**[Beniya Mukayu, Yamashiro](https://www.mrandmrssmith.com/luxury-hotels/beniya-mukayu|target="_blank"|rel="nofollow"):** A hot-spring ryokan with 16 rooms, this traditional property is run by luxury hotel chain Relais & Châteaux and is located in the spa town of Yamashiro, outside Kyoto. Authenticity is key at this peaceful property, where every room has its own private open-air hot spring bath. You can wear custom-designed yukata (a light cotton kimono) during your stay, undertake tea ceremonies and yoga lessons and enjoy traditional ryokan food.