The Solo Traveller
Your independence, passion, and lifelong memories.
Destinations
One of the guest rooms at HOSHINOYA Taketomi Island. Photography: ©︎Hoshino Resorts.
Where the destination is you
By Emily Clarke
Luxury never needs an excuse – it just needs us, our sense of adventure, and our intention to create the kinds of moments that bring wonder, stillness, and a joy so pure it can change the way we see our place in the world. It’s about booking the immersive retreat, choosing the room with the unforgettable view, or finally saying ‘Yes!’ to the menus, massages, and self-discoveries we once brushed off as self-indulgent or ‘a bit much’. At its heart, it’s about respect – for our time, our energy, and the simple truth that we deserve it.
Choosing luxury for myself has always felt quietly radical. The very word conjures up images of the ‘rich and famous’ in their playgrounds that are somehow designed to exclude me. Realising I was the only one denying myself those experiences was profound. Sure, while I wasn’t able to travel the world in unconditional luxury, I could start to plan and budget for an experience that would nourish my soul for months … maybe even years to come. The simple act of planning and saving for this experience for myself gave me so much inspiration and that magical date on my calendar – something to look forward to.
Luxury, for all its expensive and indulgent connotations, isn’t always about needless extravagance – it’s about permission – permission to celebrate my time and unique place in the world without compromise … or an apology. In a world that often equates ‘solo’ with some kind of disadvantage, luxury travel reclaims it as abundance … the kind we feel deeply, quietly, and fully. Because sometimes it’s really important to remind ourselves that the most perfect company we can keep is our own.
The magnificent pool at HOSHINOYA Okinawa. Photography: ©︎Hoshino Resorts.
Exploring luxury in Japan
In response to the very particular expectations of solo travellers around the world, the multi-award-winning 'HOSHINOYA' by Hoshino Resorts has designed accommodation and experiences that allow you to immerse yourself in the local culture and surroundings at your own pace – from an all-inclusive stay focused on health and beauty, a deep sleep stay on a remote island to soaking in a natural hot spring in the centre of Tokyo's vast metropolis.
For travellers considering a luxurious experience in Japan – designed exclusively for solo travellers – here are three destinations in Japan worthy of your consideration.
The HOSHINOYA Okinawa spa. Photography: ©︎Hoshino Resorts.
HOSHINOYA Okinawa in Yomitan Village, Okinawa Prefecture
Located along the natural coastline in Yomitan Village on Okinawa's main island, you can immerse yourself in cultural activities and enjoy a rejuvenating spa experience that draws on the healing power of Okinawa’s natural environment. At the dojo within the resort, special activities allow guests to learn about Ryukyu culture as well share time with the local people for an enriching, authentic experience. All rooms at HOSHINOYA Okinawa are oceanfront so you can sleep peacefully to the soothing sound of gentle waves and wake up to a full view of seaside scenery. On the menu for dinner is a course inspired by the Ryukyu Dynasty’s ‘Kusuimun’ teachings, the concept that 'food is medicine'. The core concept of Kusuimun is that food is valued not just for its taste but also for its health benefits and role in longevity.
HOSHINOYA Okinawa Kusuimun. Photography: ©︎Hoshino Resorts.
Nighttime at HOSHINOYA Taketomi Island. Photography: ©︎Hoshino Resorts.
HOSHINOYA Taketomi Island in Taketomi-cho, Okinawa Prefecture
Here, the natural rhythms of the remote island help you to reset your daily routines that can often become unbalanced due to the frantic pace and schedules of our everyday lives. You can immerse yourself in nature through the sound of waves and starlit skies that engage the senses and inspire relaxation. While the peace of the evenings here is unparalleled, basking in the sunrise at the nearby Aiyaruhama beach is a divine experience.
Breakfast is served at HOSHINOYA Taketomi Island. Photography: ©︎Hoshino Resorts.
HOSHINOYA Tokyo Hot Spring. Photography: ©︎Hoshino Resorts.
HOSHINOYA Tokyo in Otemachi, Tokyo
This traditional Japanese ryokan offers a mindful escape where you can unwind, soak in an onsen, and simply be. The Otemachi Onsen is a natural hot spring rich in ancient seawater minerals, drawn from deep underground. The bath space – designed to help you fully experience the present moment – includes a cave-like indoor bath that leads to an open-air bath where you can gaze freely at the ever-changing Tokyo sky.
Once home to samurai estates, Tokyo's Otemachi district is now a forest of office towers, and the “Sky-High Morning Kenjutsu Practice” is a unique activity on the rooftop of a nearby skyscraper 160 metres above ground. From this open-air space, you can take in panoramic views of Tokyo, and practice mindful movement with a sense of exhilaration and clarity overlooking one of the world's most dynamic cities.
Emily Clarke is a passionate solo traveller and The Solo Traveller’s Tourism Collaborations Lead.
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