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Escape from Tokyo at The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko

Escape from Tokyo at The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko

THE RITZ CARLTON NIKKO

A nature break in Japan

[The Japanese Restaurant] Breakfast at Terrace Ritz Carlton Nikko
[The Japanese Restaurant] Breakfast at Terrace

Just two hours from Tokyo, heaven in Nikko awaits

We arrive in pitch darkness to warm hospitality at The Ritz-Carlton’s luxurious Nikko Hotel. It’s midnight. We’ve driven from the airport after a flight from Cairns to this haven of tradition just two hours from Tokyo. Midnight snacks are delivered promptly in a gorgeous bento box. Tempura, sushi, and lots of divine vegetables served in delicate square dishes, a precursor for a tasty and fresh breakfast presented in the most elegant of ways.

[Japanese Restaurant] Japanese Kaiseki Dinner Momiji  Ritz Carlton Nikko
[Japanese Restaurant] Japanese Kaiseki Dinner Momiji
Dining at Ritz Carlton Nikko
Tochigi Local Strawberry

Nature in Nikko

Morning light shows off the nature of Nikko from our balcony at The Ritz-Carlton which looks directly across at the scenic Lake Chuzenji. This is an entrée of the glorious scenery to come from the area’s mountains, hiking trails, shrines, and monkeys. Nikko is real Japan or more correctly, traditional Japan. It is well known for its Toshogu Shrine with its three wise monkeys representing “see no evil, hear no evil, say no evil.”

Shinkyo Bridge in Winter
Shinkyo Bridge in Winter

The design of The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko

We feast upon nature which is embodied in the graceful design of the hotel. The hotel incorporates Kanuma-kumiko style which involves cypress wood carved and placed into geometric designs using pressure. It is a traditional Japanese art style. There are 94 guest rooms including ten suites that offer private balconies and an engawa lounge area. They each offer incredible views of either Lake Chuzenji or Mount Nantai (some offer both). The bathrooms have a rain head shower and soaking tub and again amazing views. The soft linen yukata really sets the traditional Japanese scene along with the comfy slippers which you can wear to The Ritz-Carlton’s first hot springs experience which boasts an indoor and open-air hot spring bath filled with the thermal waters of the Yumoto Onsen. After your Onsen book a private couple’s session using local organic sake products to tone and nourish your skin. There is also a nightly meditation.

THE RITZ CARLTON NIKKO
The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko Open Air Onsen

The entire hotel offers a cleansing meditative experience from the clean minimalistic rooms through to the Zen-influenced garden courtyards where lounges beckon guests to further comfort and relaxation.

THE RITZ CARLTON NIKKO
Mount Nantai View in Autumn

Dining in Nikko at The Ritz-Carlton

Built on the site of the Nikko Lakeside Hotel, there are still remnants in place at The Ritz-Carlton. These include paintings sprinkled with gold leaf depicting Edo Period life and the name of one of the restaurants, the Lakehouse which comes complete with a crackling fireplace, peaceful views, and a western-inspired menu.  Sakura-inspired culinary offerings include an artful eight-course kaiseki dinner, a sakura and strawberry parfait with scented smoke, Tochigi strawberry and white bean jam foam, and a divine afternoon tea that pays homage to the Sakura season. The hotel offers an all-day dining restaurant serving Japanese food, the Lobby Lounge for light meals and striking garden views, and a wonderful bar offering elegant cocktails that incorporate local ingredients and a real wow factor.

[The Bar] Garden of Villa (kome, tomato, dill, elderflower)
[The Bar] Garden of Villa (kome, tomato, dill, elderflower)

What is, even more, wow factor is the experiences guests can have. The hotel puts on a huge range of activities that showcase the location in Nikko National Park and include strolling through protected wetlands, discovering ancient precincts, meditating under waterfalls, and even ice climbing in winter.

Japanese cultural activities in Nikko

Dabbling in traditional Japanese culture makes The Ritz-Carlton a true destination filled with memories of furoshiki wrapping, sitting zazen with a monk, and witnessing a mystical fire ceremony or ceremonial dance at Chugushi Shrine. This is a Shinto ritual performed by a shrine maiden and is set to taiko drumming and a traditional wind instrument.

THE RITZ CARLTON NIKKO
The Library

There’s also paddle boarding on the tranquil waters of Lake Chuzenji to experience twilight at dusk as serenity settles over the surrounding mountains.

In the evening, Oku Nikko offers the ultimate stargazing experience viewing the Milky Way and moon craters using either the naked eye or a telescope. The highlands offer an unparalleled canvas of the dotted night sky.

THE RITZ CARLTON NIKKO
Bathroom of Lake View Suite

Purify body and mind with the Shugendo Experience on a hike to the secluded waterfalls located in the Kirifuri highlands.  Step under the tumbling water as part of the centuries-old takigyo practice and feel the invigoration of the mountain’s energy.

THE RITZ CARLTON NIKKO
The Ritz-Carlton Nikko Spa

Hospitality at The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko

Then be welcomed back by absolute stand-out hospitality and service. The staff here are gracious, efficient and offer the most incredible personalised attention. These moments will stay with you, especially because upon departure, you receive a sacred omamori as a blessing for safe travel.

Nikko is a must-see destination to escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo and is perfect for a honeymoon, anniversary, or just a relaxation break away.

Ritz Carlton Nikko breakfast
The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko breakfast
 Yunishigawa Onsen Kamakura Festival
Yunishigawa Onsen Kamakura Festival

https://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/japan/nikko

For more personalised information tips and advice, or to book this incredible holiday contact your local TravelManagers’ personal travel manager here.

For more information visit travelmanagers.com.au


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