japan – Exceptional Tree Skiing

The Majestic Peaks and Thrilling Slopes of Rusutsu Ski Resort: A Winter Wonderland for Ski Enthusiasts in Hokkaido, Japan!

Approximately 90 minutes from Sapporo, Rusutsu offers much of Niseko’s celebrated snow quality with a different atmosphere. Its skiing spreads across three mountains, with 37 trails and extensive wooded terrain.

The resort is particularly attractive to intermediate and advanced skiers who enjoy exploring natural snow between the trees. Well-spaced woodland, rolling slopes and efficient lifts make it possible to cover considerable ground during a single day. Beginners also have access to dedicated learning areas and manageable groomed runs.

Rusutsu has a strong resort-holiday character, with large hotels, restaurants, family activities and direct access to the ski lifts. Its proximity to Niseko also makes combining the two destinations a practical option for a longer Hokkaido holiday.

3. Furano Ski Resort, Japan – Dry Powder and Mountain Scenery

Snowboarders gaze at the breathtaking Tokachidake mountain range from the sunny slopes of Furano ski resort, surrounded by fresh powder and crisp winter air.

Situated in central Hokkaido, Furano has a colder, drier climate than many resorts closer to the coast. The result is remarkably light snow, locally known as bonchi powder, which has become the resort’s defining attraction.

The skiing is divided between the Furano and Kitanomine zones, with long groomed runs, challenging ungroomed sections and panoramic views across the surrounding mountains. The variety of terrain accommodates different abilities, although experienced skiers will particularly appreciate the steeper slopes and powder opportunities.

Unlike purpose-built mountain resorts, Furano also has a functioning Japanese town nearby. Independent restaurants, local food and a less international atmosphere give the destination a distinctive character.

Furano’s inclusion in the Ikon Pass network makes it an increasingly attractive addition to a multi-resort Hokkaido itinerary.

4. Hakuba Valley, Japan – Alpine Terrain and Olympic Heritage

Ski resort, Hakuba Village, Nagano Prefecture, Japan

Hakuba Valley, in Nagano Prefecture, is one of the most geographically impressive ski destinations in Japan. The surrounding Japanese Alps rise dramatically above the valley, creating a mountain environment quite different from Hokkaido’s gentler volcanic landscapes.

The area comprises ten ski resorts, including Happo-One, Hakuba Goryu, Hakuba 47 and Tsugaike Mountain Resort. Happo-One, which hosted alpine skiing events during the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics, is particularly well known for its steep terrain and long descents. Tsugaike provides a more relaxed alternative, with wide slopes suitable for beginners and families.

Hakuba’s considerable snowfall also attracts experienced freeriders. However, the exposed alpine terrain requires greater attention to changing weather and avalanche conditions.

Traditional villages, Japanese guesthouses and numerous hot springs add to the appeal. For travelers combining skiing with cultural sightseeing, the wider region is worth exploring through Asian Itinerary’s Japan travel coverage.

5. Shiga Kogen, Japan – An Extensive Network of Ski Areas

Shiga Kogen, also in Nagano Prefecture, is one of Japan’s largest interconnected ski destinations. Its numerous ski areas extend across a high mountain plateau, offering a broad selection of slopes accessible through a shared lift-pass system.

The area’s relatively high elevation contributes to reliable winter conditions and a season that can extend well into spring. Long intermediate runs, sheltered woodland sections and more demanding terrain provide enough variety for an extended skiing holiday.

Shiga Kogen is particularly suitable for visitors who prioritize time on the mountain over nightlife. Accommodation is distributed among several small resort villages, many of which have traditional Japanese hotels and hot spring facilities.

The nearby town of Yudanaka provides access to the famous Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, where Japanese macaques gather around natural hot springs.

6. APPI Kogen, Japan – Groomed Slopes and Comfortable Mountain Hotels

APPI Kogen occupies the northern part of Japan’s main island, in Iwate Prefecture. The resort has developed a reputation for exceptionally well-maintained slopes, reliable snow conditions and high-quality accommodation.

Its wide pistes and long, uninterrupted descents are particularly enjoyable for intermediate skiers. Advanced visitors can explore ungroomed snow and designated tree-skiing areas when conditions permit.

APPI is also a convenient choice for families and mixed-ability groups. Ski schools, children’s facilities, equipment rental and restaurants are concentrated around the main resort complex, minimizing the need for additional transport.

Accommodation includes the ANA InterContinental Appi Kogen Resort and ANA Crowne Plaza, both offering convenient access to the mountain. The combination of spacious terrain and comfortable facilities makes APPI an appealing alternative to Japan’s busier international destinations.

7. Zao Onsen, Japan – Skiing Among the Snow Monsters

Zao Onsen, in Yamagata Prefecture, has one of the most unusual winter landscapes in Asia. During the coldest months, powerful winds deposit snow and ice on the mountain’s fir trees, gradually transforming them into extraordinary formations known as juhyo, or snow monsters.

The resort offers an extensive network of runs across several mountain sectors. Its famous long descent from the upper mountain provides an opportunity to ski through the frozen forest, although visibility and weather conditions can affect access to the highest slopes.

Zao is also a historic hot spring town, with traditional ryokan, public baths and narrow streets surrounded by mountain scenery. Its sulfur-rich thermal waters are a major attraction after skiing.

January and February generally provide the strongest combination of winter conditions and opportunities to see the snow monsters at their most impressive.

8. Mona Yongpyong, South Korea – Olympic Slopes and Modern Facilities

Located in Pyeongchang, Mona Yongpyong is one of South Korea’s most established winter sports destinations. It played an important role in the 2018 Winter Olympics and remains particularly popular for its organized facilities and extensive groomed terrain.

The resort has 28 ski slopes, ranging from beginner-friendly runs to demanding competition-standard courses. The Rainbow area is especially appealing to experienced skiers, while Rainbow Paradise offers a long, scenic descent from the upper mountain.

Yongpyong is particularly convenient for travelers who prefer well-developed infrastructure. Accommodation, restaurants, equipment rental and other leisure facilities are concentrated within the resort.

Its location in Gangwon Province, approximately three hours from Seoul by road, also makes it possible to combine a mountain holiday with time in the South Korean capital.

9. Phoenix Snow Park, South Korea – A Destination for Freestyle Skiing

Phoenix Snow Park is another prominent resort in Pyeongchang, particularly recognized for its freestyle skiing and snowboarding facilities. It hosted halfpipe and slopestyle competitions during the 2018 Winter Olympics.

The resort offers a mixture of groomed pistes, steeper sections and freestyle terrain. Its organized layout and modern lift infrastructure suit visitors looking for an accessible mountain experience rather than remote alpine exploration.

Phoenix was named South Korea’s best ski resort in the 2025 Ski Asia Awards, reflecting recognition from public voting and industry feedback.

Accommodation is available directly within the resort, alongside restaurants and entertainment facilities. Its relatively compact layout makes Phoenix particularly practical for shorter skiing trips and groups with different interests.

10. Yunding Snow Park, China – Skiing at an Olympic Venue

Yunding Snow Park, also known as Genting Snow Park, is located in Chongli, one of China’s most important winter sports regions. Its international profile increased considerably after hosting freestyle skiing and snowboarding events at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics.

The resort combines modern lift infrastructure with groomed recreational slopes and specialized competition facilities. It appeals to confident skiers and snowboarders interested in experiencing an Olympic venue, while providing accessible terrain for less experienced visitors.

Chongli’s main advantage is its connection to Beijing through China’s high-speed railway network. This makes the surrounding ski resorts relatively easy to incorporate into a broader visit to northern China.

Unlike Japan’s exceptionally snowy mountain regions, Chongli relies substantially on snowmaking to maintain consistent skiing conditions throughout the winter.

11. Beidahu Ski Resort, China – Expanding Terrain in Northeast China

Beidahu, in China’s Jilin Province, is attracting increasing international attention as the country’s winter sports infrastructure continues to develop. The resort has extensive skiing terrain, modern lifts and a growing selection of mountain accommodation.

Its slopes accommodate beginners and experienced skiers alike, with wide learning areas, long intermediate runs and more demanding upper-mountain terrain. The surrounding forested mountains create an attractive setting, particularly after fresh snowfall.

Beidahu has hosted major national and international winter sports competitions and is among the venues planned for the 2027 Winter World University Games.

The resort joins the Ikon Pass network for the 2026–2027 season, alongside nearby Lake Songhua. The addition makes Northeast China an increasingly interesting option for international skiers interested in destinations beyond Japan and South Korea.

12. Gulmarg, India – High-Altitude Skiing in the Himalayas

Gulmarg offers a completely different experience from the highly developed resorts of East Asia. Located in Kashmir, the destination is surrounded by the dramatic mountains of the Pir Panjal Range and is particularly famous for its high-altitude terrain.

The Gulmarg Gondola climbs toward Mount Apharwat, reaching approximately 3,950 meters. When snow and weather conditions permit, the upper mountain provides access to substantial vertical descents, open slopes and challenging powder terrain.

Gulmarg is especially attractive to experienced skiers interested in freeriding. Much of its celebrated terrain is not maintained or avalanche-controlled to the standards of conventional European or Japanese resorts, making qualified local guiding and appropriate avalanche precautions essential.

January through March generally offers the main skiing window, although snowfall varies considerably between seasons. Gondola operations are weather-dependent, and access to the upper mountain can be interrupted by storms or maintenance.

The post The Best Ski Resorts in Asia to Visit in 2026–2027 appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

If you close your eyes and picture Japan, what do you see? Likely, it is a vision created by a man who died over 170 years ago. You see the snow-capped peak of Mount Fuji, standing stark against a red sky. You see the terrifying, claw-like foam of a great wave threatening to swallow boats near Kanagawa. You see the quiet elegance of geishas or the surprising scurry of urban life in Edo.

This is the Japan of Katsushika Hokusai. But as any traveler knows, the reality behind the postcard is always more complex, more chaotic, and infinitely more interesting than the image.

The Man Who Couldn’t Sit Still

Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849), Kanagawa oki nami ura (Under the well of the Great Wave off Kanagawa)

When you travel through Japan today, you might meet artisans who have spent decades perfecting a single craft in a single studio. Hokusai was the opposite. If he were alive today, he’d likely be the type of traveler with a worn-out passport and a dozen SIM cards. According to curators and historians, Hokusai changed his name at least 30 times during his life—roughly once a decade. He wasn’t just reinventing his brand; he was reinventing his soul. He moved house over 90 times.

Imagine the logistics of that! But for Hokusai, movement was life. He once wrote, “From the time I was six, I was in the habit of sketching things I saw around me.” He didn’t just observe Japan; he devoured it.

A Rebel with a Brush

Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849), Kisokaido Ono no bakufu (The waterfall at Ono on the Kisokaido Road).

For a traveler interested in the counter-culture of the Edo period, Hokusai is your guy. He was a rebel. At 14, he was apprenticed to a wood carver, and later joined the Katsukawa school. But he was too curious for their rigid traditions.

At a time when Japan was isolationist, Hokusai was secretly studying Western art—specifically French and Dutch engravings that had been smuggled into the country. He incorporated Western perspective and shading into traditional ukiyo-e (pictures of the floating world), revolutionizing the art form.

His rebellion cost him. He was eventually expelled from the Katsukawa school by his master’s successor. But, as he later reflected, “What really motivated the development of my artistic style was the embarrassment I suffered at Shunko’s hands.”

The “Old Man Mad About Painting”

Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849), Kinoe no Komatsu (Pining for love).

If you visit the museums of Tokyo or the prints shops of Kyoto, you will inevitably stumble upon his most famous work: Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji. Created when he was in his 70s, this series gave the world “Red Fuji” and, of course, “The Great Wave.”

But to understand the traveler’s spirit of Hokusai, you have to understand his obsession with time. He wasn’t afraid of getting old; he was impatient for it.

In a quote that reads like a manifesto for lifelong learning, Hokusai said:

“When I was 50 I had published a universe of designs, but all I have done before the age of 70 is not worth bothering with. At 75, I’ll have learned something of the pattern of nature… At 100 I shall be a marvellous artist. At 110, everything I create — a dot, a line — will jump to life as never before.”

He died at 88, reportedly on his deathbed sighing, “If only Heaven will give me just another 10 years… Just another five more years, then I could become a real painter.”

The Graphic Novel Perspective

As noted in the recent graphic novel Hokusai – a graphic biography, there is a powerful myth surrounding the artist. The book reflects on how Hokusai transformed his existence into an “immortal work.”

The text asks a poignant question: Who is Hokusai? Is he the sum of the legends—the man who painted a giant Daruma with a broom, or chased a chicken with red feet across paper to create a “maple leaf” river? Or is he simply the man who fled a fire, not caring about his possessions, but clutching his brushes tightly to his chest?

The text suggests that while many anecdotes might be invented or embellished, they serve a purpose: they illustrate a man who protected his art above all else. Even when his studio burned down in 1839, destroying much of his work, he didn’t stop. He picked up a brush and kept going.

The Takeaway for the Traveler

Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849), Fugaku sanjurokkei (Thirty-six views of Mount Fuji). A set of prints

When you travel to Japan, you are walking through the landscape that Hokusai sketched 200 years ago. The cities have changed, the buildings are taller, but the spirit of the “Floating World” remains.

Hokusai teaches us that travel isn’t just about the places we go, but the curiosity we bring to them. He teaches us that it is never too late to start, and never too early to move. As the graphic novel puts it, “Maybe we don’t know many things about Hokusai… but even if they were completely invented, perhaps this is a good reason not to stop telling them.”

So, go to Kanagawa. Look at the sea. And remember the Old Man who was never satisfied, who moved 90 times, changed his name 30 times, and still believed his best work was just five years away.

The post Hokusai: The Old Man Mad About Painting appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Wabunka offers a rare chance to step inside one of Japan’s largest Zen temple complexes for a private tour, zazen meditation, and a glimpse of a national treasure — all before the crowds arrive.

Most visitors to Kyoto experience its temples in a hurry. They queue for the golden pavilion, jostle for photos at Fushimi Inari, and leave with a hundred images but little sense of what Zen actually feels like. The Wabunka experience at Taizo-in, a sub-temple of the vast Myoshin-ji complex, is designed for travellers who want something different: stillness, context, and the undivided attention of a Zen priest who has spoken at Davos and met a former Pope.

A Temple Within a Temple

Myoshin-ji sprawls across 31 hectares of mountainous terrain in northwest Kyoto, home to 46 sub-temples and recognised as the head temple of the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism. Taizo-in, built in the early 15th century, is among its oldest and most storied sub-temples.

The experience begins with Deputy Head Priest Daiko Matsuyama leading a private tour of the temple grounds and its three distinct gardens. The first, Motonobu’s Garden, is a traditional dry landscape garden themed around immutability. The second, created in 1965, has earned fame in its own right. The third, Yoko-en or “The Fragrant Garden,” is a strolling water garden centred on a gourd-shaped pond — a deliberate echo of the temple’s most treasured artwork.

A National Treasure and a Zen Riddle

With his soft smile and calm tone, Deputy Head Priest Daiko Matsuyama exudes a solemn but warm gravitas

Inside the abbot’s quarters, normally off-limits to the public, Matsuyama unveils Hyonenzu, or “Catching a Catfish with a Gourd.” Painted in the 15th century by the artist-monk Josetsu, it is considered the oldest surviving ink wash painting of its kind and is designated a national treasure. The painting depicts a Zen koan — a riddle designed to short-circuit logical thinking — alongside responses from thirty-one different Zen masters written as Chinese poetry.

Matsuyama doesn’t simply explain the artwork. He unravels it, connecting the koan to the practice of zazen and to the broader question of how we perceive reality. “Sightseeing in Kyoto has evolved over the past 30 years from a focus on seeing to a focus on doing,” he says. “More and more people today are in search of spirituality, as our information society leaves us with fewer and fewer ways to be mindfully present in our lives through all five senses”.

Zazen in the Early Morning or Evening

The heart of the experience is zazen meditation, practised either before the temple opens to the public or after it closes. Sitting on the veranda of the abbot’s quarters, with the garden stretching out and the sounds of insects or wind filling the silence, participants are guided through the fundamentals of posture, breathing, and state of mind.

For Matsuyama, this is the point. “Through zazen meditation, I hope you will rediscover that the ‘information’ we encounter living in our ‘information society’ is not reality, and reacquaint yourself with the world through your own senses”. It is a philosophy that resonates with travellers seeking more than a checklist of sights.

Matcha, Sweets, and a Sense of Season

Take in the temple’s legendary garden alongside silky-smooth matcha tea

The experience concludes with matcha and traditional Japanese confections, served while taking in the garden. During peak seasons — from late September through early December — an optional extension pairs the temple visit with a lesson in traditional sweet-making led by a professional confectioner, allowing guests to craft their own seasonal wagashi.

Practical Considerations

The Wabunka Taizo-in experience lasts approximately 90 minutes.

Admire an illuminated night view of the temple’s gorgeous gardens and sumptuous natural scenery (in after-hours plan)

It is entirely private, designed for one group at a time, and conducted in English with Matsuyama as the guide. The before-hours option offers the quietest start to a Kyoto day; the after-hours version trades morning stillness for the atmosphere of an illuminated temple garden.

For travellers planning a trip to Japan’s ancient capital, this is not simply another temple visit. It is an invitation to slow down, to ask different questions, and to leave with something more enduring than photographs.

Find out more or book the experience through Wabunka’s official website.

The post Taizo-in Temple Kyoto: A Private Zen Experience appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Palace Hotel Tokyo is ringing in the 2026 holiday season with ‘A Tokyo Christmas,’ a splendid two-night stay package offering festive treats, in-room Christmas decorations and the option to delight in the city’s most popular winter sights – Tokyo’s nightly illuminations – as well as its lively Christmas markets accompanied by a personal chauffeur.

‘A Tokyo Christmas’ includes:

• Two nights in guests’ choice of a Grand Deluxe room, an Executive Suite or a Premier Suite
• Daily breakfast
• A 5.9-foot-tall, (faux) in-room Christmas tree decorated with lights and ornaments
• A bottle of Dom Pérignon Champagne
• A tin of Christmas cookies
• A holiday cake made by the team of Sweets & Deli, the hotel’s pastry shop

Ebisu Illumination (Credit TCVB) – Palace Hotel Tokyo Christmas package

During the holiday season, Palace Hotel Tokyo sets an enchanting scene with festive decorations throughout its public spaces, including a stately, 16-foot-tall Christmas tree taking center stage in the grand lobby.

With majestic lighting displays beginning to shine across the city from early November through the Christmas holidays, a ‘Tokyo Illuminations’ tour makes for the perfect addition to the stay experience. The hotel’s concierge team can arrange for guests to be chauffeured around the city in a private car to several areas featuring impressive installations, including the brilliantly lit Marunouchi Naka Dori – the 0.8-kilometer-long (half a mile), tree-lined boulevard that stretches from nearby the hotel to the ritzy Ginza district. Also on the itinerary are chic Omotesando and buzzing Shibuya.

Tailored to guests’ interests, the tour can cover numerous stops, including the opportunity to swing by Tokyo’s Christmas markets – from the more traditional German-style market at Roppongi to the city’s largest at Meiji Jingu Gaien and the enchanting holiday fair at Azabudai Hills.

Grand Kitchen, Palace Hotel Tokyo’s all-day dining restaurant, offers an upscale culinary experience for the season, exuding the comfort and warmth of spending the holidays in a grand residence. A large, see-through fireplace adds to its coziness on chilly Tokyo nights while its award-winning wine menu of over 550 selections is sure to satisfy oenophiles.

For Michelin-starred dining or a refined Japanese experience, guests can opt for Esterre by Alain Ducasse – the hotel’s contemporary French restaurant featuring the natural flavors of Japan’s terroir – or one of the hotel’s Japanese eateries, including kaiseki at Wadakura, teppanyaki at GO or tempura at Tatsumi.

Christmas-themed lunch and dinner menus will be served up December 19-25, with blue lobster, wagyu filet and foie gras Rossini taking center stage at Esterre; matsuba, kobako and king crabs headlining Wadakura’s offerings; and traditional roast beef, seared scallop and an ice-cream-style Bûche de Noël featuring on Grand Kitchen’s family-friendly menu.

Palace Hotel Tokyo Premier Suite Bedroom

Travelers expecting to miss out on their favorite European-style Christmas breads and cakes while in Japan may be surprised to discover an array of home-baked stollen, kouglof, berawecka and panettone at Sweets & Deli, the hotel’s pastry shop – including some with uniquely Japanese twists, such as the Bohnen Stollen made with yuzu-flavored marzipan and kinako (soybean flour) and Kouglof de Noël baked with sweet chestnuts kneaded into a matcha dough and finished with a raspberry chocolate glaze. Also on offer are the much sought-after Christmas cakes exquisitely handcrafted by the pastry team every holiday season (available in limited quantities, advance orders required).

Rates for ‘A Tokyo Christmas’ start at JPY 316,000, limited to stays between December 1-26, 2026.*

Subject to availability. Booking requests accepted from October 1.**

*Rates are based on double occupancy | Latest check-in date: December 24

*Rates include consumption tax, exclude accommodation tax and service charge

*Suite bookings include Club Lounge access (children below the age of 13 are not permitted entry after 5:30 pm)

**Booking requests must be received at least 7 days prior to check-in and are subject to availability

For more information, please visit: www.en.palacehoteltokyo.com/offer/a-tokyo-christmas

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For the latest in its ‘Best of Japan’ series, Palace Hotel Tokyo is launching ‘Couture Tokyo: The Art of Japanese Fashion’, a stay package created to elevate travelers’ understanding of Japanese culture and aesthetics through the lens of fashion and textile artistry.

Designed to highlight the substance and creativity behind Japanese fashion design and sensibilities, the experience is anchored by an insider’s introduction to some of Japan’s most exemplary brands with a selection of tours curated by Kaori Nakano, a scholar of fashion and luxury culture.

The ‘Couture Tokyo: The Art of Japanese Fashion’ stay package includes:

• Two nights of accommodation
• Daily breakfast – choice of In-Room Dining or at Grand Kitchen
• A special kaiseki course dinner at Wadakura inspired by fashion icon Kenzo Takada
• An original Palace Hotel Tokyo tote bag by suzusan, a contemporary Japanese textile brand
• A privately guided fashion tour (approximately 3-4 hours, inclusive of private car service)
• A special gift from the brand featured in guests’ choice of tours

Perfect for fashion aficionados and enthusiasts, the tours present guests with the opportunity to explore their choice of one of three of the city’s most celebrated fashion destinations. Each tour unveils the rich narrative of Japan’s fashion evolution through the history of the neighborhood, and is driven by bespoke experiences meticulously crafted exclusively for Palace Hotel Tokyo guests by three iconic brands:

Glitzy Ginza

Ginza (photo by Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau)

Arguably one of Tokyo’s most famous shopping districts, Ginza is home to Wako, a venerable institution housed in the landmark Seiko House where timeless Japanese elegance and design innovation converge. Here, the finest traditions of Japanese craftsmanship are showcased alongside contemporary fashions and coveted timepieces. On its second-floor Jewelry Square, the selection of sophisticated, high-end pieces includes those by Wako’s own jewelry brands and designed and crafted by its in-house designers and artisans.

Having stood the test of time since 1947, Wako not only represents an incomparable retail experience but also a stalwart advocate for the preservation of the essence of Japanese artistic culture. Its gallery-esque basement level is dedicated to celebrating the rich tapestry of Japanese art and aesthetics, with exhibitions showcasing works by living national treasures and up-and-coming young artists alike.

Following a privately guided tour of Wako, guests can opt to swing by Dover Street Market for a striking contrast. Leaning more towards the edgy and eclectic, the artistry in fashion is evident across the outlet’s seven retail floors where urban chic meets trendy streetwear.

Stylish Daikanyama

Kicking off the tour in stylish Daikanyama is a visit to the flagship boutique of Jun Ashida. As the renowned pioneer of Japanese prêt-à-porter, Ashida’s interpretation of ‘elegant and practical’ endures more than half a century after he first arrived on Japan’s fashion scene and ultimately garnered international acclaim. For his contributions to fashion, Ashida was awarded Japan’s distinguished Order of the Rising Sun and purple ribbon Medal of Honor, France’s Order of Arts & Letters, and also the Order of Merit from Italy and Luxembourg. Today, his legacy lives on through his daughter, Tae Ashida, who now spearheads the fashion house and whose own contemporary designs reflect a synthesis of innovation and her father’s take on refined elegance.

The nearby MIZEN TOKYO Atelier + Showroom follows a philosophy of ‘Slow Fashion, Slow Luxury’, encouraging mindful contemplation of the true value and craftsmanship behind its creations by seamlessly blending workshop and boutique.

Upscale Omotesando & Eclectic Ura-Harajuku

Tantamount to Tokyo’s Champs-Élysées, Omotesando is a haven for those with a love not only for luxury retail but also the architecture and interiors in which they are showcased. Here, world-class brands and works by starchitects coexist alongside the avant-garde boutiques situated in the warren of backstreets that branch out from Omotesando’s tree-lined boulevard and intersect with Ura-Harajuku – the roots of Japanese subculture and the hub for free-spirited fashion.

Couture Tokyo – Seasonal Kaiseki at Wadakura

Anchoring this tour is a visit to the boutiques of Kimono Yamato as well as that of KIMONO ARCH and Y. & SONS, two distinct brands that fall under its creative umbrella. At Kimono Yamato, guests will be introduced to how the company has carried forward the legacy of Japan’s deeply layered kimono culture by melding heritage and innovation into the design of garments that can be incorporated into daily life. From the casual to the ceremonial, each piece is underpinned by over a century of expertise. At the ‘men’s kimono tailor’ Y. & SONS, pieces are designed to be paired with western attire while at KIMONO ARCH, its more playful creations cater to both men and women.

Other Japanese brands in the area beckoning discovery include CFCL (Clothing For Contemporary Life) – which reimagines knitwear through advanced 3D, computer-aided, knitting technology to create garments that balance functionality, comfort, easy care and contemporary elegance while minimizing material waste.

PORTER is renowned around the world for its meticulously handcrafted bags, each one carefully made by skilled Japanese artisans. At its flagship store, an on-site workshop is seamlessly integrated into the elegant, two-story space. Here, visitors can watch artisans at work up close, experiencing firsthand the craftsmanship behind the company’s philosophy of, ‘Isshin-Nyūkon’ (‘Heart and Soul into Every Stitch’).

In addition to choosing their preferred shopping destination to explore (from the three detailed above), guests will be able to choose between being accompanied by a guide trained on the tours curated by Kaori Nakano or opting for the rare opportunity to be hosted by Nakano herself alongside an interpreter (additional charges apply).

For guests who wish to venture beyond one of the three fashion destinations, there is a separate option (at additional charge) to book a half-day (approximately 6 hours) tour with Kaori Nakano that would be entirely tailored to their interests (in lieu of the tour included in the stay package).

Palace Hotel Tokyo – Premier Suite

At Wadakura, the hotel’s signature Japanese restaurant, the prix-fixe kaiseki dinner included in the stay package will feature a special shabu-shabu presentation that was a favorite of the late fashion designer Kenzo Takada whenever he was in-residence at Palace Hotel Tokyo (currently only available upon request, advanced notice required).

The trail-blazing artist was most celebrated for having revolutionized 1970s fashion by being the first Japanese designer to achieve widespread acclaim in the Parisian fashion scene.

The ‘Couture Tokyo: The Art of Japanese Fashion’ package is bookable for stays from July 22, 2026 onwards (subject to availability), with prices starting at JPY 372,000 (based on double occupancy).*

*Rates are inclusive of 10% consumption tax

*A 15% service charge and a Tokyo accommodation tax of JPY 200 per person will be applied separately

*Booking requests must be made at least 14 days in advance

For more information, please visit: www.en.palacehoteltokyo.com/offer/couture-tokyo-the-art-of-japanese-fashion-tour

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Fusion Hotel Group (FHG) and Hotel Management Japan (HMJ) have entered into a strategic partnership aimed at shaping the next chapter of hospitality excellence in Asia. By bringing together Fusion’s innovative, wellness‑driven approach and strong presence in Vietnam and Southeast Asia with HMJ’s proven operational expertise in Japan, the collaboration lays the groundwork for greater scale, stronger brand impact, and accelerated regional growth.

The partnership will focus on three core areas: Sales and Marketing, Brand and Design, and Human Resources. By aligning resources and expertise, both groups aim to expand market reach, elevate guest experience, and strengthen operational consistency across their combined portfolio. Key initiatives include sharing customer insights, harmonizing sales and marketing systems, integrating Fusion’s signature wellness‑driven brand elements into selected HMJ properties, and developing cross‑border training programs for employees in Vietnam, Thailand, and Japan.

Junichi Araki, Chief Operating Officer of Hotel Management Japan, commented: “We are delighted to partner with Fusion Hotel Group. As a leading operator in Japan, HMJ sees tremendous potential in combining our operational strengths with Fusion’s growing influence in Vietnam and Southeast Asia. This collaboration enhances our collective scale and positions both organizations to pursue new opportunities across the region.”

Christopher Hur, Chief Executive Officer of Fusion Hotel Group, added: “Japan is one of the most important markets in our regional vision, and HMJ has long been a benchmark for operational excellence in the country. By pairing HMJ’s scale and expertise with Fusion’s strong presence in Vietnam and Southeast Asia, we are creating a more robust regional platform with greater reach and capability. This partnership marks an important step in our long‑term strategy to expand our footprint and elevate hospitality standards across Asia.”

About Fusion Hotel Group

Fusion Hotel Group is a pioneering hospitality company known for its wellness‑inspired resorts, hotels, and serviced residences across Vietnam and Asia. With a focus on creativity, wellbeing, and exceptional guest experiences, Fusion continues to redefine modern hospitality through its diverse portfolio of brands. The group currently manages 19 hotels and resorts across Vietnam and Thailand, with a growing pipeline that reflects its commitment to innovative, guest‑centric hospitality.

https://fusionhotelgroup.com/

About Hotel Management Japan (HMJ)

Hotel Management Japan is one of the country’s leading hotel operators, overseeing a diverse portfolio of properties across major cities and destinations. The group currently manages 27 hotels throughout Japan under its two core brands, Oriental and Oriental Express, as well as several internationally recognized franchise brands including Hilton, Marriott, and Nikko. HMJ is known for its strong operational expertise and commitment to service excellence.

https://www.oriental-hotels.com/

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Zentis Osaka will kick-off the third installment of its Art-in-Residence series with a June 1 unveiling of works by Japanese calligraphy masters Baikei and Taiga Uehira as well as the debut of a stay package featuring an introduction to the revered art form.

Anchored by an exhibition of original works throughout the boutique hotel’s public spaces, the near-year-long collaboration will encompass 11 pieces illustrative of the father-and-son duo’s passionate commitment to preserve the over-1,000-year-old art form by introducing new, contemporary expressions of shodō.

Essense of Shodo – Private lesson – Zentis Osaka calligraphy art residency 2026

In addition to being a shodō master and pioneer in live-calligraphy performances, the senior Uehira is president of the Osaka-based Seisho Calligraphy Association, which he founded in his hometown to promote the centuries-old practice of “zen in motion” through “the way of writing”. Taking inspiration from his father’s masterful brushwork and sharing in his desire to captivate the world with calligraphy, Taiga Uehira became a calligrapher, himself, and founded Calligraphia Japan with hopes of elevating the art by transforming it into a form of global entertainment.

“The deep contemplation and refreshing of the soul offered by Zentis Osaka resonates profoundly with the internal exploration and deepening of expression found in shodō,” said Baikei Uehira. “Themed on ‘Inheritance and Evolution’, this exhibition reflects our endeavor to visualize the breath of culture that connects the past, the present and the future”, added Taiga Uehira. “Through these pieces, it is our hope that guests will develop a sense of what it’s like when timeless heritage intersects with new encounters and evolves for a modern era.”

To complement the on-site gallery experience, the hotel is launching ‘The Essence of Shodō at Zentis Osaka’, a stay package that will allow guests to immerse themselves in the mindfulness-oriented artistic expression not only aesthetically, but also with a hands-on introduction.

Essence of Shodo – Water Calligraphy Set

The package includes:

• Two nights of accommodation in a Studio, Corner Studio or Suite
• A 60-minute, hands-on introduction to Japanese calligraphy
• A water calligraphy set that guests can take home (and use for practice)
• Bath salts featuring Parfum Satori’s signature ‘Satori’ fragrance, which evokes a meditative tranquility much like that which the art of shodō conjures

Hosted at the Seisho Calligraphy Association, the 60-minute introduction to shodō will be a private lesson taught by Baikei or Taiga Uehira (subject to availability). At its conclusion, guests will receive a traditional Japanese fan to take home, showcasing their choice of either their own calligraphy talents or featuring shodō by their instructor.

In lieu of the introductory workshop, guests already familiar with the basics can opt to participate in a ‘performance course’, which gives them the opportunity to try their hand at the kind of large-scale calligraphy that the Uehiras are known for. (An additional charge applies.)

“When we travel, enriching cultural experiences indelibly shape us. We hope that this encounter with over a millennium of Japanese culture – through shodō – will stir inspiration, reignite imaginations and give our guests new perspectives,” said General Manager Kiyotaka Saito.

Zentis Osaka Hotel Lobby – Credit Stirling Elmendorf

The collaboration with Baikei and Taiga Uehira marks the latest installment in Zentis Osaka’s Art-in-Residence series. In 2024, Paris-based Japanese artist itu’ presented an immersive stay experience by transforming a Corner Studio into a one-of-a-kind canvas in addition to exhibiting his works throughout the hotel and infusing his free-spirited style into the staff’s uniforms. In 2025, Osaka-based artist Syo Tanii brought his botanical works to the hotel for a year-long, rotating exhibition which concluded this March.

The ‘The Essence of Shodō at Zentis Osaka’ stay package will be available to book starting May 1, for stays from June 1, 2026 through March 31, 2027 (subject to availability). Rates start at JPY 67,000 (based on double occupancy), excluding taxes and service charge.

For more information, please visit: www.zentishotels.com

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Marriott International’s Luxury Dining Series returns for its third edition, uniting world‑class chefs and cultural storytellers across Asia Pacific to celebrate what brings us together – one table at a time.

The Naka Island, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa Phuket

Some of life’s most meaningful journeys begin not with distance travelled, but with a seat taken. Across a table, stories unfold, flavors linger, and strangers become companions. Returning for its third edition, Marriott International’s Luxury Dining Series invites guests to rediscover the quiet power of gathering – where a shared meal becomes a moment of connection, and time slows to the pace of conversation.

Guided by the theme Across the Table, the series transforms dining into an intimate exchange – one shaped by generosity, curiosity and the joy of being present. Here, plates arrive with provenance, hands pass dishes meant for sharing, and chefs step beyond the kitchen to meet guests as storytellers. Every experience is designed to feel unguarded and alive, celebrating not just what is served, but what is shared.

Unfolding across Asia Pacific, the 2026 Luxury Dining Series brings together celebrated culinary voices and evocative settings to create spaces where culture, creativity and human connection converge.

JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa · private dining room

From softly lit dining rooms to extraordinary destinations, Marriott International invites guests to take their place at the table – and discover how a single meal can become a lasting memory, carried long after the last course is cleared.

The locations of the 2026 series include JW Marriot Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa, The Naka Island, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Phuket, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto, and a trip across Japan on Luminara, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht.

Exclusive stay packages will be available across the six destinations, inviting guests to experience Across the Table beyond the dining room. Offered only in conjunction with the Luxury Dining Series, these limited offerings pair signature culinary moments with thoughtfully curated stays – encouraging guests to slow the pace, deepen connections and discover each destination as an integral part of what is shared at the table.

Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

The full schedule of the series is as follows:

• Vietnam – August 5-9 – JW Marriot Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa
• Thailand – August 12-16 – The Naka Island, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Phuket
• Maldives – August 25-30 – The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort
• Indonesia – September 9-13 – Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
• Japan – September 23-27 – The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto
• Japan – October 9-18 – Luminara, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

More details on programming will be announced soon. Please visit the website for more information.

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Tokyo is one of the most exciting cities on earth but for first-time visitors, it can also feel intense: huge stations, fast-moving crowds, and a thousand choices at every corner. The good news is that Tokyo becomes much easier once you know a few simple rules.

Before the tips, one practical note for travelers arriving with family or friends: coordinating transport can be the hardest part on day one. Some groups  instead of splitting into multiple taxis, prefer to pre-arrange a private transfer (minibus/coach). 8rental.com is one option people use for group transportation, especially when they want everyone arriving together with luggage and a clear schedule.

1) Learn the “Tokyo transport pattern” (it’s simpler than it looks)

Tokyo’s system is huge, but the pattern is consistent: you’ll use trains and subways most of the time, and walking will fill the gaps. The key is not memorizing the network it’s learning how to read signs and follow station exits. Once you get the hang of “line + direction + exit number,” the city stops feeling overwhelming.

2) Give yourself extra time for stations (especially the first two days)

Stations like Shinjuku, Tokyo Station, and Shibuya can be confusing at first. What looks like a quick transfer can take longer than expected because you’re moving across large platforms and corridors. For beginners, the best trick is simple: add buffer time whenever you see the word “transfer.”

3) Keep your itinerary “neighborhood-based”

A common beginner mistake is zig-zagging across the city. Tokyo is made of distinct neighborhoods, and each one can fill half a day by itself. Plan by area like Asakusa + Ueno, or Shibuya + Harajuku + Omotesando so you spend more time enjoying and less time commuting.

4) Respect quiet rules on public transport

Tokyo trains can be crowded, but the social rule is calm: keep voices low, avoid loud phone calls, and don’t play audio without headphones. Visitors who follow this quickly feel more comfortable, because you blend in and the city feels less stressful.

5) Carry a small cash backup (even though Tokyo is modern)

Tokyo travel tips for beginners

Tokyo is highly developed, but some smaller restaurants, markets, and local spots still prefer cash. You don’t need to carry a lot just enough for a few meals and small purchases. Think of it as a convenience buffer, not a main payment method.

6) Timing matters: start earlier, finish calmer

Tokyo rewards early mornings. Popular places are more enjoyable before crowds build, and the city feels more relaxed. If you start earlier, you can end the day without rushing especially helpful when you’re adjusting to jet lag.

7) Understand the “queue culture”

People line up in Tokyo for trains, escalators, restaurants, and even elevators. It’s not a big deal, it’s just the system. Follow the line markings, stand where others stand, and you’ll automatically move through the city more smoothly.

8) Pack for walking and layer changes

Tokyo is a walking city. Even on days with lots of train rides, you’ll walk more than you expect through stations, between streets, and around neighborhoods. Comfortable shoes matter more than any “perfect outfit.” Also, seasons can shift quickly, so a light layer is useful even when the day starts warm.

9) Don’t overbook restaurants and attractions

Tokyo has endless options, and first-timers often waste time trying to optimize everything. You don’t need a perfect plan. If you book one “special” meal and keep the rest flexible, you’ll experience more of Tokyo’s real rhythm and reduce stress.

10) Save key information in one place (your phone will thank you)

Create one simple note with:

• hotel address (in Japanese if possible)
• closest station
• a few pinned destinations
• emergency contact info
• reservation details

When you’re tired, this prevents you from searching through messages and screenshots.

Tokyo looks complex, but it’s an easy city once you understand its rhythm: neighborhoods, signage, quiet etiquette, and good timing. Start with these practical habits, keep your schedule realistic, and Tokyo will feel less like a puzzle and more like the fun, fascinating city it’s meant to be.

The post Japan for Beginners: 10 Practical Tips That Make Tokyo Easier appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

We’ve put together a round-up of incredible swimming pools at hotels across Asia.

The New Pool on the Block

Flanked by seven private cabanas with curtains, blue candy-cane striped sunbeds, and cascading greenery, Meliá Pattaya Hotel’s piece de resistance is its remarkable outdoor pool area. The pool’s dreamy tiling pattern, buoyed by cyan and aqua hues, references the nearby waves of Pattaya Beach on the eastern Gulf of Thailand. Intimate lighting around the pool, adjacent function lawn and semi open Lula Pool Bar add to the ambiance, with pool bar staff serving pool-goers snacks and imaginative cocktails. The new hotel debuted on February 14, 2025, on Second Road, known as Pattaya Sai Song, near an array of attractions.

‘Teen Jok’ Owns the Pool

The tiles of Meliá Chiang Mai’s swimming pool are fashioned in a striking textile pattern to reference the local Chiang Mai culture. The tiling is a contemporary interpretation of textile patterns the locals call “teen jok”. Similar patterns are also evident on the exterior facade of the hotel visible from the swimming pool, which is adjacent to a shallow pool area for kids. The watery playground is home to two water slides, a rain curtain, water fountains and a giant tipping bucket. The large outdoor swimming pool on the hotel’s second floor anchors Tien Pool Bar, which also has a design that pays tribute to Chiang Mai. The pool bar’s distinctive red brickwork references Chiang Mai’s venerable landmark Tha Phae Gate.

Ibiza in Bangkok

A sky-high transparent infinity swimming pool commands the new INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit’s top floor, the 34th floor. The infinity pool anchors The Giant Swing Pool Bar and an expansive rooftop terrace, dotted with outdoor lounges and sunbeds, that evokes an Ibiza mood accompanied with panoramic vista. Nestled between bar and pool, a compelling contemporary interpretation of Bangkok’s Brahman structure The Giant Swing is a dramatic photo backdrop. By night, the pool bar becomes an upper-floor extension of the hotel’s 33^rd floor LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar and, in a spectacle unlike any other in Bangkok, tapas bar guests peer into the bottom of the infinity pool.

How to Swim in Indochine

Indochine era-inspired resorts The Anam Cam Ranh and The Anam Mui Ne both boast infinity pools that, from certain angles, appear to seamlessly blend into the nearby ocean and horizon. The waters of The Anam Cam Ranh’s infinity pool, one of the resort’s three unusually compelling swimming pools, are as brilliantly blue as the sea and sky due to gray slate tiling sourced from Vietnam’s north that works wonders reflecting the spectacular natural surrounds. Like its Cam Ranh counterpart, The Anam Mui Ne’s 266sqm saltwater infinity pool looks out over the East Sea and is adjacent to the resort’s Lang Viet Restaurant and Bar.

Heritage Swimming in Cambodia

The courtyard swimming pool at Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh has won honours as the very best in all of Cambodia in the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific. The pool is framed by lush tropical gardens and the elegant exterior of the 90-year-old luxury heritage hotel. The swimming pool at its sister property, Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, is equally remarkable, stretching 35 metres end-to-end, making it one of the longest in Cambodia. That pool’s design is modelled after the Royal Baths at Angkor.

Sipping Martinis Poolside in Hanoi

The swimming pool at Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi is set within the iconic 125-year-old luxury hotel’s garden courtyard, evoking timeless elegance and sophistication, with comfortable sun loungers and stylish parasols. The poolside Bamboo Bar, with its thatched roof and wooden floor, adds a further touch of the tropical to the upscale surroundings. Many guests like to sip on the hotel’s signature Graham Greene Martini from the poolside perch.

A Rooftop Oasis in Saigon

The swimming pool at Fusion Original Saigon Centre – a hotel with an unmistakable identity situated in the heart of the Vietnamese cultural hub of Ho Chi Minh City – is located on the sixth floor, overlooking the city’s ever-changing skyline and the bustling streets below. The pool offers a haven of calm in the vibrant metropolis, and it’s the perfect spot to relax and recharge, get some rays, or enjoy a refreshing dip in the sun-speckled waters.

Endless Blue in Da Nang

Since private pools complement every villa at TIA Wellness Resort, guests don’t need to paddle far for a dip. The more dramatic plunger, however, is in the resort’s infinity pool, which reaches for the ocean and comes with a soundtrack of waves. Visit early in the day for smooth waters and sunrise views.

Lapping up Asia’s Largest Metropolis

Few hotel pools offer views of Asia’s largest city and verdant green space in the same outlook. The wall-to-wall windows of Palace Hotel Tokyo’s indoor swimming pool allow just that, taking in the dense metropolitan area that is Tokyo along with the Imperial Palace Gardens. Measuring 20 meters long, the 5th floor pool is perfect for a few laps with breaks to appreciate the view.

Water Meets Stillness on Koh Samui

At world renowned wellness retreat Kamalaya on Koh Samui the leisure pool is designed for slowing down. Set beside Amrita Café and steps from the beach, it winds through lotus ponds where koi and turtles drift past marble steps carved with Buddhist motifs and playful elephant sculptures. Sun loungers, shaded corners and the quiet presence of water encourage long, unhurried pauses between treatments or meals. For something more purposeful, a 25-metre lap pool beside the Shakti Fitness Centre delivers open views towards nearby islands, along with a post-swim ritual of fresh water and fruit, plus steam, cold plunge and gym facilities close at hand.

Award-Winning View from Infinity Pool in Southern Vietnam

Azerai Ke Ga Bay’s picturesque beachfront pool helped elevate the Adrian Zecha property to the runner-up spot in last year’s “Most Instagrammable Hotel in the World” contest sponsored by the U.S.-based magazine Luxury Travel Advisor. The award-winning image shows a sunken lounge beside the resort’s infinity pool overlooking a white sand beach during a multi-hued dusk. The seaside pool is one of three pool areas at the resort, which also includes one pool set among the tropical gardens and two pools nestled in a mirrored courtyard. Azerai’s sister property, Azerai La Residence, Hue, meanwhile, has a magical pool setting of its own, with a sweeping perch overlooking the fabled Perfume River in central Vietnam.

The post Showstopping Swimming Pools at Hotels Across Asia appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

The cherry blossom season in Japan for 2026 is expected to arrive earlier than usual, offering a spectacular window for travelers exploring Asia. After a mild winter, the first blooms are predicted to appear in Kyoto and Tokyo by late March, with full blossoms following shortly after. Northern regions like Tōhoku and Aomori are set to reach peak viewing in early to mid-April. For travelers seeking authentic experiences, Hoshino Resorts has curated an array of sakura stays across Japan, blending breathtaking views with local culture, cuisine, and relaxing hot springs.

Top Sakura Stays in Japan for a Memorable Travel Experience

HOSHINOYA Kyoto – Kyoto Prefecture

A private houseboat sails past sakura on the approach to HOSHINOYA Kyoto

Hanami Window: Late March to Early April
Nestled in the scenic Arashiyama district, Hoshino Resorts’ HOSHINOYA Kyoto offers a serene retreat just a kilometer from the iconic Togetsukyō Bridge. Each room provides sweeping views of the Ōi River and its surrounding cherry trees, perfect for capturing Japan’s spring beauty.

Guests can unwind on the Hanazakura Terrace, shaded by weeping cherry trees, while enjoying seasonal delicacies like sakura sea bream sashimi and bamboo shoot rice. Wake up to sakura tea in the Floating Tea Room, then embark on a private breakfast cruise through the Ran-kyō Gorge aboard the traditional Hisui houseboat, crafted from Kyoto’s finest cedar and cypress, offering an immersive cultural experience.

KAI Tsugaru – Aomori Prefecture

The water garden is lit in the spirit of hana-akari, with floating lights and lanterns

Hanami Forecast: Early to Mid-April
In Japan’s northernmost prefecture, Aomori’s Tsugaru region hosts a unique sakura experience. KAI Tsugaru’s Harumachi Sakura Lantern Terrace illuminates the Tsugaru Four Seasons Water Garden with delicate lanterns crafted from Tsugaru Vidro glass and Kanayama-yaki pottery, creating a magical hanami backdrop at night.

Guests can enjoy a seasonal menu featuring local produce, including yukimuro apples and chilled soup, while soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of the illuminated garden. This immersive experience blends traditional crafts with Japan’s fleeting cherry blossom beauty, perfect for travelers seeking authentic cultural encounters.

Aomoriya – Aomori Prefecture

Soak in an onsen under an illuminated sakura tree

Hanami Forecast: Mid-April
In Misawa, Aomoriya offers a year-round celebration of the region’s iconic symbols: Nebuta festival floats, apples, and hot springs. During the ‘Tange Hanasaka Matsuri’ (Great Blossom Festival), running from March to May, visitors can enjoy indoor hanami amidst lantern-lit displays and a vibrant display of apple-themed art and crafts.

Relax in an onsen beneath illuminated cherry trees, sip seasonal cherry blossom drinks, and indulge in local specialties. This festival provides a warm, cultural escape for travelers seeking to experience Japan’s rich traditions beyond the outdoor sakura viewing.

KAI Anjin & KAI Ito – Shizuoka Prefecture

Sakura trees line the spring bus route with Mount Omuro rising ahead

Hanami Forecast: Late March to Early April
On the Izu Peninsula, renowned for its coastal hot springs and diverse cherry varieties, KAI Anjin and KAI Ito offer a scenic journey during sakura season. The “Sakura Open Bus Tour” takes guests through the picturesque Umenokitaira and Sakura no Sato, home to over 1,500 cherry trees of 40 different cultivars, including Somei Yoshino and Kawazu-zakura.

Enjoy panoramic views from the open-top bus, guided by expert staff who share insights into Japan’s cherry blossom culture. Paired with seasonal bento lunches and relaxing onsen baths overlooking the sea, this travel experience embodies the best of Japan’s springtime hospitality.

KAI Kinugawa – Tochigi Prefecture

Guests ride an open-top bus through tunnels of cherry blossom

Hanami Forecast: Late March to Early April
Nestled along the Kinugawa River, KAI Kinugawa offers a tranquil setting for cherry blossom viewing, with most rooms facing the gorge’s blooming trees. The region, known for Nikkō’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, provides an ideal base for exploring Japan’s cultural heritage and nature.

During peak sakura season, guests can enjoy seasonal kaiseki dinners featuring local ingredients and gentle evening illumination that highlights the blossoms. Guided walks along the gorge reveal quiet spots perfect for appreciating Japan’s fleeting cherry blossom spectacle.

About Hoshino Resorts & Travel in Japan

Founded over a century ago, Hoshino Resorts has established itself as a leader in luxury travel across Asia, blending authentic Japanese hospitality with modern comforts. With more than 60 properties across Japan and beyond, each location offers a unique experience rooted in local culture and natural beauty—ideal for travelers seeking a distinctive journey in Asia.

Whether exploring Japan’s iconic sakura or relaxing in hot springs, these curated stays provide unforgettable moments amid nature’s most beautiful season.

The post Rite of Spring: Sakura Stays Across Japan appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Enhancing the experience further, children also enjoy complimentary breakfast when breakfast is included in the parents’ booked rate, ensuring a seamless and comfortable stay for every member of the family.

Participating Hotels

• Chatrium Grand Bangkok
• Chatrium Riverside Bangkok
• Chatrium Sathorn Bangkok
• Emporium Suites by Chatrium
• Maitria Hotel Rama 9 Bangkok – A Chatrium Collection
• Maitria Hotel Sukhumvit 18 – A Chatrium Collection
• Maitria Mode Sukhumvit 15 – A Chatrium Collection

• Chatrium Golf Resort Soi Dao Chanthaburi

Kids stay free Thailand Japan Myanmar

Khao Yai, Thailand

• Lacol Khaoyai – A Chatrium Collection

• Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon

• Chatrium Niseko Japan

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The Green Leaf Niseko Village – King Guest Room

Hilton proudly announces the opening of The Green Leaf Niseko Village, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, marking the debut of the Tapestry Collection by Hilton brand in Japan. Located at the foot of Mount Niseko Annupuri within Niseko Village Ski Resort in Hokkaido, the 200-bedroom property is a winter-only destination, welcoming guests exclusively during Niseko’s celebrated White Season for unparalleled access to world-class powder snow and alpine atmosphere.

This opening comes amid strong momentum for Japan’s ski tourism. From November 2024 to February 2025, the number of visitors to Japan’s ski destinations increased by about 40 per cent year-on-year, with international travellers accounting for approximately 80 per cent of all ski travel. Niseko remains one of the most popular destinations, drawing nearly half of overseas visits and more than half of ski travel spending during the peak season.

Lobby

Joining more than 180 Tapestry Collection by Hilton properties globally, The Green Leaf Niseko Village brings the brand’s signature focus on individuality, design-forward stays, and locally inspired storytelling to one of Japan’s most sought-after winter destinations. Drawing inspiration from Niseko’s mountain landscape, the property blends lodge-style comfort with contemporary artistry, offering a warm and restorative retreat after a day in the snow.

Guests can also look forward to a display of 200 works by prominent painter Soichiro Tomioka, alongside playful and modern touchpoints by Sapporo-based artist and graphic designer Emi Shiratori through murals, hand-drawn guestroom details, and illustrated motifs. The renewed interiors were designed by renowned Champalimaud Design, balancing nature, craftsmanship and comfort.

The Green Leaf Niseko Village – Goshiki (Signature Restaurant)

Key highlights of the property include:

• The Ultimate Winter Retreat: Guests enjoy direct ski-in/ski-out access to Niseko Village Ski Resort and a tranquil indoor-outdoor onsen fed by a mineral-rich natural hot spring, offering a restorative post-ski ritual surrounded by snow-covered landscapes.

• Artfully Curated Stays: Design-forward rooms and public spaces that showcase local artistry, refined textures, and warm materials, creating an immersive sense of place rooted in Niseko’s winter identity.

• Culinary and Social Experiences: Goshiki, the hotel’s signature restaurant, highlights the diversity of Japanese and Western flavours, while Tomioka White serves as a welcoming lobby lounge for coffee, apres-ski gatherings, and cocktails by the fireplace.

As the first Tapestry Collection by Hilton property in Japan, The Green Leaf Niseko Village strengthens Hilton’s growing lifestyle portfolio in the region, joining upcoming Japan openings: Kyoto Brighton Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton, Canopy by Hilton Okinawa Miyako Island Resort, and Canopy by Hilton Tokyo Akasaka.

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Planning a trip to Japan soon? If so, you’ll want to stay informed about upcoming changes to the country’s travel taxes. Starting in July 2026, Japan is set to triple its departure tax, affecting all travelers leaving the country. This adjustment aims to manage over-tourism and fund infrastructure improvements at popular destinations.

What Is the Departure Tax?

Since January 7, 2019, Japan has levied an International Tourist Tax, also called the departure tax, on all travelers aged two and above. This fee is automatically integrated into airline and ferry tickets when departing by air or sea. Currently, the fee is JPY 1,000 (about USD 7.50), but that will change soon.

From July 2026, the new rate will be JPY 3,000 (around USD 22.50). Exemptions include airline crew members and transit passengers departing within 24 hours. This applies to all nationalities, meaning Japanese citizens will also experience increased travel expenses.

Why Is Japan Increasing the Departure Tax?

In the fiscal year ending March 2025, Japan collected a record JPY 52.48 billion (approximately USD 395 million) from the departure tax. The revenue is primarily used to address overcrowding at major tourist spots, upgrade infrastructure, and promote sustainable tourism.

The government expects that raising the departure tax will boost tourism-related revenue to nearly JPY 130 billion (about USD 975 million) in the 2026 fiscal year, helping fund ongoing preservation efforts.

What About Future Travel Costs?

In addition to tripling the departure tax, Japan plans to introduce the Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization (JESTA) by 2028. This pre-screening system will primarily target travelers from visa-free countries, with fees estimated between JPY 2,000 and JPY 3,000 (roughly USD 15–USD 22.50). When combined with the departure tax, total travel costs could reach approximately JPY 5,000–6,000 (USD 37.50–USD 45) per traveler.

For travelers requiring visas—such as visitors from China or parts of Southeast Asia—visa fees might increase up to five times current rates. However, short-term visa-exempt visitors will not be affected by visa fee hikes.

How Will Airlines Respond?

Major Japanese carriers like Japan Airlines, All Nippon Airways, and international airlines such as Korean Air are likely to adjust ticket prices to cover these increased fees. While no official fare increases have been announced, travelers should anticipate slight adjustments on routes affected by these new charges.

Tips for Travelers Heading to Japan

• Book early: Lock in better fares by booking flights and accommodations ahead of time.
• Check visa requirements: Stay updated on potential visa fee increases, especially if you need a visa.
• Budget for extra costs: Include the new departure tax and upcoming JESTA fees in your travel budget.
• Travel during shoulder seasons: Visiting in off-peak times can help you avoid crowds and save money.

Final Thoughts

While the upcoming rise in Japan’s departure tax might seem like an extra expense, it’s part of the country’s strategy to safeguard its cultural and natural treasures. Planning ahead ensures that your trip remains enjoyable despite these changes.

For more travel tips and updates on Japan, visit Japan National Tourism Organization. With careful planning, your Japanese adventure will be memorable and rewarding.

The post Japan to triple departure tax by July 2026 appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

The Tokyo Art Book Fair (TABF) returns in its 15th edition, expanding to two separate weeks for the first time, showcasing a diverse lineup of global art publishers and independent presses. This dynamic event is a must-visit platform celebrating the evolving landscape of art publishing.

This year, the “GUEST COUNTRY” program spotlights Italy, exploring its rich publishing culture through exhibitions like YES YES YES Revolutionary Press in Italy 1966–1977 and OUT OF THE GRID: Italian Zine 1978–2006. Highlights include showcases by Corraini, an Italian publisher renowned for its innovative picture books by Bruno Munari, Enzo Mari, and Ettore Sottsass.

Henry (right) representing Asian Itinerary at the TOKYO ART BOOK FAIR

Other features include a photography exhibition by Takashi Homma focusing on refugees worldwide, an archival presentation from Pace Gallery, and a festive “BOOK WRAPPING CORNER” with special wrapping papers designed by Bruno Munari, Norio Nakamura, and David Horvitz.

The fair offers a packed schedule of talks, workshops, book signings, live performances, a kids’ area called “PLAYGROUND,” and community initiatives like “NEIGHBORS.” Visitors can also explore booths from brands like Sigma, New Balance, Bang & Olufsen, and more.

Join us at the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo from December 11–14 and December 19–21, 2025, to celebrate creativity, culture, and the future of art publishing.

A huge success in this 2025 edition

Tickets go on sale November 20th at 12:00 PM. Learn more at tokyoartbookfair.com. Venue: Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo – Address: 4-1-1 Miyoshi, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0022

Admission: Online ticket (date and time designated) — General: ¥1,000 + ¥165 online booking fee (tax included) *Free for elementary school students and younger. ※Same-day ticket: ¥1,200 (available until 16:00 each day; sales end once sold out). A limited number of same-day tickets will be available.

Dates:

Week 1

Dates: 12:00-19:00, December 11 (Thu),  2025 Last Admission: 18:30

11:00-18:00, December 12 (Fri) -14 (Sun), 2025 Last Admission: 17:30

The crowd at Tokyo Art Book Fair 2025

Week 2

Dates: 12:00-19:00, December 19 (Fri),  2025 Last Admission: 18:30

11:00-18:00, December 20 (Sat) – 21 (Sun), 2025 Last Admission: 17:30

TOKYO ART BOOK FAIR started in 2009; the first book fair in Japan to specialize in art publications.Held annually, it gathers independent publishers, gallery presses, bookshops as well as individual artists and groups. The fair has seen constant growth in its scale and content over the years, and the event now gathers more than 350 participants from Japan and abroad and attracts more than 20,000 visitors every year.At the fair, visitors can communicate with and buy publications directly from hundreds of publishers and artists who create unique and innovative art publications; they can also enjoy various events including special exhibitions, talks/panel discussions and film screenings.As the biggest of its kind in Asia, TOKYO ART BOOK FAIR aims to champion and lead art publishing culture in the region, and create the ideal opportunity for visitors to experience the ever evolving, vibrant arena of arts publishing.

Photos by Henry Anim Del Rio 

The post the 15th Edition of Tokyo Art Book Fair 2025 appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

As digital nomads continue to abound and more people are embracing the joys of solo experiences, Zentis Osaka is launching a new stay package – just for one. A member of Design Hotels, the boutique-chic hotel debuted in 2020 with a design purposefully conceptualized to cater to independent travelers.

‘Ohitori Osaka by Zentis’ comes with complimentary drinks in-room

‘Ohitori Osaka by Zentis’ – with “ohitori” roughly translating as “just for one” – is an accommodation package created for those who relish in doing life solo, even if only for a weekend getaway. Tailored to enhance the solo stay experience while giving guests the freedom to explore Osaka in their own way and at their own pace, the package includes:

• Two nights in a choice of Studio, Corner Studio or Suite accommodations
• Daily breakfast at UPSTAIRZ – choice of a Japanese, American or vegan set
• The in-room mini-fridge pre-stocked upon arrival with five complimentary drinks, including three local Osaka beers and two juices.
• A cocktail at UPSTAIRZ Bar, an original drink tailored to each guest’s palate
• Choice of:
• A skincare set featuring products by Japanese brand SISI, or
• A fabric mist by The Flavor Design, an Osaka-based fragrance studio
• A souvenir Zentis Osaka eco-bag

‘Ohitori Osaka by Zentis’ includes the choice of a skincare set featuring products by Japanese brand SISI, or a fabric mist by The Flavor Design, an Osaka-based fragrance studio

Launched in 2020 with a focus on “supporting the beauty of modern people living a hectic life in a stressful world”, Tokyo-based SISI combines natural ingredients with scientific formulas to deliver “clean beauty” products featuring eco-friendly materials and sustainable packaging. Designed to rejuvenate both mind and body, the skincare set handpicked for ohitori guests includes the brand’s best-selling “I’m Your HERO” serum-infused facial cleanser, its rejuvenating “High Jump30” vitamin C serum and its deeply hydrating “Magic Catcher” face mask.

To stir the olfactory senses, Zentis Osaka has collaborated with The Flavor Design to present ohitori guests with a fabric mist of their choice upon check-in. Two of the three fragrances guests can choose from – dubbed “Linger” and “Day Off” – were formulated exclusively for the hotel while the third, “Breakers”, is popular among Flavor Design insiders. With an emphasis on, “the free expression of ideas and calm sensibilities to allow for uncommon creativity”, The Flavor Design pairs perfectly with the Zentis brand’s desire to present travelers with “encounters of a new kind…where inspiring experiences reveal a new perspective”.

UPSTAIRZ Lounge & Bar

In addition to the package inclusions, solo travelers can delight in an artful afternoon tea at UPSTAIRZ Lounge while at the Michelin-recommended UPSTAIRZ Restaurant, sunset cues a transition from casual lunch fare to an upscale dinner experience featuring seasonal ingredients and an innovative take on French cuisine, with dishes bursting with the richness of umami.

“Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, making it an ideal destination for independent travelers,” said General Manager Kiyotaka Saito. “Solo travel and experiences from dining out to enjoying cocktails, or going to karaoke or the movies alone have been on the rise in Japan. People used to shy away from doing activities on their own, but now it’s considered bold and liberating – so much so that we’ve been seeing a cultural shift towards the embrace of ‘ohitori-sama’ (‘party of one’). As a lifestyle hotel with an intimate feel and plenty of cozy spaces, Zentis Osaka is perfectly poised to cater to ohitori travelers who not only want to explore, but also unwind, exhale and refresh.”

Situated where the riverside area of Dojimahama and the upscale entertainment district of Kita-shinchi meet, Zentis Osaka presents an urban oasis within walking distance to transport hubs and also the burgeoning Nishi-Umeda district, home to a vast array of new shopping and dining destinations. Nakanoshima, an islet that’s home to many of the city’s cultural attractions – including the Nakanoshima Museum of Art, the Osaka Science Museum and the National Museum of Art – is a mere ten-minute stroll away.

Zentis Osaka solo travel package Studio

The main floor of the hotel features a chic Guest Lounge with a communal work table, ideal for digital nomads, as well as spaces in which to work and relax that overlook a verdant garden space. Another standout feature is Room 001, which was conceived as a place where guests could get ready before heading out to explore the city. The multi-purpose space is outfitted with a self-service laundry area to one side while comfy seating and a self-serve Nespresso bar sits opposite. There’s also a shoe-shine corner where guests can have their footwear buffed by an expert from The Shoeshine Guild, and a ‘fragrance bar’ featuring scents handpicked by a fragrance advisor each season.

Off-site, guests can soak in Osaka – once known as the ‘city of canals’ – with activities such as a river cruise aboard a lovingly restored wooden boat. With a maximum of ten passengers on each journey, the scenic cruise presents guests with the opportunity to connect with fellow travelers while soaking in the city from a unique vantage point.

The Zentis team will also be at the ready to offer guests recommendations of what to see and do while in the city, including suggested walking routes for solo wandering.

One of the recommended stops within easy walking distance from the hotel is a classic, Osaka-style café dating back to 1947 and oozing with retro-chic charm. With the aroma of house-roasted coffee wafting through the air and its cutlet sandwiches a perennial favorite, the cabaret-esque space transports patrons back to Japan’s burgeoning Shōwa era.

The ‘Ohitori Osaka by Zentis’ stay package will be available to book starting 18 November, for stays from 3 January 2026 onwards (subject to availability). Rates start at JPY 58,000 (based on single occupancy), excluding taxes and service charge.

For more information, please visit: www.zentishotels.com

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