## Embark on a Winter Wonderland Adventure in Japan: Ice Hotels, Outdoor Hot Springs, and More
As winter blankets Japan in a serene white, the country transforms into a magical winter wonderland. From the icy landscapes of Hokkaido to the subtropical charm of Okinawa, there’s an array of experiences waiting to be discovered. Prepare to be captivated by unique accommodations like ice hotels and outdoor hot springs, savor seasonal culinary delights, and explore stunning winter scenery.
Hokkaido: Embrace the Icy Majesty of ‘Hoshi no Resort Tomamu’
Journey to the heart of Hokkaido and immerse yourself in the extraordinary ‘Ice Village’ at Hoshi no Resort Tomamu. Here, you can spend the night in an ethereal ‘Ice Hotel’, where every detail, from the guest rooms to the terrace, is sculpted from ice. This exclusive experience, limited to one group per night, promises a truly enchanting stay. Venture outside to the serene ‘Ice Outdoor Bath’ nestled amidst white birch trees. This unique bathing experience allows you to soak in the warmth of natural hot springs sourced from ‘Yunozawa Onsen’ while being enveloped by the icy embrace of the surrounding environment. A new addition for 2025 is the ‘Ice Terrace’, where you can enjoy a romantic evening illuminated by lanterns under a canopy of white birch trees. Sip on hot wine as you relax on ice-carved chairs and tables, taking in the beauty of the starlit sky. The ‘Ice Village’ is open for viewing from 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM, allowing visitors to marvel at the stunning ice sculptures.
Niseko: Unwind in Luxury at the New ‘Nikko Style Niseko HANAZONO’
Experience the best of winter in Niseko at the newly opened ‘Nikko Style Niseko HANAZONO’, perfectly situated overlooking the slopes. This luxurious lifestyle hotel, part of the esteemed ‘Okura Nikko Hotels’ brand, seamlessly blends modern comfort with the warmth of local culture. With 234 guest rooms ranging from Superior to Studio Suites, there’s a perfect space for every traveler. Enjoy the soothing natural hot springs in the upper floors or relax in one of the stylish dining options, ranging from casual all-day dining to a cozy café and bar featuring local delicacies and spirits. For a truly exceptional experience, book the ‘Experience Powder Holiday’ package, offering a luxurious stay in a rooftop lounge suite, complete with special amenities, a gourmet breakfast, and exclusive excursions.
Yokohama: Celebrate in Style at the ‘InterContinental Yokohama Pier 8’
Celebrate the charm of winter in Yokohama at the ‘InterContinental Yokohama Pier 8’, which is marking its fifth anniversary in October 2024. Indulge in the ‘8 Celebrations’ package, offering a variety of experiences tailored to your preferences. ‘Elegant Stay’ is a perfect choice for a winter escape. Enjoy a panoramic view of the harbor from a spacious corner suite and savor an exclusive afternoon tea service brought directly to your room, a privilege usually reserved for Club Lounge guests. The hotel’s spa, set amidst a tranquil courtyard, offers a range of rejuvenating treatments. In the evening, embark on a romantic cruise aboard the hotel’s private ship, ‘Le Grand Bleu’, and witness the twinkling lights of Yokohama’s harbor at night. This special plan is limited to one room per day.
Ito: Feast on Seafood and Soak in History at ‘Laforet Ito Onsen Yuno Niwa’
Escape to ‘Laforet Ito Onsen Yuno Niwa’ for a luxurious winter getaway. Indulge in the ‘Seafood Shogun Pot’ plan, featuring a unique and delectable dining experience. The dish draws inspiration from the ‘Shogun Pot’ – a traditional regional dish of southern Izu that was once served to esteemed shogun warriors. This sumptuous meal features a variety of fresh seafood, including Ise shrimp, turban shells, local fish, and a tempting assortment of crab, abalone, and tuna dumplings. Choose your preferred broth style – miso, ginger, or soy milk. Before and after your sumptuous dinner, unwind in the historic ‘Kenshin-yu’ hot springs, known for their therapeutic benefits.
Hakuba: Discover the New ‘Hotel La Vigine Hakuba by Onko Chishin’
Discover the beauty of Hakuba in the heart of the Japanese Alps at the newly opened ‘Hotel La Vigine Hakuba by Onko Chishin’, scheduled to debut in December 2024. This stunning hotel offers panoramic views of the majestic mountains from every one of its 38 spacious corner rooms. Each room boasts a fully equipped kitchen, a washer and dryer, and a private bathroom or shower. The hotel is designed to cater to both groups and extended stays, ensuring a comfortable and luxurious experience. Immerse yourself in the flavors of Nagano at the hotel’s restaurant, ‘LA VIGNE DINING FÛDO’, featuring a curated selection of over 1,000 Japanese wines, paired with fresh seasonal ingredients in French and teppanyaki dishes.
Osaka: Celebrate a Grand Transformation at ‘The Ritz-Carlton Osaka’
Experience the luxurious ambiance of ‘The Ritz-Carlton Osaka’, following its recent grand renovation. The ‘Guest Room Renovation Commemorative Plan: Inheritance and Rebirth’ offers an exclusive opportunity to enjoy the newly refurbished spaces. The hotel’s 287 guest rooms, including Superior, Deluxe, Junior Suite, and Executive Suite categories, have been meticulously redesigned with a focus on blending classic European elegance with contemporary design and functionality. Enjoy the warmth of the lobby’s marble floors and botanical motifs, which are seamlessly incorporated into the hallway carpets, creating a cohesive design experience. Other design features include hand-carved floral panels above the headboards, illuminated by warm ambient lighting. The plan includes a special welcome treat inspired by the room’s décor and a hotel credit of ¥20,000 for dining at any of the hotel’s six restaurants, bars, and lounges. Indulge in exceptional dining experiences, including a Michelin-starred French restaurant, ‘La Be’, and enhance your home with the hotel’s signature fragrance, ‘Mystique’, presented as a luxurious reed diffuser.
Kurashiki: Discover a Culinary Journey at ‘Yoruya’
Embark on a cultural and culinary adventure at ‘Yoruya’, opening its doors in November 2024 in Kurashiki’s scenic district. This unique ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) is housed in a meticulously renovated 110-year-old building that was once a textile merchant’s mansion. Experience a symphony of traditional Japanese architecture, design, and culinary artistry. Each of the 13 guest rooms, ranging in size from 30 square meters to 76 square meters, offers a unique and serene space to unwind. Enjoy the beauty of the inn’s 16-seat dining room or unwind at the wine bar, which welcomes guests from beyond the hotel. The inn’s culinary focus lies in seasonal Japanese cuisine, crafted using local ingredients from the Seto Inland Sea and the surrounding mountains. Each dish reflects the history of Kurashiki, a thriving trade center in the past, and showcases the culinary traditions of the region.
Okinawa: Extend Your Baseball Passion at ‘BEB5 Okinawa Sera-Gaki by Hoshino Resorts’
For baseball fans, Okinawa is a must-visit destination, especially during February when the annual professional baseball camps take place. ‘BEB5 Okinawa Sera-Gaki by Hoshino Resorts’ offers an exceptional ‘Camp Push-Active Stadium’ experience, allowing baseball enthusiasts to continue their passion even after returning to the hotel. Step into a captivating baseball-themed space featuring a spacious lawn-inspired area, perfect for sharing your passion with fellow fans. Engage in lively conversations about team rankings and opening day predictions using the hotel’s special boards. Customize your own baseball souvenirs and participate in a fun ‘Push-Active gacha’ game. Dress the part in your favorite team jersey or cap, and even create your own team-colored drinks.
Okinawa: Embrace the Winter at ‘Halekulani Okinawa’
Experience the beauty of winter in Okinawa at the renowned ‘Halekulani Okinawa’. This season, the hotel is introducing the ‘Eternal Winter Pool’, the first outdoor heated pool at the resort. The ‘Ocean Terrace Pool’, located in the Sunset Wing, is transformed into a luxurious heated oasis (water temperature approximately 30 degrees Celsius), allowing guests to enjoy the sea views even during the winter months. Make reservations for a private cabana, accommodating up to three guests, and enjoy a welcome drink featuring the hotel’s signature ‘tankan’ (citrus fruit) drink. The ‘Winter Retreat’ accommodation plan, limited to two rooms per day, includes access to the heated pool. Guests will also receive a special robe as a keepsake.
Experience the ultimate winter escape in Okinawa with the resort’s seasonal outdoor sauna, ‘Heavenly Tent Sauna’. Relax in this luxurious Finnish-style electric sauna, enveloped by a soothing aroma of essential oils. Guests have exclusive access to ‘Orchid Pool’, a stunning pool located near the hotel’s iconic orchids, for a refreshing cool-down session. Enjoy a special sauna drink to complete your experience.
