Hoshinoya Taketomi Island, Japan Hotel

Taketomi, Yaeyama District, Japan

Okinawa found fame in food circles for a diet that meant inhabitants lived longer than most, and the islands have become a gastronomic grail. Representing a microcosm of this paradise is Hoshinoya, on the tropical isle of Taketomi, in the East China Sea. The island is home to just 350 people and there’s little that doesn’t gently whisper relaxation. A morning tour on a water buffalo carriage, swimming the coral reef shoreline, yoga by the pool, biking through the village – being here makes you feel good. Spacious villas with white-coral yards and modern touches make for a luxury oasis.

Food is regional and includes island ingredients – the famed ‘life herbs’ that go into the traditional cuisine and the caridean shrimp that thrive in the nutrient-rich waters. There’s a local French-twist option for finer dining occasions too, but authentic flavour is a given.

Doubles from £161.

Words by Alex Mead

This article was taken from the May 2024 issue of Food and Travel. To subscribe today, click here.