Ritz-Carlton’s fifth property in the Land of the Rising Sun might just be its most charming yet. Situated in Japan’s northern Kanto region, the 94-room hotel is just two and a half hours north of Tokyo and surrounded by scenic landscapes and an enchanting complex of Shinto shrines thanks to its proximity to Nikko’s National Park and the UNESCO World Heritage-designated area.
With the hotel’s interior design helmed by Melbourne’s Layan Architects + Designers, guests can expect to nest in a warm and welcoming space that showcases the country’s love for nature and seasonal beauty.
Principal designer Johannes Hart said: “The spirit of Nikko, indeed the very design philosophy of this hotel, is all about nature and immersing oneself in the beauty of the place.”
Newly opened this July, the hotel channels both modern flair and an elegant Nihon aesthetic. Paying homage to traditional Japanese residential design, the guest rooms and suites each come with a private balcony and a spacious engawa lounge area. Guests can bliss out in the stone bathrooms, which come with a deep soaking tub and a shower area backdropped by a zen garden.
Aside from sweeping views of the majestic mountains and misty forests, the hotel also offers localised dining experiences. There’s an all-day dining restaurant offering season-led kaiseki meals, sushi, and teppanyaki paired with craft sakes from local brewers. Meanwhile, the dreamy Lakehouse serves Western cuisine prepared with fresh fruit, vegetables, and produce locally sourced from the nearby Tochigi prefecture.
Looking to explore the region? Be sure to join in on the hotel’s activities, which takes guests on a journey to explore the unspoiled natural beauty of the Nikko—from scenic waterways to ancient trails, and storied shrines.
Finally, don’t leave without a relaxing soak at the hotel’s spa, which comes with both an indoor and outside onsen.
More information here,
BLACK FLY BIRD 