JAPAN REPORT FALL/WINTER 2020

As borders are slowly reopening globally, some of us may be ready to get on a long haul flight again. Many of us have already been traveling domestically, whether it’s going on a road trip, renting a villa in secluded nature, or spending a week on a chartered yacht - we are starting to get use to this new way of life.

Japan is one of our most popular destinations, it has been in the spotlight before the pandemic, and will continue to be one of the top destinations post-pandemic. Clients return to us time and again, and also refer their friends for us to customize a private itinerary because of our founder Helen’s expertise in the country, its culture and local insider connections. Fancy dining with Kyoto’s King of Gion at his Geisha house?

Both native Japanese and foreign visitors are eager to experience the lesser traveled parts of Japan, such as the countryside and islands. There are still many questions regarding travel restrictions over the next few months and into the early part of next year through to the Summer Olympics. Here is a snapshot report of what's up and coming in Japan.

If you would like to start planning ahead for a trip to or within Japan, every experience we design is tailormade, with a focus on exclusivity, safety, and privacy. We are happy to find something completely suitable to your needs. Tell us your travel requirements here

JUST BACK FROM

RITZ CARLTON NIKKO

日光

The long awaited for Ritz Carlton Nikko, on Lake Chuzenji. Nikko is a gem that is full of natural beauty, incredible history (the holy mountains are an important part of Buddhism in the region), and simply a peaceful area that’s an easy escape from Tokyo. Think Lake District in England or the European Alps. No wonder all the European ambassadors have their villas situated around the lake. Nikko should be on the list for any Japan or nature lover. I was one of the first guests to experience the new resort, and the RC team really put extra effort on pampering me at the property. My research of the area also included behind the scenes visits to historic temples, meeting with local monks and artisans, private guided walks in “inner Nikko” forests and lakes, and lots of steamy onsen (volcanic hot springs). Of course, everyday the meals are incredibly delicious, seasonal, delightfully crafted to your visual senses.

To learn more about Nikko, the new Ritz Carlton resort, or to inquire about a private itinerary, please contact us.

SETO INLAND SEA

瀬戸内海

Most of you will know the Setouchi Islands from the Setouchi Art Festival including Naoshima and Teshima islands, however the Seto Inland Sea has over 700 islands. Although the Seto Inland Sea has been compared to the Mediterranean Sea, it is still relatively sleepy and behind in tourism and hotel properties. However, there are various other ways to “do” the islands, such as experiencing a floating ryokan - the Guntu cruise, chartering a yacht with an expert of the region while island hopping, and exploring the natural wonders and secluded beaches on select islands. End your journey with a classy touch in the historic town of Okayama or Kyoto.

VILLAS

別荘

Private or semi-private villas are getting popular at this time when privacy, cleaniness, service are top priority. Stay at our hand-selected villas in Japan that have been vetted by us, with all-inclusive services including private chef, driver, custom tours, helicopter transfers, private gardens and pools, nature activities and more!

BEPPU

別府

View from ANA Intercontinental Resort & Spa

Beppu, a hot springs resort town in Kyushu, was said to be born out of a miracle. It is also one of the most up and coming places in Japan. Blessed for its high quality volcanic hot spring water (onsen) from mud baths to luxury dips, Beppu has the second largest concentration of hot springs in the world. Besides its millions year old history of volcanic activity and hot spring formations, Beppu is getting culturally “hot”. Entrance to this onsen town, requires going through the bustling city streets, but once you are within the cluster of Japanese style wooden houses you know you are in Beppu’s here and now, with hot spring steam billowing out of every architectural structure. There is so much to see and do in in this unique town, that requires only a little curiosity and sense of discovery. It is the perfect place to melt away all the anxieties post-Covid. Let our local Beppu expert take you around to experience the city’s local culinary delicacies, golfing, a sailing excursion, hiking in the valleys, and more.

Hoshino Resorts KAI Beppu, opening Spring 2021

Opening this December, the new concept hotel Galleria Midobaru in Beppu promises a completely new accommodation experience with artist installations throughout the property, creating a mysteriously comfortable, artistic trip overlooking the steam of Beppu. Here we feature the work of our friend the Japanese artist Hiraku Suzuki.

THE CURAGENDA EXPERIENCE

Curagenda is a boutique travel company that tailors exceptionally curated itineraries, company and group excursions, cultural retreats, and insider tours. With an international black book of insider contacts and entrée into exclusive locales, every experience is as unique as our clients themselves.

Find out more about our experiences in Japan or simply drop us a line here

Japan Report F/W 2020

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