Japan is a country that seamlessly blends history and the future, showcasing interesting attractions that you won’t find anywhere else. Tourists may take a look inside enchanting ancient temples or go up the tall observatories and gaze at the dazzling city view at night. Those who wish to explore the country will definitely need a comfortable place to stay after the day is over. While you can pick a typical accommodation, why do that when you can instead book a unique hotel brimming with history and learn more about the country’s culture? For your options, scroll down to see the best historic hotels in Japan.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) properties with historic significance, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 13, 2024.
1. The Tokyo Station Hotel, Tokyo (from USD 440)
Luxurious with value for the cost, expensive but worth it
Historical building with modern facilities, beautiful art collection, large bath shower combination, advanced electronic bathroom equipment
Unbeatable location at Tokyo Station, easy access to JR Yamanote line, central and convenient for touring Tokyo
Amazing Japanese buffet breakfast, excellent restaurant options, wide variety of Japanese and Western delicacies, exceptional service at the Atrium
A European-style hotel with modern amenities, this property started welcoming guests in 1915, a year after Tokyo Station opened. In 1923, it served as a refuge for people impacted by the Great Kanto Earthquake.
After undergoing renovations, the hotel reopened in 2012. Nowadays, it offers contemporary accommodations with a fitness center for your workout session and a spa where you can fully relax. On-site restaurants are available, and guests can pick from Japanese and Chinese cuisine.
The hotel is located near popular attractions such as the Imperial Palace and Tokyo Tower. Ginza, Akihabara, and Tsukiji areas are easily accessibly too.
The Tokyo Station Hotel
Address: 1-9-1 Marunouchi
173.17 km (107.7 mi) from Matsumoto-jō Castle
2. Oriental Hotel, Kobe (from USD 274)
In 1870, Oriental Hotel catered to foreigners exclusively. A lot of big-shot personalities from across the globe entered its doors after the war. Following its encounter with the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, it reopened in 2010.
Those who stay here will be able to treat themselves to a stunning view of Kobe Harbor or the lively city. They will also experience a luxurious and comfortable stay. The fitness center is free to use, and there’s an on-site salon where guests can pamper themselves. You may even have an in-room massage at an extra fee.
ORIENTAL HOTEL
Address: Chuo-ku Kyomachi 25
304.84 km (189.5 mi) from Matsumoto-jō Castle
3. Nara Hotel, Nara (from USD 271)
Reasonable pricing for rooms with historical charm and spaciousness.
Charming old world feel, classical old school service, and a shuttle bus for convenience.
Conveniently located near Nara Park, with easy access to attractions and small shops.
Exceptional dinner and breakfast options, with the choice of Japanese or Western meals.
Nara Hotel has been around since 1909, and key historical figures and dignitaries have paid a visit to it throughout the years. The hotel shares the same name with Nara Park where it was founded ages ago.
The property features classic Japanese architecture and provides views of ancient historic sites nearby. In 14 minutes, you can reach Isui-en & Neiraku Art Museum by walking. The hotel provides bicycles, and you can rent them to explore the city in a soothing and healthy way.
Nara Hotel
Address: Takabatake-cho 1096
259.7 km (161.4 mi) from Matsumoto-jō Castle
4. Hotel New Grand, Yokohama (from USD 182)
This first-class hotel has been serving patrons for nearly a century. Ever since 1927, Hotel New Grand has opened its doors to esteemed guests, such as Charlie Chaplin, General MacArthur, and Babe Ruth, in the Main Building.
Today, you’ll have access to its beautiful rooms boasting ocean or city views. A flat-screen TV is included for your viewing enjoyment. Getting to places from here should be easy as Motomachi-Chūkagai Station is just a two-minute walk away.
You’ll never run out of dining choices in the hotel. For instance, Le Normandie presents classic French offerings, Il Giardino provides flavorful Italian cuisine, and there are delectable Japanese options available in Yugyo-an Restaurant.
Hotel New Grand
Address: Naka-ku Yamashita-cho 10
175.3 km (109.0 mi) from Matsumoto-jō Castle
5. Kurashiki Ivy Square, Kurashiki (from USD 122)
Located just 400 meters (1312.3 feet) from Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, travelers won’t have a shortage of things to do during their stay here since many attractions are found nearby. Ōhara Museum of Art and Japanese Folk Toy Museum are both within a 5-minute walk from the hotel, and you can also go to Kurashiki Station, located less than 20 minutes away by foot.
The hotel building was first built in 1889 as a red-brick cotton mill and is now an official Heritage of Industrial Modernization site.
Kurashiki Ivy Square
Address: Hon-machi 7-2
421.76 km (262.1 mi) from Matsumoto-jō Castle
6. Imperial Hotel Tokyo, Tokyo (from USD 859)
Known for its top-notch hospitality, this grand hotel has been running since 1890. Since then, Imperial Hotel Tokyo continues to wow the guests with its elegant interiors exuding timeless allures. It also has a convenient location as three stations can be accessed from here within a five-minute walk.
Guests may use the indoor swimming pool for a relaxing dip or get rejuvenated at the beauty massage salon. The hotel also provides a free tea set and newspaper to guests. You won’t run out of dining choices, since 13 restaurants and 3 bars can be found within the hotel.
Imperial Hotel Tokyo
Address: Chiyoda-ku Uchisaiwai-cho 1-1-1
173.0 km (107.5 mi) from Matsumoto-jō Castle
7. Nikko Kanaya Hotel, Nikko (from USD 264)
In 1873, the oldest Japanese resort hotel was born. The lovely furnishings in Nikko Kanaya Hotel feature how Japanese and Western culture seamlessly intertwine. It also comprises four dining options, so you’ll be able to try different types of cuisine. Snacks are available in Coffee Lounge Maple Leaf, and refreshing drinks can be bought from Bar Day Site. The main dining room offers Western cuisine.
The hotel provides luggage storage and currency exchange services and has friendly English-speaking staff.
Nikko Kanaya Hotel
Address: Kamihatsuishi-machi 1300
156.9 km (97.5 mi) from Matsumoto-jō Castle
8. Matsumoto Hotel Kagetsu, Matsumoto (from USD 124)
You’ll be delighted to book a stay in Matsumoto’s oldest hotel, which was built in 1887. While many parts of the property have gone through renovation in 2016, the place still retains its classic charm.
Guests can access the public bath, take advantage of the free-use bicycles, and browse the Internet for free. Laundry services are available and so are porter services for those who are staying in the annex building.
Matsumoto Hotel Kagetsu
Address: Ote 4-8-9
411 meters (0.3 ft) from Matsumoto-jō Castle
9. Sapporo Grand Hotel, Sapporo (from USD 57)
Sapporo Grand Hotel first opened its doors to the public in 1934. It is said to have been built at the request of Prince Chichibu, who had stated that the city was in need of a Western-style hotel.
There are multiple fun activities here for guests; the hotel houses a shopping arcade, a gym, and a luxurious spa center. All rooms will give you a comfy stay as they include air conditioning and TV. Those who are traveling for work will be pleased to know that there’s also a work desk provided in the room.
Sapporo Grand Hotel
Address: Chuo-ku Kita 1-jo Nishi 4-chome
812.0 km (504.6 mi) from Matsumoto-jō Castle
Relax in an exciting land with a colorful history
With its scenic mountains, springs, and cities, the country has everything to lure visitors to come and visit the place. For a more memorable trip, stay in a historic hotel that can make you experience a slice of Japan’s fascinating past.
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