hoshinoya tokyo river cruise

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Tokyo Spring Day Cruise

Time out says.

Tokyo's Hoshinoya resort in Otemachi is offering a luxurious sakura tour where you can take in the cherry blossom views from a rickshaw and chartered boat. Starting from the hotel, a rickshaw takes you to Nihonbashi Pier, where you’ll then board a boat for a ride down the Sumida River. 

You’ll be able to enjoy blooming sakura along Tsukada Island and Oyoko River with the Tokyo Skytree in the background. On the boat, a special hanami bento box and seasonal sake will be served as you cruise down the river. Tours are limited to one group per day and take roughly two and a half hours. Reservations are open until Sunday March 14, so don't miss your chance.

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Tokyo River Cruise

2024/6/1-2 ​ SumidaRiver Marche Cruise

2日間限定！大好評のマルシェクルーズ、大変お得に隅田川や神田川をクルーズできます！スカイツリーや大迫力の聖橋（御茶ノ水）、撮鉄にはたまらないたくさんの電車にも遭遇します！事前予約が大変お得です！

大人（１３歳以上）￥2,000→ 事前割￥1,800

子供（４～１２歳）￥1,200

幼児（３歳以下）　無料　　

※大人同伴１名につき幼児１名

WATERWAYSⅡ​ charter cruise

The river cruise ship "WATERWAYS II" completed in 2020 won the 2021 Good Design Award.

River cruises on the Sumida River, which boasts one of the largest number of passengers in the world, have until now been centered on large ships such as water buses and houseboats that carry an unspecified number of passengers. However, in response to various needs such as those who want to enjoy a leisurely cruise without worrying about the surroundings, or who want to experience a cruise on an inner river that cannot be entered by a large ship, etc. We also offer a higher-grade charter plan in collaboration with restaurants and a subscription welfare cruising service for companies.

WATERWAYSⅠ​ charter cruise

An open-air catamaran with a capacity of 44 passengers. ​

Why don't you enjoy cruising on the Sumida River in "Tokyo, the city of water"? You can feel the old history and new culture from the ship, and there are plans that you can't experience anywhere else, such as a party that is different from the usual and cruising with your dog (ships are limited). Experienced staff will do the best planning based on customer's wishes, such as course, boat guide, catering arrangement, surprise production, etc.

publication

T O K Y O R I V E R C R U I S E

This leisurely cruise along Tokyo's historic waterways offers spectacular views of Tokyo's cityscapes, as well as a visual history of river transportation in the city. Privately rental boat will be a perfect way to celebrate a special occasion or to simply enjoy a private nighttime trip through Tokyo. Guests who wish to procure tickets for regular boat tours may inquire at reception.

• H O S H I N O Y A T o k y o T o k y o S u m m e r N i g h t s 2 0 2 0 This event travels back in time to the Edo period, and guests are invited to experience how people of the Edo period enjoyed art, food, and entertainment back then.
• E d o B e a u t y S t a y Paying attention to Japanese beauty of old Edo
• A P r i v a t e F a m i l y S t a y A family getaway for a special occasion.
• S u m o T r a i n i n g V i e w i n g a n d a t r a d i t i o n a l h o t p o t m e a l Daily morning training sessions and "Chanko" hotpot meal with the sumo wrestlers
• J a p a n e s e T e a C e r e m o n y Understanding the Japanese spirit of hospitality
• G a g a k u P e r f o r m a n c e Elegant traditional dance and mystical music
• T h e A r t o f I n c e n s e A parlor game involving aromas
• M i d t o w n H e l i c o p t e r C r u i s e An aerial adventure over Tokyo
• R i c k s h a T o u r Traveling through old and new Tokyo
• S p a O t e m a c h i F i t n e s s C l u b Stay fit in body and mind
• T o k y o R i v e r C r u i s e Touring the city's historic waterways
• R e s e r v a t i o n s +81-50-3786-1144 ( 10:00 - 19:00 / JPN TIME )
• W e l c o m e
• D i n i n g
• E x p e r i e n c e
• A c c e s s
• K a r u i z a w a Per night, per room Y84,000~
• K y o t o Per night, per room Y109,000~
• F u j i Per night, per room Y67,000~
• T a k e t o m i I s l a n d Per night, per room Y75,000~
• O k i n a w a Per night, per room Y109,000~
• T o k y o Per night, per room Y84,000~
• B a l i Per night, per room Rp8,100,000~
• G u g u a n Per night, per room NT$18,000~
• Voices from HOSHINOYA
• M a n a g e Y o u r R e s e r v a t i o n s
• K a r u i z a w a
• T a k e t o m i I s l a n d
• O k i n a w a
• G u g u a n
• P r i v a c y P o l i c y
• R e c o m m e n d e d R e q u i r e m e n t s
• P h o t o R e q u e s t s

AVAILABILITY

• Taketomi Island

For children under 12, bed sharing is available up to the maximum occupancy. Please register the child as a "Age 0-3" for your reservation.

• 1 Night 0%off
• 2 Nights 25%off
• 3 Nights 25%off
• 4 Nights 25%off
• 5 Nights 25%off
• 6 Nights 25-60%off
• 7 Nights 25-60%off
• 8 +Nights 25-60%off
• Listed price is rate for first night only and is not indicative of average daily rates.

To view deals for 90-day advance booking and 6-night stays , visit the reservation website.

• For Travel Agencies

To view deals for 90-days advance booking and 6-night stays , visit the reservation website.

To view deals for 90-day advance booking and 6-nights stay , visit the reservation website.

• Book hotel + flight deals from here

To view deals for 120-day advance booking and 6-nights stay , visit the reservation website.

• To request a one-night stay for 30 days or more in advance, click here (during the summer only).

To view deals for 120-day advance booking and 6-night stays , visit the reservation website.

• Book hotel + flight deals from here .

To view deals for 90-day advance booking and Extended Stay 4 nights , visit the reservation website.

To view deals for 90-day advance booking , visit the reservation website.

HOSHINOYA Tokyo: Our Pick For Best Luxury Ryokan In Tokyo

HOSHINOYA Tokyo may well be the best Ryokan-style stay in Tokyo. This new luxury resort hotel in the heart of Tokyo is known for its authentic Japanese omotenashi hospitality, which promises a sublime and authentic Japanese ryokan experience.

From the moment guests arrive and slip off their shoes to step onto fragrant tatami mats, they are transported to a world of traditional Japanese elegance and sophistication.

The hotel boasts 84 rooms spread across 17 floors, with each room featuring a unique design that blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern amenities.

You can choose from room types, including Premier, Deluxe, and Suite rooms, each offering stunning views of the surrounding cityscape. The hotel also features a range of dining options, including a Japanese restaurant, a French restaurant, and a tea lounge, all of which serve exquisite cuisine made with the freshest ingredients.

Whether guests are looking to explore the bustling city of Tokyo or simply relax and unwind in the comfort of their room, Hoshinoya offers the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and style. With its impeccable service, stunning design, and unparalleled attention to detail, this is the ultimate destination for travelers seeking a truly unforgettable Japanese experience.

Location and Accommodations

Hoshinoya is a luxurious ryokan in the heart of Tokyo, in the Chiyoda neighborhood . The hotel is conveniently near the Otemachi Station, which gives you easy access to other parts of the city.

The hotel is also just a short walk away from the Tokyo Imperial Palace and its East Gardens , which are popular and historic attractions.

The accommodations are designed to provide guests with a luxurious and authentic Japanese experience.

The hotel features 84 rooms, each of which is decorated with traditional Japanese furnishings and features a tatami mat floor. The rooms are spacious and offer stunning views of the city skyline or the Imperial Palace Gardens.

You can choose from room types, including the Deluxe Room, which features a king-size bed and a separate living area, and the Suite Room, which offers even more space and includes a private outdoor hot spring bath. All rooms come equipped with modern amenities, including a flat-screen TV, a minibar, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

In addition to the luxurious accommodations, HOSHINOYA Tokyo also offers a range of amenities to ensure guests have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. The hotel features a restaurant that serves traditional Japanese cuisine, as well as a bar where You can enjoy a drink and take in the stunning views of the city.

Dining and Amenities

Hoshinoya offers guests an exceptional dining experience that combines traditional Japanese cuisine with modern twists. The hotel’s executive chef uses locally sourced ingredients to create unique dishes that are both visually stunning and delicious.

You can enjoy dining options, including in-room dining, afternoon tea, and a multi-course dinner served in a private room with a stunning view of the city.

The hotel also features a spa that offers a range of treatments designed to help guests relax and rejuvenate. The spa is on the 17th floor of the hotel and features stunning views of Tokyo.

You can choose from treatments, including massages, facials, and body treatments.

In addition to the spa, the hotel offers a range of amenities to make guests’ stay as comfortable as possible. The hotel features a 24-hour front desk, concierge services, and a gift shop. You can also take advantage of the hotel’s laundry and dry cleaning services.

For those who want to stay active during their stay, the hotel offers a fitness center that is open 24 hours a day. The fitness center features a range of equipment, including treadmills, ellipticals, and free weights.

Overall, the hotel offers guests a luxurious and unforgettable experience that combines traditional Japanese hospitality with modern amenities. From the exceptional dining options to the stunning spa and fitness center, guests are sure to leave feeling relaxed, rejuvenated, and inspired.

Activities and Attractions

HOSHINOYA Tokyo offers a wide range of activities and attractions for its guests. Whether you prefer to relax in the hot springs or explore the city, there is Something to interest all.

One of the most popular activities is the Tokyo river cruise. You can enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Sumida River while taking in the beautiful views of the city. The cruise is accompanied by a guide who gives you interesting facts and insights about the landmarks and sights along the way.

If you prefer a more active adventure, the hotel offers a cycling holiday tour. This guided tour takes guests on a bike ride through the city streets, allowing them to see Tokyo from a unique perspective. The tour includes stops at popular attractions, such as the Imperial Palace and the Tokyo Tower.

For those who want to experience traditional Japanese culture, the hotel offers a tea ceremony. This ceremony is led by a tea master who explains the history and significance of the ceremony while guests enjoy a cup of matcha tea and traditional Japanese sweets.

In addition to these activities, the hotel also offers dining options. You can enjoy a traditional kaiseki meal, which consists of small courses that showcase the flavors of the season. For a more casual dining experience, the hotel also has a lounge where You can enjoy light snacks and drinks.

Overall, HOSHINOYA Tokyo gives you a range of activities and attractions that cater to different interests and preferences. Whether you want to relax or explore, the hotel has something to offer.

Reviews and Recommendations

HOSHINOYA Tokyo has received rave reviews from guests and travel experts alike. Visitors have praised the hotel’s unique blend of traditional Japanese ryokan and modern luxury, as well as its impeccable service and attention to detail.

Travel experts have also given HOSHINOYA Tokyo high marks. Fodor’s Travel called it “simply wonderful” and praised its authentic Japanese hospitality, while The Telegraph noted that the hotel “raises the bar for luxury ryokans in the city.”

For those looking to experience the best of Tokyo, Hoshinoya comes highly recommended. Its central location in the prestigious Otemachi district makes it an ideal base for exploring the city, while its blend of traditional and modern elements offers a memorable experience.

HOSHINOYA Tokyo is a luxury hotel that combines traditional Japanese hospitality with modern amenities. The hotel’s location in the heart of Tokyo gives you easy access to the city’s top attractions, while its serene atmosphere offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The hotel’s rooms are spacious and elegantly designed, with traditional Japanese elements such as tatami floors and shoji screens. The hotel also offers a range of dining options, including a Japanese restaurant, a French restaurant, and a lounge serving afternoon tea and cocktails.

One of the highlights of staying at HOSHINOYA Tokyo is the opportunity to experience a traditional Japanese ryokan. The hotel’s public spaces feature elements such as a Japanese garden, a tea room, and a communal bath, all designed to provide guests with an authentic Japanese experience.

Overall, HOSHINOYA Tokyo is a luxurious and unique hotel that offers a one-of-a-kind experience for travelers looking to immerse themselves in Japanese culture. From the hotel’s serene atmosphere to its traditional design elements, every aspect of the hotel is designed to provide guests with an unforgettable experience.

Where To Stay In Tokyo

Tokyo visitor levels are currently at an all-time high so make sure to book your hotels early. Tip most hotels booked with booking.com have free cancelation so book as soon as you know your date and you can always cancel if you change your mind.

Tokyo Trip Checklist

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Cherry Blossom Heaven! 5 Hoshino Resorts Lodgings To Visit In Spring

The accommodation facilities operated by Hoshino Resorts welcome guests in spring with cherry blossom-themed events and programs. We introduce five lodgings where guests can enjoy the cherry blossom season through all five senses during an unforgettable stay.

Tokyo, Japan

Welcome Spring at Hoshino Resorts

Cherry blossoms , or sakura , are beautiful flowers that symbolize spring in Japan. They go in bloom annually around the end of March. Many visitors to Japan plan their travels, taking into account the cherry blossom forecast to enjoy cherry blossom viewing at their chosen destination.

This season, Hoshino Resorts will be holding special events for their guests to enjoy the cherry blossoms to the fullest! We introduce five Hoshino Resorts accommodations with wonderful sakura-related events and activities that are well-worth checking this spring.

Hoshino Resorts Special Feature

1. HOSHINOYA Kyoto: Admire the Blossoms from a Private Terrace

HOSHINOYA Kyoto is a hot spring ryokan located in Arashiyama , Kyoto . Guests arrive at the lodging by taking a small boat from Togetsukyo Bridge. The boat takes them upstream the Oi River. The lodging is located away from the city in quiet surroundings, allowing guests to relax amid lush nature while enjoying Kyoto's rich culture.

Arashiyama is renowned as a cherry blossom viewing site. It is actually one of Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots. When spring arrives, the 1,500 cherry trees that grow on these mountains go in bloom, coloring Arashiyama in pale pink. HOSHINOYA guests get to enjoy this scenic view from the boat as they head to the inn.

All the rooms at HOSHINOYA Kyoto have a river view so that guests enjoy the blossoms from the comfort of their rooms.

Framed by large windows, the cherry blossoms look just like a painting. Staying in a tranquil Japanese-style room surrounded by a sea of cherry blossoms is an extraordinary experience.

The inn will be hosting an event called Cherry Blossom Viewing Stay from March 25 to April 10, 2020. This is an all-day program for enjoying the cherry blossoms on a private terrace. The shidare-zakura, or weeping cherry trees, can be seen in full bloom from the terrace.

Enjoy a meal and beverages as you admire the cherry blossoms at leisure. You can also have an afternoon nap! The program is limited to one group per day, so make your reservations early if you're interested.

During the Cherry Blossom Viewing Stay, guests can take part in a traditional open-air tea ceremony. You'll be able to fully enjoy your time unwinding under the breathtakingly beautiful blossoms.

HOSHINOYA Kyoto official website

Hoshinoya Kyoto

2. Hoshino Resorts OMO5 Tokyo Otsuka: Celebrating Somei Yoshino Cherry Trees

Hoshino Resorts OMO5 Tokyo Otsuka is an urban hotel located in Tokyo's Toshima ward. It's a new type of hotel where guests can experience the local charms of the area during their stay.

Toshima, where OMO5 Tokyo Otsuka is located, is known as the place where Somei Yoshino cherry trees—the most notable variety in Japan—were first developed.

The hotel will be hosting the OMO Everything Sakura Festival from March 1 to April 19, 2020. During the event, decorations inspired by Somei Yoshino blossoms will adorn the lobby.

OMO5 Tokyo Otsuka is well-known for its energetic guides—aptly nicknamed OMO Rangers. Immediately popular among hotel guests, these tour guides take guests to fascinating spots in Otsuka.

The SAKURA Tour , the hotel's spring expedition, will take you around famous cherry blossom spots in the area.

The OMO Cafe, located within the hotel, will offer a special menu item called Hanami Sweets Set . This set features an assortment of cherry blossom-inspired treats made in collaboration with local confectioneries and wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets) shops. These adorable sweets allow you enjoy cherry blossom season with both your eyes and taste buds!

Hoshino Resorts OMO5 Tokyo Otsuka official website

OMO5 Tokyo Otsuka by Hoshino Resort

3. Aomoriya: Delight in Aomori’s Famed Sake and Blossoms

Hoshino Resorts Aomoriya is a hot spring ryokan in Aomori . Guests can experience here the culture and local cuisine of northern Japan through seasonal events.

The facility will host a program titled Cherry Blossom Viewing & Sake Party from April 1 to May 31, 2020. Guests will participate in cherry blossom viewing events and taste local sake during the program. The entire inn will bask in the lively atmosphere of spring.

Aomori boasts the largest apple production in Japan. That's why both apple and cherry blossoms herald the coming of spring in Aomori. During the spring event, the inn will be lit up by paper lanterns decorated with cherry and apple blossoms.

Many well-known brands of Japanese sake are made in Aomori. The cool climate of the region is perfect for sake brewing. Giant sake barrels and masu cups (square wooden box) will be places inside the inn for guests to sit in. Tasting delicious sake while viewing the seasonal blooms is a fun experience in itself.

How about taking part in an all-you-can-drink sake tasting of Aomori’s finest sake (3,500 yen before tax per person)? The sake is served with an assortment of local delicacies, dried foods, pickled vegetables, and other snacks.

The event also introduces the Apple and Cherry Blossom Corridor , a very photogenic spot in the inn decorated with apple and cherry blossom motifs. Walking down this corridor will feel as if you were on a boulevard lined with trees in full bloom.

Aomoriya offers a cherry blossom viewing program featuring a kotatsu . A kotatsu is a small, heated table used as protection against the cold. Guests can have an invaluable experience admiring the blooms while warming up in an outdoor kotatsu.

Hoshino Resorts Aomoriya official website

Hoshino Resort Aomoriya

4. HOSHINOYA Tokyo: Enjoy Edo Cherry Blossoms at Night

HOSHINOYA Tokyo is a luxury ryokan located in the heart of Tokyo. Guests staying at this lodging from March 25 to April 10, 2020, will be able to fully enjoy historical cherry blossom spots of Edo (present-day Tokyo).

One of the spring programs will be the Tokyo Night Cherry Blossom River Cruise . The activity includes traveling by rickshaw to a private boat that will take guests to view famous cherry blossom spots along Sumida River.

Participants will ride a rickshaw to Nihonbashi Pier where they'll board the boat that takes them down Sumida River. The water of the river reflect the city nightscape and the cherry blossoms, creating a breathtaking view that can only be enjoy during the river cruise. The beauty of the illuminated cherry blossoms is stunning once the sun sets!

Guests can enjoy a hanami bento (boxed meal) with cherry blossom motifs during the boat ride. Sparkling sake will be served to pair with the scrumptious meal. Enjoy the subtle, light-tasting sake alongside Tokyo's night scenery of cherry blossoms.

The boat will head back to the pier after sunset. On the way back, participants will be able to admire some of Tokyo's best nightscapes such as the TOKYO SKYTREE and Eitai Bridge.

HOSHINOYA Tokyo official website

Hoshinoya Tokyo

5. Hoshino Resorts KAI Nagato: Cherry Blossoms and Samurai Culture

A new facility will join the KAI group of luxury hot spring ryokans operated by Hoshino Resorts in March 2020. Hoshino Resorts KAI Nagato is scheduled to open in Nagato Yumoto Onsen , a hot spring resort in Yamaguchi .

Nagato Yumoto Onsen boats notable cherry blossoms spots such as Onshinkawa Kasen Park and Taineiji Temple . Once spring arrives, the area bustles with visitors enjoying hot-spring-hopping and hanami (cherry blossom viewing).

Yamaguchi is known for its remaining samurai residences that were once inhabited by members of Japan's warrior class. The rooms at KAI Nagato reflect the dignified samurai culture.

Some of the rooms are inspired by the residences where local feudal lords used to stay. Tokuji Washi paper, a regional handicraft, is used for decorating the headboard of the beds. It adds a contemporary touch while retaining the traditional essence of the interior.

The AKEBONO Cafe operating withing the ryokan will offer a special menu of dorayaki , traditional Japanese red bean pancakes. In addition to the classic sweet red bean paste filling, the cafe will offer a new, refreshing citrus jam filling. Guests can enjoy the cherry blossoms while strolling around the neighborhood with a dorayaki in hand.

The highligt of any traditional ryokan is the kaiseki cuisine —a luxurious Japanese multi-course meal. Dinner at KAI Nagato consists of several dishes prepared with seasonal ingredients. Above all, the sweet, thick slices of cuttlefish sashimi are superb! You'll have an extravagant time enjoying the amazing food, hot springs, and cherry blossoms simply by staying here.

Hoshino Resorts KAI Nagato official website

Experience Spring with All Five Senses at Hoshino Resorts

Hoshino Resorts is filled to the brim with spring events and programs for guests. Enjoy the season with all five senses admiring the splendid cherry blossoms, experiencing local culture, and tasting regional cuisine. A stay at one of these exceptional facilities during cherry blossom season will most surely become a treasured memory.

Dreamlike Winter! 5 Hoshino Resorts Lodgings With Exciting Snow Activities

Written by Kazuma Takahashi Sponsored by Hoshino Resorts All pictures courtesy of Hoshino Resorts

MATCHA's promotional account for corporate and local government advertising. We aim to provide useful information to our readers in an enjoyable manner.

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Hoshinoya Tokyo hotel review: Traditional Japanese hospitality in the big city

Editor's Note

In the vast, modern megalopolis of Tokyo, with its skyscraper-strewn cityscape stretching to the horizon, it can feel like a challenge to find pockets of traditional Japanese hospitality and culture.

But that's exactly why a stay at Hoshinoya Tokyo feels so special. The hotel blends the pared-down aesthetics of a contemporary luxury hotel with the time-honored service and sophistication of a ryokan, or traditional Japanese inn.

Each guest floor has just six accommodations surrounding an ochanoma, or central lounge, where travelers are invited to relax, have tea, coffee and snacks and peruse books on art, nature and travel ... between visits to the open-air rooftop onsen (bathing facility), which is fed by mineral-rich waters pumped from 1,500 meters (4,900 feet) underground.

Even the hotel's futuristic hallmarks, like its ornate metal-lattice facade and the sculptural stone elements in its subterranean restaurant, are nods to Japanese crafts and history – traditional kimono designs in the case of the former, and the foundational structure of Edo Castle in the latter.

While here, guests can also take advantage of activities ranging from evening sake tastings and gagaku classical music performances to incense appreciation sessions and intricate tea ceremonies. That makes the experience feel like an upscale encapsulation of a grand tour of Japan's profound cultural legacy so that even a short visit to Tokyo is an enriching experience.

Here's what you should know about staying at Hoshinoya Tokyo, one of the Japanese capital's finest luxury hotels .

Getting there

Hoshinoya Tokyo is in Chiyoda, near the Imperial Palace. The district is filled with hulking office towers and business people bustling about their day-to-day. But underneath this hive of activity are arcades filled with cafes, restaurants and shops, especially attached to Otemachi Station, which is the nexus of several subway lines.

Those flying into or out of Haneda Airport (HND) can get to or from the hotel via taxi or ride-hailing service for $55-$80. It takes around 30-60 minutes depending on traffic. Simply taking the subway can take around an hour and requires a change of line, but costs a mere 550 Japanese yen ($3.70).

If your flight has you transiting Narita International Airport (NRT) , expect a drive of one-two hours costing up to $200 in a taxi or ride-hailing service. The Narita Express train to Tokyo Station costs 3,700 yen per person ($24.70) each way, though round-trip options can be cheaper, and you can hop the subway to Otemachi station from there.

If you need to get to Tokyo Station for the Shinkansen (bullet train) to other destinations in the country, it's just one stop away on the Marunouchi subway line (180 yen, or around $1.20), or about a 10-minute, $10 taxi or ride-hailing drive away.

Booking details

Hoshinoya Tokyo has just 84 rooms and suites, which are spread across 14 floors with just six accommodations apiece.

The are three categories of quarters: Yuri (king) and Sakura (twin) rooms for two guests, which range from 441-527 square feet, and sprawling Kiku rooms that are nearly 900 square feet and can accommodate up to three people.

Rates start at around $400 per person per night for Yuri rooms, $550 per person per night for Sakura rooms and $795 per person per night for Kiku rooms, not including meals. Plans that include breakfast and dinner generally cost start at about $500 per person per night.

The best way to book is directly through the hotel or via a travel advisor who might be able to secure extra perks like upgrades or an included activity, meal, or spa service. Unfortunately, the hotel is not part of American Express' Fine Hotels + Resorts , the Chase Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection or Capital One's Premier Collection .

Standout features

• Gorgeous rooms with traditional accouterments like tatami flooring, translucent shoji screens and ofuro-style soaking tubs.
• Phenomenal cultural programming including rooftop kenjutsu (swordfighting) classes at dawn and evening sake tastings.
• Dining at Nippon Cuisine is like an exquisite culinary tour through the seasonal bounty of Japan's various regions.
• The rooftop onsen whose open-air pool is fed by natural hot springs is not to miss.

• The location is central but can feel empty on weekends and evenings since it's primarily a financial district.
• Although meant to encourage mingling, the common lounge areas on each floor might feel too intimate for some guests.
• High nightly rates will preclude most travelers, but if this fits within your budget, Hoshinoya Tokyo is well worth a visit.

Like a performance of Noh theater, every aspect of a stay at Hoshinoya Tokyo feels carefully choreographed and symbolically significant ... but in a way that remains refined rather than overwhelming.

The edifice's metal-sheathed facade is intricately patterned to evoke the stylings of an Edo-period kimono. Guests are welcomed through the street-level entrance and invited to remove their shoes, as they would in a Japanese home so that they can be stored in a personalized bamboo locker until your next jaunt out into the city.

No, you're not hearing things — when they arrive at a floor, the elevators make percussive sounds reminiscent of the hiyoshigi hardwood clappers struck to signal the start of a kabuki play. The experience has begun.

Check-in formalities are completed quickly in the second-floor reception area, where you might also spot items for sale, such as branded notebooks, cards and water bottles along with bespoke sake cups and tea sets (so save some room for souvenirs in your luggage).

Then you'll be whisked up directly to your floor for a brief orientation. Each level has a shared guest lounge which is inspired by the public spaces in rural Japanese ryokan and where you can socialize with fellow guests — an even split of international and Japanese visitors — over complimentary beverages and snacks that change throughout the day.

Chat through the hotel's cultural and wellness offerings so that you can reserve experiences like a private tea ceremony or a miniature garden-making class. But spare some time in the evening or early morning to head upstairs to the hotel's onsen, or public bath, for a mineral-rich soak in its steaming waters.

In keeping with the ryokan theme, guests are given woodblock keys that allow them to take the elevators just to their floor as well as the top-floor spa. The idea is that you will make your floor your home away from home and not only luxuriate in your room, but also spend time in the ochanoma with other guests just from your own floor. To that end, you can even leave your room unlocked while you're spending time in the lounge.

My Kiku room was located at the end of the tatami-matted hallway and measured up at an impressive (especially for Tokyo standards) 894 square feet.

One entire wall was comprised of sliding shoji screen panels that you could open to see the surrounding skyscrapers or leave closed to create the cocoon-like feeling of a ryokan in the hinterlands. When the sun hit just right in the afternoon, the building's lacy exterior metalwork created whimsical patterns on the screens that added to the magic of the ambience.

The main part of the room consisted of a small lounge area with a low daybed lined by plumped pillows and facing a glassy pillar with an embedded television (that I never ended up watching).

There was also a dining area with a table for four and a minibar, which held complimentary beer, juice, water, which you could refill in the ochanoma, a hot water kettle and a tea set.

For business travelers like me, there was a stone-topped desk with a chair and lamp, but the main focal point was the dais with a low-profile bed, fitted with a cloud-like duvet and fluffy pillows that practically invited you to sink into them for a leisurely nap.

To each side of the bed, nightstands had power ports and switches to control the lights.

The long, narrow closet had ample space for luggage, plus plenty of hangers and drawers. The hotel provided a fresh set of pajamas each day to wear around the room and the ochanoma as well as a slip, kimono and sandals to wear in the public areas including the onsen and for meals at Nippon Cuisine.

At the other end of the room from the bed, the bathroom was practically an enclave unto itself. The black stone floors and gray limestone walls created a soothing vibe. The main area contained a vanity with two squared-off basin-style sinks lit by globe pendants and stocked with a range of custom Lirio skin products including cleansing gel, freshening serum, toner and moisturizer.

To one side was a water closet with an automated Toto toilet and its own small sink.

To the other was the room's signature space, a glassed-in spa suite complete with a shower equipped with a traditional wooden low stool and bucket, and an enormous, cubical ofuro soaking tub.

It was the ideal place to ease your way into the day before an early breakfast, or to unwind in a hot bath after a day out in the city.

Food and drink

In line with the hotel's ryokan-style roots, the dining experience at Hoshinoya Tokyo is quite distinct from what you might expect at a typical luxury hotel. You won't find a passel of lively bars and restaurants where guests and outsiders come to mingle, though you might socialize with fellow guests in your floor's private lounge, or have a conversation over sips at the sake tastings that take place nightly from 5-6 p.m. adjacent to reception.

Rather, the dining experiences here are much more cloistered, with an aura of exclusivity and even solitude, especially if you're traveling solo. Meals are served in your accommodations, or, in the case of afternoon tea and dinner, in private and semi-private dining rooms at the hotel's formal restaurant, Nippon Cuisine.

Guests can reserve a Japanese or Western breakfast ($33 per person) delivered to their room at a set time each morning, served in a bountiful bento box-like presentation. The Western option includes various pastries with butter and jam, fresh fruit like strawberries and citrus, yogurt, steamed and pickled vegetables and a main of eggs cooked to order with a side of sausage, plus a choice of juice and tea or coffee.

The Japanese breakfast is even more alluring with nearly a dozen dishes to sample ranging from a tender filet of fish like miso-glazed black cod with lotus root, to beef with rice, fresh black seaweed, tender pickled sea bream, meaty braised octopus, pickled plum and radishes, seasonal fruits and a bowl of miso soup.

Open for specialty afternoon tea service from January-June, Nippon Cuisine is located below ground level with decor that speaks to its unique location, including walls that resemble the stone strata of Tokyo's bedrock, wall-like features based on the foundations of Edo Castle and sculptural boulder arrangements punctuating the space. There are several tables in a semi-private area with see-through fan-patterned dividers between the tables as well as multiple private dining rooms for larger parties.

This is also the setting for sumptuous dinners of over a dozen courses served at a leisurely pace ($186 per person). Executive chef Ryosuke Oka reinterprets classical Japanese dishes with rigorous French techniques using produce and proteins of the utmost freshness sourced from throughout the country.

Your meal might start with an amuse of Japanese caviar with smoked egg yolk and unagi over a soba galette paired with light-bodied Kokuryu Kijoshu sake followed by a delicate bite of slow-cooked squid over earthy cauliflower and a tangy Shizoka cheese tartlet with black truffle.

Some dishes are plays on traditional Japanese fare, including a fish snack that fisherman from Oita on Kyushu might enjoy but that here consists of flounder and mackerel marinated in sake and soy sauce with radish and endive tucked away under a filigreed sesame tuile.

You might find yourself tucking into luscious lobster from the Mie Prefecture, braised in miso with onion and mustard seed and topped with coal-grilled crab in a creamy cheese reduction over heirloom carrot spaghetti, sort of like a Japanese lobster thermidor. Push on for bites of ling cod-like mejina, then hearty rice-based ayamase (like paella) with thick-cut bacon and celery root before a finale of luscious cuts of wagyu finished over charcoal with confit oyster and mashed potatoes.

For dessert, there could be fluffy ganzuki bread pudding with dried fruits, nuts and chocolate topped with a whiskey sauce and light-as-air dorayaki pancakes made a la minute.

Make a full evening of it by selecting the coursed-out wine pairing ($80) so you can enjoy tastes of Greek Assyrtiko, German Sylvaner and Spatburgunder and Medoc from France among other libations. The international variety of vintages is impressive and well worth it.

Amenities and service

Much of what sets Hoshinoya Tokyo apart from the city's other luxury hotels is the uniquely Japanese sense of hospitality that permeates nearly every experience at the hotel. Sure, there might not be a kitted-out gym or an all-day cafe to host colleagues, but that's a small price to pay for the extraordinary (and extraordinarily high-quality) cultural activities the hotel has to offer.

From the moment you arrive — stepping from the busy city streets into the hushed, bamboo- and cedar-paneled arrival corridor — you are spirited away to a nostalgic kind of hotel stay where everyone you meet will greet you by name and have a cup of your favorite tea or a sweet treat waiting.

Guests can spend evenings in the reception lounge learning about sakes produced around the country, then return after dinner for a virtuoso gagaku recital. Those who wish to delve deeper into Japan's culture and capital can book signature experiences like a private tea ceremony ($64 per person) where you learn the minute details of preparation and presentation; or a (complimentary) dawn kenjutsu (Japanese sword fighting) lesson on a nearby rooftop, surrounded by Tokyo's skyscrapers.

The hotel's signature amenity, however, is its top-floor spa and onsen. There are separate men's and women's bathing areas where guests can disrobe in simple but fully equipped locker rooms with baskets for storing belongings.

After a thorough wash in the shower area, complete with stools and buckets for full-on ablutions, slowly immerse yourself in the steamy waters of the black stone-lined onsen, which are pumped up from nearly a mile underground. Make your way through the cotton curtains to the alfresco portion, where you can take in the open sky as wisps of steam curl around your body.

The onsen is open daily from 3 p.m. to 11:30 a.m. with a closure at midday to drain and refill the water. That's when I was able to drop by for photos, which are otherwise prohibited.

Stop for a fortifying glass of milk in the lounge area as you wait for your spa therapist to join you, then indulge in a signature treatment like the gentle Wakatake full-body massage performed with soothing wheat germ oil to relieve the tension from your joints ($137-$186 for 60-90 minutes).

Out and about

Hoshinoya Tokyo is surrounded by a financial district, but it's just a short stroll to the Imperial Palace and its grounds. You can take a 10-minute taxi or ride-hailing service to Ginza for some upscale shopping, or simply hop the subway for a 20-to-30-minute ride to either Shinjuku or Shibuya for a memorable night out.

The historic neighborhood of Asakusa is just a 10-minute subway ride away, and a 30-minute combination of public transport and walking brings you to lively Ueno Park and the Tokyo National Museum.

Accessibility

Although there are steps in the hotel's street-level entrance, guests with accessibility needs can access Hoshinoya Tokyo from its parking garage or the subway station via elevator. The public areas and guest elevators are likewise wheelchair-friendly (including reachable buttons for the guest room floors).

The hotel has two wheelchair-accessible rooms with automatic sliding doors and buttons to engage the locks. Their bathrooms and toilet areas have grab bars and extra space to accommodate wheelchairs. The lobby also has a unisex accessible bathroom.

While the onsen locker room and one of the showers are wheelchair-accessible, you must use stairs and a grab bar to enter the water since there is no chairlift.

Checking out

Whereas some of Tokyo's other luxury hotels feel like cookie-cutter clones, where you could be anywhere from Chicago to Shanghai, Hoshinoya Tokyo is a welcome foil that puts Japanese arts, culture and comfort at the core of the experience.

For visitors who want an authentic but extremely upscale stay in Japan's ultra-modern capital, Hoshinoya Tokyo provides a just-right balance of traditional hospitality and contemporary convenience. It's an excellent jumping-off point for further exploration in the country, or a great way to get a taste of Japanese culture on even brief stays in Tokyo.

Related reading:

• The best hotels in Tokyo
• The best hotel credit cards
• Get free breakfast, upgrades and more with the Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts program
• The best hotel rewards programs in the world
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Travel, culture, and stories from Japan.

Step inside tokyo’s first luxury ryokan..

A place of zen in a busy metropolis.

Table of Contents

Hoshinoya – Tokyo’s urban oasis.

In the heart of the most populous area on the planet is a secluded and zen hotel that gives a new meaning to the word ‘Luxurious’.

Smack bang in the middle of Tokyo’s Ōtemachi neighbourhood, the Hoshinoya is only a few minutes walk from the train station and other famous attractions.

In short, Hoshinoya Tokyo is the capital’s most luxurious Ryokan.

Commonly asked questions about the Hoshinoya Tokyo

Before we get into looking at the Hoshinoya itself, let’s look at some frequently asked questions about the hotel.

How much does it cost to stay at Hoshinoya Tokyo?

If you’re booking through the Hoshino website (Which I recommend as they give the best price) it could be cheaper than you think.

If I book March, I can get the deluxe twin room for only $138 per night!

That’s a shockingly good price for the most luxurious ryokan in Tokyo. Of course, it might be different depending on when you book, but just make sure to reserve well in advance and you might be able to have a few nights at the end of your trip!

What type of room can I book at Hoshinoya Tokyo?

Well, this very much depends on your budget and what you’re looking at experiencing during your stay. Even still it seems as though every aspect of the Hoshinoya was designed with serenity and zen in mind, even the booking process.

Inside Tokyo’s luxury ryokan, there are only 3 room types to choose from. So you won’t have to worry about deciding between 10 different room styles with completely unnecessary upgrades.

The three rooms come in at different price points but that differs drastically depending on the time of year and how far in advance it was booked.

If you’re looking for a cheaper option, the deluxe twin is what you’ll want to go for.

The following room descriptions are taken directly from Hoshinoya .

Kiku (Executive Triple)

A spacious room with many additional furnishings.

‘Soft sunlight pours in through the paper window screens in these south-facing corner rooms, which are about twice as large as the Yuri and Sakura rooms. Furnishings include a dining table, a small desk, and a sofa that is wide enough to lie on. The bathroom features a satisfyingly deep bathtub and a shower stall, with windows that can be opened to bring in cool winds. Up to three Japanese futons can be laid out on the bed stand.’

Yuri (Deluxe King)

Serene and intimate.

‘These rooms feature double beds, tatami floors, and sofas with ornate cypress frames–each is a piece of contemporary furniture decorated with traditional Japanese craftwork. Guests can relax by soaking in the deep bathtub located in the bathroom, which is also furnished with a sink and shower stall, or by basking in the warm sunlight filtering through the shoji paper screens that grace the living area windows.’

Sakura (Deluxe Twin)

An Authentic ryokan experience.

‘Closets and sofas featuring tasteful cypress craft and windows concealed by shoji paper screens provide these rooms with a traditional Japanese aesthetic. Sakura rooms are located near the ochanoma lounge to entice guests to frequent the lounge–the traditional center of activity in an authentic ryokan. The rooms feature twin beds; these are designed to resemble a Japanese futon to enhance the Japanese atmosphere.’

Does Hoshinoya Tokyo have a restaurant on-site?

Certainly does!

And it has in-room dining. The type that Japanese ryokans are famous for.

It needs to be made clear that dining at the Hoshinoya Tokyo will cost extra, as is the custom in most ryokans.

Food is also changed seasonally and produced by executive chef Noriyuki Hamada.

Dinner costs ¥18,000 per person plus tax and a 10% service charge. Yup, the Japanese tax is back again to ruin your day.

Of course ¥18,000 is about $160 so no one would blame you if you went to a nearby restaurant.

Time Served : 17:30 – 20:30

Price : ¥18,000

Breakfast is far more reasonable at ¥4,000 ($36) and for the experience of In-Room Dining it’s well worth it.

The western style breakfast is ¥700 cheaper, but if you’re going to Japan to eat western food you’re doing it wrong!

Time served : 7:00 – 11:00

Price : ¥4,000

Can I park a car at Hoshinoya Tokyo?

Unfortunately, there is no free parking at the Hoshinoya, but they do recommend one very close.

Guests are advised to use the Otemachi Financial City Grand Cube carpark which costs ¥5,500 per night.

How far is Hoshinoya Tokyo from the center of Tokyo?

Really flipping close. I don’t know how much closer you could get!

• 9-minute walk from Tokyo Station.
• 10-minute walk to the imperial palace.
• 20 minutes from Shibuya crossing.
• 20 minutes from Akihabara.

It’s close to everything, so you should easily be able to get around on public transport.

What are the check-in and check-out times at Hoshinoya Tokyo?

Currently, there is no information about check-in and check-out times on their website.

I would advise ringing them on +81-50-3786-1144 to confirm and manage your reservation.

What is there to do at Hoshinoya Tokyo?

Now we get to the juicy part of the article!

There are a whole host of activities available inside the Hoshinoya including:

Japanese Tea Ceremony

The opportunity to appreciate and take part in a Japanese tradition. You will also gain a deeper appreciation of Japanese hospitality and the tea ceremonies relationship with the changing seasons.

Includes: Tea lesson Confectionery Tea bowls Whisks

Available: All year

Price: ¥8,000 per person (excluding tax and service charge)

Gagaku Performance

Gagaku is a traditional Japanese art that mixes theatre with dance and music.

At the Hoshinoya, performances are shown on the weekends on the lobby stage.

And the best news of all?

Includes: Theatre show

Available: Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, excluding new year’s holidays

Price: Free

Tokyo River Cruise

Includes: A 60-minute river cruise through the city canals

Price: ¥48,400 (For up to 6 guests)

Ricksha Tour

Includes: 1 of 3 handpicked tours from a knowledgeable driver

Available: All Year

Price: 60 Minute tour (Nihonbashi): ¥25,910 90 Minute tour (Kanda or Ningyocho): ¥32,730

The luxury urban ryokan also has a helicopter tour for ¥247,730, but we’ll skip that one because this isn’t a blog for the super-rich!

Other exciting things at the Hoshinoya Tokyo

If all of those weren’t enough to tempt you into reserving a room, there’s more!

Hoshinoya Onsen

An indoor onsen that uses water 1,500 meters below Tokyo.

Its waters are filled with saline which has a restorative and energizing effect on your body.

But my favorite thing about this hot spring is its open ceiling.

You can’t quite see it here but in the room at the back, there is no ceiling meaning you can stare up into the sky whilst soaking your worries away, right in the heart of Tokyo.

Rooftop Yoga

It’s unclear from the website, but it seems as though the Hoshinoya also offers rooftop activities.

Most likely these will be either rooftop yoga or meditation.

Judging by everything else they offer, it doesn’t seem a stretch to imagine rooftop yoga is available.

Is Hoshinoya Tokyo worth it?

Okay so clearly this isn’t the best place for budget-conscious traveler, even with acceptably priced rooms.

With all the added extras and the activities you’ll convince yourself to do because this was a ‘once in a lifetime trip’, it will be heavy on your pockets.

But to be honest, that isn’t a problem when you consider the sort of people this place will be attracting.

The Hoshinoya in Tokyo is quite simply the best and most luxurious ryokan in the city. It compromises on absolutely nothing and is bound to appeal to those looking for the best of the best.

In all honesty, it’s no big surprise that Hoshinoya Tokyo is at the top of its game. Hoshino Resorts have been in business for over 100 years.

So I guess you could say they’ve had practice at perfecting their craft.

If you still want to visit a Hoshinoya hotel but your budget won’t stretch to this one, you’ll be happy to hear that Hoshino Resorts are scattered around Asia.

Hoshino’s Fuji resort is far more ‘affordable’ and only a quick train ride away from the capital.

Let us know if you’ve been and what you thought of it in the comments below!

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Jonny is the founder of A Day of Zen and has an unhealthy obsession with Japan. In 2022 he moved to Japan on a mission to give his audience the best possible information. He's helped over 300,000 plan their trip so far, and is eager to make that number much bigger!

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Please beware of suspicious e-mails pretending to be from Hoshino Resorts. There have been e-mails sent under the subject such as "Urgent Contact," "Important Notice," "Identification Confirmation," etc. We never ask for important information such as credit card numbers, expiration dates, PINs, etc. via e-mail. If you find a suspicious email as above, please delete it without clicking on the URL in the e-mail.

No.39 in the new global ranking of The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2023

HOSHINOYA Tokyo, a Japanese Ryokan, was selected for the inaugural ranking of The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2023.

On September 19, 2023, the list was announced at a captivating awards ceremony in London and includes industry-defining hotels from 35 different locations across six continents worldwide. This long-awaited list is 50 Best’s first foray into the travel space, and its first new global ranking since the launch of The World’s 50 Best Bars in 2009.　

A historical location that continually transforms

Designs that revolutionize the ryokan aesthetic

Traditional hospitality, updated for modern times

Every floor functions as a private ryokan composed of six rooms, and an ochanoma—or traditional lounge—seamlessly connected via a tatami-matted corridor.

Local Attractions

HOSHINOYA Tokyo

1-9-1 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0004

Mapcode: 677 214*12

10-minute walk from the Marunouchi North Exit of Tokyo Station.

Hotel Details

Guest rooms, room occupancy.

• Café / Lounge
• Spa / Massage

Check-in / Check-out

Special arrangements.

→ Anniversary / Anniversary items (Cake, Flower, Fruits Arrangement) available

Shuttle service

Ev charging, online payments, onsite payments.

• Public bath
• Meeting Room

Sending Luggage: Please put the check-in date and the primary guest’s name on the delivery slip.

Smoke-free property

Room Amenities

The 10 best places to go on a river cruise in Europe 

Jun 7, 2024 • 8 min read

Appreciate the beautiful architecture of Budapest from the Danube © Sanga Park / Shutterstock © Sanga Park / Shutterstock

Cruising down a quiet, traffic-free river, surrounded by scenic riverfront views is an ideal way to see Europe . You can sip your wine while watching picture-perfect scenery breeze past – taking in castles, medieval villages and fields of flowers. 

By necessity, European riverboats are small and passenger numbers are often fewer than 200, making these cruises a far more social and intimate experience. There’s also plenty to do and see onshore, and with more frequent stops you can enjoy more onshore activities. Cruise lines are now also offering more immersive learning experiences such as cooking classes and home visits, or activities like bicycle trips and long hikes.

The hardest part is choosing where to go — which is why we've rounded up the 10 best places to go on a European river cruise. (Once you've chosen your cruise, check out our definitive cruise packing guide .)

1. Northern Rhine (Germany)

From gorgeous river meanders and noble German cities

The northern section of the Rhine features dramatic landscapes and a host of interesting towns. Cologne (Köln), Germany ’s fourth-largest city, offers numerous attractions starting with its famous cathedral, while Koblenz, at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, is a park- and flower-filled delight. Heading south, the Rhine meanders between hillside castles and steep fields of wine-producing grapes. Idyllic villages appear around each bend, their half-timbered houses and Gothic steeples seemingly plucked from a fairy tale. Scarcely damaged during WWII, handsome Speyer is crowned by a magnificent Romanesque cathedral. 

2. Southern Rhine (France, Germany & Switzerland)

Explore intriguing towns in this border land

The Southern Rhine forms the border between Germany and France before becoming Switzerland ’s northern frontier. Strasbourg is the perfect overture to all that is idiosyncratic about Alsace – walking a fine tightrope between France and Germany, between a medieval past and a progressive future. Further south, the Black Forest spills into Alsace in the German town of Breisach. Unsurprisingly, given its geographical and cultural proximity to France, the locals here have a passion for a good bottle of wine. Basel, at the juncture of the French, German and Swiss borders, is perhaps where Switzerland’s Franco-Germanic roots are most evident.

3. Rhône (France)

Indulge in gourmet experiences cruising the south of France

Commanding a strategic spot at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône Rivers, grand old Lyon is France’s gastronomic capital. Downstream, the Rhône forges past Vienne’s Roman ruins and the centuries-old Côtes du Rhône vineyards, opening to sunny vistas of fruit orchards, lavender fields and the distant Alps as it continues south. During the 14th century, the Provençal town of Avignon was the center of the Roman Catholic world. Its impressive legacy of ecclesiastical architecture most notably includes the soaring, World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes .

4. Western Danube (Austria & Germany)

Romantic landscapes in the heart of Europe

The baroque streetscapes and imperial palaces set the stage for Vienna ’s artistic and musical masterpieces alongside its coffee-house culture and vibrant epicurean and design scenes. Moving into Germany, the Danube gently winds its way to the Italianate city of Passau . Top billing in eastern Bavaria goes to Regensburg, a former capital and one of Germany’s prettiest and liveliest cities. Nuremberg (Nürnberg), Bavaria’s second-largest city and the unofficial capital of Franconia, is an energetic place with a history that ranges from undeclared capital of the Holy Roman Empire to the trials that judged Nazi war crimes.

5. Eastern Danube (Hungary & Serbia)

Travel a cross-section of Europe’s less-touristed east

The two great cities of this stretch of the Danube are the capitals of Hungary and Serbia respectively. Budapest has something for everyone – from dramatic history and flamboyant architecture to healing thermal waters. Outspoken, adventurous, proud and audacious: Belgrade ("White City") has a gritty exuberance and eclectic architecture making it one of Europe’s most happening cities today. While it hurtles towards a brighter future, its past unfolds before your eyes: socialist blocks are squeezed between art nouveau masterpieces and remnants of the Habsburg legacy contrast with Ottoman relics.

6. Douro (Portugal)

See spectacular terraced vineyards, the home of port wine

The Douro region, home to port wine, is simply one of the most glorious spots on earth. The Douro Valley showcases steep terraced vineyards carved into mountains, granite bluffs, whitewashed quintas (estates) and 18th-century wine cellars that draw visitors from around the world. Humble-yet-opulent Porto entices with its higgledy-piggledy medieval center, divine food and wine, and charismatic locals. Its charms are as subtle as the nuances of an aged tawny port, best savored slowly.

7. Elbe (Czech Republic & Germany)

A little-cruised but picturesque stretch of Central Europe

Covering the Czech Republic and a thick slice of eastern Germany, Elbe cruises are under-the-radar options. Prague , not on the Elbe but usually included on river cruises, contends with cities like Budapest and Paris in terms of beauty. Its maze of cobbled lanes and hidden courtyards is perfect for the aimless wanderer. The classic view of Dresden from the Elbe’s northern bank takes in spires, towers and domes belonging to palaces, churches and stately buildings: hard to believe that the city was all but wiped off the map by Allied bombings in 1945. While the city of Wittenberg is first and foremost about Martin Luther, the monk who triggered the German Reformation in 1517.

8. Seine (France)

Cruise out of Paris through northern France

Paris has a timeless familiarity, with instantly recognizable architectural icons, memorable cuisine and chic boutiques. Dining is a quintessential part of the Parisian experience, and its art repository is one of the best, showcasing priceless treasures in palatial museums. Don't miss Rouen is one of Normandy’s most engaging and historically rich destinations, with its soaring Gothic cathedral, beautifully restored medieval quarter, excellent museums and vibrant cultural life. At the mouth of the Seine, Le Havre is a love letter to modernism, evoking France’s postwar energy and optimism.

9. Main (Germany)

A seductive German river connecting to the Rhine and Danube

Rising in Franconia and joining the Rhine near Mainz, the Main (pronounced "mine") is the longest German-only river. From Bamberg to its confluence, it travels some 400km through locks and picturesque scenery, dotted with historic towns. Frankfurt ’s skyscrapers are quite a contrast to the picturesque towns that follow, though it too has a rather traditional and charming old town. Scenic Würzburg is renowned for its art, architecture and delicate wines. A disarmingly beautiful architectural masterpiece, Bamberg’s entire Altstadt is a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

10. Moselle (Germany)

An intimate stretch of the wine-producing German region

Having traversed France and Luxembourg , the Moselle heads through Germany to meet its destiny with the Rhine at Koblenz. It’s a very pretty stretch of river flanked by vineyards, and makes for great leisurely cruising and exploration. With an astounding nine UNESCO World Heritage sites, gorgeous Trier shelters Germany’s finest ensemble of Roman monuments, and is enlivened by a characterful medieval center and large student population. Bernkastel-Kues are lovely twin settlements in the heart of wine country, while Cochem’s castle and pretty buildings make it a visual highlight of the Moselle .

How do I choose a route for a European river cruise?

The two major rivers for European cruises are the Rhine and the Danube. Together, they were once the northern boundary of the Roman Empire. Rhine cruises often run from Amsterdam to Basel, following the course of the river through Germany. Danube cruises start in southern Germany, wend their way through Bratislava, Slovakia; Linz and Vienna, Austria; and Belgrade, Serbia; then skirt the Bulgarian and Romanian border to reach the Black Sea.

While many first-time European river cruisers stick to these two rivers, there are many other options available. In Western Europe, you can cruise through the French countryside on the Rhône and Seine, or check out the vineyards of Portugal on the Douro. 

Even on the same river, distinct routes can be offered. One company might zip up the Rhine, allowing you to see the highlights in a few days; another might take longer, exploring smaller places along the way and offering more time for onshore experiences. You'll need to decide whether you’d like to get a look at more destinations, or more of a feel for fewer places.

When is the best time to go on a European river cruise?

Cruises on European rivers tend to begin in the spring, around March, and go through to October. Some cruises, operating in areas where Christmas markets are a feature, run right through December but inclement weather or river flooding could put a dampener on plans. Winter cruises tend to focus on places where Christmas experiences are on offer. Shorter daylight hours mean you’ll see less scenery, but the charm of the festive season has its own appeal. 

Choosing your season is very much a matter of personal preference, and there are pros and cons for each season. Summer cruises offer the most spectacular scenery, the longest daylight hours and the best weather, but the towns you visit will be far busier and you won’t be alone in port; in some smaller places, you may have to scramble across the decks of other boats to reach the shore.

Spring and autumn mean less time around the pool on the top deck, but quieter times ashore. Expect rains in spring, but also blooming flowers. Autumn is a great time to cruise the Douro, with grapes being picked and clement temperatures.

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Sunset Sakura Cruise on Yakata boat, Hisui, at HOSHINOYA Kyoto

HOSHINOYA Kyoto, a ryokan in Arashiyama where all the guest rooms have a river view, will open the Sunset Sakura Cruise on an original Yakata boat, Hisui, starting from 25 March to 10 April 2022. This program is available to one group per day to spend a private viewing of the cherry blossoms from the Oi River of Kyoto whilst enjoying sake and wagashi, Japanese confectionery. Much like the nobles of the Heian period, who enjoyed boating while admiring the scenery of the four seasons of the valley, guests can spend an elegant time from Hisui, as one watches the cherry blossoms in the dusk dyed valleys of Arashiyama.

Background Cherry blossom viewing is said to have started in the Heian period when nobles at that time read waka poems under cherry blossoms while drinking sake. Since Emperor Kameyama transplanted hundreds of cherry trees from Mt. Yoshino in Nara Prefecture at the end of the 13th century, Arashiyama has been known as a place for cherry blossom viewing and popular as a destination amongst travelers. Heian nobles built vacation houses in Arashiyama and enjoyed boating with the scenery of the valley of the four seasons while reading waka poems and listening to orchestral music. We developed this activity with the hopes for guests to spend an elegant time looking at cherry blossoms in a quiet valley at dusk in Kyoto, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Characteristic 1: Viewing cherry blossoms in Kyoto on an elegant Yakata boat, Hisui In this activity, guests will be able to take a Yakata boat ride in Oi river, in front of HOSHINOYA Kyoto, to watch cherry-colored mountainsides of the valley. The cherry blossoms in Arashiyama have been selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 cherry blossom viewing sites. Since the slope of the valley is steep, it is characterized by gorgeous scenery where every single cherry tree of about 1500 trees such as Someiyoshino and Yamazakura stands out. Enjoy a private time for cherry blossom viewing under the warm lights of the sunset.

Characteristic 2: Enchanted by Spring wagashi, Japanese confectionery, and sake In spring, the nobles of the Heian period held gatherings to enjoy cherry blossoms with a glass of sake in hand and enjoyed fruits such as pears, persimmons, and chestnuts as side dishes. Japanese sake and Japanese confectionery served during this program reflect the taste of spring. Sake made from rice grown in the town of Ine in Kyoto called Ine Mankai, characterized by its red color, reminding us of spring, is served. An original Japanese confectionery specifically to match the red rice wine is made by Omuro Wagashi Itotatsu, a Japanese confectionery store in Kyoto. The cherry blossom-colored dried confectionery uses dried fruits such as strawberries and mango, as well as almonds, and is inside sticky rice. The sweetness and sourness of the fruitful sake, Ine Mankai enhances the slightly sweet flavor of the Japanese confectionery. The coming of spring can be identified through both sight and taste during an evening of cherry blossom viewing.

Characteristic 3: Elegant times on Yakata boat, Hisui Hisui is an original Yakata boat of HOSHINOYA Kyoto using materials and decorations that have long been familiarized in Kyoto. For example, Kitayama cedar and Japanese cypress used in residences of Kyoto create the boat's framework and throughout the boat, there are copper decorations that have been used as decorations for pillars and ceilings of temples since ancient times. The boat is surrounded by a traditional Japanese blind to create an elegant space similar to scenes depicted in Heian Emaki (picture scrolls of the Heian period). Moreover, the roof of the boat has a special glass that can be switched from opaque to transparent with a flick of a button so that guests can enjoy an expansive view of the glittering glow of the surface of the river.

Sunset Sakura Cruise in a glance Period: 25 March – 10 April 2022 Time: 5:20 pm to 6:10 pm Price: 36,300 JPY per group (includes tax and service charge) Price includes: private use of Yakata boat “Hisui”, Sake, Japanese confectionery Available: to guests staying at HOSHINOYA Kyoto Capacity: 1 group per day (maximum of 4 persons per group) Reservation: required a week in advance Others: ・In case of bad weather, the program may be cancelled ・Depending on the weather, the time may be subject to change

About HOSHINOYA Kyoto Address: 11-2 Arashiyama Genrokuzancho, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto 616-0007 Number of Rooms: 25 Check-in: 3:00 pm/Check-out: 12:00 pm Price: Starting from 134,000 JPY per night per room (includes tax and service charge, excludes meals) Directions: Approximately 10 minutes by walk from Arashiyama Station (Hankyu Line) Website: https://hoshinoya.com/kyoto/en/

About HOSHINOYA Brand Luxury hotel embodying the true characteristics of land, history, and culture HOSHINOYA is an accommodation with distinct themes, conceptualized from each location's land, history, and culture. Woven into these distinct themes is our attention to detail in every aspect from the design to hospitality; contributing to the creation of a one-of-a-kind world of HOSHINOYA. Enrich the heart with the epiphanies of travel through a unique stay experience.

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