DESTINATION: THE RITZ- CARLTON, OSAKA

WHERE LUXURY AND CULTURE MEET FOR A FIVE-STAR EXPERIENCE

SITUATED IN THE prestigious NishiUmeda business and shopping district, The Ritz- Carlton, Osaka is surrounded by luxury boutiques and prime addresses. Popular nearby tourist areas include the street food feast of Dotonbori, complete with its neon-lit canal; the high- energy entertainment of Namba; cherry blossoms and history at Osaka Castle; and the thrills of Universal Studios Japan.

The Ritz- Carlton, Osaka fuses the feel of an 18th century English manor with an artistic Japanese aesthetic to create a sophisticated balance of culture, heritage and modern facilities. The 291 spacious guest rooms, including 22 suites, offer views across the city, chic European decor, including Italian marble baths, and luxurious Asprey bath amenities.

In a city lauded by gourmands worldwide, The Ritz- Carlton, Osaka still manages to stand out, with a culinary repertoire that includes Michelin-starred French restaurant La Baie; a spotlight on local specialities at Hanagatami; Cantonese and dim sum at Xiang Tao; and authentic Neapolitan pizzas at the villa-inspired Splendido. Meanwhile, The Bar offers an atmospheric wood-panelled retreat with a well-stocked menu that includes more than 100 malt whiskies.

Guests arriving this month will be among the first to enjoy the benefits of a recent renovation to the fitness centre, which is fully equipped with a heated indoor pool, spacious gym, outdoor and indoor whirlpool, saunas and personal training services. Afterwards, guests can head to the calming interiors of the recently renovated spa to enjoy a range

of massages and treatments – including a caviar firming facial with La Prairie products – or simply relax in the pool and garden patio.