Foreign travelers are falling in love with small, boutique-style stays that offer refined services

Text by / MOOK Scenic Spots Home Travel Life Network Editorial Team

According to 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 Japanese-style inns, “small inn-style” accommodations are on the rise; these refer to small-scale lodgings with no more than 10 rooms that are exquisitely designed and cater exclusively to a limited number of guests. Tourism operators have released a list of 10 small inn-style stays that are highly favored by foreign tourists. Many are located in the serene and peaceful atmospheres of Kyoto and Kyushu. The featured accommodations vary in style, including traditional farmhouses, villas, temple lodging, and classic Japanese hot spring inns, showing that diverse lodging experiences are becoming a new trend.

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 people visit to see Kusama’s giant pumpkin, Tadao Ando’s Chichu Art Museum, and the Benesse House Museum. The homestay Oyaji no Umi, which has been locally operated for 80 years, is a top choice for many visitors due to its convenient access to these art spots, affordable prices, and traditional Japanese home charm. Art-loving travelers can take a bus or rent a bicycle from the homestay to enjoy an intellectual journey.

No. 2 Yufuin Bettei Ki (Oita Prefecture)

In Kyushu, a hot spring paradise, there are many hot spring inns. Among them, “Yufuin Bettei Ki” is known as a dreamlike hot spring inn with its high-quality design. The 10 guest rooms in its spacious garden are all villa-style standalone units. Moreover, each living room and bedroom offers a unique view, along with private hot spring baths for guests to enjoy a secluded moment. The inn also serves Japanese cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients, which is highly popular.

No. 3 Tsushima Seisanji Temple Lodging (Nagasaki Prefecture)

Operated by Seisanji Temple, the “Tsushima Seisanji Temple Lodging” is one of the representatives of hidden lodging. Located in the bustling and convenient city center, it still retains a serene atmosphere hidden within the urban environment. Every morning at 5:30 AM, resident guests are invited to join in meditation. Morning and evening, you can also hear the temple bells, feeling the tranquility and relaxation brought by the spiritual power of the temple, rejuvenating both body and mind.

List of ten small inn-style stays:

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 Tomikinoyado (Oita Prefecture)

No. 6 Lake Akan Onsen Homestay Kirishima (Hokkaido)

No. 7 Kyoto Higashiyama Ryokan (Kyoto Prefecture)

No. 8 Yufuin Onsen Countryside Inn Fumoto (Oita Prefecture)

No. 9 Akachichi Guesthouse (Okinawa)

No. 10 Kyoto no Yado Ishihara (Kyoto Prefecture)

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