Hoshinoya Taketomi Island

Hoshinoya Taketomi Island, a Michelin Key Selected property in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan, consistently garners high praise for its ability to blend luxurious comfort with a deep immersion into the unique culture and natural beauty of Taketomi Island. Guests frequently describe their stay as a truly exceptional and memorable experience.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for Hoshinoya Taketomi Island is overwhelmingly positive, often described as one of the best resort experiences guests have ever had. Reviewers frequently use words like "amazing," "paradise," and "serene elegance" to characterize their stay. It is consistently rated highly for cleanliness, staff, and service. The property successfully balances the best aspects of a luxury resort with a culturally significant and authentic experience.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently highlight the extraordinary hospitality, the delectable food, and the unique island experience offered by Hoshinoya Taketomi Island. The resort's design, which meticulously reflects traditional Okinawan village architecture with red-tiled roofs, coral-walled entrances, and white sand paths, is a significant draw. Amenities such as the 24-hour heated outdoor pool, the full-service spa, and private white sand beaches are also highly appreciated. Cultural programs, including traditional weaving lessons and water buffalo cart tours of the village, are popular activities that allow guests to embrace island life. The focus on creating a tranquil environment, free from tall buildings and utility poles to enhance stargazing, is another cherished aspect.

3. Room Quality

The accommodations at Hoshinoya Taketomi Island are spacious, light-filled villas inspired by local architecture. Each is a self-contained, single-story building with a red-tiled roof, reflecting traditional Taketomi Island houses. Rooms feature either Japanese-style tatami mats and futons or Western-style wood floors and modern furniture. All villas boast deep soaking tubs, private gardens, and large windows that can be fully opened to let in the natural breezes. The living areas, often called "Kaze no Ma" (wind room), are designed to allow the "paikaji" (southern breeze) to flow through, creating a sense of freedom unique to a southern island. Shisa statues on the rooftops are believed to protect the homes.

4. Dining Experience

The dining experience at Hoshinoya Taketomi Island is highly praised, with some guests calling the food "some of the best we had in Japan." The restaurant serves "Nouvelle Ryukyu" cuisine, a fusion of Okinawan tradition and French culinary techniques, featuring fresh local seafood, traditional herbs, spices, and tropical fruits. Breakfast offers both Japanese and Western options, including the "Island Nine-item (Kunushina) Breakfast," an adaptation of Okinawan multi-tiered box cuisine, and the "Yushi Tofu Porridge Breakfast." Guests also commend the room service, noting it's almost as good as the restaurant dining at a fraction of the price, with staff setting up tables with real silverware and condiments in the rooms. Special dining experiences, such as five-course dinners under a starry sky, are also offered seasonally.

5. Service & Staff

Hospitality at Hoshinoya Taketomi Island is consistently described as "nothing short of amazing." The staff are known for their dedication and act as guides, helping guests connect with the present moment and the island's environment. They actively participate in island events, deepening their connection with the islanders and reflecting the spirit of "Utsugumi" (unity and cooperation).

6. Location & Accessibility

Hoshinoya Taketomi Island is situated on Taketomi Island, one of the Yaeyama Islands, which is closer to Taiwan than mainland Japan. It offers a remote and secluded experience, a departure from the Okinawan mainland. The island itself prohibits modern buildings, preserving its traditional charm. Guests arrive by ferry from Ishigaki Island (a 10-minute ride), which has an airport with daily flights from major Japanese cities like Osaka. The resort provides a shuttle service between Taketomi Port and the hotel, aligning with ferry schedules. On the island, getting around is often done by bicycle or traditional water buffalo-drawn carts, as outside traffic is restricted within the resort's property. The resort also offers a bus service on a predetermined schedule to various stops on the island until late afternoon, with reservations available for later excursions.

7. Value & Pricing

Hoshinoya Taketomi Island is a luxury property, and its pricing reflects this. A 1-night stay for two adults can start from approximately JPY 112,000 (meals not included), with some estimates around $454.49 per night. While expensive, guests often consider it worthwhile due to the unique and high-quality experience offered, praising it as "fantastic" despite the cost. For some, opting for room service over the full restaurant experience can be a way to enjoy the exceptional food at a lower price point.

8. Common Complaints

While overwhelmingly positive, some recurring criticisms include issues with dampness and condensation in the rooms, with visible stains and the need for a dehumidifier, which some guests found disruptive to the tranquility. A few guests also reported disorganization with staff regarding greetings upon ferry arrival, check-out procedures, and baggage handling. Additionally, some note that while the multi-course French dining at the restaurant is good, it can be expensive.

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