#Japan #Tokyo #OMATSURI BASE #Minpaku EXPO #Best of Minpaku

Unveiling Japan's Best Minpaku at the BEST OF MINPAKU 2026

On February 23, 2026, the highly anticipated competition, 'BEST OF MINPAKU 2026,' took place at Makuhari Messe, recognizing the finest minpaku (private lodging), vacation rentals, and glamping experiences across Japan. Hosted by accommodation experts Keisuke Sakakibara and Natsuki Tajiri, this event celebrated remarkable facilities while enhancing the image and appeal of the minpaku industry.

Simultaneously, the 'Minpaku EXPO JAPAN 2026' event drew many attendees, showcasing the latest trends in minpaku business, vacation rentals, and glamping, and facilitating valuable exchanges among industry professionals. The goal of the contest is not only to award outstanding accommodations but also to foster growth across the minpaku sector, thereby promoting cultural exchange and tourism in Japan.

Out of 1,495 entries, the contest crowned OMATSURI BASE Nakanoshimbashi as the grand prize winner. This unique facility, located in Nakano Shimbashi, Tokyo, is designed for inbound visitors to immerse themselves in Japanese culture. With a focus on Japan's various traditional festivals, the accommodation aims to provide a sensory experience through its innovative design.

Unique Features of OMATSURI BASE Nakanoshimbashi

At OMATSURI BASE, guests can enjoy a special room designed around a Mikoshi Bed, allowing them to feel as if they've stepped into a festival atmosphere. The room is illuminated by the warm glow of lanterns, creating an enchanting ambiance that elevates the experience.

The venue also offers a Yen-Yoko zone on the rooftop, allowing visitors to engage with cultural festivities through various interactive activities, ensuring that both adults and children leave with smiles. With the integration of local crafts, such as the collaboration with the Takasaki Daruma for custom daruma dolls sold in the OMATSURI STORE, guests can take home unique souvenirs that serve as cherished memories of their trip.

To enhance the festival spirit, the facility provides free rental of traditional festival attire for guests to wear during their stay, making experiences like the Yen-Yoko even more memorable.

More Than Just a Stay

OMATSURI BASE is not just about accommodation; it's a complete cultural immersion. Collaborating with local bathhouses, they offer special bathhouse experience sets to provide guests with opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation during their stay. This holistic approach to hospitality not only enriches the visitor experience but also underscores the facility's commitment to authenticity and local culture.

Celebrating the Leading Facilities

The contest promotes excellent minpaku and vacation rental facilities, and the results are eye-opening. Other top contenders included:

• - Villa Costa del Sol Awaji: Winner of the Best Villa category.
• - GAJU CAMP: Top in glamping and camping categories.
• - EL SUENITO HINASE: Leading onsen stay winner.

These awards reflect the richness and diversity of available accommodation options in Japan, encouraging travelers to explore unique lodging experiences throughout various regions.

Promoting Industry Growth

The BEST OF MINPAKU contest, now in its third iteration, aims to uplift the minpaku sector by sharing successful business models and trends through events like the Minpaku EXPO JAPAN. The organizers are committed to supporting development across the hospitality industry, fostering connections between accommodation providers, tourists, and local communities.

With an unwavering dedication to highlight the warmth and individuality of small-scale lodging options, the contest envisions a future where the unique charm of Japan's lodging landscape becomes a major player in global tourism.

As we celebrate the winners and participants of the BEST OF MINPAKU 2026, the hosts, Sakakibara and Tajiri, are hopeful and excited about collaborating with all operators to further enhance the minpaku field in Japan.