WHEN it finally reopened its borders to independent foreign travellers and reinstated visa-free entry, Japan became an immediate favourite destination for Malaysian travellers.
Airbnb reveals that 85 per cent of Malaysians are keen to travel to the Land of the Rising Sun, with two out of three travellers planning to visit destinations outside the major cities.
From the tranquil woods of Nagano, to stylish buildings on the bustling streets of Tokyo, or even quaint heritage homes amidst cherry trees and temples in Honshu — Japan is a hot destination on international travellers' bucket lists.
Here's a list of the top wishlisted homestays in Japan at five top searched destinations to help you plan your perfect getaway.
NAGANO
For an outdoor winter wonderland, Nagano, located in the central Chubu region, is a perfect pick!
Surrounded by mountains, the city hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics and Winter Paralympics.
Mount Takatsuma, one of the most well-known Japanese mountains that rises to a height of 2,353m, is one of Nagano's tallest mountains.
The neighbouring Mount Iizuna is a popular skiing destination and is also where the spiral, the bobsleigh and luge circuit for the Winter Olympics are situated.
Where to stay:
Check out Matt And Maya's one-bedroom secluded cabin in Iizuna, which is ideal for couples or a family of four. Located in a pristine wooded area at an altitude of 1,300m, this elegant log cabin features a wood-burning stove, large TV, Blu-ray/DVD player and full kitchen. Guests can enjoy hiking, skiing, BBQ, golf and onsen baths in the area.
Another amazing pick is Go's tiny home overlooking a superb view of Lake Nojiri. Don't be fooled by the tiny home category, as the house can fit six guests. It features a wood-burning stove, sauna and a water bath with stunning views.
IWATE
For those seeking old traditions, Iwate, located in the Tohoku region of Honshu, is one of the best places for such an experience.
The prefecture, which has a unique historical and cultural heritage, was once ruled by powerful samurai until the 1870s.
From shrines to temples and breathtaking gardens, the prefecture has plenty of things to discover, including traditional handicrafts such as hand-carved spoons, pottery, ceramics and many more.
Where to stay:
Experience living in a rustic farm house in one of the city's World Heritage sites, Hiraizumi.
Hosted by Kiku, you will be staying in a private room of a traditional hut with a unique interior. The private room offers Japanese-style tatami living, ideal for three people.
While you're there, enjoy the charms of the countryside and experience a truly local lifestyle.
TOKYO
Although Tokyo is an ultramodern destination, the city has some amazing traditional experiences to offer including some unique historical temples.
Where to stay:
There are also plenty of amazing traditional homestays such as Yadoya's luxury home located in Taito City just 11 minutes walk to Asakusa station.
Newly built, this luxury Japanese house has a special garden terrace as well as a wooden open-air bath. It's a romantic home, perfect for couples.
However, Japanese is all about minimalist living and here in Tokyo which is one the most expensive cities to even own a property due to the high cost of living, is all about modest small houses.
Also located in Taito City, this minimalist home by Yanaka Sow offers simple studio living provided basic amenities including spacious space complete with kitchen including stove, refrigerator, wifi and workstation.
Ideal for a group of four, this home has a sleek looking interior with dark walls and dark wooden furniture - modern and Instagramable!
HOKKAIDO
Hokkaido which is located in the northernmost part of Japan is one of Malaysians' favourite go-to destinations for winter holidays.
But, the region is more than just a snowy destination. Hokkaido's summertime temperature is only about 20 degrees Celsius, making it a pleasant and cool time to visit - not too hot and not too freezing.
The destination also offers stunning nature and the best time to see Furano's colourful flower fields.
On top of that, there are some quaint little homes, very Instagram-worthy stays for your getaway.
Where to stay:
* Tida House, hosted by Yuya, is definitely a must visit!
Located in the countryside of Koshimizu City, in the eastern part of the island, the handmade (self-built) strawbale house looks almost like in a comic, with very detailed decorations.
Despite being a traditional looking home, the house has two single beds, and provides cooking facilities including toaster, microwave oven and a refrigerator.
* Muji is quite a huge brand in Japan, and very popular in Malaysia too. And if you're into the minimalist lifestyle brand, you might want to check out their new collaboration staycation home.
In order to promote new and inventive forms of vacation lodging in cities all around the country, Airbnb has partnered with Muji Japan to renovate vacant homes and government-owned real estate, with Muji-designed and style complete with Muji timber furniture and the brand's tableware, cooking utensils, and home appliances. Currently, there's two of this inspired homes located in Shimizu-cho, Hokkaido.
Snatch affordable rates room using Agoda Discount Code on your booking in Japan.
