Text by MOOK Scenic Spots Home Travel Life Network Editorial Department, compiled and reported.
Based on the latest booking data from tourism operators, the accommodation preferences of foreign visitors to Japan have been changing in recent years. Unlike large or luxurious traditional Japanese inns, "small inn"-style accommodations are becoming popular. A "small inn" refers to a small-scale lodging facility with no more than 10 rooms, featuring an exquisite and elegant design that caters exclusively to a small number of guests. Tourism operators have released a list of 10 small inns that are highly favored by foreign tourists, most of which are located in Kyoto and Kyushu—areas known for their tranquil and serene atmospheres. The featured accommodations vary in style, including traditional farmhouses, villas, temple stays, and the classic Japanese hot spring inns, showcasing how diverse lodging experiences have become a new trend.
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New trend in accommodation for Japan visitors – small inns are all the rage. (Image provided by Rakuten Travel)
No. 1 Homestay Oyaji no Umi (Kagawa Prefecture)
Naoshima has become an extremely popular cultural destination in recent years thanks to Tadao Ando and Yayoi Kusama. Many visitors flock here to see Kusama’s giant pumpkin, Tadao Ando’s Chichu Art Museum, and the Benesse House Museum. Operating locally for 80 years, the homestay Oyaji no Umi is a top choice for many guests due to its convenient access to these art spots, affordable prices, and traditional Japanese house charm. Art-loving travelers can take a bus or rent a bicycle from the homestay to enjoy an intellectual journey.
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The symbol of Naoshima, Yayoi Kusama’s giant pumpkin (Image provided by TRAVELER Luxe Traveler)
No. 2 Yufuin Bettei Ki (Oita Prefecture)
Kyushu, a hotspot for hot springs, is dotted with numerous hot spring inns. Among them, "Yufuin Bettei Ki" is known as a dreamy hot spring inn, celebrated for its high-end design. The inn features just 10 villas in a spacious garden. Not only that, but each living room and bedroom offers a unique view, and there are also private hot spring baths for guests to enjoy a moment of privacy. The inn’s Japanese cuisine, made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, is also highly popular.
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Staying at a small-scale Japanese inn allows you to enjoy a tranquil atmosphere and the most thoughtful service. (Image provided by Rakuten Travel)
No. 3 Tsushima Seisanji Temple Lodging (Nagasaki Prefecture)
Operated by Seisanji Temple, the temple lodging "Tsushima Seisanji Temple Lodging" is one of the representatives of secluded stays. Located in the bustling and convenient city center, it still maintains a serene atmosphere hidden within the urban environment. Every morning at 5:30 AM, guests are invited to join meditation sessions, and they can also listen to the temple bells ringing day and night, experiencing the tranquility and relaxation brought by the spiritual power of the temple, achieving a refreshed body and mind.
List of ten small inns:
No. 1 Homestay Oyaji no Umi (Kagawa Prefecture)
No. 2 Yufuin Bettei Ki (Oita Prefecture)
No. 3 Tsushima Seisanji Temple Lodging (Nagasaki Prefecture)
No. 4 Kyoto My Pension (Kyoto Prefecture)
No. 5 Yufuin Onsen Ryokan Tomikinobou (Oita Prefecture)
No. 6 Lake Akan Onsen Minshuku Kirishima (Hokkaido)
No. 7 Kyoto Higashiyama Kirikiri (Kyoto Prefecture)
No. 8 Yufuin Onsen Rural Inn Rokubon (Oita Prefecture)
No. 9 Akachichi Guesthouse (Okinawa)
No. 10 Kyoto no Yado Ishihara (Kyoto Prefecture)