Top 20 Heritage Homestays to stay at in Asia's Forgotten Old Towns
Tired of sterile hotel rooms that look the same whether you're in Tokyo or Toronto? Me too. There's a certain magic that gets lost in the generic comfort of a global hotel chain. The real soul of a destination, its whispers of the past and its living, breathing culture, is often found tucked away in the narrow, cobblestoned lanes of its oldest quarters. These are the places that time, for the most part, has decided to touch gently.
For travelers who crave a deeper connection, the key to unlocking these old towns isn't just walking through them—it's sleeping in them. I'm talking about heritage homestays: meticulously restored shophouses, colonial-era mansions, and ancient family homes that have been transformed into intimate guesthouses. Staying in one is like being invited into the city's story, where every creaking floorboard and antique piece of furniture has a tale to tell. Like many of you who follow Goh Ling Yong's adventures, I believe the best travel is immersive, and there's no better way to immerse yourself than by living, even for a few nights, within the walls of history.
So, pack your bags and your sense of wonder. We're about to journey through 20 of the most captivating heritage homestays in Asia's forgotten (and not-so-forgotten) old towns. These aren't just places to sleep; they are destinations in themselves, offering a portal to a bygone era.
1. Sekeping Kong Heng, Ipoh, Malaysia
In the heart of Ipoh's charming Old Town, famous for its colonial architecture and world-class white coffee, lies Sekeping Kong Heng. This isn't your typical polished hotel. It’s a raw, industrial-chic retreat built within the bones of a 1920s building that once housed a hostel for theatre performers. The celebrated Malaysian architect Ng Sek San has preserved the building's character, embracing exposed brick, unfinished concrete, and the gentle decay that tells its story.
The experience is beautifully atmospheric. Sunlight streams through glassless window frames, casting shadows across minimalist rooms. You might be sharing the building with a famous coffee shop, a small art gallery, and the whispers of the past. It’s a place that champions authenticity over luxury, offering a true sense of place that’s impossible to replicate.
Pro-Tip: Don't miss the hidden rooftop pool. It’s a serene, glass-walled oasis suspended above the historic shophouses, offering a unique perspective of the old town's bustling life below.
2. Baan Luang Rajamaitri, Chanthaburi, Thailand
Move over, Chiang Mai. For a truly authentic Thai old town experience, head to the riverside community of Chanthaburi. Here you'll find Baan Luang Rajamaitri, a 150-year-old teakwood mansion that has been lovingly restored into a historic inn. This isn't just a business; it's a community-led conservation project, and you feel that passion from the moment you step inside.
The house was the former residence of a local nobleman, and its rooms are filled with period furniture, old photographs, and family heirlooms. Staying here feels like being a guest in a family home, not a customer. The best rooms overlook the tranquil Chanthabun River, where you can watch the rhythm of local life unfold from your balcony.
Pro-Tip: Join the complimentary evening walking tour led by a local guide. You’ll learn fascinating stories about the Chanthaboon Waterfront Community that you’d never discover on your own.
3. The Linden Centre, Xizhou, Yunnan, China
Nestled in the lush countryside between the Cangshan Mountains and Erhai Lake, Xizhou is a beautifully preserved Bai ethnic minority town often overlooked for its tourist-heavy neighbour, Dali. The Linden Centre is the town's crown jewel. Housed in a magnificent, nationally protected courtyard mansion, it's more than a hotel—it's a cultural immersion hub founded by two Americans, Brian and Jeanee Linden.
Their passion for cultural preservation is evident everywhere, from the meticulously restored architecture to the curated local experiences. The rooms are elegant and comfortable, arranged around serene courtyards. The real value, however, lies in the daily lectures, village tours, and hands-on activities that connect you with the rich Bai culture.
Pro-Tip: Spend an afternoon in the centre's library. It’s a stunning, two-story room filled with books on Chinese history and culture, and it offers the perfect quiet corner to reflect on your travels.
4. The Fort Printers, Galle, Sri Lanka
Inside the 17th-century walls of Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, lies The Fort Printers. This stunning boutique hotel is a masterful conversion of an 18th-century mansion and a former printing press. The design blends colonial elegance with contemporary minimalism, creating a space that is both historic and incredibly chic.
The hotel is spread across two buildings connected by a frangipani-scented courtyard with a swimming pool. The rooms are spacious and airy, with soaring ceilings, four-poster beds, and antique furnishings. Staying here feels like stepping back into the Dutch colonial era, with the modern comforts of a world-class hotel. It's the perfect, stylish base for exploring the art galleries, boutiques, and historic ramparts of Galle.
Pro-Tip: The hotel's restaurant is one of the best in Galle. Even if you're not a guest, book a table in the courtyard for a dinner of fresh, local seafood.
5. Iori Machiya Stay, Kanazawa, Japan
While Kyoto gets all the attention, Kanazawa offers a just-as-rich cultural experience with fewer crowds. Known for its exquisite gardens, samurai districts, and geisha teahouses, it's the perfect city to experience a traditional machiya stay. Iori Machiya Stay manages a collection of beautifully restored traditional townhouses, allowing you to live like a local.
These wooden houses are hundreds of years old and have been updated with modern amenities while retaining their historic soul. Imagine sleeping on futons laid out on tatami mats, sliding open paper screens, and soaking in a deep wooden tub. It's a deeply Japanese experience that provides a quiet, private sanctuary after a day of exploring.
Pro-Tip: Opt for the in-house breakfast service. A local caterer will deliver a stunning, multi-course traditional Japanese breakfast for you to enjoy in the privacy of your own machiya.
6. Satri House, Luang Prabang, Laos
Luang Prabang is hardly "forgotten," but Satri House feels like a secret world unto itself. This breathtaking property was once the residence of Prince Souphanouvong. It's a collection of UNESCO-protected buildings set within lush, tropical gardens, complete with two swimming pools, a spa, and an incredible collection of antiques and art.
Every corner of Satri House exudes a sense of regal history and quiet elegance. The rooms are decorated with a colonial-Indochinese flair, featuring dark wood, fine silks, and artifacts that tell the story of Laos's royal past. It’s a splurge, but it offers an unparalleled heritage experience in one of Southeast Asia’s most enchanting towns.
Pro-Tip: Find the small, tucked-away library. It’s a peaceful, air-conditioned haven filled with art books and comfortable chairs, perfect for escaping the midday heat.
7. Vigan Plaza Hotel, Vigan, Philippines
The city of Vigan is one of Asia's best-preserved examples of a planned Spanish colonial town. Walking its cobblestone streets is like stepping onto a film set. Vigan Plaza Hotel, located in a beautifully preserved ancestral house, puts you right in the middle of the action, overlooking the historic Plaza Salcedo.
The building retains its old-world charm, with a grand wooden staircase, polished hardwood floors, and antique furniture. The rooms are comfortable and feature traditional Filipino design elements. From your window, you can watch the calesas (horse-drawn carriages) clatter by, transporting you back to the 18th century.
Pro-Tip: Ask for a room with a balcony facing the plaza. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy your morning coffee and watch the historic city wake up.
8. Raas Devigarh, near Udaipur, India
A short drive from the lake city of Udaipur, in the Aravalli Hills, stands the magnificent Devigarh Palace. This 18th-century fort-palace has been transformed into RAAS Devigarh, a minimalist, all-suite luxury hotel. The restoration is a work of art, seamlessly blending the palace's ancient, imposing exterior with a sleek, modern, and utterly luxurious interior.
Each of the suites is unique, incorporating original features of the palace. The views over the valley and the village of Delwara are breathtaking. While it’s the pinnacle of luxury, its soul is pure heritage. You’re not just staying in a hotel; you’re inhabiting a piece of Rajput history.
Pro-Tip: Take the hotel’s guided village walk. It’s a humbling and fascinating look at rural life in Rajasthan and provides a meaningful contrast to the opulence of the palace.
9. Ancient Hue Garden Houses, Hue, Vietnam
Hue, Vietnam's former imperial capital, is a city steeped in history. For a truly unique stay, skip the downtown hotels and book a room at Ancient Hue Garden Houses. This property is a collection of five authentic nha ruong (traditional wooden houses with tiled roofs), some dating back over a century, that have been painstakingly dismantled, relocated, and restored.
Each garden house is a private sanctuary, set within a lush landscape of fruit trees and lotus ponds. The interiors are filled with antiques and local crafts, offering a glimpse into the life of Hue's former mandarin class. The on-site restaurant serves exquisite imperial cuisine, completing the royal experience.
Pro-Tip: Sign up for a cooking class. You’ll learn to prepare complex imperial dishes using fresh ingredients from the property's own organic garden.
10. The Ranee Boutique Suites, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
On the waterfront of Kuching, the capital of Sarawak on the island of Borneo, The Ranee offers a sophisticated stay in a pair of converted 19th-century shophouses. The hotel’s design pays homage to Sarawak's colonial past and its rich indigenous cultures, creating a style that is uniquely Bornean.
The 24 suites are all individually designed, featuring local textiles, tribal art, and elegant furnishings. The hotel is perfectly located at the end of the Main Bazaar, making it an ideal base for exploring the city's historic streets and the Sarawak River. It’s a tranquil, stylish escape that tells the story of this fascinating corner of Malaysia.
Pro-Tip: Book a suite with a river view. The sunset over the Sarawak River, with the iconic State Legislative Assembly Building in the distance, is simply magical.
11. Rakkojae Seoul Main Hanok, Seoul, South Korea
In the midst of the sprawling, futuristic metropolis of Seoul lies the Bukchon Hanok Village, a historic neighbourhood preserving the city's traditional architectural style. Rakkojae is a 140-year-old hanok (traditional Korean house) that has been converted into a stunning boutique hotel, offering a peaceful escape into Joseon Dynasty-era Korea.
You'll sleep on traditional heated floors (ondol), admire the tranquil inner courtyard, and experience genuine Korean hospitality. The experience is elevated by cultural offerings like a traditional Korean breakfast, the chance to try on a hanbok (traditional dress), and even a kimchi-making class. It's a cultural immersion that feels a world away from the hustle of modern Seoul.
Pro-Tip: Don’t miss the chance to use the Jjimjilbang (yellow-mud sauna). It's a private, traditional sauna experience that is incredibly relaxing and restorative.
12. The Old Inn, Bandipur, Nepal
Perched on a ridge in the Himalayan foothills, Bandipur is a living museum of Newari culture. Its main street is a pedestrian-only thoroughfare lined with traditional brick buildings. The Old Inn is one of its most cherished restorations, a former Newari townhouse that now serves as a charming and atmospheric guesthouse.
The inn is run by the Shrestha family, who have owned the building for generations. The rooms are simple but cozy, with carved wooden windows and local textiles. The real highlight is the rooftop terrace, which offers jaw-dropping, panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges on a clear day.
Pro-Tip: Wake up early. Watching the sunrise over the Himalayas from the rooftop, with a cup of Nepali tea in hand, is an unforgettable, soul-stirring experience.
13. CGH Earth's Chittoor Kottaram, Kochi, India
This is heritage travel at its most exclusive. Chittoor Kottaram isn't just a hotel room; it's an entire single-key royal mansion that you get all to yourself. Once the residence of the Raja of Cochin, this three-bedroom heritage home sits on the serene backwaters of Kerala, a short boat ride from the historic Fort Kochi.
A dedicated staff tends to your every need, preparing traditional Keralan meals and arranging cultural performances. You arrive by private boat and are greeted with a ceremonial welcome. The experience is one of complete privacy and immersion in the life of Keralan royalty. On a recent trip inspired by a story from Goh Ling Yong about seeking out unique stays, I found that places like this redefine what accommodation can be.
Pro-Tip: Ask the staff to arrange a sunset cruise on the backwaters. Gliding through the water as the day ends is the epitome of Keralan tranquility.
14. Old Capital Bike Inn, Bangkok, Thailand
In a quiet corner of historic Bangkok, near the Golden Mount and the city's grand temples, the Old Capital Bike Inn is a family-run gem. Housed in a beautifully preserved, multi-generational shophouse, this inn is a passion project, and it shows. The owners have filled the space with an incredible collection of vintage bicycles, antiques, and family heirlooms.
Each room is uniquely decorated with exquisite, hand-carved wooden details from different regions of Thailand. The hospitality is warm and personal, making you feel like a cherished friend. They offer free vintage bikes for exploring the surrounding historic neighbourhood, which is the best way to see this side of Bangkok.
Pro-Tip: Use their custom-made neighbourhood map. It highlights hidden temples, fantastic street food stalls, and local markets that you won't find in any guidebook.
15. Pingyao Yide Hotel, Pingyao, Shanxi, China
The ancient walled city of Pingyao is one of China's best-preserved, a UNESCO site that feels like it’s been frozen in the Qing Dynasty. To complete the time-travel experience, you must stay in a traditional courtyard house. The Pingyao Yide Hotel is a fantastic choice, set within a 300-year-old residence.
The hotel is arranged around a series of classic courtyards, with rooms featuring traditional kang platform beds (brick beds that can be heated in winter). The atmosphere is authentic and rustic, but with the necessary modern comforts. Waking up here, in the quiet heart of the ancient city, is a truly special experience.
Pro-Tip: Enjoy a traditional Shanxi noodle dinner in the main courtyard. The atmosphere under the stars, surrounded by red lanterns, is incredibly romantic.
16. Alex Kerr's Chiiori House, Iya Valley, Japan
For the truly adventurous traveler seeking a deep dive into "forgotten" Japan, there is nothing quite like Chiiori House. Located in the remote, mountainous Iya Valley on the island of Shikoku, this is a 300-year-old thatched-roof farmhouse that was lovingly restored by Japanologist Alex Kerr.
Staying here is a commitment—it's isolated and the house retains its rustic soul, complete with an open hearth and sleeping on tatami mats. But the reward is unparalleled: stunning mountain views, profound tranquility, and a connection to a side of Japan that is rapidly disappearing. It is a powerful, immersive experience in rural heritage.
Pro-Tip: Stock up on groceries in the nearest large town before you arrive. The experience is about seclusion and self-sufficiency, so come prepared to cook and soak in the atmosphere.
17. d'Omah Hotel Yogya, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Yogyakarta is the cultural soul of Java, and d'Omah Hotel, located in the village of Tembi just outside the city, offers an authentic Javanese experience. The hotel is not a single building but a sprawling compound of restored antique joglos (traditional Javanese wooden houses) set amidst rice paddies and lush gardens.
The property was founded by a renowned Australian filmmaker, Warwick Purser, and his deep appreciation for Javanese culture is evident. The rooms are filled with Indonesian art and antiques, and the entire estate feels like a peaceful, living museum. It’s the perfect base for exploring the nearby temples of Borobudur and Prambanan.
Pro-Tip: The hotel offers fantastic village tours by bike or on foot. It’s a great way to see local life, from rice farmers to traditional shadow puppet makers.
18. Babel Guesthouse, Kampot, Cambodia
The sleepy riverside town of Kampot in southern Cambodia is famed for its pepper plantations and crumbling French colonial architecture. Babel Guesthouse embodies the town's laid-back, eco-conscious vibe. While not a centuries-old mansion, it's a family-run guesthouse in a historic-style building that is deeply committed to the local community and sustainability.
They offer a range of rooms, a lovely garden cafe, and a refreshing pool. What makes it a "heritage" stay in spirit is its deep connection to place. The staff, all from the local community, are paid fair wages and provided with education. They are also your best resource for exploring the region, from countryside tuk-tuk tours to kayaking on the river.
Pro-Tip: Book their famous Kampot Pepper Tour. You'll visit a local plantation to learn why Kampot pepper is considered the best in the world, followed by a swim at a secret lake.
19. Shenten Penjing, Tainan, Taiwan
Tainan is Taiwan’s oldest city, a treasure trove of temples, Dutch forts, and incredible street food. Tucked away in a quiet alley is Shenten Penjing, a minimalist guesthouse in a 60-year-old house that has been masterfully redesigned. It blends the Japanese and Taiwanese aesthetics of its past with a clean, modern sensibility.
The name "Penjing" refers to the Chinese art of miniature landscapes, and the guesthouse is a living example of this philosophy—a carefully curated, tranquil world. The space is small, intimate, and filled with light, wood, and thoughtful details. It’s a peaceful haven that reflects the understated, artistic soul of Tainan.
Pro-Tip: Talk to the owner. He is passionate about Tainan's history and design and can give you incredible recommendations for off-the-beaten-path cafes, galleries, and temples.
20. Noordin Mews, George Town, Penang, Malaysia
We end where the heritage hotel craze arguably began in Southeast Asia: George Town, Penang. But we're avoiding the main drags and heading to Noordin Mews, a hotel housed in a former shophouse in a quieter, historic part of the city. The style is a delightful nod to the 1920s, blending Peranakan and colonial influences.
The rooms are built around a central courtyard pool, offering a private oasis away from the city's heat. The details are what make it special: antique tiles, vintage furniture, and a free afternoon tea for guests. It captures the romance and history of Penang without the crowds of the more famous hotels.
Pro-Tip: The hotel is located near some of Penang's best and most authentic street food stalls. Skip the tourist traps and ask the front desk for their personal, hand-drawn map of the best local eats.
Choosing to stay in a heritage homestay is about more than just a room for the night. It's an active choice to participate in the preservation of culture, to support local communities, and to travel in a way that is more meaningful and memorable. These buildings are not relics; they are living, breathing storybooks, and by staying in them, we get to write our own small chapter within their pages.
Now, I want to hear from you. What's the most memorable heritage place you've ever stayed in, in Asia or beyond? Share your hidden gems in the comments below
About the Author
Goh Ling Yong is a content creator and digital strategist sharing insights across various topics. Connect and follow for more content:
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