How Hotels Are Ranked in Japan: A Complete Guide to Understanding Japanese Hotel Classification

When planning a trip to Japan, one of the most important considerations is where to stay. Japan offers a wide range of hotels, from ultra-luxurious 5-star establishments to budget-friendly business hotels. But how hotels are ranked in Japan? Unlike many other countries, Japan doesn’t have a universally standardized system for classifying hotels. Instead, the rankings vary, with multiple organizations and systems involved. In this article, we will explore how hotels are ranked in Japan, the criteria used by different ranking organizations, and how these classifications can help you make informed decisions when booking your accommodation.

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Who Ranks Hotels in Japan?

Japan’s hotel ranking systems are influenced by several factors, including international standards, local tourism needs, and even traditional hospitality practices. The system is not as straightforward as the typical star-rating system you might find in Europe or the United States. Instead, there are several different ranking systems used by various organizations, including government agencies and private sector bodies.

1. Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)

One of the main organizations in Japan that helps tourists make accommodation decisions is the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO). The JNTO provides general guidelines and information on hotels across the country, including their classifications. While they do not officially assign star ratings to hotels, they offer resources that help travelers identify properties that meet international standards.

The JNTO recognizes both traditional Japanese inns (ryokan) and Western-style hotels, and its website often provides valuable information regarding amenities, services, and hotel types. It is especially useful for travelers unfamiliar with Japan’s diverse hotel offerings.

2. Japan Travel Bureau (JTB)

The Japan Travel Bureau (JTB) offers a more detailed rating system for hotels, which is widely respected in Japan. JTB assigns classifications based on several factors, including location, guest facilities, and quality of service. Hotels are rated on a scale from 1 to 5, with 1-star properties offering basic amenities and services, and 5-star properties providing the highest standards of luxury and comfort.

JTB’s ranking system takes into account the unique characteristics of traditional Japanese ryokan as well. For instance, these establishments are often rated based on their adherence to traditional hospitality practices, such as offering tatami mats, futons, and communal baths (onsen). This makes JTB’s rating system highly useful for travelers who are looking for an authentic Japanese experience.

3. Forbes Travel Guide

The Forbes Travel Guide is an internationally recognized institution that assigns stars to hotels worldwide, including those in Japan. The Forbes Travel Guide evaluates hotels based on over 900 criteria, focusing on guest services, facilities, and the overall guest experience. Many high-end hotels in Japan have been awarded Forbes stars, with some achieving the coveted 5-star rating.

Forbes offers a comprehensive assessment, which includes factors like the quality of food and beverage services, the professionalism of staff, and the luxury of the hotel’s amenities. As a result, hotels that receive a Forbes star rating are considered to meet the highest international standards.

4. Michelin Guide

While the Michelin Guide is traditionally associated with restaurants, in recent years, it has also begun evaluating hotels. Michelin’s hotel distinction, the Michelin Key, has covered hotels and ryokan in Japan since 2024. The Michelin Guide’s hotel ratings are based on similar criteria to its restaurant reviews, focusing on comfort, service, and the overall guest experience.

The first Michelin Key selection for Japan was published in July 2024, and top hotels and ryokan in Tokyo, Kyoto and elsewhere received one, two or three Keys. This new system adds an extra layer of credibility for travelers seeking luxury accommodations.

5. Local Tourism Associations

In addition to national organizations, many local tourism associations in Japan assign their own hotel classifications. These ratings are generally used to promote local tourism and provide visitors with a better understanding of what to expect from hotels in specific regions. For example, the Kyoto City Tourism Association offers guidance on local hotels, categorizing them based on factors such as guest satisfaction, service quality, and traditional features of ryokan accommodations.

Local associations typically do not assign official star ratings but rather use labels or categories like “recommended” or “luxury” to help travelers make informed choices. These classifications are particularly useful for tourists who want to explore Japan’s unique regions and enjoy authentic local experiences.

Key Types of Hotels in Japan

Japan offers a variety of hotel types, each catering to different types of travelers. Understanding the different categories can help you choose the best hotel for your trip.

1. Business Hotels

Business hotels are one of the most popular types of accommodation in Japan. They are typically budget-friendly and designed to meet the needs of business travelers. Business hotels are compact, functional, and provide basic amenities, such as free Wi-Fi, a work desk, and a simple breakfast. These hotels are often rated with 2 or 3 stars and are ideal for travelers who need a place to sleep and work but don’t require luxury amenities.

2. Luxury Hotels

Luxury hotels in Japan are often associated with high-end international brands like The Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons, and Shangri-La. These hotels offer premium amenities such as spa services, fine dining, and concierge services. They are typically rated with 4 or 5 stars and are perfect for travelers looking for a luxurious experience. Many luxury hotels in Japan also offer traditional Japanese experiences, such as onsen baths and gourmet kaiseki meals.

3. Ryokan (Japanese Inns)

Ryokan are traditional Japanese inns that provide a unique and immersive cultural experience. These establishments often feature tatami mats, futons, and sliding doors, and they may also have communal baths or private onsens. Ryokan are highly regarded for their warm hospitality and authentic atmosphere. Their ratings are often based on the level of traditional service they offer, with top-tier ryokan receiving 5-star ratings from organizations like JTB and Forbes.

What Influences a Hotel’s Ranking in Japan

Several factors influence how hotels are ranked in Japan. Understanding these factors can give you insights into what makes a hotel stand out.

1. Service Quality

Japanese hospitality, known as “omotenashi,” is a key element in hotel rankings. Hotels that provide exceptional service, such as attentive staff, personalized experiences, and attention to detail, tend to receive higher ratings. Service quality is a major consideration for organizations like Forbes and Michelin when assigning stars.

2. Amenities and Facilities

The range and quality of amenities offered by a hotel significantly impact its ranking. Hotels that offer upscale facilities, such as fitness centers, spas, and fine dining options, are often rated higher. Traditional ryokan also focus on offering specialized amenities like onsen baths, seasonal meals, and cultural activities, which play a big role in their classification.

3. Location

The location of a hotel is also an important factor. Hotels in major cities like Tokyo and Kyoto tend to receive higher ratings due to their proximity to popular tourist attractions, transportation hubs, and business districts. On the other hand, ryokan and boutique hotels located in more rural areas may receive lower ratings, but they are often praised for their tranquility and connection to nature.

4. Guest Experience

Guest reviews and satisfaction are increasingly important in hotel rankings. Hotels with positive online reviews and high ratings on platforms like TripAdvisor or Booking.com often receive higher rankings. A hotel’s reputation for delivering memorable experiences, whether through personalized service or unique offerings, can elevate its status.

If you want to stay somewhere traditional, read my onsen and ryokan guide and my stay at Ueyama Ryokan.

Once you know how hotels are classified, the next question is location. My guide on where to stay in Tokyo compares the best neighbourhoods, typical prices and airport connections.

Japan Hotel Ratings FAQ

Conclusion

Understanding how hotels are ranked in Japan is crucial for making an informed decision when booking your accommodation. However, it’s important to recognize that you can’t fully trust the star ratings alone. Japan’s hotel ranking systems are diverse and vary by organization, and there’s no universal standard that guarantees consistency. The lack of stringent regulations means that hotels may self-assign stars without any third-party checks. As a result, you may find a 4-star hotel with limited amenities and another with a much higher level of service, yet both carry the same rating.

This lack of oversight is due to the absence of an official government-mandated hotel star rating system in Japan. There is no official star rating from the Japan Tourism Agency or any other government body. Hotels and ryokan (traditional inns) are often classified by private organizations, but these classifications can vary widely and may not be as reliable as those in other countries. Furthermore, the primary legal framework governing hotel operations in Japan is the Inns and Hotels Act (Hotel Business Act), which sets standards for operation but does not mandate a specific star rating system (japaneselawtranslation.go.jp).

This means that when booking a hotel, you are left to trust the hotel’s self-assigned stars, and it’s up to you to do your own research. While the ranking systems provide valuable insights into the quality and services you can expect from different types of hotels, they are not foolproof. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly business hotel, a luxurious international brand, or an authentic ryokan experience, it’s essential to go beyond the star ratings. Reviews, location, amenities, and guest experiences play a crucial role in determining the true quality of your stay.

By considering the rankings and factors discussed in this guide, and balancing them with other sources of information, you can ensure that your stay in Japan aligns with your expectations and enhances your overall travel experience. Always remember, in Japan’s current system, you’re often left to trust the hotel’s self-assigned stars, and it’s up to you to dig deeper into independent assessments and reviews.