By MOOK Scenic Spots Travel Life Network Editorial Team
Japan is one of the most frequently visited countries by Taiwanese travelers. With the continuous depreciation of the yen and the rise of low-cost airlines, many 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 culturally significant heritage areas in Japan this summer has seen double-digit growth compared to the same period last year, and is expected to continue attracting tourists from around the world.
Well-known travel agencies have specially released accommodation options across Japan for an in-depth cultural heritage experience, unveiling hidden gems previously unknown to overseas visitors. The list includes 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.
Yokotaki Ryokan in Fukushima Prefecture dates back to the Edo period and is known for its hot springs and excellent dining services. (Photo provided by Rakuten Travel)
Aizu Toshigawa Onsen Yokotaki Ryokan (Aizu Higashiyama Onsen Mukaitaki)
Located in Fukushima Prefecture, Yokotaki Ryokan 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 exudes a strong sense of history. Staying here feels like stepping back into an ancient time capsule. Guests can immerse themselves in historical times and appreciate the beauty of century-old Japanese architecture—definitely a place you’ll want to revisit. Additionally, the Aizu-Wakamatsu and Kitakata regions in Fukushima Prefecture saw a significant surge in summer bookings this year, increasing by 58.2% compared to the same period last year, making it the area with the highest booking growth among the featured heritage inns.
Ryotei Ryokan Yasumikan (Ryoutei Ryokan Yatsusankan) and Yamanishi Kusakaoka Ryokan (Yamasatonoiori Souen)
Ryotei Ryokan Yasumikan and Yamanishi Kusakaoka Ryokan are located in the Takayama region of Gifu Prefecture, a world-renowned area known as “Little Kyoto.” To experience the unique local historical atmosphere, domestic and international tourists flocked here this summer. The area 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 grew by 41.2% this summer, while overseas bookings increased significantly by 60.1%.
Ryotei Ryokan Yasumikan in Gifu Prefecture has a history of 110 years. (Photo provided by Rakuten Travel)
Aoniyoshi Wooden Lodge (Misaka Onsen Kiya Ryokan)
Aoniyoshi Wooden Lodge in Tottori Prefecture is a three-story wooden inn designated as a Japanese cultural property. Its unique classic Japanese-style rooms give guests the illusion of traveling back to the late Meiji to early Taisho periods. Compared to the same period last year, domestic bookings in the Kurayoshi and Misasa Onsen areas of Tottori Prefecture grew by 42.3% this summer, making it one of Japan’s most popular tourist destinations.
Aoniyoshi Wooden Lodge in Tottori Prefecture offers views of the river in front of the inn from its rooms. (Photo provided by Rakuten Travel)
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, other skills such as performing arts and craftsmanship known as ‘techniques,’ as well as traditional activities and festivals; enduring natural landscapes, historical villages, and townscapes are also considered cultural heritage.” Furthermore, the Japanese government categorizes heritage into tangible heritage (crafts and artworks), intangible heritage (theater and music), folk cultural heritage (rituals, customs, and festivals), monuments, cultural landscapes, and traditional architecture.