By / MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Department Compilation Report
 
Japan is one of the most frequently visited countries by Taiwanese travelers. With the continued depreciation of the yen and the rise of low-cost airlines, even more tourists are planning to visit destinations that were once out of reach and to deeply experience Japan’s rich culture. According to statistical data, the booking volume for heritage sites in Japan with cultural significance has shown double-digit growth compared to the same period last year, and is expected to continue attracting visitors from around the world.
 
Renowned tourism operators have specially released a list of accommodations across Japan for an in-depth cultural heritage experience, unveiling hidden gems previously unknown to overseas visitors. The list includes cultural heritage inns that inherit traditional architecture from the Heian period to the Meiji era, spanning from Kanagawa Prefecture to Hiroshima Prefecture. Below are some of the most popular inns introduced.

Aizu Dongshan Onsen Mukouzutaki Inn (Aizu Higashiyama Onsen Mukaitaki)
 
Located in Fukushima Prefecture, Mukouzutaki Inn is listed as Japan’s first registered tangible cultural property due to its intricate architecture. Its construction dates back to the Edo period, and its exterior carries a particularly historic feel. Staying here feels like stepping into a time capsule of the ancient past. Guests can immerse themselves in historical times and experience the beauty of centuries-old Japanese architecture—it’s definitely a place you’ll want to revisit. Additionally, the summer booking volume in Aizu-Wakamatsu and Kihoku areas of Fukushima Prefecture saw a significant increase this year, rising by 58.2% compared to the same period last year, making it the region with the highest growth rate among the featured cultural heritage inns.


Ryotei Inn Yakusan-kan (Ryoutei Ryokan Yatsusankan) and Yamanoshi Kusakaoka Ryokan (Yamasatonoiori Souen)
 
Ryotei Inn Yakusan-kan and Yamanoshi Kusakaoka Ryokan are located in the Takayama area of Gifu Prefecture, known worldwide as “Little Kyoto.” To experience the unique historical ambiance of the area, domestic and international tourists flocked here this summer. The region is also dedicated to preserving its purely traditional Japanese architectural style, which has remained unchanged since its construction, and is registered as a tangible cultural property in Japan. Compared to the same period last year, domestic bookings in this area increased by 41.2% this summer, while overseas bookings saw an even more significant rise of 60.1%.

Aonatsu Wooden Lodge (Misaka Onsen Kiya Ryokan)
 
Located in Tottori Prefecture, Aonatsu Wooden Lodge is a three-story wooden inn designated as a cultural property of Japan. Its distinctive classic Japanese-style rooms give guests the illusion of traveling back to the late Meiji to early Taisho period. Compared to the same period last year, the domestic booking volume in the Kurayoshi and Mimasaka Onsen areas of Tottori Prefecture grew by 42.3% this summer, making it one of Japan’s hottest tourist destinations.

Japanese Cultural Heritagerefers to a series of traditions established, developed, and preserved through generations in Japanese history, protected by the Agency for Cultural Affairs of Japan. The Agency defines cultural heritage as “shrines, temples, private residences, Buddhist statues, paintings, calligraphy, skills known as ‘gigei’ such as performing arts and craftsmanship, as well as traditional events and festivals; enduring natural landscapes, historical villages, and townscapes are also considered cultural heritage.” Additionally, the Japanese government categorizes heritage into tangible heritage (crafts and artworks), intangible heritage (theater and music), folk cultural heritage (rituals, customs, and celebrations), monuments, cultural landscapes, and traditional architecture.

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