Top 30 Resorts in Japan: Hoshino Resorts Claims 9 Spots

▲ Hoshino Resorts Risonare Ohara Island (Photo provided by Tang Guizhen International Travel Agency, same below)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Nowadays, traveling to Japan isn’t just about budget-friendly independent trips—themed resort-style tourism is also booming. The October 15, 2016 issue of Japan’s “Weekly Diamond” ranked resort hotels across the country, and among the top 30 for overall score & satisfaction, Hoshino Resorts secured nine entries. The renowned “Hoshinoya Iriomote” scored an impressive 9.5 overall, proudly taking the top spot.

It’s worth noting that Hoshino Resorts has two properties in one region—Okinawa’s Yaeyama Islands. Unlike the more well-known “Okinawa Main Island,” the Yaeyama Islands are closer to Taiwan, just 270 kilometers away—about the same distance as a domestic trip. The most famous and politically economic hub of the Yaeyama Islands is “Ishigaki Island,” where travelers heading to nearby islands usually depart by boat. Geographically close to Taiwan, the Yaeyama Islands also share cultural similarities—many local customs resemble those in Taiwan. For example, the “Shisa” statues commonly seen on Taketomi Island are very similar to the “Wind Lions” of Kinmen.

▲HOSHINOYA Okinawa

Let’s briefly introduce the two Hoshino Resorts properties that made the list here. Ranked fifth, “Hoshinoya Okinawa” is located on Taketomi Island, known not only for its iconic water buffalo carts but also for preserving intact Ryukyuan cultural heritage. The island’s distinctive red-tiled buildings are designated as “Important Traditional Structures” in Japan, and the interior of “Hoshinoya Okinawa” is designed to recreate the island’s architecture, allowing guests to fully experience Ryukyuan culture and lifestyle.

Ranked eighteenth, “Risonare Ohara Island” is on Ohara Island, about a 25-minute boat ride from Ishigaki Island. Carrying the “Risonare” name and following a Western-style resort concept, Hoshino’s “Risonare Ohara Island” focuses on leisurely beach vacations, leveraging the globally renowned beautiful marine scenery of the Ryukyus, attracting countless tourists for holidays every year. The island also hosts Japan’s southernmost golf course—perfect for those looking to tee off.

Transportation from Taiwan to Ishigaki Island in the Yaeyama region is available via China Airlines, with direct flights from Taoyuan International Airport taking just 50 minutes.During the Lunar New Year period, special charter flights are available departing on January 27 and 28. Arrive in the afternoon and check into these two top-tier Japanese resorts—the perfect choice for cost-conscious travelers during the holidays.

For details, please contact Hoshino Resorts’ official Taiwan agent, “Rolisa Tour.”

Rolisa Tour Tang Guizhen International Travel Agency

Phone: (02) 2712-0009 (Weekdays 9:00–18:00) Website: www.rolisa-tour.com.tw