Machiya
Machiya are traditional Japanese townhouses, especially in Kyoto, but also found in Naraijuku, Kanazawa, Takayama, and Kurashiki. Although construction ceased after the 1950 Building Standards Act, many historic machiya remain, offering visitors a glimpse into Japan’s architectural heritage. Check our list of machiyas for a memorable vacation!
4-Star
Fabulous(39 reviews)9.0
Early Modern & Colonial Expansion
Every historic hotel tells a unique tale of its time. From Renaissance’s Gothic cathedrals to Japanese simplicity, each location reflects the culture, way of life, and architectural style of its era. This property belongs to Early Modern & Colonial Expansion. Click to know more about this period.
Shimogyo-ku Minamikyogoku-cho 74-1, 600-8117 Kyoto, Japan
Mentioned in a 1203 diary entry of Fujiwara Teika, hailed as one of the four greatest Japanese poets
Ryokans
Ryokans are traditional Japanese inns known for native architecture, authentic cuisine—especially kaiseki-ryouri dinners—and serene onsen baths. Often run by the same family for generations, they preserve Japan’s rich hospitality heritage and offer an immersive cultural experience Choose a ryokan from our list for an authentic experience!
5-Star
Superb(982 reviews)9.1
Ancient to Early Medieval
Every historic hotel tells a unique tale of its time. From Renaissance’s Gothic cathedrals to Japanese simplicity, each location reflects the culture, way of life, and architectural style of its era. This property belongs to Ancient to Early Medieval. Click to know more about this period.
Holds a Michelin Green Star for its sustainability effortsAwarded three Michelin Stars for its restaurant
Boutique Hotels, Chain Hotels
Chain hotels are known by their brand names, offering quality through standards set by their parent companies. However, older ones still deliver something unique for guests, such as bespoke cultural and regional experiences. If you're looking for a hotel that combines reliability with rich historical and cultural significance, explore our list of chain hotels.
5-Star
Very good(32 reviews)8.2
Industrial & Imperial Era
Every historic hotel tells a unique tale of its time. From Renaissance’s Gothic cathedrals to Japanese simplicity, each location reflects the culture, way of life, and architectural style of its era. This property belongs to Industrial & Imperial Era. Click to know more about this period.
Located within the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, home to India's broad leaf oak trees and unique wildlife
Boutique Hotels, Villas & Guesthouses
Villas and guesthouses offer privacy and scenic locations. Guesthouses are commonly smaller and tend to have a practical layout and design, while villas are grander, boasting amenities such as hot tubs, game rooms, and private pools. For a private yet budget-friendly stay, browse through our curated list of historic villas and guesthouses.
4.5-Star
Very good(5 reviews)8.2
Early Modern & Colonial Expansion
Every historic hotel tells a unique tale of its time. From Renaissance’s Gothic cathedrals to Japanese simplicity, each location reflects the culture, way of life, and architectural style of its era. This property belongs to Early Modern & Colonial Expansion. Click to know more about this period.
The Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary P.O. Ayarpani District Almora Uttarakhand India P.O. Ayarpani District Almora Uttarakhand India, 263601 Almora, India
Boutique Hotels
Although smaller that most mainstream and chain hotels, boutique hotels offer standout touches like eye-catching decor, unique experiences, and personalized services. Many heritage properties are given a makeover to turn into charming boutique hotels. If you want a one-of-a-kind stay, check out our curated list of heritage boutique hotels!
4-Star
Fabulous(68 reviews)8.9
Industrial & Imperial Era
Every historic hotel tells a unique tale of its time. From Renaissance’s Gothic cathedrals to Japanese simplicity, each location reflects the culture, way of life, and architectural style of its era. This property belongs to Industrial & Imperial Era. Click to know more about this period.
Registered as Tangible Cultural Properties Heritage of Industrial Modernization (Main Building, Comfy Lodge, Restful Cottage, and Flower Palace)Winner of the Good Design Award 2023 for Industry and Commercial FacilityWinner of the Excellence Award in the 64th Kanagawa Architectural Competition, General Building Division
Boutique Hotels
Although smaller that most mainstream and chain hotels, boutique hotels offer standout touches like eye-catching decor, unique experiences, and personalized services. Many heritage properties are given a makeover to turn into charming boutique hotels. If you want a one-of-a-kind stay, check out our curated list of heritage boutique hotels!
5-Star
Superb(2025 reviews)9.1
Industrial & Imperial Era
Every historic hotel tells a unique tale of its time. From Renaissance’s Gothic cathedrals to Japanese simplicity, each location reflects the culture, way of life, and architectural style of its era. This property belongs to Industrial & Imperial Era. Click to know more about this period.
One of the World’s Best Hotels and Best Hotel in Delhi in both the UK and US Condé Nast Traveller 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards
Historic Hotels
Recognized for their venerable age and for being steeped in history, heritage hotels are seen as icons in their locality. They are often emblematic of certain time periods due to the architecture, or for hosting significant events. They are differentiated further from modern hotels by providing meaningful cultural experiences. Take a look at our recommendations!
5-Star
Superb(1545 reviews)9.5
Interwar & Early Modern Heritage
Every historic hotel tells a unique tale of its time. From Renaissance’s Gothic cathedrals to Japanese simplicity, each location reflects the culture, way of life, and architectural style of its era. This property belongs to Interwar & Early Modern Heritage. Click to know more about this period.
Janpath Ln, Janpath, Connaught Place, New Delhi, Delhi 110001, 110001 New Delhi, India
Served as a filming location for the 1966 movie La Réligieuse Recognized with a Michelin Star for its on-site restaurant, Le RestaurantRecognized with MICHELIN Green Star for sustainable gastronomy
Boutique Hotels
Although smaller that most mainstream and chain hotels, boutique hotels offer standout touches like eye-catching decor, unique experiences, and personalized services. Many heritage properties are given a makeover to turn into charming boutique hotels. If you want a one-of-a-kind stay, check out our curated list of heritage boutique hotels!
5-Star
Very good(157 reviews)8.4
High Medieval to Renaissance
Every historic hotel tells a unique tale of its time. From Renaissance’s Gothic cathedrals to Japanese simplicity, each location reflects the culture, way of life, and architectural style of its era. This property belongs to High Medieval to Renaissance. Click to know more about this period.
First ecotourism destination in Vestland countyMember of De Historiske - Hotel og Spisesteder
Historic Hotels
Recognized for their venerable age and for being steeped in history, heritage hotels are seen as icons in their locality. They are often emblematic of certain time periods due to the architecture, or for hosting significant events. They are differentiated further from modern hotels by providing meaningful cultural experiences. Take a look at our recommendations!
4-Star
Superb(251 reviews)9.3
High Medieval to Renaissance
Every historic hotel tells a unique tale of its time. From Renaissance’s Gothic cathedrals to Japanese simplicity, each location reflects the culture, way of life, and architectural style of its era. This property belongs to High Medieval to Renaissance. Click to know more about this period.