Fukuoka, the largest metropolis on the island of Kyushu, has emerged as one of the most sought-after destinations in southern Japan, attracting travelers with its vibrant traditional culture, delectable cuisine, and youthful ambiance. Adding to the excitement, the long-awaited opening of Fukuoka’s first 5-star hotel, The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka, took place on June 21st.
Situated in the heart of the trendy Tenjin district within the Fukuoka Daimyo Garden City complex, this sophisticated retreat is conveniently located within a 15-minute drive or public transit ride from Fukuoka Airport, Hakata Station, and Hakata Port.
The hotel is part of a striking 25-story glass tower that is 111 meters tall, created by the architecture firm Kume Design. The interior spaces, including the guest rooms, public areas, The Lobby Lounge & Bar, café, club lounge, and spa, were thoughtfully crafted by LAYAN Architects + Designers, based in Melbourne, Australia, known for their experience in luxury hospitality projects.
Drawing inspiration from Hakata-ori, a traditional fabric most commonly used for obi worn with kimono and also a Nationally Designated Traditional Craft, the hotel’s interior is adorned with an array of exquisite decorations and designs created by local artisans. Throughout the spaces, you’ll find the splendid works of local craftsmen, including vessels, paintings, and textiles, celebrating the essence of the city.
Arrival lobby on the first floor of the hotel (concept image)
Numerous threads suspended in a three-dimensional space create artwork reminiscent of an ink painting. The carpets have been intricately designed to mimic the patterns and textures of Hakata-ori fabrics. You’ll notice the lighting inspired by the Hakata-ori pattern paper (punch cards used in the textile manufacturing process) illuminating the path through the corridors towards the guest rooms.
The hotel lobby on the 18th floor, featuring a small rock garden, is both modern and serene. (concept image)
The Ritz-Carlton Spa (concept image)
Relax and revitalize with holistic treatments offered by the renowned British spa brand ESPA.
Spanning across the 19th to 23rd floors, The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka offers a collection of 147 generously sized guest rooms beginning at 50 square meters, along with 20 expansive suites measuring 75 square meters or more.
Guests are provided with a diverse range of room options to suit their preferences, including the Skyline view rooms, which offer breathtaking views of the Fukuoka cityscape; the Park view rooms, which provide a tranquil outlook onto the expanse of Ohori Park; and the Bay view rooms, where you can enjoy watching ships glide across Hakata Bay.
Sown left: Deluxe King / Shown right: Premium Suite
The Presidential Suite, spanning an impressive 132 square meters, and The Ritz-Carlton Suite, measuring 188 square meters, offer exclusive amenities such as a dedicated dining room and kitchen, providing the perfect setting for intimate in-room dining experiences.
The Ritz-Carlton Suite
Exclusively accessible to guests staying in Club Rooms and Suites, The Ritz-Carlton Club, situated on the 24th floor, provides a tranquil retreat where visitors can escape the urban hustle and immerse themselves in the beauty of Fukuoka’s panoramic views. Alongside weekend live jazz performances, the club offers a bar and private rooms tailored for both business and social gatherings. In addition, a dedicated full-time concierge is available throughout your stay to ensure you have the ideal visit.
Celebrating Fukuoka’s local ingredients and culinary heritage
With a selection of four restaurants and two bars, there are plenty of options to indulge in Fukuoka’s exquisite local cuisine. The Western restaurant Viridis embraces sustainability and the concept of farm-to-sky, with a creative menu that highlights Kyushu’s finest local ingredients. At Genjyu, those seeking a taste of authentic Japanese cuisine can savor Japan’s most prized delicacies: kaiseki, sushi, and teppanyaki.
Shown left: Bay / Shown right: Genjyu
The Lobby Lounge & Bar is a warm and inviting space where you can relax and enjoy light snacks and beverages. Drawing inspiration from the passing ships in Hakata Bay, the sleek Bay bar offers a delightful selection of signature cocktails along with chargrilled dishes and tapas to be savored while enjoying the bay views from the terrace. Meanwhile, Café Diva, a laid back and elegant establishment, delights guests with a range of light meals, sweets, and afternoon tea featuring the finest teas sourced from Kyushu.
The perfect venue for any event
Located on the third floor, you’ll find two versatile banquet venues: The Ritz-Carlton Studio, which spans 108 square meters, and The Ritz-Carlton Ballroom, covering an impressive 336 square meters. These elegant spaces offer flexible configurations to cater to a range of events, adapting to suit any occasion.
The ballroom is equipped with a state-of-the-art 6-square-meter LED screen, providing a stunning backdrop for large-scale film screenings and video presentations. Additionally, the chapel, designed with a harmonious blend of Japanese and Western style, offers a beautiful setting for memorable wedding ceremonies.
Embracing local traditions and culture, the theme throughout the Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka, is weaving together people and the city, beautifully capturing the essence of Fukuoka’s distinctive fusion of the contemporary and the traditional within the vibrant cosmopolitan setting.
This spectacular hotel is the perfect oasis for setting out to explore the unique sights and flavors of Kyushu.
The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka Location: Fukuoka Daimyo Garden City, 2-6-50 Daimyo, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture Number of guest rooms: 167 (including 20 suites) Facilities: 1F Hotel Entrance & Arrival Lobby 3F: Wedding chapel and banquet rooms 18F: Hotel lobby and restaurant 19F to 23F: Guest rooms 24F: Club lounge, spa, gym, pool, bar Hotel Website: https://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/fukrz-the-ritz-carlton-fukuoka/overview/
