It's all about the views at this forest canopy-brushing meditation retreat. Located in Hyōgo prefecture on Awaji Island, Zenbo Seinei was imagined by the talented Pritzker Prize-winning architect Shigeru Ban. Picture an off-grid oasis of 18 temple lodgings, where huge windows frame epic vistas of the green forest blanket below, and a 100m-long sky deck (prepped for yoga classes and meditation sessions) offers 360-degree views of the rolling hills that cocoon the property. Interiors, meanwhile, look like something straight out of a Muji catalogue: prepare to sip matcha in your minimalist, all-wood bedroom, take time out in calming communal spaces and slip into the therapeutic waters of the on-site onsen. Hungry? There's an in-house restaurant serving fresh plant-based cuisine, with all dishes inspired by the four seasons and crafted without using any sugar, oil or dairy - detox, incoming.

Don't expect to spot Mario or Luigi here. Despite being housed in the former Nintendo HQ, this Kyoto boutique hotel has avoided obvious references to the video game franchise. Instead, 11 rooms and seven suites have been stylishly renovated by Japanese architect Tadao Ando to create an inviting, light-filled space - marble bathrooms, velvet wishbone chairs, standing lamps and extra-large potted plants all make for a comforting stay. There are, however, subtle nods to the building's heritage: window grilles engraved with details from old playing cards; a handsome library showcasing the history of Nintendo and its founders, the Yamauchi family. Spread across four buildings, a restaurant, bar, spa and gym are all at guests' disposal.

In the weeks before Covid put a stop to travel plans, we'd packed our suitcases ready for a stay at Sowaka, so we couldn't be more excited about finally visiting this elegantly restored ryokan. "Sowaka", which means "happiness" or "wellbeing", is a word of blessing often invoked at the end of Buddhist sutras and heard echoing through the temples of Kyoto. A sense of serenity is awakened as soon as you step into the 100-year-old former teahouse, where 23 all-wooden rooms - decorated with ancient ceramics and surrounded by private gardens - benefit from a soothing soundtrack of flowing water. Finer interior details include shoji screens, tatami mats and decorative carvings. Dining, meanwhile, is treated like an art form in itself, with an outpost of one of Tokyo's best-loved restaurants, La Bombance, at the property's core. Serving authentic Japanese cuisine with a contemporary touch, owner and chef Makoto Okamoto invites guests to discover the story behind each dish.

Alright, alright. Not a Hotel isn't set to grace Japan's hotel scene until summer 2023, but this round-up wouldn't be complete without spotlighting one of the world's hottest and most-anticipated openings. Situated on the tranquil island of Ishigaki, this Sou Fujimoto-designed sea-facing villa is nothing short of an architectural marvel: the circular-shaped structure is topped with a walkable meadow rooftop with its own pond and trees. Inside, a deep respect for nature continues: an earth-toned palette is complemented by floor-to-ceiling windows that offer undisturbed views across the surrounding turquoise waters. Accommodating up to 10 guests, the property's spacious dining area, four large bedrooms and sublime infinity pool make it a great crash pad for a getaway with your gang.

Nestled on the wild and rugged southern coastline of Kochi prefecture, The Mana Village is designed to offer guests a space for longer-term stays without skimping on luxury. As the name suggests, the newly opened property is more like a community than a hotel, with a local market, marine leisure area and stellar seafood restaurant all situated within the grounds. Rooms feel more akin to someone's private apartment than a pit-stop destination - picture open-air bathtubs, sweeping ocean views and fully equipped kitchens. Don't miss: 2023 will welcome the opening of an on-site farm, while a private villa area is due to open in 2024.

Asia's first Ace Hotel does not disappoint. Brought to life by architect Kengo Kuma and California's Commune Design, the converted telephone office has been reborn into a swanky 213-room bolthole. Designed to reflect the fabric of Kyoto's creative scene, art and sculpture is featured throughout, with works from 50 different local artisans displayed. There are eight different room types to choose from, each individually designed with thoughtful touches such as turntables, vintage radios, futon beds and Japanese soaking tubs. In true Ace style, this is more than a place to rest your head. Flit between a bar and taco lounge, rooftop Italian restaurant and traditional coffee house, book in for an afternoon tea session or join party people at a set performed by the resident DJ.

Calling all creatives: we've found the ultimate hideout. Priding itself as a base at which local and upcoming artists can explore, discover and create, Kyoto's 18-key Kagan Hotel has an entire floor decked out with atelier supplies, music studios and gallery spaces - available to guests to use on weekdays. Rooms are uncluttered and comfortable, with beds dug into the floor and wood-panelled ceilings. Don't expect super-swanky amenities; do expect an ideal opportunity for recharging your batteries and getting the creative juices flowing.