Where to stay: The most beautiful new hotels in Asia

The Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan is itself already a dream destination that tops the travel lists of many. AndBeyond Punakha River Lodge provides another irresistible reason to visit. Situated in Punakha, northeast of Thimpu, the valley location of the property presents restful views of the Mo Chu River and the mountains beyond. As an ode to traditional Bhutanese architecture and the scenic locale, the property comprises six safari-style tented suites and two private-pool villas.

Beyond visiting the nearby famed Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten landmark, the hotel can arrange outdoor excursions that encourage you to soak in the beauty of nature. Do everything from trekking and swimming to mountain biking and kayaking while enjoying riverside picnics and paddy field lunches in between. You’ll be partaking in moveable feasts—guests will get to dine al fresco in the most idyllic spots hand-picked to make city dwellers forget the urban bustle.

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Take the luxuriant foliage of the tropics and match it with the allure of glamorous speakeasies—that’s the sight that greets you at The Singapore Edition, a 204-room hotel that is one of the buzziest venues in the city. Realised in partnership with Marriott International, the first Southeast Asia outpost by Edition Hotels is housed in a bronze-and-glass facade designed by Safdie Architects and DP Architects, and flaunts sophisticated interiors that represent the signature style of the luxury hospitality group.

Through an immersive environment created by hotelier Ian Schrager in collaboration with Cap Atelier, it’s easy to feel like you’ve been transported to another realm, even with the hotel’s close proximity to the Orchard Road shopping district. Step inside its marble-floored lobby and be greeted by the sight of abundant greenery, a gold leaf-covered dome ceiling and a grand Venetian plaster spiral staircase.

Further surprises await: the Punch Room bar catches the eye with its striking Yves Klein blue, while The Roof courtyard bar presents a tranquil poolside environment matched with garden views. Then, check into any of the bright and airy rooms, which are lined with plush white rugs and clad in oak-planked flooring; these soothing spaces will provide plenty of modern minimalist décor ideas for your own home, too.

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Wind down after a day exploring the city in the comfort of your room and admire Tokyo’s cityscape from this well-placed Hyatt hotel in the 266m-tall Toranomon Hills Station Tower. Designed by Danish studio Space Copenhagen, all 205 modern minimalist rooms and suites come with enviable views and a Japanese-style bathtub that invites you to indulge in a pampering soak. Two spacious duplexes measuring 1,722 sq ft each provide the ultimate flexibility for private events and luxurious stays, with versatile dining, entertaining and rest areas.

In between your city jaunts, venture to The Lounge, a lofty multifunctional space with a six-metre ceiling and facilities that include showers, relaxation areas and complimentary refreshments.

Then, dine at Le Pristine Tokyo, which is helmed by Dutch chef-entrepreneur Sergio Herman and serves a contemporary menu featuring a thoughtful blend of Dutch ingredients and seasonal Japanese produce; the notable chef also oversees all food and beverage offerings, including the hotel’s breakfast selection.

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Edgy, eclectic, youthful and modern, The StandardX Melbourne channels the fun-loving spirit of the Standard hotel group—as evidenced by the latter’s choice locations and activity-filled programming—with gusto. Launching this February, the first outpost of this new hospitality concept serves as the younger sibling of the titular The Standard Hotels and embraces the colourful history of Melbourne’s artistic Fitzroy enclave. From browsing nearby vintage stores to all-night bar hopping, there is much to do outside before you retire to one of the hotel’s 125 minimalist rooms.

Enter through a revolving door that leads to a lofty lobby with columns playfully wrapped in macrame by local artist Sarah Smalltown. Here, the walls are adorned with Brisbane artist Dane Lovett’s paintings, and paired with an inspiring mix of antique and custom furnishings.

On the top floor is The Roof, where guests can enjoy sweeping views while relishing Mexican dishes by executive chef Justin Dingle-Garciyya.

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Journey to Rissai Valley, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve, a stunning resort in Jiuzhaigou, China that soars above picturesque sights of alpine mountains, turquoise lakes, verdant forests and majestic waterfalls. Designed by American architectural firm WATG, its 87 villas are arranged as an “endless Tibetan knot” in the style of a traditional local village.

Its interiors, realised by the late, great Indonesian design legend Jaya Ibrahim, are clad in a rich mix of hues that draws inspiration from local craft traditions and Jiuzhaigou’s gem-hued lakes and waterfalls. John Pettigrew’s landscaped garden completes the restful look, featuring indigenous plants to complement the extraordinary mountain views.

A dedicated host for each villa will see to the finer details of your stay, while making arrangements for everything from meditation sessions, outdoor meals and adventurous hikes to cultural sessions with Tibetan folk dance and music. Its infinity pool is the perfect spot for a scenic swim; families will also appreciate the kid-friendly indoor and outdoor facilities and activities that will keep the little ones entertained throughout their stay.

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The ancient city of Kyoto has always held a longstanding allure among travellers, with its traditions, cultural heritage and historical landmarks intrinsic to its irresistible charm. Ensconced in Kyoto’s Gion and Higashiyama “geisha” district, this hilltop property celebrates the city’s rich artistic roots with a Noh stage as its most unique feature—it is currently the first and only hotel in Kyoto with such a cultural venue, and is situated beside the bamboo forest that leads up to the famous Kiyomizu-dera temple.

Launching later this year, Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto comprises 52 rooms with views of the surrounding greenery and historical streets. The architectural design by Kengo Kuma & Associates has been built around the mature trees on the site, with the structure kept compact while preserving the original stone retaining wall on the compound.

The guest room interiors by Hashimoto Yukio Design Studio are crafted with natural materials and modern Japanese elements, while the public areas by Design Worldwide Partnership adopt a similarly understated aesthetic aimed at emphasising the location’s tranquil atmosphere.

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