12 Recommended Retreat Hotels: A Luxurious Trip to Rejuvenate Mind and Body with a "Do-Nothing" Approach

First of all, what exactly is a retreat?

First, let me explain what a "retreat" is in an easy-to-understand way.

The meaning and purpose of retreat

"Retreat" means,A new style of stay that allows you to maintain your mind and body in an extraordinary space.That's what it is. Unlike a typical trip, it's not a trip to do something specific.

Originally meaning the "withdrawal" of troops, the term has since come to refer to a "hideaway" or "recuperation." Overseas, the term "wellness retreat" is also common, and both terms refer to a stay in a quiet environment to rejuvenate the mind and body.

The main focus of a typical trip is enjoying "external stimuli" such as sightseeing, gourmet food, and shopping. On the other hand, the main focus of a retreat is "time to confront oneself." The aim is to slowly heal a tired mind and body through relaxation such as nature, Hot springs, Food, and yoga.

If travel is a "trip with a packed schedule," then a retreat is a "trip to deliberately create time to do nothing." In other words, a retreat isA journey to detoxify your mindThat's right.

Why Retreats are Necessary in Modern Society

Those who lead busy lives especially need "time to do nothing." This is because, even when modern people think they are resting their bodies, their minds tend to remain constantly active.

It's a precious day off, but every time you look at your smartphone, you see work-related messages. Tasks are constantly lurking in the back of your mind. Household chores you've been putting off are piling up. I'm sure many people are in this situation.

Now more than ever, retreats are gaining attention. By putting yourself in a quiet environment away from smartphones and computers, your mind, which may have been occupied by thoughts, can become clear.The luxury of "doing nothing"That is precisely the kind of rest we need right now.

Even though it's called a retreat,There are no rules on how to spend your time.Whether you choose to spend time alone quietly reflecting on yourself, or visit with someone and each enjoy the experience at your own pace, this freedom is one of the unique charms of a retreat.

How to choose a retreat hotel that will soothe your mind and body

A retreat hotel is a place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and heal your mind and body amidst abundant nature. In Japan, the number of accommodations specifically designed for retreats has been increasing in recent years. However, while the number of attractive options is expanding, choosing the right one can be a difficult decision.

Here, we've compiled four key points for choosing a retreat hotel that will satisfy adults.

[Location] An environment surrounded by the sounds of nature

When choosing a retreat hotel, first and foremostCheck if the location is surrounded by nature.Try it.

For example, natural sounds that reach our ears. According to the Ministry of the Environment, birdsong can reduce stress and irritation, and the sound of flowing water is said to have the effect of promoting positive feelings.

The same applies to the scenery we see. Some studies have shown that gazing at a forest increases the activity of the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps to alleviate stress.

Whether you see a sterile, concrete cityscape outside your window, or lush nature like forests and the sea, that difference has a greater impact on the quality of your mental and physical rest than you might realize.

Therefore, when looking for a retreat hotel,The location is important, especially if it is surrounded by nature.This is how it comes down to.

[Activity] Confront yourself through "stillness" and "movement"

One of the greatest pleasures of a retreat is the time you spend reflecting on yourself through the experience. When choosing accommodation,We will also be paying attention to whether it is possible to have a "stillness" experience to calm the mind and a "movement" experience to move the body.Let's try it.

For example, "static" Activity such as yoga and meditation are said to help reduce stress and anxiety. On the other hand, "active" Activity such as forest bathing, which involve immersing oneself in nature and engaging all five senses, should not be overlooked. Some studies even suggest that just a 15-minute walk in the forest can have a relaxing effect.

Yoga, meditation, forest bathing, stargazing, etc.Are there any programs that allow me to confront myself?This is another point worth checking out. Ideally, you should be able to experience both "tranquility" and "activity" within the hotel and in the surrounding nature.

[Food and Hot springs] Detox from the inside and out

In a retreat, there are two essential elements for refreshing the mind and body from the core."Food" and "Hot springs"Therefore, when choosing accommodation, check whether it satisfies both of these conditions.

First, let's talk about "food." When traveling, we tend to focus on luxurious Food, but at a retreat...Food that is gentle on the stomach and intestinesThis is important. The key point is whether they offer locally sourced ingredients and healthy menu options.

And then there are "Hot springs." Since ancient times,Hot springs serve the purposes of "rest" to allow the body to relax, "health maintenance" to maintain health, and "therapy" to treat illnesses.It has been said that... It's a good idea to check if there are facilities to soothe the five senses, such as natural hot springs with free-flowing water and spa treatments.

The quality of a retreat largely depends on whether both Food that nourish the body from the inside and Hot springs that soothe the body from the outside are well-provided.

[Space] Lounges and Guest rooms that allow you to "do nothing."

The last thing to check is,A space that accepts "doing nothing."The question is whether or not it exists.

The key to a successful retreat is to avoid over-scheduling. That's why having a place where you can simply relax and do nothing is so important in determining how comfortable your stay will be.

Some retreat hotels intentionally omit televisions and clocks from their Guest rooms. It's also desirable to have places to relax outside Guest rooms, such as a library where you can immerse yourself in a book, or a lounge with a fireplace where you can watch the flickering flames.

Whether the space, both inside and out, offers a truly relaxing environment is the key to getting a quality rest.

Take a deep breath in the midst of nature at this forest and plateau retreat hotel.

First, let me introduce four retreat hotels nestled in forests and highlands. Imagine being surrounded by the rustling of trees and the sounds of birds in a forest, or the clearer the air as you ascend to the highlands. Why not rediscover your true self in such an extraordinary natural setting?

[Nagano Prefecture, Minamimaki Village] Yatsugatake Kogen Lodge

Located about 40-45 minutes from the Nagasaka IC or Sutama IC on the Chuo Expressway, Yatsugatake Kogen Lodge is a highland resort nestled in the magnificent natural surroundings of the Yatsugatake Mountains at an altitude of 1,500m. Its vast grounds feature charming wooden buildings such as a music hall and mountain lodges.

All 68 Guest rooms have large windows.You can enjoy the changing scenery of the forest throughout the seasons from the comfort of your room.That's its biggest appeal.

One of the great things Food is that you can choose from a variety of Restaurant serving seasonal local ingredients to authentic French Restaurant, depending on your mood. If you make a reservation, they can also prepare a lunch box that's perfect for enjoying during your nature walks.

Within the vast grounds, there are a variety of trails, from leisurely walks where you can enjoy the changing seasons to full-fledged hiking courses.Enjoy the great outdoors in the crisp, clean air.Yes, you can. Depending on the season, we also hold stargazing events at Nobeyama Plateau, one of Japan's three best stargazing spots, where you can enjoy a sky full of stars. Through these experiences, you can connect with nature at your own pace without feeling pressured.

[Tochigi Prefecture, Nikko] KAMENOI HOTEL OKUNIKKO

Located in Oku-Nikko, a pleasant area with an average high temperature of around 25 degrees Celsius even in summer, KAMENOI HOTEL OKUNIKKO is about a 40-minute drive from Nikko Station. With Lake Yunoko right in front of the hotel, and Lake Chuzenji and Senjogahara nearby, it boasts a natural environment perfect for a retreat.

The biggest attraction is undoubtedly the Hot springs water of Okunikko Onsen."Cloudy hot spring water" is a type of hot spring where the colorless, transparent spring water turns milky white when exposed to air.Its distinguishing feature is that you can enjoy bathing in the open-air bath while gazing at the night sky.

For dinner, we offer a buffet featuring a wide variety of Japanese, Western, and Chinese dishes made with plenty of ingredients from Tochigi Prefecture. You can enjoy local specialties such as "Nikko Yuba" (tofu skin) and "Kate Soba" (buckwheat noodles), as well as locally sourced pork steak and more.

One of the highlight Activity is the "Stargazing Retreat Experience."Oku-Nikko, with its high altitude and minimal light pollution, is one of the best stargazing spots in the Kanto region.Why not try restoring your mind and body's balance under a sky full of stars?

[Yamanashi Prefecture, Hokuto] KIYOSATO KOGEN RESORT

Located at an altitude of 1,470m on the southern slopes of the Yatsugatake Mountains, KIYOSATO KOGEN RESORT is a resort hotel that reopened in May 2026 with the concept of "A Sky-High Blue Retreat - Calm Blue -". It is about 20 minutes from the Sutama IC and Nagasaka IC exits of the Chuo Expressway. The plateau where the hotel is built, overlooking the Yatsugatake Mountains and the Southern Alps, is a cool and tranquil environment even in summer.

Befitting this privileged location, you can enjoy a French course Food that makes use of local ingredients from Kiyosato, such as Koshu wine beef and highland vegetables.

The foothills of the Yatsugatake Mountains are one of Japan's leading locations for astronomical observation.The hotel has an observatory and a planetarium.It is done,Observation sessions led by star guides and planetarium shows with content that changes seasonally.You can enjoy it.

In addition to the large public bath, Hot springs facility also boasts a special open-air bath crafted from 250-year-old Akita cedar, where the blue sky and lush forest are reflected during the day, and the glittering stars are reflected at night. Surrounded by the scent of wood, you can contemplate the vast universe. This, too, is a moment of luxurious retreat.

[Kumamoto Prefecture, Aso] KAMENOI HOTEL ASO

Standing on a hill overlooking Aso Five Peaks with Sensuikyo Gorge behind it, is the KAMENOI HOTEL ASO. It's about a 50-minute drive from Kumamoto IC, and a free shuttle bus service is available from Aso Station. All Guest rooms are designed to offer panoramic views of Aso mountain range, and simply gazing out at the scenery provides a sense of liberation and escape from the everyday.

Hot springsSensuikyo Onsen, Hot springs with its own sourceThe facility also features two types of saunas, a cold plunge pool using natural groundwater, and a dedicated relaxation space. You can thoroughly rejuvenate your mind and body while being caressed by the pleasant breeze of Aso.

Food features a wide variety of dishes that make the most of local produce, including Kumamoto's famous horse sashimi, fresh trout, and vegetables grown with natural groundwater. Another great feature is that you can enjoy freshly prepared dishes served from the live counter.

Furthermore, there are yoga experiences that are easy for beginners to try, and a relaxing "bonfire night" surrounded by flickering flames,Retreat-oriented Activity are also held regularly.Why not take some time to regulate your breathing while being embraced by the vast land of Aso?

A detox stay by the sea and lake, soothed by the sound of water.

Next, we'll introduce four retreat hotels located near the sea or a lake. The gentle lapping of waves, the lake surface reflecting the sky like a mirror—water is said to have a mysterious power to heal the human heart. Listen to the soothing sound of water and spend some time reflecting on yourself at a beautiful waterside accommodation.

[Nagano Prefecture, Tateshina] TATESHINA LAKE RESORT

Located on the shores of Lake Megami TATESHINA LAKE RESORT is a highland resort where guests can enjoy panoramic views of the lake's surface reflecting the sky and Mount Tateshina towering in the distance from Guest rooms and open-air baths. In January 2026, the resort was renovated with the concept of harmony with nature, which is important in the Nordic lifestyle. It is Access by car in about 40 minutes from the Suwa Interchange on the Chuo Expressway.

This inn offers a unique retreat experience.A sauna incorporating Scandinavian styleSoaking in an open-air bath while gazing at the lake, sweating it out in the sauna, and enjoying the cool mountain breeze will leave you feeling refreshed in both body and mind.

The inn also prides itself on its Food, which expresses the rich terroir of Shinshu. You can experience the vitality of this land with all your senses, from fresh highland vegetables grown by local farmers and local sake to tastings of venison and wagyu beef.

A variety of Activity unique to the lakesideThese are also worth noting. For example, a nature walk at dusk or a stargazing walk with a stargazing guide. Because it's a quiet night, soothing sounds like the sound of water and birdsong are even more pleasant, making it perfect for connecting with nature.

[Chiba Prefecture, Kamogawa] KAMENOI HOTEL KAMOGAWA

KAMENOI HOTEL KAMOGAWA a resort hotel in Minami-Boso offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. It's just a 5-minute walk from the popular Kamogawa Sea World and about a 5-minute Access from Kamogawa Station.

The two hot springs are the heart of the retreat.From the panoramic public bath on the 7th floor, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Pacific Ocean, while the garden-style public bath on the 1st floor allows you to soak in the bath surrounded by a pine forest shimmering with sunlight filtering through the trees.Soaking in the hot springs while listening to the sound of the waves and gazing at the scenery seems like it would melt away the stresses of everyday life.

Food are,Japanese, Western, and Chinese buffet or kaiseki (traditional multi-course) mealYou can choose from the following: The buffet offers approximately 60 dishes, mainly local specialties such as namero (minced fish dish) and kinmedai (golden snapper) dishes. For kaiseki (traditional multi-course Japanese dinner), a luxurious special course is available where you can enjoy abalone, spiny lobster, and locally produced Kazusa Wagyu beef.

While you can enjoy marine Activity at the hotel, doing absolutely nothing is also a great way to experience a retreat. You can stroll along the Maehara-Yokohama beach, selected as one of "Japan's Top 100 Beaches," or retreat to Guest rooms Guest rooms by lush pine trees or one overlooking the sea. At night, you can be captivated by the flames of the fireplace in the courtyard. You can spend time reflecting on yourself however you like.

[Shizuoka Prefecture, Atami] Hotel New Akao

About a 60-minute drive from the Atsugi Interchange on the Tomei Expressway. Located in the scenic Nishikigaura area, “Hotel New Akao” offers breathtaking views—registered as a UNESCO Global Geopark—from every corner of the property.

The inn features three “Hot springs” (hot spring baths), each fed by a different natural spring from the Atami Hot springs. However, the one we highly recommend isAn infinity Hot springs where you can feel as if you're one with the sea.This is "Sparium Nishiki." The view of Sagami Bay from the open-air bath is simply breathtaking. The feeling of merging with the sea makes it the perfect space for self-reflection.

Food include a buffet featuring seasonal ingredients from Shizuoka, as well as French and Japanese cuisine, offering a variety of genres. While choosing locally sourced and seasonal dishes, try to be mindful of the amount and timing of your meals.

While staying at the hotel, you can also enjoy a wide range Activity perfect for a retreat.Morning yoga while enjoying the sea breeze.Through activities like these, it's important to have time to feel closer to nature. With all the necessary facilities available, it can be said that this is a suitable adult accommodation for a secluded retreat where you can relax your mind and body without leaving the premises.

[Aichi Prefecture, Irago] Irago Ocean Resort

Located about 90 minutes by car from Hamamatsu-Nishi Interchange, Irago Ocean Resort, situated at the tip of the Atsumi Peninsula, is an ocean-view hotel where all Guest rooms offer views of either Ise Bay or Mikawa Bay.

The hotel's main attraction is,Infinity open-air bathIn an overwhelmingly open and unobstructed environment, you can soak in the bath while gazing at the ever-changing scenery, such as the sunrise, sunset, and starry sky. In addition to reclining baths and saunas, the women's area also features a bedrock bath, and the men's area has a high-concentration carbonated spring, which is another great feature.

For dinner, you can choose between the prefecture's largest buffet Restaurant with a live kitchen, or Restaurant offering authentic course meals.Enjoy vegetables from the Atsumi Peninsula and seafood from Mikawa Bay in a relaxed setting with ocean views.can.

The area around the hotel boasts numerous natural attractions such as Koijigahama Beach and Hinode no Ishimon Gate, offering a pleasant experience even with just a stroll while listening to the sound of the waves.

Related article: A relaxing trip to Hot springs with ocean views! 7 hotels where you can unwind while enjoying breathtaking scenery

A unique experience and secluded retreat to sharpen your five senses.

Finally, we introduce four secluded retreat hotels where you can have a unique experience. Nature, Hot springs, Food, and Activity—each accommodation has its own distinct character, making it the perfect escape from the ordinary. Sharpen your senses through special experiences that can only be found here.

[Shizuoka Prefecture, East Izu] Atagawa Ocean Resort

"Atagawa Ocean Resort" boasts excellent Access, being directly accessible from Tokyo Station by the limited express train "Saphir Odoriko" to Izu-Atagawa Station, and then only about a 5-minute walk from the station. Despite this,A private space with nothing but the sea and sky in front of you.The view expands. All Guest rooms are oceanfront with views of the Pacific Ocean, making it the perfect hideaway for adults who want to escape into peace and quiet.

The baths use natural Hot springs from Izu Atagawa, known as the "Miracle Hot Spring." In the open-air bath, you can fully enjoy the vast ocean, the sound of waves, the scent of the sea, and the sea breeze.

And a unique experience that this inn offers is its oceanfront pool overlooking the sea. The sense of openness as the pool appears to stretch seamlessly to the horizon is reminiscent of an overseas resort. The three days before and after the full moon are especially known as "moon road days," when you can enjoy the fantastic sight of the moon rising over the horizon. The pool also has long operating hours, making it perfect for a quiet retreat in the morning or evening.

Food are,Enjoy a buffet or set course meal featuring fresh seafood from Izu at Restaurant overlooking the ocean.You can choose from several options. There are also dedicated Guest rooms where you can stay with your dog, making it an attractive place to spend a quiet time with your beloved family member.

[Tochigi Prefecture, Yunishigawa] KAMENOI HOTEL NIKKO YUNISHIGAWA ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORT

Nestled in a corner of the secluded Yunishigawa Onsen Hot springs in northern Kanto, the "KAMENOI HOTEL NIKKO YUNISHIGAWA ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORT" is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes from Asakusa Station to Yunishigawa Hot springs Station by Tobu Limited Express, and then about 20 minutes by bus from Yunishigawa Hot springs Station. Completely cut off from the hustle and bustle of everyday life,Mountain hideawayIt's a Hot springs inn like that.

One of the unique features of this inn is,All-inclusive package: Food, drinks, and Activity during your stay are included in the accommodation price.It's part of the design. Even if you want to enjoy a drink in the lounge after your bath, you can relax and do as you please without worrying about your wallet.

Our pride and joy is our Hot springs, a renowned spring where it is said that refugees from the Taira clan healed their wounds. With a pH of 8.4, the mildly alkaline water is gentle on the skin and is also known as a beauty-enhancing spring. You can enjoy the breeze in the open-air bath overlooking the mountains in all four seasons, or sweat it out in the sauna surrounded by the scent of wood, providing a complete relaxation experience.

While you can enjoy a variety of hotel Activity, staying in your room is also a luxurious way to spend your time. This hotel is also recommended for those who want to thoroughly refresh their mind and body without leaving the premises at all.

[Tokyo, Ome] KAMENOI HOTEL OME

Located about 10 minutes by free shuttle bus from Ome Station, "KAMENOI HOTEL OME" stands on the banks of the clear waters of the Tama River.A hotel surrounded by nature that you wouldn't expect to find in Tokyo.From Guest rooms, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the mountains and river, and when you open the window, you can hear the sound of the flowing water.

Our pride and joy is Hot springs,Aoume Ayumi no Yu is characterized by its smooth Ome texture.In addition to a large observation bath overlooking a clear stream, there is also a semi-open-air bath where you can feel the breeze regardless of the weather. We also recommend combining your bath with a visit to the authentic Ayurvedic spa "SPA Ojas" to improve your circulation. The synergistic effect will give you an even greater sense of detoxification.

For Food, we offer exquisite kaiseki cuisine using ingredients sourced from Tokyo, such as Akigawa beef and Edo-Tokyo vegetables. We also have Guest rooms you can stay with your dog and Activity you can enjoy together, so you can experience a "dog retreat" where you can refresh your mind and body together.

This is a rare hidden gem where you can enjoy a truly authentic nature-filled retreat right in the heart of Tokyo, without having to travel far.

[Kagoshima Prefecture, Kirishima] Kirishima Kokusai Hotel

Located about 30 minutes by car from Kagoshima Airport, Kirishima Kokusai Hotel is easily Access, yet upon arrival, you'll find yourself in a secluded world enveloped in the Kirishima mountain range and rising steam from hot springs.

The main attraction of this inn is, without a doubtEnjoy over 10 different baths with free-flowing, cloudy hot spring water.Among them, the open-air bath in the forest allows you to enjoy both the beautiful scenery reminiscent of a Japanese garden and forest bathing at the same time. In June 2026,Kirisuna, a sand bath Hot springs that is rare even nationwide.It's now open. This inn offers a unique experience: soaking in sand in a Hot springs resort nestled in the mountains.

The views from Guest rooms are exceptional. Many rooms offer views of Sakurajima volcano beyond the rising steam, making it perfect for a secluded stay where you can quietly connect with nature.

For dinner, you can choose between a kaiseki (traditional multi-course) meal featuring Kagoshima Kuroge Wagyu beef and Kurobuta pork, as well as seasonal local ingredients, or a buffet offering approximately 90 different dishes. Through the hot springs and food, you can enjoy a luxurious time immersing yourself in the powerful blessings of the volcano with all your senses.

Summary

When you're constantly busy, even if you think you've had a good rest, you might still feel exhausted. That's when a retreat to step away from your daily routine and focus on your mind and body might be just what you need.

This time, we introduced a variety of unique retreat hotels, from forest and plateau accommodations where you can take a deep breath amidst nature, to seaside and lakeside accommodations where you can be soothed by the sound of water, and secluded accommodations that sharpen all your senses.

Relax your body in Hot springs or spa, savor the blessings of the land, and connect with yourself in a tranquil environment. Every accommodation offers the perfect opportunity to pamper yourself after a hard day's work.

The important thing is not to cram your schedule, but to deliberately create time to do nothing. Using the accommodations introduced here as inspiration, why not embark on a retreat trip to rejuvenate your mind and body?

Related article: Enjoy the luxury of doing nothing during a staycation! 8 recommended accommodations