Amanemu

Opened in 2016, Amanemu is located in Ise-Shima National Park, in central Japan, loved by in-the-know travelers for its seafood, pearl farms, natural hot springs and the country’s oldest and most sacred Shinto shrine, Ise Jingu.

The Standout: The sprawling spa, with its colossal outdoor onsen thermal bath complex, fed by hot springs, with oversized basalt-stone tubs for lounging while taking in the views of Ago Bay; and the impeccable restaurant, serving local delicacies such as Ise lobster and Matsusaka beef in a sophisticated setting

Don’t Miss: Joining the Ama, traditional female divers who spend their days searching for oysters and pearls, or touring a pearl farm

• The massive thermal bath complex fed by nearby hot springs
• The pristine, ryokan-like suites and villas, each with soaring ceilings and modern Japanese touches
• The restaurant, which prominently features local delicacies of Ise lobster and Matusaka beef in a sophisticated setting

Situated on a bluff overlooking Ago Bay, Amanemu's sprawling grounds are punctuated with glass-walled, one-story buildings made of burnt black cedar with slate tile roofs—stunning and minimalist architecture that affords glorious views. Interiors are decorated in a beige and blonde color palette and boast soaring ceilings, creating an airy aesthetic that allows guests to feel perpetually surrounded by the area’s natural beauty.

There are only 24 suites and four two-bedroom villas at Amanemu, so the vibe is always hushed. The suites stand in pairs and each is spacious and serene, featuring sliding screen doors, thermal spring-fed bathtubs and private patios with large daybeds. The two-bedroom villas each stand alone and are decorated in a similar aesthetic but have private outdoor onsen baths. Both suites and villas have either garden views or picturesque views out to the Ago Bay.

The dining at Amanenu is top-notch, which is not surprising considering its location in a region that has supplied seafood for the Imperial Family for centuries. In addition to the famous Ise lobster and freshly caught fish, beef from the neighboring Mastusaka region is also featured prominently on the menu. The dining room, which has massive windows overlooking the bay, is light-filled during the day and transitions into a sultry setting for dinner.

A property highlight is the sprawling spa centered around a colossal outdoor onsen complex, fed by nutrient-rich, hot thermal spring water. Surrounding the waters and interspersed into intimate alcoves are a collection of daybeds where guests can lounge and relax while enjoying the stunning scene. The award-winning spa features four treatment suites and a fitness center that overlooks the lush surroundings. There is also a private thermal bath that can also be booked prior to spa treatments.

For more active pursuits, guests can hop on one of the complimentary bikes for a leisurely ride down to the water or use the nearby Nemo golf course and tennis courts. The town of Ise is home to the renowned Ise Grand Shrine, or Jingu, one of the Shinto religion’s most important and holiest structures. Another interesting excursion is visiting the huts of the famous Ama, the female divers that spend their days diving for Ise lobster, oysters and abalone. For a special experience, you can join the Ama for an über-fresh seafood lunch. A visit with the Ama provides a rare insight into an ancient tradition, in which the divers use no modern gear or technology to collect their catch. The region is also famous for pearl cultivation and you can visit one of the many pearl farms to get an inside look at the process.

Discerning spa-loving travelers looking for a relaxing respite after taking in the exciting hustle and bustle of Tokyo or navigating the narrow streets of Kyoto. This won’t be the best destination for young children or those who are squeamish about nature's elements (like insects).

Amanemu requires a journey from either Tokyo or Kyoto, at three to four hours by train (with a connection), but you are certainly rewarded for your efforts.