Japan is a favorite destination for travelers.
With four distinct seasons and a diverse landscape, you can easily find yourself in the middle of a vast metropolitan area like Tokyo or be immersed and marvel at the wonderful culture of Kyoto.
Regardless of where you want to go and what you want to see, there are incredible hotels to call home while here. Even better, you can book some of these properties on points. Here are the best hotels in Japan you can book on points.
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- 1. The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo
- 2. Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills
- 3. The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto
- 4. Park Hyatt Tokyo
- 5. HOTEL, THE MITSUI KYOTO
- 6. The Ritz Carlton, Nikko
- 7. ROKU KYOTO, LXR Hotels & Resorts
- 8. Higashiyama Niseko Village, A Ritz Carlton Reserve
- 9. The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon
- 10. Suiran, A Luxury Collection Hotel
- 11. Conrad Osaka
- 12. Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo
- Wrapping Up
- FAQs
1. The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo
The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo. Image Credit: The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo
The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo sits in Tokyo’s Akasaka area, within a 10-minute walk from Roppongi Station. Found inside the Midtown Tower, the hotel shares the building with the Galleria shopping mall, including top restaurants and shops.
To reach The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo, one of the top hotels to book on points in the world, you need to take the elevator to the 45th floor where you’ll find the lobby.
Entry-level rooms start at 560 square feet. These generous rooms present dedicated living and bedroom areas. The bedroom has a king bed or 2 queens. Attractive lamps produce mood lighting with smart headboards echoing a classic yet striking feel.
Carpeted floors add a sleek touch with a glass desk and two elegant chairs. Gigantic windows deliver views of the city with Mt. Fuji in the far distance on a clear day. A minibar housed in a striking wooden cabinet presents a coffeemaker, bottled water, a mini fridge, tea, and coffee items.
Walk into the bathroom and marvel at how massive it is. These carry dark wood furniture, marble surfaces, and twin sinks. A walk-in shower with tiles is on one side while there’s a tub and private water closet. Signature toiletries from Asprey and extra bath items are here too.
Tokyo is one of the best places for foodies. Since the hotel is in a strategic spot, some of the best restaurants and shops are within walking distance. If you want to dine at the hotel, there’s the Club Lounge on the 53rd floor, which offers five food presentations throughout the day. This is available for a fee.
Other restaurants and bars onsite include The Lobby Lounge, Azure 45, Towers, Hinokizaka, and The Bar. From the Tokyo Midtown shopping center, there’s also The Ritz-Carlton Cafe & Deli.
Guests can use a myriad of amenities in the hotel including an impressive indoor swimming pool with views of the city skyline. A modern gym with stocked cardio machines is also available for use.
The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo lets you book using Marriott Bonvoy points starting with 88,000 to 110,000 points per night.
Opting for cash, the rates start at $1,282 to $1,932 per night (average $1,607).
2. Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills
Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills. Image Credit: Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills
Like most luxury hotels in Tokyo, getting to the Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills hotel requires an elevator ride up to the 51st floor.
Housed in one of the tallest skyscrapers in the city, Andaz Tokyo provides 164 rooms and suites divided on the top floors of the building. Check-in happens at the lobby where a staff seats you in the lounge and processes your check-in.
Guest rooms are situated from the 47th to the 50th floors with standard rooms showing off views of the bay, tower, or park view. These rooms start at 540 square feet, offering a large entryway. The right side from the entrance leads to the bathroom while the main hall leads to the main bedroom.
Featuring a king bed facing enormous windows with a view, the room is rather jaw-dropping, especially on sunsets. A massive couch, a desk, and a table are all available for convenience. There’s a flatscreen TV on the wall and everything is electronically controlled by a retro-looking controller by the bed.
There’s also a minibar and a fridge stocked with drinks. Andaz Hotels always provide complimentary non-alcoholic beverages. Everything else in the minibar can be purchased. A Nespresso machine, electric kettle, as well as a few other snacks, are on the counter as well.
Inside the bathroom is a sink, lots of wood, a walk-in shower with a rainfall showerhead, a giant bathtub, a toilet, and toiletries. Additional items and an immense closet are also here. Andaz even allows guests to use a free phone, which is a nice touch.
There’s a spa, gym, and swimming pool on the 37th floor. Smaller whirlpool tubs are next to the pool in case you want space. There are locker rooms with a sauna and whirlpool tub, including massage chairs.
When it comes to food, there’s the Tavern Grill & Lounge and the Rooftop Bar. You can also sit down at SUSHI, a small 8-seater restaurant.
This is a Category 7 award hotel so you can use 25,000 to 35,000 Hyatt points per night to book a standard room.
Cash bookings are available starting at $1,168 to $2,390 per night (average $1,500).
Changes in your flight at the last minute? Book without worry when you work with a points consultant! They can help you find the best flights at an efficient cost so you won’t have to worry about paying full price.
3. The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto
The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto. Image Credit: The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto
Situated 20 minutes from the Kyoto Station, The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto is easily accessible. While you can use public transport, it’s best to grab private transport especially if you happen to be bringing luggage with you.
The hotel sits along the Kamogawa River, in a low-profile building. It may look unimpressive from the outside but enter the lobby and you’ll be transported into a serene and calm zone – signaling tranquility and calmness.
Designed to feature a spacious hallway, one door leads to the open-plan bathroom while the rest leads to the main area. There’s a pantry and minibar by the hallway with both a Nespresso machine and a tea-making appliance. A fridge and snacks are in this area too. Welcome snacks, several bottles of water, and tea are also found in the main room.
Walk further and you’ll spot a gorgeous king bed with two chairs and a table. True to the Japanese aesthetic, the room has a minimalist yet contemporary decor. There’s even a bonsai tree!
Open plan by design, the bathroom is as elegant as the main bedroom. A series of sliding doors can be used to close off the area from the bedroom. It has two sinks, LED lighted mirrors, a wet room with a bathtub and shower, and a private toilet. At the back of the bath is a closet where you’ll find a fluffy robe and a yukata. Finally, Asprey toiletries are abundant too.
Dedicating an entire floor for calm and relaxation. The hotel has a private bath, a gym, and a pool. Dining is offered at the stunning Italian restaurant, La Locanda. Stop by Pierre Herme bakery for delicious croissants, and of course, indulge in the best Japanese meal at Mizuki.
The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto is one of the best hotels in Asia to book on points. A starter room will cost you 88,000 to 126,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
When paying cash, the rates start at $1,176 to $2,733 per night (average $1,426).
Rack up points faster when you sign up for the best travel credit cards. Here’s a sampling of the finest ones to choose from.
4. Park Hyatt Tokyo
Park Hyatt Tokyo. Image Credit: Park Hyatt Tokyo
The Park Hyatt Tokyo is an iconic hotel in the middle of West Shinjuku. Known for the movie, Lost in Translation, the Park Hyatt Tokyo is more than just a Hollywood film location, it’s also among the most luxurious hotels in the city.
All of its 177 rooms and suites occupy floors 39 to 52nd on the Kenzo Tange-designed building. One of the oldest luxury hotels in Tokyo, the standard deluxe rooms here still echo a 90s vibe. Some people might find this nostalgic while others may think it’s dated.
Starter rooms have 484 square feet of space. This generous area shows off an understated elegance thanks to its beige walls and deep black furniture. There’s a king bed flanked by lamps in front of a flatscreen TV. Anyone who needs to work can do so at the desk while the enormous windows present a striking view of the skyline.
On the side is a beautiful armchair with an ottoman you can use to relax. An ample minibar comes with a Nespresso machine, electric kettle, mini fridge, and water. Slide a door open and you’ll discover the bathroom. Inside is a freestanding tub, a marble vanity, a mirror, a glass shower, a toilet, and a wardrobe.
In terms of amenities, the hotel has a swimming pool on the 47th floor. There’s also a gym and a Club Spa. Food is available at the iconic New York Grill. If you fancy Japanese food, you can visit Kozue while Girandole provides all-day dining. Other places to check out include The Peak Lounge, New York Bar, The Peak Bar, Pastry Boutique, and a Delicatessen
The Park Hyatt Tokyo is an Award Category 7 hotel, which means you can book a night here using 25,000 to 35,000 Hyatt points per night.
Paying in cash for a standard room will cost $1,129 to $2,182 per night (average $1,336).
Have someone walk you step by step and see how points hacking is done when you visit The Points University. Founder of AuPACS.com, Stephen, will teach you how to book first class flights and stay in luxury hotels using points.
5. HOTEL, THE MITSUI KYOTO
HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO, A Luxury Collection Hotel & Spa. Image Credit: HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO
Armed with a rich history, the wooden gate guests pass by at the entrance marks the property of the powerful Mitsui Clan. It’s where they established residence before losing the location in 1945. However, by 2015, the Mitsui real estate company purchased the area and established Hotel The Mitsui, Kyoto.
Rooms here are modern iterations of traditional Japanese tea rooms. Entry-level abodes start with the Deluxe Room with City View and offer spaces ranging from 463 to 549 square feet. These are fully airconditioned and designed to showcase rich wood details and Kyoto craftsmanship.
There’s a king bed covered with a thick duvet. On the side are an oversized sofa and chair, a writing desk, and outlets where you can charge your devices.
You can also partake in the minibar, use the coffeemaker, or the fridge. To serve as entertainment, there’s a flatscreen TV with Bose stereo speakers and Wi-Fi.
The bathrooms are equally striking with wood and stone furniture, twin sinks, soft towels, a private tub and shower, Japanese toilets, and amenities. If you opt for an onsen suite, you can indulge in a private bath from mineral spring waters inside your room.
If you want better views, there are chambers with a garden view as well as a view of Nijo-jo castle.
Two restaurants are available including Toki, headed by chef Tetsuya Asano. Meanwhile, Forni offers delicious Italian fare. For special Afternoon Tea, The Garden Bar is a worthy stop.
For amenities, it’s minimal. Guests can indulge in the spa, work out at the gym, or achieve serenity in the garden.
This hotel lets you book a standard room in points starting with 72,000 to 94,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.
Opting to pay in cash means shelling out $730 to $1,966 per night (average $1,287).
6. The Ritz Carlton, Nikko
The Ritz Carlton, Nikko. Image Credit: The Ritz Carlton, Nikko
Nestled between Mount Nantai and Lake Chuzenji, The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko is a wonderful hot spring resort bookable on points.
This 94-room peaceful getaway promises a peaceful escape from the hubbub of life. It’s surrounded by greenery and impressive waterfalls as well as different shrines. Inside the hotel, guests are greeted with architecture fusing Japanese clean lines with Western functionality. Black, white, and brown all combine to create a harmonious design with clean, sleek lines and a contemporary feel.
Entry-level rooms start at 613 square feet with striking floor-to-ceiling views of the lake or Nantai mountain. The rooms are minimalist in decor with a king bed, blonde wood, and clean lines. The open layout of the room allows guests to slide the doors and make the outdoors a part of the indoors.
Modern additions like a flatscreen TV, desk, and more are provided. Bathrooms are immense with Japanese-designed soaking tubs, private showers with rainfall showerheads, impeccable toilets, and Asprey bath products.
Onsite are 4 restaurants and bars presenting local flavor with a rich infusion of Western influence. There’s also signature Afternoon Tea and cocktails.
Indulge in the gorgeous Spa at Ritz-Carlton, there’s a multitude of treatments available. Most importantly, this is the only Ritz-Carlton branded onsen, making it a must-visit for those who love a good Japanese bath.
This is a Marriott Bonvoy hotel so you can book it starting at 71,000 to 106,000 points per night.
If paying in cash, the standard room rates start at $818 to $1,633 per night (average $1,171).
7. ROKU KYOTO, LXR Hotels & Resorts
ROKU KYOTO, LXR Hotels & Resorts. Image Credit: ROKU KYOTO, LXR Hotels & Resorts
Just 30 minutes from Kyoto Station, the hotel is situated inside the Shozan Resort Kyoto – an area occupying 29 acres and once owned by a family of kimono makers since the 1950s. The hotel itself is a beautiful example of contemporary luxury and traditional Kyoto design.
With 114 guest rooms and suites, each space echoes a neutral palette with sleek lines and trendy furniture. The rooms consist of a king bed or twin beds with hardwood floors, a long bench/couch by tall windows, and a table as well as a chair.
Bathrooms feature a traditional design with dark stone on the walls and tub. A spacious onsen type of tub, shower, and twin sinks are some of the things you’ll find here. A separate room for the toilet is provided including a sink.
Tenjin is the hotel’s only restaurant. Breakfast is served here but it also transforms into an all-day dining area with course offerings or à la carte dishes. At the back of the restaurant is the Tenjin Bar, perfect if you’re after evening drinks.
There’s a tea lounge, a well-lit fitness center, a 25-meter thermal pool, and various spa and treatment rooms. Finally, the resort grounds are a masterpiece worth exploring, especially in the mornings.
Stay at this hotel for 110,000 Hilton Honors points per night.
If you intend to pay in cash, the rates start at $921 to $1,796 per night (average $1,124).
8. Higashiyama Niseko Village, A Ritz Carlton Reserve
Higashiyama Niseko Village, A Ritz Carlton Reserve. Image Credit: Higashiyama Niseko Village, A Ritz Carlton Reserve
A fantastic ski hotel in Japan, Higashiyama Niseko Village, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve is a hotel that focuses on the concept of Kachou Fuugetsu, or adopting the philosophy of discovering yourself by surrounding yourself with nature.
While the hotel is popular in winter thanks to Niseko being dubbed as the “Aspen of Asia,” in the summertime, it’s also one of Japan’s best-kept secrets. The hotel houses 43 rooms and several suites, each one bearing hints of nature from its plush carpets to cherry blossom-decorated fabric panels and large windows overlooking the stunning Mount Yotei.
Walk to the bathroom for a gorgeous mix of dark wood and modern design. The dark gray stone offers an onsen-inspired tub with a window looking out to a remarkable view.
The hotel has 2 restaurants, a spa (Spa Chasi La Sothys), a fitness center, and an onsen that looks out to the forests. In winter, there’s a host of ski facilities and services available to guests.
This hotel lets you book a free night using 80,000 to 88,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.
Cash rates for an entry-level space begin at $626 to $2,12 per night (average $1,100).
9. The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon
The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon. Image Credit: The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon
Fancy a view of the iconic Tokyo Tower just past your window? Then stay at The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon.
Strategically located close to the subway stations of Toranomon and Kamiyacho, this swanky new hotel has 206 guest rooms and suites that show off a view of the red-and-white tower. Guest rooms showcase tranquility with their simple warm wood tones, beige and neutral walls, and carpeted floors.
The rooms all have a king bed and sleek electronic cream curtains that reveal a magnificent view of the tower and city. There’s a pale cedar wood desk with a chair, a small fridge, a coffeemaker, and a sofa.
Inside the baths, you’ll find a separate shower and bath, a private toilet, a lighted mirror, robes, slippers, and more.
For dining, there are 3 restaurants and 3 bars, a spa with 6 treatment spaces, a kitted-out gym, and 4 meeting studios.
This exciting new Tokyo hotel allows you to book in points starting with 89,500 to 109,000 per night.
You can book a room in cash starting with $888 to $1,661 per night (average $1,100).
10. Suiran, A Luxury Collection Hotel
Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Kyoto. Image Credit: Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Kyoto
Suiran is a luxury resort in the Arashiyama district just west of the main city. Nearby are gorgeous tourist spots including the Katsuma River and bamboo forest. While the area is gorgeous, if you want to explore the main tourist spot of Gion, it’ll take around 20 minutes via cab.
Inside the rooms, you’ll discover a blend of Japanese ryokan flooring with lacquered black furniture and textured walls. Modern comforts include a Simmons bed, fast and free Wi-Fi including a flatscreen TV.
Ground floor rooms are cozy and private. They even come with a charming small garden while those on the upper floors get to have balconies and potentially a stunning view, especially during cherry blossom season.
One unique thing about Suiran is they’ve repurposed two beautiful 100-year-old structures and transformed them into a restaurant and bar. One is Kyo Suiran, a formal dining area while Saryo Hassui is a great cafe by the river.
For amenities, the hotel is simpler compared to other Starwood Hotels & Resorts. It has no swimming pools or a gym; instead, it offers an enchanting garden and surrounding nature as entertainment.
As a Marriott Bonvoy property, you can book this in points starting at 82,000 to 126,000 points per night for a standard room.
If you intend to pay in cash, the rates start at $694 to $1,213 per night (average $857).
11. Conrad Osaka
Conrad Osaka. Image Credit: Conrad Osaka
Conrad Osaka is on the 40th floor of the Nakanoshima Festival West Tower – one of Osaka’s newest skyscrapers.
While there’s a small and underwhelming welcome desk on the ground floor, once you reach the main lobby on the 40th floor, you’ll realize you’ve entered into a whole new world.
All 164 rooms and suites are infused with a Japanese tinge but with a cool urban vibe. There are king-sized beds with lacquer-crafted artwork, stylish lights, and elegant metal frames featuring tea seats and leather bed frames.
Floor-to-ceiling windows afford amazing city views, electronic room controls are easy to reach by your bed, and guests even get a cute Conrad-branded toy as a souvenir.
A large sofa, desk, a chair as well as delicious treats are given as a welcome amenity. Coffee lovers will appreciate the Nespresso machine and tea set along with bottles of water.
In addition, there’s a walk-in wardrobe, a bathroom with an oversized circular tub, a shower area, double sinks, a smart toilet, and Shanghai Tang bath products.
Offering several restaurants and bars, guests can choose to eat at Atmos, Kura, 40 Sky Bar, and Lounge, or Aeria for cakes and dessert.
For an urban hotel, the Conrad Osaka has an impressive swimming pool, onsen-style changing areas for males and females with plunge pools, a decent gym, and an Executive Lounge for those checked into an Executive room.
A stay at Conrad Osaka will require 95,000 Hilton Honors points per night for an entry-level room.
The cash rate for a starter space here is $542 to $1,624 per night (average $828).
12. Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo
Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo. Image Credit: Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo
If you’re looking for a midrange luxury hotel, look no further than the Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo.
This stylish IHG hotel sits in front of the Park Hyatt Tokyo and while the area is known for its nightlife, the Kimpton Shinjuku serves as a quieter alternative for guests. While the entry-level spaces are compact compared to other Kimptons worldwide, it does have a lot of charm to offer.
It has a king-sized bed flanked by lamps and a slatted wood headboard with metal inlay. Big windows supply a great view while a couch invites relaxation and a table (for last-minute work deadlines or dining).
There’s a minibar with drinks and treats, a flatscreen TV, and electronic controls for things like the lights and blinds.
Impeccably designed bathrooms are a must in a Tokyo hotel and the Kimpton offers no less. It has a freestanding tub, beautiful enormous showers, a private toilet, marble counters as well as a host of toiletries.
Food is served in several areas of the hotel including the Jones Cafe. Guests can also bring their pets to the hotel. A gym and loaner bikes are also here.
Rooms at the Kimpton Shinjuku can be booked for 82,000 to 84,400 IHG One Rewards points per night.
However, if you want to pay in cash, the room rates start at $512 to $883 per night (average $720).
Wrapping Up
Ready to explore stunning Japan this year? These hotels will make your trip truly memorable.
Whether it’s vibrant Tokyo or historical Kyoto, there’s always a luxurious hotel ready to give you all the comforts you require during your trip to the land of the rising sun.
Safe travels!