A Romantic Getaway

Welcome to Okinawa, where time goes a little slower and people are rarely in a rush. Take time to enjoy your surroundings before you start your day. Enjoy breakfast in bed, take a yoga class, go for a swim or just sleep in. And if you’re staying in one of the cabana rooms, definitely take a soak in your private outdoor whirlpool.

Head out early to squeeze in a quick round of golf on the Kanehide Kise Country Club course, which is adjacent to the hotel. Surrounded by lush forest and ocean views, it’s a true gem of a
course.

Head to northern Yambaru to see Okinawa’s most beautiful waterfall, Hiji. Walk on the well-marked trail through a natural forest, keeping an eye out to spot some of the turtles and birds that inhabit the area. You’ll cross a narrow suspension bridge that offers a beautiful view of the valley below and, before long, you’ll reach Hiji Waterfall. Enjoy the peaceful sounds of running water and relax before heading back. 

Drive south along the west coast and cross the bridge to Sesoko Island. The main beach, Sesoko Beach, has excellent snorkeling and swimming conditions. Alternatively, find a slice of shade under a cliff and relax for a while as you try to spot Ie Island in the distance.

Stop back at The Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa for afternoon tea in The Lobby Lounge, where you can choose from a traditional tea set or an Okinawan-inspired one. For a little indulgence, order the Signature Ritz-Carlton Cake — a delicious balance of rich chocolate and citrus zest.

Take a scenic stroll through the Southeast Botanical Garden. Admire exotic flora such as dragon blood trees and lotus flowers, relax in the gazebos surrounding the lake and feed the colorful koi fish, symbols of good fortune and longevity in Japanese culture.  

Book the private Forest Suite at The Ritz-Carlton Spa by ESPA for the ultimate experience for two. On your own private terrace among the surrounding treetops, you’ll enjoy a relaxing soaking bath and the treatment of your choice. A variety of massages, rituals, facials, detoxes and scrubs is available.

Fresh from the spa, head to Gusuku at The Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa for dinner. Here, you can try some authentic regional dishes, like goya champuru (a bitter melon stir-fry) and rafute (stewed pork spare ribs). To add to the local flavor, you can enjoy the sound of a sanshin, a traditional Okinawan stringed instrument, while you dine. 

One of Okinawa’s most beautiful sights is underwater. With the appropriate equipment, you can dive or snorkel into the Blue Cave to witness the natural phenomenon of sun rays bouncing off
the white limestone bottom, emanating a brilliant blue light. 

Head south toward the city of Naha to visit Shurijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Originally built in the late 1300s, it’s where Ryukyu kings resided for many centuries. Explore
the ancient grounds, making your way up to the top where the castle’s main hall stands. While you’re there, take in the lovely views overlooking Naha. 

On your way back from Shurijo Castle, walk down this charming stone path that was once a major thoroughfare. As you amble by beautiful 300-year-old akagi trees, imagine what life was like in Okinawa centuries ago. 

Okinawa is well known for its pottery. Explore the charming shops of Naha’s Tsuboya Pottery District and stop by Kamany, a family-run business that has been making pottery for six generations. Pick up one of its beautiful home wares for a special souvenir to bring back with you. 

Take part in The Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa’s class on the basics of cocktail making, which covers everything from recipes and techniques to glass polishing and tricks of the trade. You’ll learn how to make — and get to enjoy — a signature cocktail with awamori liquor, an Okinawa specialty made from long-grain rice. 

For your last evening, make sure to catch one of Okinawa’s magnificent sunsets. Go to Cape Manzamo, a coral reef cliff overlooking the ocean, perfect for watching the sun dip behind the horizon.

Have dinner at Chura-Nuhji, Okinawa’s finest Italian restaurant. Fresh local produce, meats and seafood are used to create traditional Italian dishes, with an Okinawan twist: think spaghetti with sea urchin, pork shoulder with fermented soybean, risotto with awamori.