The Ritz-Carlton makes locally inspired Fukuoka debut

Image © Marriott International
The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka is now welcoming its first guests in an urban lifestyle complex of this city on the island of Kyushu in Southern Japan.

The luxurious new hotel takes over the top nine floors of the 25-storey main tower of Fukuoka Daimyo Garden City, which was designed by Tokyo-based design firm Kume Sekkei.

An inspiring setting

A part of the the tallest urban lifestyle complex in Fukuoka’s core commercial district, The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka combines the brand’s signature service and contemporary style with references to the modern culture and traditions of this city known for its heritage as well as thriving start-up scene. The hotel lies adjacent to the rising tech hub, Tenjin, known for its cafes, shops and nightlife.

A city that was once a key waypoint of Silk Road trade routes, and is still a major gateway between Japan and the rest of Asia, is known for its scenic landscape, historic sites such as the 12th-century Shofukuji temple and annual events like the UNESCO designated Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival.

“We are thrilled to celebrate the expansion of The Ritz-Carlton with the opening of the brand’s seventh hotel in Japan,” said Tina Edmundson, President, Luxury for Marriott International.

“Since we first debuted The Ritz-Carlton in Japan in 1997, the brand has been consistently recognised for its legendary luxury and service, beloved by locals and visitors to Japan alike. We are excited to further strengthen our luxury positioning in the country by entering a new and emerging destination such as Fukuoka.”

Radu Cernia, General Manager, The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka, commented: “We are excited to debut The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka and our talented team of ladies and gentlemen look forward to delighting guests with the brand’s legendary care and service.”

“Whether our guests are here to explore the local start-up scene or discover Fukuoka’s fascinating culture and cuisine, we look forward to welcoming them to The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka and providing them with unforgettable memories.”

A new lifestyle destination

The hotel houses 167 guest rooms, including 20 suites, across the tower’s 19th to 23rd floors. From its Bay View rooms, views take in Hakata Bay. The Fukuoka Skyline rooms overlook the city and the Park View rooms overlook Ohori Park. The Presidential Suite spans 1,500 sq ft and the Ritz-Carlton Suite spans 2,000 sq ft. The hotel’s 24th floor features The Ritz-Carlton Club for guests staying in club and suite categories.

This accommodation is joined by four restaurants and two bars, which all reflect the food and drink culture of this city. Viridis champions sustainable local produce while kaiseki, sushi and teppanyaki are offered at Genjyu. The Lobby Lounge & Bar provides refreshment throughout the day, Diva serves afternoon tea and Bay offers original cocktails with tapas and chargrilled dishes.

The hotel’s 24th floor is also home to The Ritz-Carlton Spa, complete with bay-view swimming pool, city-view gym and single and double rooms for treatments using ESPA products along with local ingredients. Other services and facilities within the hotel include the Ritz Kids programme and event space including a chapel, the 1,100-sq-ft Ritz-Carlton Studio and 3,600-sq-ft Ritz-Carlton Ballroom.

The hotel’s interior design was overseen by Melbourne-based Layan Architects + Designers. Inspiration has been taken from Fukuoka’s traditional yarn-dyed silk and kimono weaving craft, with items such as folding screens, sculptures, paintings and woven textiles integrating the work of local artisans into each area.

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