See all sides of Japan at these welcoming hotels

There are two sides to Japan. Travelers marvel at the advanced technology and infrastructure — it's often said the country is "living in the future" — but this is also a place bound by tradition and formalities. Experience it all by traveling to Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and other major cities while also visiting spots with a slower pace, like Okinawa and Hakone. Here are eight hotels to check out in the center of both worlds, including capsule properties and historic ryokans.

Asaba Ryokan, Shuzenji

Fall is a popular time to visit Shuzenji and see its changing foliage (Image credit: AaronChoi / Getty Images)

For more than five centuries, the Asaba family has welcomed guests to its ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn. Service here is rooted in the concept of omotenashi, or the "spirit of sel