
Located just three hours from Tokyo by shinkansen, ...
- Feb. 10. 2025
Exploring local cuisine is one of the most rewarding aspects of traveling through Japan. Each region boasts a distinctive culinary identity, shaped by its unique climate, geography, and traditions. For travelers seeking a deeper connection to Japan’s culture, dining is not just about the food—it’s about experiencing the history and essence of the place. From seafood fresh from the coast to seasonal produce from lush farmlands, these destinations offer unforgettable culinary experiences that reflect the best of Japanese hospitality.
Here are some of Japan’s top hotels and ryokan where the food is as remarkable as the stay itself. Whether you’re indulging in fresh seafood, savoring local vegetables, or enjoying traditional dishes crafted with time-honored techniques, these properties promise to elevate your culinary journey.
Minamiuonuma, Niigata
Set in the heart of one of Japan’s top rice-growing regions, Minami-Uonuma in Niigata Prefecture, Satoyama Jujo The House offers an authentic escape that immerses guests in the flavors of the land. Every meal here features freshly steamed rice from Minami-Uonuma, which is home to some of the finest rice in Japan. Guests can also indulge in hot pot dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of the region.
This 150-year-old farmhouse-turned-ryokan blends rustic charm with modern luxury, offering a tranquil countryside retreat where guests can enjoy the region’s flavors in a setting that embodies the best of rural Japan.
Akanko Onsen, Hokkaido
No visit to Hokkaido is complete without savoring its celebrated seafood, and Akan Tsuruga Besso Hinanoza offers a chance to indulge in the region’s freshest catches. Enjoy dishes featuring Hokkaido’s signature hairy crab, delicate sea urchin, sweet shrimp, and seasonal saury, all prepared with the utmost care to highlight their natural flavors.
Located near the scenic Lake Akan, this ryokan offers more than just a meal—it’s an experience that immerses guests in the flavors of Hokkaido’s waters, with each dish being an authentic reflection of the region’s bountiful marine life.
Arita, Saga
Dining at Shukubo Shingetsu is a true feast for the senses. Situated in Arita in the Saga Prefecture—a town famous for its historic porcelain production—local dishes are served on the exquisite Arita ware, elevating the dining experience to an art form. Here, guests can savor a variety of local delicacies from land and sea, each beautifully presented on handcrafted porcelain pieces that tell a story of the region’s cultural heritage.
For those enchanted by the beauty of Arita’s porcelain, many pieces are available for purchase, allowing guests to take home a unique souvenir that represents both the culinary and artistic traditions of the area.
Yamashito, Ishikawa
Winter at Araya Totoan means the chance to enjoy Ishikawa Prefecture’s renowned brand crabs, prized for their rich, umami-packed flavors. For seafood lovers, the “crab course” offers a comprehensive feast, showcasing the finest crab dishes. Those seeking a more refined meal can enjoy a kaiseki experience enhanced by charcoal-grilled and boiled crabs.
This historic ryokan, with a legacy spanning 18 generations, offers a rare opportunity to indulge in Ishikawa’s best seafood in a setting where traditional elegance meets modern luxury.
Japan’s diverse regions offer a wealth of culinary experiences from the freshest seafood to vegetables harvested from richest farmlands. Whether it’s the refined elegance of traditional kaiseki or the heartwarming comfort of a hot pot, every meal offers a glimpse into the local culture.
For travelers, these culinary experiences are more than just meals—they are a gateway to discovering the soul of Japan, one dish at a time. If you’re planning a trip to Japan, make sure to indulge in the unique flavors of each region and experience the best of Japanese cuisine at these exceptional hotels and ryokan.
Photo credit: Masayuki Sakamoto