By Jennifer Reese

Want a taste of Japan without the flight to Tokyo? San Francisco’s Hotel Kabuki is for you. The Joie de Vivre hospitality chain—known for its hotel makeovers—recently transformed the 40-year-old Miyako into a serene and luxurious retreat in the heart of Japantown.

Thirty minutes after you arrive, a fresh pot of tea is delivered to your room. You can open the rice paper shoji screens and sip your tea on a balcony with views of the city. Or unwind the Japanese way: in a hot bath. All rooms have extra-deep Japanese soaking tubs. You can ask the bath butler for options ranging from scented salts to lemongrass candles and rose petals.

Just steps from the hotel are noodle shops, sushi bars, and boutiques. But you may want to stay put. The Kabuki hosts an evening sake hour, which you can follow with dinner at the OIzakaya Lounge. Expect butternut squash tempura and other delicacies on your plate and sumo wrestling on the TV. From $159. (800) 533-4567, hotelkabuki.com.