Hoshinoya Taketomi Island

Taketomi Island is not a convenient destination: It will likely require a plane, car and ferry to get there, regardless of your starting point. Yet, the remoteness makes the experience all the more special, and Hoshinoya has mastered the balance of tradition, comfort, and service with a low-key island resort experience.

• The individual pavilions with their red roofs, which maintain the architectural and aesthetic customs of the island.
• The French-Japanese fusion cuisine with a fresh Okinawan flare
• The crystal-clear water that is only steps away, no matter where you are on the property.

Taketomi Island is a five square kilometers of white sand and crystal water, east of Taiwan. The remote island of just over 300 residents attracts travelers looking for a quiet, luxurious escape, and the Hoshinoya is the only resort-style property on the island. With charming unpaved roads, lush greenery, narrow walkways, and 36 free-standing red-roofed pavilions, the hotel seamlessly blends in to the surroundings.

The hotel’s residential pavilions create a maze throughout the property and range in size from 570 to 700 square feet of living space with an additional outdoor garden, table and private area. Each is well-ventilated, with floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding screen doors, maintaining a true Japanese minimalist aesthetic. Hardwood flooring lines the main living area (where some of the pavilions also include a deep soaking tub) and shoji doors separate the bedroom, complete with traditional tatami flooring and slightly raised futon beds. Accommodations are as comfortable as they are minimal—a great base for exploring the property and surrounding area.

Taketomi Island is a step back in time, with a tiny village that guests can explore by either bicycle (complimentary and available on-site) or the more traditional water buffalo cart, a unique island tradition. Adventurous activities such as snorkeling and diving are available, along with sunrise meditation, local crafting experiences or sampling fresh delicacies and traditional music in the property’s main pavilion. With a large pool, beach access, a spa, and a restaurant serving fresh island fare, Hoshinoya Taketomi is a true getaway that leaves travelers feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

Those hoping to add an island component to a Japan trip, avid divers and travelers looking to experience a peaceful, remote and unique place in the world will find their happy place on Taketomi Island. Each pavilion accommodates two adults or two adults and one child, so it may not work for families who require large suites or connecting options.