The Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa officially reopens on July 17, 2026, marking a new chapter for the property in Nago. The renovation encompasses the resort’s public spaces and dining facilities, guided by the concept of “Yuimaru”—a traditional Okinawan term for the spirit of mutual aid and connection. Under the leadership of newly appointed Executive Chef Rei Matsuyama, the resort aims to deepen its ties to the island’s heritage through redesigned interiors and a revitalized culinary program.
A Transformed Culinary Landscape
The resort’s dining options have been reimagined to highlight regional ingredients through diverse techniques. A significant addition is Riva Ristorante, a venue that blends Southern Italian flavors with Okinawan produce. The restaurant features an interactive dining style, including trolley service and a dedicated pasta station where guests can observe the preparation of fresh dishes. The space is designed to foster a sense of community, reflecting the broader theme of the resort’s renewal.
Teppanyaki Kise has also been refreshed, offering a multi-sensory experience that pairs high-end local ingredients, such as Okinawan Wagyu beef, with custom-made Ryukyu glassware. Meanwhile, Gusuku continues its focus on refined washoku (traditional Japanese cuisine), specializing in shabu-shabu courses that feature local Aguu pork and fresh seafood. These venues serve as a bridge between international culinary standards and the specific flavors of the Okinawan archipelago.
Immersion in the Yanbaru Wilderness
Beyond the dining room, the resort has established a new Guest Experience Team to facilitate deeper engagement with northern Okinawa. The team manages over 30 activities, ranging from trekking through the Yanbaru forest—a UNESCO World Heritage site—to tours of traditional craft workshops. On-site wellness programs have also been expanded to include Ryukyu Floating Sound Healing, conducted in the resort’s indoor pool to promote relaxation through resonance and water.
Commitment to Sustainable Luxury
The reopening also highlights the resort’s environmental initiatives. In June 2026, the property earned the Green Key certification, an international standard for excellence in environmental responsibility and sustainable operation within the tourism industry. This certification reflects a commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the Yanbaru region while providing a high-standard guest experience.
Property details
- Property
- The Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa
- Address
- 1343-1 Kise, Nago City, Okinawa 905-0026
- Access
- Located in northern Okinawa (Yanbaru) overlooking the East China Sea and Kanehide Kise Country Club.
- Official site
- https://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/okarz-the-ritz-carlton-okinawa/overview/
- Rooms
- 97
- Opened
- July 17, 2026
