Rosewood Miyakojima sits on an untouched peninsula on a tropical island located off the south coast of mainland Japan. Known as the “Island of Prayers”, Miyakojima is a spiritually significant destination, offering discerning domestic and international travelers a rare immersion into the unique Ryukyu culture of the region, embraced by verdant landscapes and the calm of the ocean. As the first Japanese property from Rosewood, Rosewood Miyakojima marks a new chapter for the group as it expands further into Asia, strengthening its position in the region.
Featuring four restaurants and bars spanning Japanese and international cuisine, an infinity pool by the beach, a private pavilion overlooking the ocean to house weddings and special occasions, and a wellness concept through Rosewood’s pioneering Asaya brand, the destination offers immersive experiences rooted in the local culture, its spirituality and its connection to nature. With a blend of relaxation, adventure and highly personalised services, the resort is an attractive destination for families searching for a luxury travel experience, as well as those seeking a private retreat in a one-of-a-kind destination.
Ryukyu-Inspired Design Philosophy
Drawing from the history, landscape and culture of the Ryukyu Islands, the design philosophy at Rosewood Miyakojima is rooted in sustainability and harmony with the surrounding environment. The resort’s unique design was completed by Studio Piet Boon, the renowned Dutch design studio founded by Piet Boon, who was intrigued by what he calls “a serene and unspoiled destination.” Thoughtfully designed to frame the surrounding landscape, the resort’s architecture accentuates the natural beauty from the very first moment guests arrive.
Prioritising natural materials, clean lines, and textures that reflect the island’s pristine beaches and turquoise waters, every detail was meticulously conceived to create a harmonious guest experience. Local Ryukyu stone plays a central role in the architectural palette, used in various ways to establish a strong connection between the resort and the island’s natural aesthetics. “At Studio Piet Boon, we feel a deep connection to Japanese culture, particularly in design principles such as simplicity, balance, and harmony” said Piet Boon. “These elements were essential in shaping the property, allowing us to create a seamless blend of luxury and tranquility—one that celebrates both the local environment and our shared design values.”
Accommodations By The Miyako Blue
Overlooking Oura Bay with direct access to an idyllic beach, the resort has 55 guest accommodations— each with breathtaking views of Miyakojima’s famous blue waters. Bathed in natural light, with accents that draw on local materials such as the local ‘Ryukyu limestone’, the villas and houses draw inspiration from the serenity of Ryukyu architecture, creating of Japanese and Ryukyu interiors, creating a calm atmosphere that seamlessly connects the interiors with the natural surroundings.
Accommodations are divided into five different zones across the peninsula, each showcasing a distinct aspect of Miyakojima’s natural beauty and allowing guests to experience different sides of the island. Villas take their names from the Okinawan dialect, referring to the topography of each location: Daya villas look out onto the breathtaking cliffside; Mui villas sit in the peace of the mountains; Miji villas are on the tip of the peninsula by the sea; Uru villas are directly on the sand; and Isu villas are nestled on the rocky beach. Three houses—UPRA, KUURA and KAMII—are the largest properties on the resort, and are located on the cliffside, rocky beach and the tip of the peninsula respectively. Sporting incredible views of the sea, the houses offer 3-meter-high ceilings and barbecue grills on an open terrace, with dedicated butler service.
A Quartet of Culinary Experiences
The culinary offerings at Rosewood Miyakojima span four distinct dining experiences, each rooted in the island’s provenance—from reimagined local delicacies to longevity-inspired dishes rich in the vitamins and minerals typical to Ryukyuan cuisine. The all-day dining concept NAGI offers a curated fusion of Italian cuisine and Japanese cooking techniques; MAAS is an oceanside restaurant that highlights the simple flavors of the sea, showcasing freshly caught fish from the surrounding waters; and YUKUU is the resort’s poolside bar offering a curated selection of drinks and casual dishes with panoramic views of the ocean. Opening later in 2025, CHOMA will bring together four distinct areas of washoku (Japanese cuisine)— sushi, tempura, teppanyaki, and yakitori—crafted by specialist chefs and served in an open pavilion overlooking the sea.
Okinawan Wellness Offerings
Okinawa is home to some of the longest-living people on earth, known for their innately healthy and easygoing lifestyles. Combining this time-honored wisdom with Asaya, Rosewood’s pioneering wellbeing concept, the curated program at Asaya Spa will include specialty therapies informed by healing rituals rooted in Okinawan heritage, including a herbal compress and a “medicine of life” treatment, utilizing medicinal herbs and Miyako Island sea salt to foster relaxation and nourish the skin. Active experiences invite guests to try their hand at martial arts in the birthplace of karate, under the guidance of a Miyakojima karate sensei, while fostering both physical health and a sense of inner peace. Asaya Spa at Rosewood Miyakojima includes 6 treatment rooms, a yoga studio and a fully equipped fitness center.
Noriko Nakayama, Managing Director of Rosewood Miyakojima, brings over 20 years of expertise in luxury hospitality, along with a master’s degree in environmental science from Yale University. A dedicated environmentalist and turtle expert, she offers a unique perspective on the ecology of Miyakojima. “It is with great pleasure that we introduce Rosewood’s first property in Japan on the beautiful island of Miyakojima—a destination rich in cultural heritage and natural splendor. Rosewood Miyakojima embarks on an exciting journey to embody Rosewood’s A Sense of Place philosophy, offering a curated selection of experiences, from exceptional culinary journeys to immersive encounters with local wildlife. I am especially excited to invite our guests to become sea turtle ambassadors, where together we will explore Miyakojima’s undiscovered ecology and gain a deeper understanding of these incredible creatures that call the island home.”
For Younger Guests
At Rosewood Miyakojima, families will find enriching experiences designed to create unforgettable moments for young guests and their parents. The Rose Buds program caters to newborns and toddlers up to three years old, providing thoughtfully selected baby care essentials, while The Rosewood Explorers Club offers children aged four to twelve a world of discovery. The goal of the program is to provide creative and educational activities that are rooted in a sense of place, providing younger guests immersion into the local culture—from potpourri making and origami to sea glass crafts and temporary tattoos inspired by hajichi, Okinawa’s traditional skin art. They can also take part in Old Enough!, an experience inspired by the beloved Japanese TV show, where children complete a solo errand for the first time to foster independence and confidence. The babysitting service provided by expert caregivers ensures peace of mind, allowing parents time to relax, rejuvenate and explore.
