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bespoke furniture in the suites that responds to their space and proportions, to opening The Peak Lounge up for more social interaction, their goal was to create a seamless coexistence between tradition and modernity.
Bathrooms were redesigned in homage to traditional Japanese wet rooms, where baths and showers are one continuous space, leading to updating smaller details like the ubiquitous“ black cabinet” that are central to each suite.
The New York Grill & Bar was restored to its original black-and-chrome aesthetic with panoramic skyline views, signature artworks by Valerio Adami and Minoru Nomata and refreshed menus under Chef Ben Wheeler.
“ We wanted to create an atmosphere that guests would recognize instantly, yet sense
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that it has quietly evolved. The spirit remains calm and cinematic, but there is a softness, a generosity in the spaces,” said Jouin Manku.“ The materials speak more openly, the light wraps around the architecture with greater warmth, and everything feels more alive.”
ANCIENT AUTHENTICITY While Park Hyatt Tokyo suggests an evolution, the ryokan, traditional Japanese inns, dates back more than 1,300 years, with more modern companies keeping the heritage alive. Consider The Ryokan Collection, which was founded in 2004. Its now 53 properties combine tranquility and curated luxury in some of the country’ s most breathtaking locations, providing the kind of bespoke cultural authenticity and desirable experiential travel.
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“ Ryokan owners have been born and raised in the very regions where their properties stand. They do not choose their location— they inherit it,” said Hiroki Fukunaga, founder and CEO of The Ryokan Collection.“ While many of these ryokans are situated in remote areas with limited access, they are often surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Precisely because these places are less traveled, they offer an untouched, authentic experience.”
Three new properties were recently added to the collection, each showcasing their unique destinations through specialized cuisine and multiday itineraries. Hakone Kairi is a secluded 20,000-square-foot villa just outside Tokyo with a rustic exterior concealing modern amenities. FUFU
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Hiroki Fukunaga, founder and CEO, The Ryokan Collection
Tokyo Ginza, in a Tokyo shopping district, features guestrooms with private natural hot spring baths. Gora Kadan Fuji offers sweeping, unobstructed views of Mount Fuji in architecture inspired by classic highland designs.
CBRE’ s Ichikawa says Japan’ s tourism industry is uniquely positioned to capitalize on the global rise of sustainability and wellness tourism, thanks to its natural
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Pool inside Akazawa Geihinkan, part of The Ryokan Collection. |
A bedroom at Hakone Kairai in Hakone, around 70 minutes from Tokyo. |
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34 hotelsmag. com Jan / Feb 2026 |