Japan has been named one of Vogue's 12 Best Places to Travel in 2026, with the magazine pointing to a mix of long-awaited reopenings and new additions that give travelers fresh reasons to return.
In Tokyo, the Park Hyatt Tokyo has reopened after a 19-month renovation. Known to many for its appearance in Lost in Translation, the hotel remains a draw for both overnight guests and visitors who stop by for an evening drink. The New York Grill & Bar on the 52nd floor is once again open, offering city views and live jazz without needing to book a room.
Kyoto will see the opening of Capella Kyoto in spring 2026. Located in the Miyagawa-cho area, the luxury hotel is set inside a former school that has been converted using local materials and traditional craftsmanship. The property will include townhouse-style accommodations, a Japanese counter restaurant built from salvaged school materials, and a French brasserie.
Further south, Shuri Castle in Naha is scheduled to reopen in fall 2026. The site, a UNESCO World Heritage landmark and former center of the Ryukyu Kingdom, has been undergoing reconstruction since a major fire in 2019.
Beyond these headline openings, Japan's appeal in 2026 lies in its range. Travelers can move easily from major cities to rural hot spring towns, from ski resorts in the mountains to subtropical islands in the south. Historic and spiritual destinations such as Mount Koya continue to draw visitors looking for something slower and more reflective, while food, seasonal events, and regional travel remain strong reasons to explore beyond the main tourist centers. As Vogue notes, it's this mix of culture, landscape, and constant renewal that keeps Japan firmly on the list of places worth revisiting.
