These New Hotels in Asia Are Definitely Worth Your Visit

As Asia emerges from the pandemic, the excitement for travelers dreaming of the region is palpable. Beyond this reopening, there's even more to celebrate: a multitude of stunning new hotels have launched across the continent, offering breathtaking settings, innovative designs, rich cultural experiences, and a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability. Read on to start your planning journey.

Japan

Featured hotels: KAI Yufuin, KAI Poroto, Ritz-Carlton, Nikko, Roku Kyoto

In mid-October 2022, Japan reopened its borders to independent international travelers without the need for a visa. With a selection of new hotels throughout the country, guests now have exciting options to explore beyond just Tokyo.

In 2022, Japan's Hoshino Resorts broadened the appeal of its cozy hot springs ryokan brand KAI, featuring rejuvenating waters and exquisite kaiseki meals. Located in Oita Prefecture on the onsen-rich Kyushu Island, KAI Yufuin was crafted by renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, showcasing expansive windows and tatami floors made from the island's unique shichitoi grass. One room type features woven ceiling lights that mimic the gentle flicker of fireflies, while serene open-air spaces overlook rice terraces that change hues with the seasons.

Situated on Hokkaido's southwestern coastline, KAI Poroto was envisioned by innovative architect Hiroshi Nakamura to celebrate the Indigenous Ainu culture, featuring cone-shaped bathhouses elevated on tripod log bases. The 42 guest rooms, adorned in neutral tones, reflect traditional Ainu artistry through patterned designs and carvings, with three rooms offering outdoor baths.

Nestled within a UNESCO World Heritage site near the sacred Mount Nantai, the Ritz-Carlton, Nikko debuted with a unique hot spring experience and is the first Ritz-Carlton to include its own onsen. The property boasts 94 guest rooms finished in natural wood and stone, each with a balcony and large windows that frame stunning views of either the lake or mountains. To the north of Kyoto, the minimalist Roku Kyoto features 114 guest rooms that overlook the lush Takagamine Mountains. Guests can partake in hands-on workshops with artisans specializing in traditional ceramics, paper-making, and tea ceremonies.

Indonesia

Featured hotels: Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape, Lost Lindenberg, Nirjhara, Jumeirah Bali, Elang Private Residence, Orient Jakarta

Many of Bali’s newest accommodations invite travelers to explore beyond the typical tourist routes. Nestled in the jungle 12 miles north of Ubud, Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape is situated along the Ayung River, offering views of a nearby waterfall and a series of volcanoes. This adults-only retreat exemplifies the harmony of indoor and outdoor living, featuring 16 private balés, elevated pavilions constructed from reclaimed local ulin wood, completely open to nature. A zero-waste, farm-to-table restaurant focuses on mostly plant-based Balinese dishes, sourcing all ingredients from within an hour's drive. Further west, on a deserted black-sand beach along the island’s coastline, the eight-room Lost Lindenberg attracts those seeking a communal atmosphere with plant-based meals, surf lessons, and electric bike rentals.

Just 15 minutes from the iconic Hindu temple Tanah Lot, Nirjhara features 25 unique accommodations, including treehouses and suites with waterfall views. The resort's spa offers four treatment rooms and two Finnish saunas, along with two-hour blessing ceremonies inspired by local traditions such as Nyepi and Saraswati. Along the stunning shores of Dreamland Beach—known to locals as Cimongka—the 123 pool villas at Jumeirah Bali are designed in a captivating blue and white color scheme, with streams and fountains throughout the property paying homage to the Javanese Hindu water palaces of the Majapahit Empire from the 13th to 16th centuries.

Located on a private island resort northeast of Singapore, Bawah Reserve reopened in fall 2022, now featuring an additional isle, Elang Private Residence. This eco-friendly residence, powered by a floating solar farm, includes six cliffside lodges designed by Singapore's Sim Boon Yang, utilizing sustainable materials like handwoven rattan and recycled copper. Meanwhile, in Indonesia’s bustling capital, the Orient Jakarta, crafted by Bensley, showcases maximalist wall designs alongside modern art, Javanese antiques, and sculptural woven ceilings. The 72 luxurious guest rooms feature freestanding bathtubs with city views and vibrant batik wall decorations.

Vietnam

Featured hotels: Regent Phu Quoc, Capella Hanoi

Located in southern Vietnam, the newly opened Regent Phu Quoc is nestled on the country’s largest island, a tropical paradise off the coast of Cambodia. The resort harmoniously combines modern design with elements of Vietnamese culture, featuring bathrobes that tell the story of Phu Quoc through depictions of pearls, peppercorns, and koi fish. Guests can enjoy 302 suites and villas where conveniences like artisanal snacks, rice cookers, yoga blocks, and playing cards are just a button away. The accommodations are arranged around expansive pools and tranquil beaches, complemented by five dining options, including the Vietnamese eatery Rice Market and a rooftop gin bar.

Capella Hanoi places guests right in the bustling heart of city life. Located near Hoan Kiem Lake, the hotel offers prime views of delectable street food and early morning scenes of locals engaged in their daily exercise routines. The luxurious spaces, also conceived by Bensley, feature 47 uniquely decorated suites adorned with memorabilia from local performers and artists, as well as a mirrored subterranean swimming pool. Be sure to experience an evening at the hotel’s Japan-inspired Akio, a zero-waste bar and sake lounge where bartenders hand-cut ice for each cocktail and mist their indoor herb garden with leftover Perrier.

Thailand

Featured hotels: The Standard Mahanakhon; The Standard, Hua Hin; Capella Bangkok; Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River; InterContinental Khao Yai Resort

Bangkok’s creative scene is thriving, showcased through the vibrant walls and unique shops of its new hotels. One of the latest additions is the Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon, which opened in late summer 2022, featuring 155 colorful guest rooms and suites adorned with curvy furnishings and expansive picture windows. The welcoming staff sport bold monochromatic uniforms by local designer Fah Chak WO+MAN, and the gift shop features whimsical rattan stools from the up-and-coming furniture brand Kitt.Ta.Khon. Guests can indulge in the hotel's quirky activities—think astrology sessions and themed bingo—alongside six dining options, including an outpost of Hong Kong's renowned Mott 32, serving dishes like applewood-roasted Peking duck. This marks the second property for the Standard hotels in Thailand, following the opening of a 199-room beach resort in the former fishing village of Hua Hin in 2021.

For those seeking a resort-like atmosphere in the city, the new Capella Bangkok and Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River offer just that, both situated along the scenic river. The 299-room Four Seasons features several acclaimed dining options, including the Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant Yu Ting Yuan. The Urban Wellness Centre provides SUP Muay Thai classes in the pool, while the ART Space by MOCA Bangkok showcases exhibitions from emerging Thai artists. Meanwhile, at the more intimate Capella, large-scale local artworks adorn the lobby and tea lounge, and the 101 glass-fronted accommodations include rooms with river-view balconies and waterfront pool villas. At the resort’s riverside restaurant, Phra Nakhon, chef Kannika Jitsangworn crafts Thai classics like yum som-o pla (Thai pomelo salad) and tom yum soup in a charming indoor-outdoor setting.

Approximately 120 miles northeast of Bangkok, adjacent to the UNESCO-listed Khao Yai National Park, the InterContinental Khao Yai Resort draws inspiration from the opulent train travel of the 19th century during King Rama V’s era. This latest project by renowned Bangkok designer Bill Bensley opened in September 2022 on 47 lush acres featuring five serene lakes. The check-in area mimics a vintage ticket counter, and all 64 accommodations incorporate elements of railroad nostalgia with vintage signage. Be sure to request one of the 19 suites and villas crafted from upcycled railcars and train carriages sourced entirely from Thailand.

Mongolia

Featured hotel: Nomadic Expeditions Wilderness Camp

In July 2022, Nomadic Expeditions Wilderness Camp launched a unique way to experience the central regions of Mongolia, known for its stunning landscapes inhabited by three nomadic groups.

From late May to late September, as approximately 900 families migrate through the Tsambagaray mountain pastures, guests can stay in 10 solar-powered gers, traditional Mongolian tents decorated with intricate textiles and heated by wood-burning stoves. The camp is staffed entirely by locals from the Bayan-Ulgii province, employing individuals from over 40 households. Visitors can learn traditional archery from the Uriankhai group and discover animal husbandry and dairy practices from the Uuld people.

A highlight not to be missed is spending a day with Kazakh eagle hunters, who share their deep knowledge of falconry, a practice with ancient roots in Mongolia. Between enjoying meals of Kazakh, Mongolian, and fusion cuisine in the dining ger, guests have the opportunity to explore the breathtaking landscape on foot or horseback.

India

Featured hotels: Six Senses Fort Barwara, Raffles Udaipur

In October 2021, the 48-suite Six Senses Fort Barwara opened its doors in Rajasthan, about three hours south of Jaipur. The nearly decade-long renovation of this 14th-century fort emphasizes sustainability, incorporating hidden solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems. Each of the 48 suites includes newly added courtyards and elaborate jharokas (traditional stone windows) that reflect Rajasthani culture. The expansive spa offers a mix of Ayurvedic, Eastern, and Western healing practices, housed in the former Zenana Mahal, a section of the palace designated for royal women. Guests can enjoy tiger spotting in Ranthambore National Park, partake in guided hikes or mountain biking, or visit nearby villages. On-site activities include cooking classes and workshops such as candle making or pottery with fifth-generation artisans at the environmentally focused Earth Lab.

Located in Rajasthan, Raffles Udaipur is set on its own 21-acre island within Udai Sagar Lake, accessible via a battery-powered boat. The architecture beautifully blends Rajput and Mughal influences, showcasing iconic jali screens, local artisan craftsmanship, and vibrant murals in its 101 guest rooms. At Sawai Kitchen, chefs creatively reinterpret Rajputana cuisine using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, each dish accompanied by a story, like the Mewari warrior specialty Rajputana Kheeri Nalli (featuring goat brain, lamb shank, and Bhavnagiri chiles). The nearly zero-waste Writers Bar offers champagne, caviar, and classic cocktails, surrounded by dark wood paneling and a collection of around 1,000 books, while the serene white and pink spa provides treatments inspired by the region's ancestral healing practices.

Maldives

Featured hotels: Joali Being, Patina Maldives

Among the newest additions to the Indian Ocean's private island resort scene is Joali Being, a nature-focused sanctuary located in Raa Atoll. Designed by Autoban and Atolye4N, the resort adheres to biophilic and conservation-minded principles, ensuring minimal disruption to its lush surroundings, which include a tropical rainforest. The 68 villas, available either on the beach or overwater, feature calming tones of greens, pinks, and browns that reflect the island's waves, shorelines, and forest. Each villa is attended by a personal jadugar, meaning magician in Maldivian, who enhances guest experiences, whether through snorkeling excursions or spa days that include a sound therapy hall and a sensory deprivation room.

Last May, Patina Maldives welcomed ambitious sustainability efforts, live musical performances, and dive butlers to the North Malé Atoll. Designed by Brazilian architect Marcio Kogan, the resort features 110 beach suites and overwater villas crafted from natural materials that seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor spaces. A notable highlight is an installation by American light and space artist James Turrell, a pavilion constructed from vertical wooden slats that frames stunning views of the Maldivian skies. The solar-powered kids' club, Footprints, allows children to replicate the modular building techniques of the resort by creating 3D-printed and laser-cut models from recycled ocean plastic. The staff village, known as Fari Campus, is situated on its own island, designed to promote well-being and community among employees, featuring ample communal areas, a state-of-the-art gym, a store, and a restaurant.