Whether you’re planning a trip to Hirosaki to see the cherry blossoms in spring, heading to the mountains of Hirafu for a ski trip, exploring ancient temples in Kyoto, or immersing yourself in Tokyo’s bustling city life, Japan will exceed expectations. For a more immersive and experiential stay, consider a luxury home-based stay. From luxurious mountain chalets to beachside villas and classic architectural beauties, these Japanese gems will make your visit to this stunning island nation memorable. A few of our favorite Airbnbs in Japan.
TRADITIONAL JAPANESE HOUSE, LAKE SAIKO
Showcasing the beautiful characteristics of early traditional Japanese architecture (A-shaped thatched roof, cedar wood), the 100-year-old Japanese House (kominka) is located in a quiet forest near Lake Saiko. The interior features a tatami room, courtyard laden with flowers and trees, a Japanese-style bedroom, lake views, and a semi-open bath.
To Book: Airbnb.com
LUXURIOUS ORI HOUSE, HIRAFU
For skiers (and those who love a 007 vibe), this contemporary, minimalist villa comes with stunning views of Mount Yotei and the Hirafu ski resort. The Ori House features three western-style ensuite bedrooms, one traditional ensuite tatami room, and serene indoor Japanese gardens.
To Book: Airbnb.com
IZU CLIFF HOUSE, IZU PENINSULA
Mountains meet sea at this modernist, all-glass cliffside villa on Japan’s Izu Peninsula. Built in 1971, the home sits inside a coastal National Park. Close to hiking trails, hot springs, temples, and Japan’s famous beaches, this cliffside house offers endless views of the Pacific Ocean. Other standouts include the traditional Japanese room with tatami mat flooring and sliding shoji paper doors, a large camphor wood daybed, and cypress stools carved by local craftsmen.
To Book: Airbnb.com
LUXURY TOWNHOUSE, KYOTO
This traditional Japanese townhouse, extensively renovated by award-winning architects, sits in the middle of the Gion-Yasaka-Kiyomizu district (one of Kyoto’s most popular areas). While the feel is still that of a traditional house, guests can expect modern updates like skylights, exposed beams, deep soaking tubs, and loads of sunlight. We love the traditional Japanese tatami room with a view of the small, private Japanese garden.
To Book: Airbnb.com
PRIVATE HOT SPRING RESORT, HAKONE, ASHIGARASHIMO-GUN
Japan is known for its onsens (hot springs), most of them public. But this secluded hot springs resort is completely private for up to 40 guests. Spanning two stories, the villa features four onsen pools, (two outdoor; two indoor). The spring water is fresh and pumped directly from a nearby volcano.
To Book: Airbnb.com
CHALET SESHU, HIRAFU VILLAGE, NISEKO
A favorite among skiers, the five-bedroom Chalet Seshu is located right in Hirafu Village. Interiors are stylish and the immaculate living space spans three floors. The house features five bedrooms (with mountain views), an open-plan kitchen, and spacious dining and lounge areas A complimentary shuttle operates daily from the Hirafu slopes in winter.
To Book: Airbnb.com
HIGHLAND BEACH VILLA, SHIMA
Set on a cliff overlooking the white sandy beach and emerald green sea of Goza Shirahama Beach, this villa offers a serene and private escape. Designed in traditional Japanese style, the home features two bedrooms and a tatami room (with mattresses). Savor the view from the yogibo overlooking the sea, relax in the rooftop Finnish sauna, then take a dip into the outdoor bath.
To Book: Airbnb.com
AQUAHOLIC IRITAHAMA, SHIMODA
Rent one side of this luxurious duplex villa or take over its entirety. Set on Iritahama Beach, considered one of Japan’s most beautiful, this sleek and minimalist space is made lively with pops of blue, embracing the seaside ambiance. We also love the balcony, al fresco dining area, and outdoor jacuzzi for stunning views of the pristine blue water.
To Book: Airbnb.com
MATSUYA TOWNHOUSE, KYOTO
Located in the heart of Kyoto, Matsuya retains the tradition of Japan while incorporating modern-day amenities such as heated floors and a bathtub with a view. Highlights include the tea room and gardens, including a pine tree (growing in the middle garden) after which the home is named.
To Book: Airbnb.com
JAPANESE HOUSE & GARDEN, KITA CITY
Embrace Tokyo living in this spacious Kita City home. The simple and charming space offers an inviting living area, four bedrooms, a full kitchen, and we especially love the large windows filtering natural light. The home’s luxurious garden also provides a sanctuary among the busy city atmosphere.
To Book: Airbnb.com
Featured Image Courtesy of Airbnb; Travel Curator may earn a commission from booking links on this page.
