Rosewood Hotel Group, a global lifestyle and hospitality management group, is spearheaded by the ultra-luxury "Rosewood Hotels & Resorts®." The group's first property in Japan is Rosewood Miyakojima, which opened in March 2025. We spoke with Ivan Suardi, Executive Vice President, who visited Japan for the opening celebration, about his vision for Rosewood Miyakojima, its development in Japan, and the future of luxury as envisioned by Rosewood.

"A Sense of Place®—Respect for the local culture and heritage—is not merely a slogan, but the fundamental philosophy underpinning our hotel creation and operations."

So says Ivan Suardi, Executive Vice President of Global Product and Concept Development for Rosewood Hotel Group. For many years, as a professional in the food and beverage sector, he has skillfully woven local ingredients, traditions, and ambiance into the culinary offerings at locations worldwide.

"Currently, I am expanding the experience and philosophy cultivated in the F&B sector with a broader perspective. I oversee product innovation across the entire hotel, including guest room design, event planning, wellness programs, and the F&B operations we have always managed," Suardi continues. His exceptional sensibility and expertise span a wide range, from supporting new hotel openings to conceptualizing and planning innovative F&B facilities and event spaces.

"What today's sophisticated travelers truly seek is not just luxurious facilities. In creating our hotels, we carefully interpret the culture, history, and heritage of each location and weave them into the design. From the art and decor to the cuisine, we pursue the reflection of the essence of the place in every element."

This philosophy is embodied in the architectural beauty of Rosewood Miyakojima, designed by the studio of Dutch architectural master Piet Boon. The spatial design, inspired by the rich history and culture of the Ryukyu Islands, harmoniously blends the warmth of Ryukyu limestone with the Japanese spirit of wabi-sabi.

"Before commencing construction of this hotel, we visited Miyakojima starting in 2019, engaging in dialogue with the local community, savoring local ingredients, and visiting awamori distilleries to deepen our understanding of the island's culture," Suardi recalls. It is this co-creation and symbiosis, fostered over time through relationships with the region, that truly embodies "A Sense of Place®."

"What we value most is creating spaces that are cherished by the local community as well. We use Miyako linen for the staff uniforms and offer creative cocktails featuring local awamori at our restaurants, blending the island's traditions with contemporary sensibilities."

From the infinity pool, where the boundaries of sea and sky dissolve, one can gaze upon the endless horizon. "Cuisine is one of the most direct ways to experience the soul of a place," Suardi notes, and against this magnificent natural backdrop, Rosewood Miyakojima offers four distinct culinary venues.

"The cuisine served at Rosewood Miyakojima must tell the story of Miyakojima's climate and history." Guided by this philosophy, the resort features "YUKUU," offering cocktails and light fare by the pool; "NAGI," an all-day dining venue with ocean views and Italian cuisine; "MAAS," which highlights the flavors of fresh seafood through its cooking methods; and "CHOMA," where specialty chefs present sushi, tempura, teppanyaki, and yakitori in an open space overlooking the sea.

"Our aim is to create restaurants that resonate with locals, not just tourists, as embodying the true taste of Miyakojima." Suardi's words convey a deep respect and passion for regional authenticity.

"Guests seek an integrated experience that engages their entire being. Therefore, our staff's service and hospitality must go beyond mere technique, rooted in genuine empathy. Standardized, manual-driven service cannot be considered true hospitality for our well-traveled guests. At Rosewood, we place the utmost importance on the spontaneous spirit of 'omotenashi' and creativity of each staff member."

An example is the mud pack treatment at the "Asaya Spa," offered in six luxurious treatment rooms, inspired by the "Pantu festival" of Miyakojima.

"This treatment was an idea conceived by a staff member from Miyakojima. We believe that even such an experience is refined through the creativity born from the place and its people."

A stay at Rosewood Miyakojima offers abundant opportunities to experience the essence of Miyakojima, including calligraphy workshops with local artists, snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, encounters with mystical sea turtles, and programs to learn about environmental conservation. Furthermore, the "Rosewood Explorers Club" for children fosters unforgettable memories through play, learning about the island's nature and culture.

"Parents can enjoy a relaxing glass of wine for a few hours while their children are in the care of our skilled staff," Suardi adds with a smile.

Rosewood Miyakojima is, in essence, a special space that embodies the spirit of the island. This beautiful paradise will continue to captivate sophisticated travelers from around the globe seeking the undiscovered charms of Miyakojima with its ultimate hospitality for a new era.

"At our group, guest preferences and habits are shared across all Rosewood properties worldwide. From your preferred pillow firmness and morning coffee choice to allergy information and room temperature settings, once you inform us, it will be prepared at any Rosewood property worldwide on your next visit, without you needing to ask again."

This ensures a special experience, making you feel like a long-time regular even at a property you're visiting for the first time. The personalized service that respects guests' lifestyles and preferences is a hallmark of Rosewood's thoughtful approach. Once you experience the refined hospitality of Rosewood Miyakojima, you'll naturally be drawn to the allure of Rosewood hotels worldwide. Whether it's the urban sophistication of Bangkok, the artistic sensibility of Paris, or the historical charm of Mexico—the "A Sense of Place®" philosophy, expressing the culture and traditions of each locale through a unique interpretation, resonates consistently across all properties.

And at every property, a seamless experience tailored to each guest's individual tastes awaits. A stay at Rosewood Miyakojima will serve as your gateway to the exquisite experiences offered by Rosewood properties around the world.

Rosewood Miyakojima
To commemorate the grand opening of Rosewood Miyakojima, a special package is available for stays between Saturday, March 1, 2025, and Sunday, August 31, 2025.
Sales Period: Tuesday, December 10, 2024 – (Stays from Saturday, March 1, 2025 to Sunday, August 31, 2025)
Includes:
Breakfast for 2 adults
Hotel credit (¥20,000 for villa bookings, ¥50,000 for house bookings)
Access to the fitness center
Early check-in and late check-out (subject to availability on the day)
Reservations:
URL:https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/jp/miyakojima/offers/opening-celebration-offer
Reservation Phone Number: 0980-79-8998
Email: miyakojima.reservations@rosewoodhotels.com
Business Hours: Monday-Friday (10:30 AM - 5:00 PM) *Closed on Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays, and New Year's holidays (December 31 - January 2).