KUALA LUMPUR, May 11 – Japan’s rich history and culture have always been a draw for tourists from around the world. Now, visitors can experience it in a new way through the country’s unique luxury accommodations. Ozu Castle, located in Ehime Prefecture, was the first castle in Japan to offer guests the opportunity to stay in its tower. The castle was reconstructed in 2004 using UNESCO-registered traditional techniques and opened its doors to guests in 2020. Visitors can experience the grandeur and atmosphere of the castle as Sadayasu Kato.
The first lord of the domain, did in the 1600s, including having dinner in the style of the 17th century lords. The castle and the Garyu Sanso tea house complex have been declared as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. Meanwhile, Hirado Castle, located off the coast of Kyushu Island in Nagasaki Prefecture, offers visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the culture of Hirado. The historic castle turret Kaiju Yagura was renovated in 2020 and features a modern take on Japanese aesthetics with locally sourced natural materials.
Hirado Castle offers various unique cultural experiences, including iaijutsu, a combative quick-draw sword technique practiced by samurai, private meals with a personal chef, and renting an elegant kimono for a tea ceremony at the local Zen temple. For those interested in experiencing the spiritual side of Japan, temple-stays at Zenkoji in Nagano Prefecture may be preferred. Guests can participate in activities such as a ‘goma’ prayer (fire ceremony), ‘shakyo’ (brush meditation), or ‘zazen’ (seated meditation), as well as attend the temple’s daily ‘O-Asaji’ (morning ceremony).
Zenkoji is also known for shojin ryori, traditional Buddhist cuisine that is seasonal and based on local fruits and vegetables. Nagano City is accessible from Tokyo Station in under two hours by the shinkansen. Those who prefer private experiences can opt for a temple-stay at Miidera Temple in Shiga Prefecture. The temple has been welcoming everyone from emperors to worshippers for thousands of years, and its 400-year-old quarters are available as a private retreat, offering an immersive experience to connect visitors with Miidera and local culture.
Japan’s luxury accommodations continue to grow, with several unique options set to open in 2023, including Fukuyama Castle in Hiroshima Prefecture and Nakatsu Castle in Oita Prefecture. Visitors can now immerse themselves in Japan’s rich history and culture in a whole new way, with these luxury accommodations offering an unforgettable experience.
