THE HIRAMATSU HOTELS & RESORTS Ginoza

This was the best hotel I’ve ever stayed at.My kids were thrilled with the jacuzzi and pool. We’ve booked Hiramatsu Karuizawa for Christmas, and we can’t wait.

After quite a long time, I finally managed to take a long holiday, so I decided on a solo trip within Japan. After a lot of deliberation, I chose Okinawa. Rather than sightseeing, I wanted to focus on a relaxing “hotel stay,” so I chose Hiramatsu and stayed for two nights.My impressions: The Room was ideal (even beyond what I had imagined), and it felt even better than the photos on the website. The natural sounds and breeze in the quiet surroundings—and perhaps the way the sunlight came in—may have contributed to that feeling. Depending on the Room’s location and type, impressions may vary, but for me it felt like an outstanding location.I visited just after Obon and before Okinawa’s traditional Obon period, so occupancy may have been calmer; as a solo traveler, the timing may have worked out perfectly.Even with slightly cloudy skies, there were still so many stars visible at night—it really impressed me. Seeing something you can’t experience in Tokyo made me genuinely excited.If I had to mention one thing: on the second night’s dinner, it felt like both the menu composition and service were lighter compared with the first night (for example, there were no particular upgrade suggestions on day two; champagne and wine also weren’t poured at the table). That said, it was only that my “solo trip excitement” left me feeling just a little wistful...The younger staff members served us while clearly feeling some nervousness, so perhaps that led to slightly more straightforward service—but since I was alone anyway (and honestly don’t mind being their practice guest), please feel free to do so next time (laugh).I could truly feel everyone’s sincere care throughout my stay, which made me very happy.Most other guests were couples or families with children, but nothing bothered me at all; if anything, I enjoyed my meal and wine while admiring all that happy energy around me. It was wonderful.I’d love to visit again next summer. Thank you very much.