1. Best hotel: Houshi
A traditional hot-spring ryokan in the Hokuriku region, Houshi claims to be the world's oldest inn, dating back to 718AD. Expect oodles of fresh local seafood, hot pools and age-old hospitality. ho-shi.co.jp
2. Best guesthouse: Shojiko Traditional Village
A rustic back-to-nature farm at the
base of Mount Fuji with two tatami rooms and a treehouse. Help out on
the biodynamic farm then relax at the nearby Yurari Onsen hot springs. earthembassy.org
3. Best organic restaurant: Mominoki House, Tokyo
Using produce from his organic farm, Mominoki's owner and chef prepares
a simple menu, including steamed organic Orara perch, fresh wakame seaweed and king prawn with sea urchin, and the finest organic sake. www2.odn.ne.jp/mominoki_house
4. Best for adventure: One Life Japan
Strap on a pair of Japanese kanjiki (bamboo snowshoes) and head off into the wintry wilds on a backcountry tour where you'll learn to build a kamakura (snow cave) then spend the night in it. onelifejapan.com
5. Best for wildlife: Yanbaru Ecology Tour
Head to the island of Okinawa for some of Japan's best snorkelling, diving and kayaking. Learn about Japan's varied wildlife on a half-day kayak trip (guided by locals from the small Higashi village) through some of the island's most precious mangroves. gesashi.com
Richard Hammond is the founder of greentraveller.co.uk and co-author of Great Escapes (£12.99, Rough Guides)
