For travelers looking to immerse themselves in authentic Okinawan culture while indulging in a luxury stay, HOSHINOYA Okinawa offers an experience completely different than what you would expect. This is not just another high-end beachfront resort—it’s a property that truly embraces Okinawa’s history, nature, and traditions, creating a stay that feels deeply connected to its surroundings. Unlike Western-owned hotels, HOSHINOYA Okinawa leans into its Japanese identity, crafting a space that feels like an alternate universe—just the thing for travelers who have already ‘been everywhere’ already. This is the resort that will put the Ryukyu Islands on your radar this summer for an off-the-beaten-path-island-getaway in Japan.
An Architectural Wonder Rooted in Okinawan Tradition
From the moment I arrived, it was clear that HOSHINOYA Okinawa was designed to tell a story. The journey begins in the underwater-inspired lobby, where the design mimics the feeling of being beneath the sea. This ethereal setting immediately set the tone for what was to come—a retreat that would transport us into an entirely new world.
The Gusuku stone walls, which surround the property, serve as more than just a design element. Historically, these walls enclosed Okinawan castles and villages, protecting those within. At HOSHINOYA, they now symbolize the preservation of Okinawan culture and the idea of a sanctuary, a place where guests can unwind while staying deeply connected to the island they are visiting.
Rooms That Blur the Line Between Indoors and Outdoors
Once we got to our rooms, I was greeted by the soothing sounds of crashing waves and the salty ocean breeze. Designed with floor-to-ceiling sliding doors, the space invites the outside world in, with the sound of the waves literally inviting you to throw those doors wide open throughout your stay.
There’s something magical about waking up to this kind of natural white noise machine; is there really anything else that you need on vacation than the sound of crashing waves in front of you and a warm breeze?
The interior design was a seamless blend of modern luxury and traditional Okinawan elements, featuring warm wood tones, natural materials, and an open-concept layout that enhanced the feeling of tranquility truly allowing us to relax. The room felt thoughtfully curated rather than opulent, reinforcing the idea that HOSHINOYA Okinawa is a place to connect with both nature and those around you.
Dining at HOSHINOYA Okinawa
One of the most unique and intimate experiences at HOSHINOYA Okinawa is its in-room dining experience. Instead of the usual hotel room service trays, this felt like a personalized culinary performance, with carefully sourced Okinawan ingredients transformed into beautifully plated dishes.
For those looking to dine outside their room, the oceanfront restaurant is a must. Every dish showcases local ingredients and traditional techniques, elevating the flavors of the region in an artistic way. And the breakfasts are a work of art as well, I highly recommend going for the Okinawan option rather than the western to get thoroughly into character for the duration of your trip.
What to do at the HOSHINOYA hotel
HOSHINOYA Okinawa goes beyond luxury accommodations—it curates unforgettable experiences that connect guests to the island’s natural beauty. There are lots of ways to take advantage of the stunning natural setting of the resort, here are a few that we tried:
Horseback riding on the beach: If you haven’t taken a little horseback ride along a beach in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, you have to here!
Stargazing sessions – With little light pollution, the night sky here is nothing short of spectacular.
Okinawan craft workshops – A chance to learn about the island’s traditional arts, from pottery to a traditional “bubble” tea ceremony. (And not this is not a “boba class!”)
Rather than recreating the Western idea of a five-star resort, HOSHINOYA Okinawa has carved out its own unique identity. Long story short, this is a hotel that feels very Japanese, in the best way! You will not mistake this for an international chain hotel, this property has an amazing sense of place and pays deep homage to the culture of Okinawa and gives visitors a chance to dive into it headfirst from the moment you check in to the second it’s time to head back to the airport!
And if you are looking for more South East Asia travel inspiration read all about this stunning hotel in the Philippines worth adding to your list this year as well!
AloJapan.com