Uwajima, Japan
Kiya Ryokan
Restored merchant inn
Restored merchant inn
Architect Yuko Nagayama turned the Meiji-era merchant inn into a living installation, blending preserved cedar beams with modern interventions.
What it’s good at
Remarkable
A 1911 registered tangible cultural property where novelist Ryotaro Shiba once stayed.
Notable
Transparent acrylic flooring inserts reveal the original Meiji-era timber framework above.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
It’s in the big picture, however, that Kiya most differs from the typical ryokan. Here it’s all or nothing — the whole house is let as a single unit, sleeping up to eight.
Somewhere quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Uwajima Castle sits a short walk away, and the surrounding streets are lined with quiet local restaurants.
The rooms
Upstairs, tatami bedrooms have hidden roll screens and subtle lighting, leaving the hundred-year-old joinery untouched.
The bath
An oversized deep soaking tub glows with color-changing LEDs, set against dark tiles beside seated washing stations.
How it began
Built in 1911 for traveling merchants, the inn once lodged touring actors and prime ministers before the city rescued it.
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.