The Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa

"The island of Okinawa has long been a favorite beach and golf getaway destination for the Japanese, and the Ritz-Carlton opened their first luxury resort in the country here in 2013, blending island style with the hotel brand’s warm opulence. Sip a Sima cocktail, made with Okinawan Amawori liquor and Shikwasa citrus fruit, or listen to live music played on the three-stringed Sanshin at dinner at the hotel’s signature Gosuku ("castle" in local dialect) restaurant. Fine dining at the property includes classic Italian and teppaynaki steak (grilled on an iron pan), with afternoon tea served in the lobby lounge and snacks in the library and seasonal pool bar. Rooms have large terraces and panoramic windows that overlook the East China Sea or golf course greens, and spa treatment roomsenjoy forest and bay views. While not directly seaside, a short shuttle ride can whisk guests away to the resort’s private beach."