5 Luxury Hotels in Asia For A Perfect Winter Holiday: Six Senses Kyoto, Andaz Shanghai To Ritz-Carlton Maldives

Winter is almost here and you should start planning a getaway. And winter in Asia can mean very different escapes: exploring Kyoto's lantern-lit streets in the cool season or trading winter layers for an overwater villa in the Maldives. For travellers planning their next luxury getaway, here are 5 luxury hotels in Asia to know before planning a winter holiday including Six Senses Kyoto, Capella Kyoto, Imperial Hotel Kyoto, Andaz Shanghai ITC and The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands. From heritage-rich Japanese neighbourhoods to contemporary city stays and private-island living, these addresses offer very different ways to spend your vacation.

5 Luxury Hotels in Asia for a Winter Holiday

Six Senses Kyoto, Japan

Located in Kyoto’s historic Higashiyama district, Six Senses Kyoto blends Japanese cultural influences with the brand’s signature wellness-led hospitality. Its 81 rooms and suites feature contemporary interiors inspired by local traditions, while the spa, seasonal dining at Sekki and restorative wellness experiences provide a welcome pause between temple visits and cultural excursions.

Room prices for Six Senses Kyoto start from US$1,002 per night, subject to booking conditions. 

Capella Kyoto, Japan

Opened in March 2026, Capella Kyoto brings contemporary luxury to Miyagawa-cho, a historic geisha district. Designed by Kengo Kuma, the hotel draws inspiration from traditional Japanese machiya townhouses, connecting its architecture with the surrounding neighbourhood. Its intimate atmosphere and cultural experiences make it an appealing base for exploring Kyoto’s temples, traditional streets and celebrated dining scene.

Room prices for Capella Kyoto start at US$1,452 per night, subject to booking conditions.

Imperial Hotel Kyoto, Japan

Set within the restored Yasaka Kaikan in Gion, Imperial Hotel Kyoto combines heritage architecture with contemporary hospitality. The historic building retains its cultural character, while the hotel’s 55 rooms offer a more intimate stay in one of Kyoto’s most atmospheric districts. Its location makes it particularly appealing for travellers interested in traditional arts, historic streets and the city’s culinary culture.

Room prices for Imperial Hotel Kyoto start at ¥189,800  per night, subject to booking conditions.

Andaz Shanghai ITC, China

For a more urban winter escape, Andaz Shanghai ITC offers contemporary design in the Xujiahui district. Opened in 2026, the hotel features 267 rooms and suites, with interiors that reference Shanghai’s cultural heritage. Its city views, dining options and access to shopping and cultural attractions make it a strong choice for travellers who prefer a lively city break.

Room prices for Andaz Shanghai ITC start at ¥54,000 per night, subject to dates and taxes.

The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands

For sunshine instead of winter chill, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands offers overwater villas, turquoise lagoons and an expansive choice of dining experiences. Guests can enjoy marine activities, spa treatments and the resort’s distinctive circular architecture, with personalised butler service adding to the sense of privacy.

Room prices for The Ritz-Carlton Maldives start at $2,470 per night; prices vary by dates and accommodation.

Picking the right hotel can define the entire holiday. These five stays, that provide an opportunity to explore cultural heritage, urban energy or the lagoons in the Indian Ocean, offer very different interpretations of luxury. They make the choice less about where to check in and more about the kind of winter escape that is really worth taking.