The Ritz-Carlton has opened a new luxury hotel in Nikko, Japan.
The hotel company says Nikko, and the surrounding area, was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site for the cultural, religious, and architectural significance of its richly decorated shrines and temples. Perched along Lake Chuzenji and Mount Nantai, guests can “easily access” scenic attractions, such as Nikko National Park, where the hotel is located, as well as the UNESCO World Heritage designated area.
The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko is located in the Northern Kanto region of Japan. It is about two and a half hours north of Tokyo, accessible by rail or car, says the hotel.
“Following much anticipation surrounding its debut, we are thrilled to finally open the doors to The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko and to continue the growth of the luxury segment in Japan,” said Rajeev Menon, president Asia Pacific (excluding Greater China), Marriott International.
“Today [July 15] marks an extremely monumental day for our brand and the entire company as we set the bar in luxury travel, embracing the new normal, while consistently instilling confidence in travel amongst all of our guests,” he added.
The new property has 94 guest rooms and suites that all have a private balcony. The hotel features “graceful Japanese design through a modern lens to bring the natural beauty of Nikko indoors”.
The property has four dining experiences for guests: The Japanese Restaurant offers all-day dining and showcases the vibrant elements of Japanese cuisine; Lakehouse uses fresh, local ingredients to create “imaginative” Western dishes; The Bar, is a “sophisticated haven of relaxation” where local ingredients are highlighted in original cocktails celebrating the culture, nature and spirituality of the ancient city; and The Lobby Lounge for visitors looking to enjoy light bites and afternoon tea overlooking a garden.
The hotel is the first Ritz-Carlton property to feature an authentic hot-springs experience in the Japanese onsen tradition. Guests are invited to enjoy the spacious indoor and open-air hot spring baths “where therapeutic thermal waters drawn from the springs of nearby Yumoto Onsen will rejuvenate their body and mind”. The spa has four specialised treatment rooms and offers personalised treatments.
Guests are also invited to participate in a nightly meditation. The hotel says the lobby area will be “transformed into a place of spiritual respite” every day at dusk. Upon departure, guests will receive a sacred omamori (Japanese amulet).
The hotel also offers guests the opportunity to master the Japanese skill of furoshiki wrapping, witness a mystical temple fire ceremony or enjoy the sounds of drums and Japanese flute music at a sacred ritual ceremonial dance.
