Six epic hotels in Japan — including Kyoto’s best-kept secret (for now)

More home from home than hotel, Maana Homes is a collective of carefully designed stays scattered across historic Kyoto. In each of their three properties (which range from a reimagined machiya to a modern townhouse just minutes from Gion District), you’ll find a handful of suites, each individually outfitted with considered touches, and contemporary Japanese influences: think globe-like washi paper lanterns, and natural stone bathtubs. This may be a self-catering stay, but it has all of the touches of a luxury hotel, with fragrant scents, luxe body lotions, and homemade snacks to welcome you. There’s also a boutique where you can purchase ceramics and artworks from local artisans, a cafe serving all-day brunch, and newly launched event space Maana Atelier, for taking part in fermentation workshops and traditional tea ceremonies.