The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. has opened its first luxury resort in Japan on the tropical island of Okinawa. The Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa will pioneer luxury hospitality on an island that has been the secret getaway for generations of Japanese visitors, but remains relatively unexplored by the international luxury traveller.
The Okinawan concept of hospitality or “gusuku,” which translates as “castle” or “guest house,” has been carefully reflected throughout the property to give it a welcoming sense of place. The new Ritz-Carlton resort embodies this spirit through its landscaping and contemporary architectural design, which extensively features the Shurijo face motifs, distinctive red clay roof tiles, white walls and holy water ponds.
The 97 modern guestrooms and two suites of the Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa have balconies or terraces which enjoy sweeping panoramic views that overlook the East China Sea and the Kise Country Club. Inspired by the spectacular scenery of ancient forests, manicured golf courses and the sea, the luxurious resort has been designed to be in harmony with its natural surroundings.
This new hotel presents a host of exquisite sophisticated restaurants and a bar. Restaurants include – Chura-Nuhji, an Italian fine dining restaurant; Kise, a Teppan-yaki restaurant featuring local seafood and renowned Okinawan beef; and Gusuku, an all-day waterside dining experience that serves Japanese, Okinawan and international dishes on its outdoor deck.
Located a short stroll through landscaped gardens is The Ritz-Carlton Spa by ESPA, in its own separate enclave. The Ritz-Carlton Spa by ESPA combines the essence of ancient and modern Chinese, Indian, European and Balinese spa cultures. It uses the luxury ESPA products that harness the best of nature’s essential oils, botanicals and marine supplements. The exquisite collection of treatments represents complete care, personalisation and the ultimate in luxury.
The Spa features four treatment rooms, four dry treatment rooms, outdoor Cabanas offering Shiatsu or Thai massage. It also offers the Heat Experience (Steam Sauna, Jacuzzi hot tubs, Stone Sauna with weathered coral tiles). Two special Retreat Suites are also available (Forest Suite and Ocean Suite) with their own private decks and stone baths. The spa retreat also houses a Nail Studio, Relaxation Room, Indoor Pool, and the fitness centre.
The Spa reception features the use of organic materials in all design points, and the deep forest motif is particularly evident where a display of light creates textural and moving shadows as if under the forest canopy. Views to the ancient Yambaru Forest can be enjoyed from treatment rooms.
