SAKURA COMETH
Japan’s cherry blossom season is right around the corner
Private Jet Expedition Across China The Ultimate Ultra-Luxe Asia Experience September 8 - 20, 2019
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CONTENTS
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ISSUE 01 | JANUARY 2019
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TRAVEL NEWS
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REVIEW: ROSEWOOD PHUKET
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AN INSTAGRAMMERS GUIDE TO HK Photographer Jordan Hammond gives Travelogues advice on his favorite photography spots in Hong Kong, from East Dam to Quarry Bay.
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SAKURA COMETH Osaka, Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara – Japan is ready to turn pink and luxury travelers need to be ready because everyone wants to see the Land of the Rising Sun in sakura season.
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TRAVEL ADVICE: QUY NHON
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SUPERCAR DUBAI
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KYOTO’S BLACK MAGIC SIDE Even in the most popular temples of Japan’s most beautiful city, there are dark corners where patrons can curse their enemies in Kyoto.
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A DAY IN GALLE FORT
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THE BEST ROOFTOP BARS IN PHNOM PENH
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CELEBRITY CHEFS CLIMB ABOARD THE EASTERN & ORIENTAL EXPRESS
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WRECK DIVING IN PAPUA NEW GUINEA
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SEOUL’S ULTRA-LUXURIOUS HOTELS
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JAMES BOND ISLAND AND SECRET LAGOONS BY CHOPPER
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PRU: PHUKET’S FIRST MICHELIN STAR Thailand picks up its first Michelin star outside of Bangkok and the surrounding region with PRU in Phuket, an eatery that takes farm to table very seriously indeed.
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FACES OF THE WAKHAN VALLEY
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FEATURED ITINERARY: TOHOKU SPRING
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SEE THE SUMMER GAMES IN LUXURY
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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Luxury travel designer Remote Lands has two sides: one in New York, one in Bangkok. The fashionable midtown offices of Manhattan make up one part, with professionals versed in the ultimate in luxury, class, and sophistication, a realm of high rises and name brands in the capital of the West. Thousands of miles away is Bangkok, where experts in logistics and travel create seamless, fascinating journeys in the Mahatun building on the BTS, crisscrossed by commuters, hawkers, and motorcycle taxis. These are the two sides of Remote Lands: Manhattan and Mahatun. Together the company collects, collates, and reengineers exclusive information to create the greatest bespoke luxury travel journeys on Earth, from breakfast on Everest to dinner with a prince in Nepal. Travelogues from Remote Lands is the culmination of that expertise and focus. In our first issue, we bring you travel writers from around the globe, world-class photographers, and reviews of the world’s finest accommodations. No two Remote Lands journeys have ever been the same, and that’s because no two travelers are the same. – Tyler Roney
Publisher
Remote Lands
Founders
Catherine Heald, Jay Tindall
Editor-in-Chief
Tyler Roney
Marketing
Phil Ingram
Product Manager Trinity Nguyen Distribution
Liam Vickers
Design
Phoebe Storm
Cover Photo
Jordan Hammond
Contributors
Jacob Roy, Scott Rainen, Kaila Krayewski, John McMahon, Ronan O’Connell, Zinara Rathnayake, Jay Tindall, Simon Ostheimer, Juanita Pienaar, Jordan Hammond, Adam Beard
Owner
Remote Lands, Inc.
Head Offices
Remote Lands, Inc., 120 East 56th Street, Suite 1150, New York, NY 10022, USA, +1 (646) 760-2048
Asia Offices
Remote Lands (Thailand) Co., Ltd., Mahatun Plaza Building, 7/F, 888/74 Ploenchit Road, Lumpini, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330, +66 (094) 957-3143
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DESTINATION
Rosewood’s optimistic foray into Southeast Asia continues with the opening of Rosewood Bangkok in March. Bringing a much needed slice of luxury to the Sukhumvit area, the Rosewood Bangkok adds to the already stellar hotel collection in the world’s most visited city. The Thai capital sanctuary will feature 159 rooms with Pool Sky Villas and three restaurants and bars. On the river, Bangkok luxury travelers opt for The Siam and The Peninsula, and in the hopping Sathorn area the Sukhothai sates palates and the SO Sofitel is ripe for downtown fun. Remote Lands has been looking forward to the opening of the Rosewood Bangkok for some time – not least of all because it’s outside the window of our Bangkok office.
TRAVEL NEWS
ROSEWOOD BANGKOK TO OPEN IN MARCH
AWEI PILA PROVIDES MERGUI LUXURY
While things weren’t very pleasant in the news for Myanmar in 2018, the Awei Pila opened to coral quiet fanfare in the country’s south. The previous lack of luxury properties in the Mergui Archipelago region has meant that luxury travelers found their pleasures on liveaboards rather than luxe hotels. This new opening gives travelers the option of exploring the area from the land. The newly-constructed property on Pila Island will feature only 24 air-conditioned tented villas, complete with whitesand beach, open-air restaurant, and spa. The island is a twohour speedboat ride from the mainland.
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If you’re planning a trip right now, you’re probably looking to spring. For festival fans, Bangkok will be having its most interesting festival of the year, Songkran – where the entire country turns into a water gun fight. Most of Southeast Asia starts to heat up in April, so it’s a good time to visit Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia for beaches and adventure. The weather makes for a great visit to North Asia, in places like Beijing for the Great Wall or Korea for the food. Japan, of course, experiences its famed cherry blossom season, but there’s also the phallus-themed Kanamara festival in Kawasaki with gigantic – actually, just Google it. The severe heat means travelers will want to avoid Delhi and Northern Thailand, and rains should keep tourists away from Malaysia (Borneo excepted) and South China.
The day after Christmas, Dubai began its famed Dubai Shopping Festival for the brand-name bougies out there. Featuring the usual fireworks – literally and figuratively – this year will boast the biggest festival ever with 700 brands across 3,200 outlets; the event is a grab-bag of raffles, deals, and sharp-edge fashion. The festival will continue throughout the month until January 26, giving luxury travelers a chance to see the most opulent shopping opportunity in the Middle East’s capital of commerce.
TRAVEL PLANS
TRAVEL NEWS PLAN FOR SPRING
THE DUBAI SHOPPING FESTIVAL KICKS OFF
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ROSEWOOD PHUKET Bucks the Trend to Create a Peaceful Island Hideaway T
By Jacob Roy
he largest of Thailand’s many islands, Phuket is popular for its beach tourism, and Rosewood Phuket’s proximity to Patong Beach might evoke disquieting feelings in those seeking to get away from it all. But worry not, the brand’s driving Sense of Place philosophy has indeed delivered such an escape. In what is probably the most obvious of Thai beach destinations, Rosewood has delivered something that isn’t so obvious. Check-in comes with a glass of champagne and view of the Andaman Sea. Hugging a 600-meter beachfront, the expansive property rises into the hillside; the result is a multi-tiered complex of pavilions and villas. Spread across an impressive 43.5 acres are 71 pavilions and villas, all of which face the ocean. There are three categories of pavilions: beachfront, ocean view, and twobedroom ocean view, and they can be connected to another pavilion for added space. Villas also come as ocean view or beachfront. The beach villas have their own little plot of sand set behind hedges and a privacy gate. The largest units on the property
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are the Beach House and Ocean House residences. Both have two bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms and cover nearly 8,600 square feet. Larger parties can connect the Beach House to a beach villa for a third bedroom. Rosewood Phuket has four unique dining venues. Three are clustered on the resort’s east side, near the main pool, Asaya spa, and fitness center. Red Sauce is where guests can enjoy breakfast each morning, served both a la carte and buffet-style. For lunch and dinner, Red Sauce serves Italian fare. Offering fresh Andaman seafood in a casual poolside setting is The Shack. An array of sandwiches, salads, and soups are available, but the main focus is their oyster selection and raw preparations of the day’s catches. Also at the main pool is Mai, a posh lounge with a full service bar and selection of small plates for noshing. During the day Mai offers guests a mellow escape from the sun. After sunset, Mai takes on a more sophisticated personality, with upbeat music and an expanded cocktail list. For G&T lovers, in addition to a variety of tonics and garnishes one completes the drink
with a choice of 22 different gins. Lastly, Ta Khai is the only of Rosewood’s restaurants open to the public and feels like a miniature fishing village – complete with a live fish well at the center where diners can select their dinner. Aside from a glassed-in room, the restaurant is mostly open-air, built with reclaimed wood from retired boats and corrugated sheet metal. Cooking is done by Aunt Yai and Uncle Nun who have been preparing southern Thai cuisine together for over 30 years. Though presented elegantly, the food was comforting, and I enjoyed staples like soybraised pork belly, fried cotton fish and chili-garlic morning glory. The undeniable highlight of Rosewood Phuket was the staff: attentive, circulating through the restaurants with snacks and local treats, and always going the extra mile. Guests with children will find rooms are stocked with children’s amenities, such as baby shampoo and board games. Touches like this enhance one’s escape and instill the Sense of Place Rosewood strives to deliver. It’s these garnishes that make Rosewood a sanctuary on Phuket.
An Instagrammer’s Guide to
HONG KONG By Jordan Hammond
From the colorful city lights of Kowloon to the breathtaking hikes on Lantau Island, Hong Kong is much more than an urban jungle. In fact, 40 percent of the land in Hong Kong is made up of country parks and nature reserves across 263 islands in the territory. With its combination of angular skyscrapers and lush greenery, Hong Kong has become increasingly popular in the photography community over the past few years. You’d be hard pressed to go on Instagram without seeing professional photos of this unique world city. With its relatively small area and fantastic public transport network, Hong Kong is the Instagrammer’s paradise.
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Quarry Bay was once the most popular beach destination in Hong Kong, but today the main attraction is the cramped architecture. Perhaps the most well-known of all the urban photography spots in Hong Kong, Quarry Bay is a residential area of incredible stacked apartments. The urban density here is a mirage of colors and lines. Tourists flock to the area to get their Instagram snaps.
Quarry Bay 11
Tsim Sha Tsui
My favorite place to watch the sun set in Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui, has an excellent view of Victoria Harbor and is regularly paraded by traditional junk boats. These wooden sailing ships were once used by merchants to carry goods into and throughout China and have been used since the 2nd century. Today the junk boats of Hong Kong are predominantly used for tourists, but that doesn’t make them any less photogenic.
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Lion Rock
The grueling hike to Lion Rock is worth it when you witness the view from the top. Located in the New Territories of Hong Kong, the rock gives expansive views of the city below. I would recommend hiking up just before sunset to watch the city turn to darkness from the top. Photographing the layers of the buildings really gives you an appreciation for just how densely populated Hong Kong really is.
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East Dam is in Sai Kung, in the east of Hong Kong, and is worlds apart from the city center. Quaint fishing villages and beaches are scattered throughout the area, and there are some great photography locations. The Dolosse blocks will be of particular interest to photographers, an interesting mix with the curious geology of the surrounding mountains, hewn for this gigantic industrial project.
East Dam 14
Instagram Pier
This area of waterfront close to Hong Kong University has become a hot spot for hashtag happy Instagrammers. The industrial back drop, as well as the view over to Tsim Sha Tsui, is an easy shot with an interesting skyline. I love going down to the pier at sunrise to capture the locals starting their day.
Cherry Blossom Season Need-to-Knows for 2019
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I
t’s no secret that Japan’s hotels fill up each year with people hoping to snap that perfect selfie with the sakura (cherry blossoms). These fair flowers start putting off their pink show in March; no one can properly predict the blossoming, but there are some general rules for making sure you get the best of the bloom. For luxury travelers, the challenge is even greater. So, here’s an inside look at your options.
SAKURA COMETH
Kyoto
Kyoto is one of Japan’s top places to see the famed cherry blossoms in springtime, and three luxury hotels – the Four Seasons, Hoshinoya Kyoto, and the Ritz Carlton Kyoto – are ideal for seasonal travelers seeking luxury accommodations. Located in Kyoto’s scenic temple district, the Four Seasons Kyoto is a
tranquil setting just 10 minutes from downtown. The hotel’s lush, in-house garden sanctuary also affords guests the opportunity to enjoy cherry blossom viewing from the comfort of their own rooms and balconies. Hoshinoya Kyoto is a luxury resort and hotel that offers exceptional river vistas from all rooms along with well-planned activities in honor of hanami, the classic Japanese custom of flower viewing. Activities have included an early-morning guided hike to a mountainous viewing
platform, a boat trip, and a dinner in which guests enjoy a gourmet meal beneath lantern-illuminated cherry blossom boughs. Finally, the Ritz Carlton Kyoto, a Remote Lands favourite with a convenient downtown riverfront location, is a luxury basecamp for sakura enthusiasts who wish to be close to virtually everything one could want. In particular, the Ritz is quite near the Nomura Museum and the famed Philosopher’s Walk, which offers breathtaking views of the sakura blossoms.
Tea overlooking the river at the Hoshinoya in Kyoto
Cherry blossom sunset at Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto
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Osaka
As the third-largest city in the country, Osaka is a hotbed for those hoping to see both traditional and modern sides of Japan – and this is especially true during the short spring window when the cherry blossoms reveal their most vibrant pinks and magentas. At the famed Osaka Castle, for example, visitors will find an expansive park setting that’s ideal for enjoying a picnic while engaging in hanami beneath the flowering trees. Luxury travelers to Osaka during sakura season need look no further than the Ritz Carlton Osaka and the St. Regis Osaka. The Ritz in Osaka also rolls out a number of special events and promotions each spring in honor of sakura season. For example, in the past the hotel has provided guests with a “Sakura High Tea & Green Tea Facial” event wherein participants sample sakura-flavored teas and dishes before enjoying a luxurious spa treatment. The St. Regis Osaka is another base for enjoying cherry blossom season in the city, especially given its proximity to Osaka’s charming parks and enchanting neighborhoods. The hotel’s dining team is also known for going out of its way to complement guests’ sakura viewing experience with cherry blossom-themed bites and beverages.
The Japanese suite at the Ritz-Carlton Osaka
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Osaka Castle Park
Aman Tokyo lobby
Tokyo
Tokyo’s city’s parks are famed for endless rows of the bright pink, flowering trees; this is due largely to the fact that Tokyo’s humid subtropical climate creates an ideal environment for the sakura blossoms to flourish. Perhaps the most famous of these parks is the cherry blossom-lined Ueno Park – a can’t-miss attraction for visitors
Ueno Park to Japan’s lavish capital. One of Tokyo’s most luxurious hotels, the Aman Tokyo, tends to devote the second half of March to sakura season by overhauling its lobby and lounge with an eye toward the flowering trees. In the past, seasonal sakura-inspired cocktails and special bento boxes were served amid views of the blossoms against the iconic urban skyline. Another splendid option for lodging is the Conrad Tokyo which has a subway station directly beneath the hotel, making
for easy travel throughout the city. The Conrad’s Shiodome location is quite near the Hamarikyu Gardens. A third Tokyo option for luxury travelers in cherry blossom season is the Peninsula Tokyo, which undergoes a sakura-themed “makeover” similar to that of the Aman each year in the spring. During this time, cherry tree blossoms adorn the lobby, sakurainspired spa treatments abound, and an entire blossom-oriented Chinese menu is rolled out, just to name a few of the festivities.
Conrad Tokyo pool
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Tsukihi-tei Nara suite
Tsukihi-tei Nara suite
Nara
Nara is a cultural epicenter and an ancient capital city located near Kyoto in Japan’s Kansai region. Nara initially flourished under the influence of Buddhism, which from a cherry blossom viewer’s perspective means several exceptionally wellpreserved, historic buildings, monuments, and natural landscapes that fill with blossoms in the spring. Favorite viewing spots include Nara-koen Park, the Nara Himuro-jinja Shrine, the Wakakusayama hillside, and the Koriyama-jo castle ruins, among others. Many of these sites are easily accessible from the Tsukihi-tei Nara, which provides an intimate setting for visitors in the form of a traditional Japanese ryokan nestled in Kasugayama Primeval Forest. The luxury ryokan’s three guest rooms are styled in traditional Japanese form with plenty of calming wood tones, stark angles, and curves that are seamlessly integrated into the lush, forested surroundings. Traditional cuisine features the freshest of seasonal and locally produced ingredients, a highlight of any stay at the Tsukihi-tei Nara. During sakura season, another must-visit attraction is the adjacent town of Yoshino, located just south of Nara City, and its multitude of pink blossoms that dot the surrounding hillsides.
Wild deer grazing at Nara-Koen Park
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A suite at the Gora Kadan Hakone bridge with sakura
Yama no Chaya Onsen
Hakone
The mountain railways that run in and around Hakone are especially attractive in the spring when the mountainous slopes bloom in dramatic fashion come early April. And what could be more romantic than a glimpse of vibrant, dew-covered sakura blossoms in the crisp morning air from a cozy train compartment? Travelers in need of luxury accommodations during cherry blossom season will find what they seek in the Gora Kadan and the Yama no Chaya ryokans. Featuring four room types – all with astonishing views of the surrounding mountain landscape – the Gora Kadan is perfect for guests seeking a deeper connection with Japan’s springtime ecology. Cherry blossoms can even be viewed from a private onsen, depending on which accommodations visitors select. The Yama no Chaya is another fantastic lodging option for visitors to Hakone that affords access to the natural waters of the Tonosawa Hot Springs, located below ground on the premises, which are said to have healed travelers of various afflictions. The Yama no Chaya is also located near many spectacular cherry blossom sightseeing spots, such as the Yumoto riverbed and the Kumano Shrine.
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QUY NHON The Next Big Vietnam Destination
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uy Nhon hasn’t really been on the luxury travel radar, but things are changing in this Central Vietnam destination. An upgrade is on the way with a new luxury hotel, bringing high-end travelers to this region of Vietnam. Far from the busy city area, Quy Nhon has much to offer the beach lover. This year, Quy Nhon made it into the Remote Lands’ Dozen Dream Destinations 2019, and it’s time to learn a little bit about why. Found on the coast of Binh Dinh province, the Anantara Quy Nhon is set to open its doors November 15, 2018, bringing a muchneeded slice of luxury to this section of Central Vietnam. Set amidst seven acres of secluded tropical landscape, Anantara Quy Nhon is on a hill overlooking a secluded bay. Designed by Hong Kong’s HB Design and Marques & Jordy (M&J) out of London, this new Anantara features architecture for the nature lover with an emphasis on fluidity. The 26 villas feature ceiling-to-floor panoramic views of the ocean, beach, or pool, with each private one and two-bedroom Vietnamese-inspired villas trimmed with local timber and granite.
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The bathrooms have double vessel sinks, deep soaking tubs with views, and an open-air rain shower. Sunrises from a private deck, a refreshing dip in a personal plunge pool, and an exclusive butler to top off the champagne, are all to be expected as part of this Anantara experience. Unwinding at the spa, dining on the beach beneath the stars, or kayaking the waves, are all on the menu at this upcoming Anantara destination. A 24-hour gym and a Jack Nicklausdesigned 36-hole golf course overlook views of the island. The resort also features complimentary bicycles for excursions into nearby villages surrounded by rice fields. Among the dining options at this new Anantara destination, guests can catch their own food to be prepared by a Dining by Design chef, complete with a Habanos cigar and a local craft beer poolside in the open-air lounge. With luxury hotels underway and on the horizon, deep historical and cultural connections, and quaint, picturesque beaches still underdeveloped, beach lovers would be welladvised to keep an eye on this travel gem.
SUPERCAR By John McMahon
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upercars: sleek, luxury vehicles built for racing but more expensive than your average upper middle class house are the latest in luxury travel; in this Dubai is ahead of the curve. Driving one attracts crowds of onlookers hoping to see the rich and famous owner, but looky-loos would do well to know that today half of the luxury cars in the world are either leased or rented. Theo Measure from PureDrive Dubai extolled the city and the UAE: “We believe it to be the easiest and least expensive place in the world to rent supercars or luxury cars. Further to that we have some of the best driving roads in the world, through incredible desert and mountain landscapes, not to mention some of the most luxurious and spectacular urban environments to pilot a supercar through. Who wouldn’t want to drive a Ferrari down the marble paved roads of downtown Dubai for example?” All across Asia specialty companies have opened to fill this market, providing everything from lower end BMW’s at moderate day rates to the haut de gamme in automotive extravagance: Bugatti, Bentley, Rolls Royce, and more. Dubai though stands out among other cities as the premier destination for getting behind the
wheel of a dream vehicle, with boutique purveyors offering the fastest, rarest, and most expensive cars in production for long-term rentals or a cheap 15-minute joy ride. Any customer over the age of 25 with a valid driver’s license can get behind the wheel of a BMW 320i, step up to a Porsche Boxster 981 for a few hundred dollars a day, or drive a Jaguar F type coupe for twice as much. Renting a true supercar comes with a bit of a higher price tag. A super-fast Ferrari Berlinetta runs just over a $1,000 while taking on a Lamborghini Huracan or a McLaren 570S pushes the day rate up over $1,200. For those with deep pockets and the internal fortitude to get behind the wheel of one of the fastest cars in world, there is the 1,500 horse power, 420-kilometer-perhour Bugatti Chiron. Named for famed race driver Louis Chiron, renting the Bugatti requires a little more documentation and costs about $25,000 per day, including insurance and driving instruction. “I would break it down this way; about 40 percent are return customers. Another 40 percent are those looking for that once in-alifetime experience getting behind the wheel of a truly luxury vehicle,” Mr. Measure says. “Ten percent
“We have some of the best driving roads in the world, through incredible desert and mountain landscapes, not to mention some of the most luxurious and spectacular urban environments to pilot a supercar through.”
are supercar owners in their home country with another 10 percent in the market to buy and use us as a tool to make their choice.” For those with a slightly lesser need for speed, Dubai offers a multitude of ‘supercar experiences’ on both track and impressive touring roads. Track experiences can be as basic as being a passenger in an Aston Martin with a professional at the wheel to taking a Ferrari 458GT through its gears on a true F1 cicruit and was described as, “worth every dollar … a once in a lifetime thrill” by one customer. Road touring experiences can be a short 15-minute joy ride or an hour of taking one of a select few supercars. One company though offers an aficionados sampling platter. A full day of testing out five super cars for an hour each, inclusive of meals, photo-shoots, and instruction; the after-test champagne is extra but highly recommended. These experiences usually come with a training session but according to Theo Measures “Modern supercars are extremely easy and safe to drive, thanks to state of the art electronic and mechanical driver aides. No introduction is really necessary… Most drivers won’t get anywhere near the limits of a modern supercar’s capabilities.” Theo also said that, by far and away, “the Ferrari 488 is the most popular car among his customers,” but that for him the Mercedes AMG GT S or Rolls Royce Dawn is what he likes to take for a drive. “We started a rental company so that we wouldn’t have to face choosing one particular vehicle.”
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Curses, Jinxes, And Spells:
KYOTO’S BLACK MAGIC SIDE N
ot for the first time in my life, I am trying to read a woman’s thoughts. Clad in a colorful Kimono gown, the young Japanese lady is saying something beneath her breath as she bows her head and gently rings a bell inside Kyoto’s Jishu-Jinja Shrine of the city’s popular Kiyomizu-dera Temple. What is she asking for, I wonder as she prays, love and happiness or for something far more sinister?
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By Ronan O’Connell
Japan is renowned for its order and politeness. Those who know the country well, however, can recognize the hidden bleak elements. Kyoto is ground zero for the culture of cursing, with Jishu-Jinja Shrine one of its key sites. That’s not to suggest this shrine exists purely for nefarious purposes; on the contrary, it is a place where most people come to pray for positive outcomes, particularly in regards to romance. The shrine sells small wooden plaques which promise to help the purchaser “bind your love tightly” or “deepen your relationship.” There are also boards from which hang hundreds of other simpler plaques on which people have written personalized wishes of success, health, and devotion for themselves and loved ones. The chief priest of the shrine prays so that these wishes will be granted on the first Sunday of every month. But as with Inyo, the Japanese name for the Yin Yang symbol, where there is light there is dark. Famed as Japan’s most beautiful city, Kyoto has long hidden a grim, paranormal side: temples with corners for socalled black magic. Want to place a curse on an estranged lover? Shower bad luck on an enemy? Jinx an opposition business? Then head to the Kyoto temples known for their links with the supernatural. You can even hire local shamans who specialize in placing curses on people, places, and things. Among the happy crowds who visit the temple looking for love are more somber individuals seeking to beset someone or something with negative energy. Less than a meter away from the board of upbeat plaques is a sign which reveals this darker purpose. It is dedicated to Okage Myojin. The plaque
explains that this god answers any prayer, no matter how sinful, and is particularly popular with Japanese women. For hundreds of years, women have visited this spot and nailed a straw doll on one of its cedar trees to place a curse on a love rival. Jishu-Jinju Shrine is hidden at the rear of the sprawling grounds of Kiyomizu-dera Temple, one of Kyoto’s biggest attractions. On the day I visited, it was packed with tourists. But very few of them explored this deep into the Buddhist complex, and of those who did few were familiar with the shrine’s dark side.
About one kilometer away from Jishu-Jinju is the strange 1,400-year-old Yasui Konpiragu Shrine. A Japanese woman dressed in a business suit is on her hands and knees crawling through a narrow passage which has been carved through the middle of a large stone. This three-meter wide rock is adorned by thousands of pieces of paper inscribed with wishes. Legend states that by crawling through the passage a person can ensure the prayer they wrote out and attached to the rock is granted. Those who read the prayers will find them to be innocent. Almost all are penned by women
with their names attached. They are prayers for lasting affection and loyalty from a present or future partner. But many other wishes have to be removed by the shrine’s chief priest because they are too hateful, requesting hefty misfortune. “We remove ones that are too hideous,” chief priest Hajime Torii told the Kyoto Shimbun newspaper last year. “We recommend people stay away from any form of negativity that may interfere with their happiness.” Kifune shrine and Kitano Tenmangu shrine in northern Kyoto are similarly hotspots for curses, with the former site home to a god of love. A mere 200 meters from Yasui Konpiragu things get even more mystical at Rokudo Chinno-ji Temple. To the superstitious residents of Kyoto, this has long been considered a path to the underworld. During Japan’s Heian Period (794 to 1185), the site of this temple was adjacent to a large open air burial site, where dead bodies would be left to be devoured by the animals and the elements. This led to a superstition developing that the area was a blurred border between the living and the dead, between life and the afterlife. The entrance to the temple is seen as a spiritual intersection. It is where souls diverge on their journeys, be it heaven or hell or somewhere in between. Many locals still visit the temple after the death of a loved one to ask their spirit be sent in the right direction. These darker spiritual activities are rare, as negative energy is frowned upon in most places of worship. Also, while they’re making these strange prayers, there is every chance that elsewhere across this ancient city someone else is asking different heavenly powers to do them a far bleaker favor.
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A DAY IN GALLE FORT 30
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Galle Fort today is brimming with culture. Colonial architecture meets Sri Lankan and South Asian traditions, and while it may be a relatively tiny place, the fort is home to a labyrinth of streets lined with boutiques, cafes, and Instagrammable corners. Galle Fort was originally built by the Portuguese in 1588 and later taken over by the Dutch in the 17th century. It usually takes three to four hours to explore, but – given the impressive accommodations and relaxing atmosphere – maybe take a few days to soak in the ambiance.
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STAY AT THE AMANGALLA
“A
mangalla is a luxury boutique hotel, but we treat it like a grand house,” says Mr. Guillermo Varela, the executive assistant manager of both Amangalla and Amanwella. “A butler will personally look after you while you stay with us at Amangalla.” Neighboring the Galle Fort ramparts and located next to a massive banyan tree, Amangalla is a restored 17th-century colonial
building. A bastion of the famed fort and its history, Amangalla is a luxury boutique hotel – by far the most luxurious in the fort – central to the celebrated Aman brand in Asia. The colonial elegance is present in the hotel’s stunning wooden furniture and antique rooms. The Zaal, the Great Hall, is a high-ceilinged space perfect for afternoon tea. Amangalla also houses a 21-meter swimming pool and an Ayurvedic spa where
guests have their pick of therapy treatments. For those inspired by the history around them, there is also a small on-grounds library to pick through classics new and old. For dining, the Amangalla offers a number of unique, intimate options, from the high tea in the library veranda to terracotta roof view cocktails on the balcony. Diners can also experience a roti dinner from a traditional pavilion with a view of the rice paddies.
ALL SAINTS’ CHURCH An architectural masterpiece, All Saints’ Church was consecrated in 1871. Constructed with stone columns, the timber-carved arches of the church reflect elements of Victorian Gothic revival. The pews and altar are Burmese teak. Inside the church, light flickers through the tall windows to create a bright, cheery effect that spreads throughout the church hall in the mornings. All Saints’ Church is an Anglican Church and the stonebuilt exteriors and gothic columns are pretty stunning. Interestingly – and disturbingly – the Church was once a courthouse and the altar used as a gallows. The church today serves as a landmark inside the Dutch Fort in Galle, a truly stunning site in a region already famous for its enduring history.
Photos by Aman, Jaromír Chalabala, Leo Daphne, and Evgeniy Fesenko
SHOPPING IN GALLE Don’t shop in Sri Lanka until you get to Galle Fort. The Fort is filled with beautifully designed handicrafts which are almost impossible to find elsewhere in Sri Lanka. Stick No Bills sells impressive postcards and wallpapers, which may be a quick, easy gift for your family and friends back home. Inspired by everyday life in Sri Lanka, the postcards also illustrate the tropical island beauty. For gems, semiprecious stones, and jewelry, check out Ibrahim Jewellers on Church Street. Mimimango, a tiny boutique store, features a stunning collection of designer Jo Eden. Barefoot, the popular homeware store in Colombo has its southern outlet in Galle and is one of the best places to look for fabrics. For handicrafts, handlooms, Sri Lankan tea, and souvenirs, Orchid House is everyone’s go-to.
GALLE FORT LIGHTHOUSE Although it dates back to 1848, the original light station was destroyed in 1934. In 1939, it was rebuilt with a height of 26.5 meters. The lighthouse compound is full of life throughout the day. In evenings when the sun sets, both locals and tourists flock to the Fort walls. The setting sun casts a golden glow over the Indian Ocean; one can witness the multiethnic and multicultural atmosphere in Sri Lanka’s southern capital. Start at the lighthouse and walk along the ramparts. Although it’s bustling with people, it’s easy to find a quiet spot for yourself to watch a majestic Sri Lankan sunset. You will also get a view of the Galle Fort from the top – its hipster cafes, cobblestone alleys, and terracotta roofs. If you have a few more days in Galle, explore beyond the Dutch Fort. Amangalla offers a tour to the nearby Yatagala Temple, a tea plantation tour to Handunugoda Estate, and whale watching during the period of December to April. This colonial destination is growing in popularity each year; it’s an old and brand new Sri Lanka travel masterpiece.
SKY’S THE LIMIT BEST
ROOFTOP BARS IN
PHNOM PENH By Simon N. Ostheimer
W
ith a spate of new hotel openings and improved services, this once overlooked Cambodian capital is on the rise – quite literally, in terms of its rooftop bars. Less than a decade ago, there were almost no buildings taller than five stories in Phnom Penh; now the rapidly growing city is home to a slew of amazing rooftop and sky bars. They don’t come much higher than Sora, the stylish sky bar that sits atop the Rosewood Phnom Penh. Located on the 37th floor of Cambodia’s tallest building – the 188-meter tall Vattanac Capital Tower – the open deck juts from the side of the structure like the beak of a giant bird, facing westwards over the expanding city. It means that, while guests staying on the other side of the building enjoy sunrise over the Mekong, patrons of Sora get some of the best sunset views in the country. The smart casual dress code sets the
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tone, as do the excellent cocktails, range of French wine, and Japanese tapas from sister restaurant Iza, while businessmen flock to the adjoining Whisky Library for Cohibas and Macallan. Despite being a French protectorate for almost a century, very little colonial architecture remains in Phnom Penh, which makes it all the more rewarding when you stumble across little outposts of history like the Foreign Correspondents Club. Known affectionately as the FCC, it was once the bastion for intrepid Western journalists and photographers covering the country’s various wars, a refuge for them to seek a cold beer and warm meal. Later, United Nations personnel moved in, and now it runs as a popular bar and hotel, with black and white photography paying homage to those who came before. With ceiling fans and riverside views (snag a rooftop seat before sunset), the setting is wonderfully atmospheric.
SORA
SUNDOWN SOCIAL CLUB
LUMIERE
LE MOON
The Sundown Social Club, is an expatowned retreat with an open rooftop that combines greenery and neon, and where Hawaiian shirts are de rigueur. The bar overlooks Russian Market, an energetic entrepot combining tourist shops, street food and fruit stalls. Try their range of tropicana cocktails, or the local Kingdom draft craft beer. When a bar calls itself 5 Drunk Men, you know that you’ve found a place that is not afraid to be honest – or was the result of intoxicated bravado. Regardless, this riverside venue is a relaxed place to bring friends, and features one of the best craft beer selections in town. They have more than 20 different kinds of bottled craft beer, ranging from coconut ale to hazelnut chocolate stout, coffee stout to weizens, and plenty of IPAs made by brewers from Singapore, Hong Kong and Thailand. However, their signature drink is the 5DM, which consists of five liquors (hence the name), and comes served in a small fish bowl complete with bottle of cider. Lumiere is just one of the dozens of highrise buildings being constructed around the city, though this rather unique building – by local architect Hun Chansan – stands apart from the rest with its twisty design (each floor rotates in a way that resembles a Rubik’s Cube), and its remarkable rooftop Skybar. It may only be on the 14th floor, but in a city still finding its head for heights that’s enough. At one end of the tall space is a dining table that features floor-to-ceiling glass on three sides, making for talking points no matter which way you look, while the outdoor lounge on the east side provides mild vertigo. Pair this with a menu of Cambodian and Western tapas, and you have a place to impress out-oftowners. “Fly me to Le Moon,” as Frank Sinatra probably didn’t sing about this perfect little rooftop bar, across from ornate temple Wat Ounalom – built in 1443 – and with the spires of the Royal Palace only a few hundred meters beyond. It also offers views down the riverside road, and of the confluence of both the Tonle Sap and Mekong rivers. With so much to see, it’s no wonder this French-run venue often ranks as one of the city’s most popular hangouts. Add to that their monthly specials, cocktails that feature local flavors such as tamarind, lychee and mango, and simple but classic dishes such as the juicy steak-frites (that’s steak and fries to you and me), and traditional carbonara, and you have a winner.
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a personal story to each plate. Ian Kittichai joins the Eastern and Oriental Express on 8th October 2019. The only Thai chef to be awarded the designation of Officier de L’Ordre du Merite Agricole by the French Republic for his outstanding contributions to gastronomy and agriculture, Ian is also an author, television personality, and owner of signature restaurants across Thailand, New York, Barcelona, and Mumbai. His innovative Thai dishes are said to
board the train, with an optional excursion to the local market in Singapore. Together with Luke, and Eastern and Oriental Express Executive Chef Yannis Martineau, the market adventure will offer an introduction to the fresh ingredients and aromatic spices that have inspired their cooking. Originally from Australia, Luke has opened signature restaurants in Sydney, Singapore, Tokyo, Jakarta, Maldives, and on board P&O cruise ships. He has been
French fusion to traditional Thai – with dishes professionally prepared by celebrity chefs. Breakfasts are served in the guests’ private cabin, while lunches and dinners can be enjoyed in the Restaurant Car. Departing on February 5th 2019, Janice Wong from Singapore will accompany the trip this southbound journey. Twice named Asia’s Best Pastry chef, Janice has signature restaurants in Singapore, Hong Kong, and Tokyo. An artist and author of two books, this award-winning culinary stylist has been commissioned by galleries, restaurants, and international clients to craft interactive art, showcasing her talent for playing with colors, textures, flavors, and perceptions in the gastronomic world. Her cutting-edge creations stem from her experiences working with different ingredients from around the globe and encounters with inspirational people bringing about
blend traditional Thai ingredients with modern techniques. As always, a resident pianist in the Bar Car and a 24-hour steward ensures guests are entertained and comfortable throughout their journey. The train provides luxurious en-suite accommodation, on board polished wood-paneled corridors, and silken furnishings. The journey going to Singapore from Bangkok includes three nights accommodation on the Eastern and Oriental Express. Guests have a choice of tours for the stops along the E&O, including the famed River Kwai and sights in Kuala Kangsar. The final day ends in the late morning after a leisurely breakfast in the cabin while traveling through expansive palm plantations and passed traditional homes, that ultimately give way to cosmopolitan Singapore. Luke Mangan will be part of this trip from March 1st 2019 and welcomes travelers before they
approached by Richard Branson to consult for Virgin and also prepared the royal wedding dinner for His Royal Highness Crown Prince Federik and Princess Mary. Departing on September 2nd 2019, Didier Corlou brings a fusion of French and Vietnamese ingredients to the Eastern and Oriental Express. With roots in France, author and celebrity chef Didier has lived in Vietnam for nearly 20 years. His unique combination of flavors has been sought by food connoisseurs the world over, evidenced by his long history cooking for international royalty and diplomats, including French President Jacques Chirac, US President Clinton, Russian President Putin, the Queen of Spain, and the President of China Yang Zi Min. The journey to Bangkok from Singapore is also a magical, threenight event.
Photos from Belmond
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he Eastern & Oriental Express has announced celebrity chef experiences for their 2019 journeys. Janice Wong, Luke Mangan, Didier Corlou, and Ian Kittichai will all be taking their talents to the rails of one of Asia’s most exclusive luxury train journeys aboard the E&O from Belmond, crossing Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore. These itineraries are designed to immerse the traveler in Southeast Asian cuisine – from Vietnamese-
JANICE WONG
LUKE MANGAN
DIDIER CORLOU
IAN KITTICHAI
CELEBRITY CHEFS CLIMB ABOARD
THE EASTERN & ORIENTAL EXPRESS
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Papua New Guinea was a key Japanese base of operations during WWII. Time and the jungle have claimed much of the wreckage left behind. Under the waves, there is yet more to be found.
PHOTOGRAPHY Adam Beard WRITTEN BY Juanita Pienaar
WRECK DIVING IN
PAPUA NEW GUINEA
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RABAUL ZERO
In Rabaul there is a Mitsubishi A6M3 Reisen aircraft, known as a Japanese Zero, which can be dived from a beach that has nearly pitch black sand. The wreck lays at 27 to 33 meters with its wings spread out on the sandy bottom.
These Japanese tanks lay in only 4 meters of water in Makada’s natural harbor. The tanks are 15-ton 97 CHI-HA tanks and used to be armed with 57mm short barrel cannons and two 7.7mm machine-guns which are still visible. The cannons are no longer on the wrecks, but other than that they are impeccably preserved.
KOKOPO TANKS
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Ultra-Luxe
Seoul Hotels W
ith ever-expanding offerings for luxury tourists, South Korea isn’t a stopover destination anymore. From the food and the festivals to the hiking and culture, more travelers than ever are heading to the country. For the ultra-luxury traveler, though, there are only a few accommodations that really measure up to the hype.
CONRAD SEOUL
Situated in the heart of the Yeouido business district on the island of the same name, Conrad Seoul is a Remote Lands favorite. With convenient access to subway lines and the airports, Conrad Seoul features unique island views without sacrificing the amenities of the city. Visitor comfort is the priority at Conrad Seoul, which features luxury details like modern decor, quality bedsheets, and Applebased entertainment in every room. The bathrooms offer an added level of indulgence with
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in-mirror televisions, deep marble bathtubs, and modern, high-tech showers. Those looking to unwind will find the spa, steam room, and sauna an environment of relaxation and rejuvenation – one of the finer spa experiences in the city. Guests can stroll through the rooftop garden or lounge around the expansive indoor swimming pool. For the active traveler, personal assistance is available at the fitness center and the driving range. There are seven dining and lounge options at the Conrad Seoul of every type and description, so go hungry.
BANYAN TREE
Found at the base of Mount Namsan, the scenic views are likely the first thing a guest notices; the second is the resort’s central access to many of Seoul’s must-see attractions. Less than four miles from Seoul Station, Banyan Tree Club and Spa is ideal
for getting the most from this dynamic city. Deliberately designed with a maximum of only four rooms on each floor, the hotel balances exclusivity and tranquility. The “relaxation pool” in each living space is next-level leisure and indulgence. From the cozy corners in the library, to practicing that golf swing at the two-story driving range, there is no shortage of in-house activities. Patrons can enjoy the sun at the poolside bar for cocktails and snacks. In the winter, gliding around the converted ice rink is a more apt activity. The hotel provides a repertoire of rejuvenating spa experiences. Specializing in rainmist therapy and the use of exotic natural ingredients, the spa – with its sauna featuring temperaturecontrolled pools, an aroma steam room, an ice fountain room, and an herbal sauna room – is designed to cater to guests’ most discerning demands.
FOUR SEASONS
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Combining traditional Korean and modern styles, the Four Seasons Hotel maintains its reputation as a destination for the luxury traveler in Seoul. The rooms at the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul are bathed in natural light and come with that famous Four Seasons opulence. With a myriad of restaurants, this hotel offers cuisines from all over the world in themed restaurants, all carefully designed to engage each of the five senses. Korean, Japanese, and Chinese restaurants featuretraditional music and decor to complete the atmosphere for an Asian dining experience, while a large woodburning fireplace warms guests awaiting an authentic Italian style meal. Finishing touches of white Italian marble countertops, the Four Seasons’ rooms are designed to accommodate large family gatherings or special events. The three-bedroom Presidential Suite features wrap-around floor-toceiling windows and all guests can avail themselves of the year-round pool and the Korean spa and sauna.
Italia n w h it e m ar
LE MERIDIEN
Renowned worldwide as the artsy, chic hotspot of the city, Gangnam-gu district sets the stage for Le Meridien as it aims to be Korea’s premier luxury European-style art hotel. Set amidst the Bongeunsa Temple and COEX exhibition center, traditionaland modern attractions can be found both in and all around Le Meridien. For the art and design lover in South Korea, this is the ideal luxury hotel. The lobby serves also as a gallery, M. Contemporary, presenting both conventional and leading new-media artists. Large, multi-compatible meeting spaces makes this hotel ideal for corporate or personal events of any kind. A hotel of the caliber of Le Meridien would not be complete without restaurants of a similar repute. Mediterranean, Southern French, and Italian cuisines are all on the menu of Le Meridien’s selections. The hotel’s sleek vibe continues to the guest rooms, with chic European-inspired decor and high-end bedding. With two stories and six rooms, the Presidential Suite aims to impress even more, with an extravagant foyer and high ceilings.
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The Best In Asia Travel From Ultra-Luxe Experiences to Intrepid Adventures
Speak to an Asia specialist: +1-646-439-4426
PHANG NGA CHOPPER N
ot too long ago the Phang Nga Bay area was a pristine, unvisited region of Thailand – blue water, secret caves, and karst beauty. Those days are over and the whole area can get a bit overcrowded at sea and on land. But in the air? That’s a different story. Whether one is yachting around Krabi or taking a break from a private Phuket island, a trip in a helicopter over the Phang Nga Bay area is a must.
JAMES BOND ISLAND AND SECRET LAGOONS Photo: Parshina Marina
The small but famous James Bond island from above
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s Phang Nga bay experiences go, it couldn’t be simpler. No crowded boats, no pier lines. Starting at the Phuket heliport, passengers get a bird’s-eye view of green vegetation, small villages, and an abundance islands and dramatic rock formations. From treetops and patterned farming landscapes to shrimp farms and windy rivers, the vistas are uninterrupted, and there’s no denying the cool factor of the ride. A traveler can step on a Airbus Helicopter EC130 for a faster trip around this fabled Thailand must-see. Safe, modern, and the quietest helicopter on the market, the Airbus is spacious and flies smoothly. The chopper first circles around Koh Panyi, a floating village housing nearly 1,500 people. With a mosque, school, market, restaurants, and a floating football pitch, this fishing community relies on tourism for its sustainability. From high above the crowds, guests can observe the stilt-built homesteads and walkways from the comfort of the air-conditioned Airbus chopper. Heading further east, the experience continues with panoramas of limestone towers covered with trees that soar up
from the Andaman Sea in Phang adventure with the help of noise Nga Bay. Declared a national cancellation headsets, on which park, Phang Nga Bay is home to travelers can communicate. The 28 species of mangrove as well as Airbus has a ceiling altitude of 88 species of birds, living among 10,000 feet and features the latest more than 40 islands, many of in active vibration control system which remain uninhabited. technology in a pretty nifty sixThe flight’s destination is a seater craft. Upon return to the trio of islands forming Khao Phuket helipad, the experience Phing Kan and Khao Tapu, ends with refreshments and cold made famous by the James towels. Bond movie, The Man with the This same service – and the Golden Gun. The movie’s iconic same level of service – can be backdrop is Khao Tapu, a karst found in Bangkok and Chiang rising 20 meters above sea level, Mai. But, let’s be honest, nothing spanning eight meters at the says tropical Thailand quite like top and narrowing to only four Phang Nga Bay. meters at the water’s edge, just big enough to house the solar panels that fuel the movie’s Airbus Helicopter EC130 namesake, the golden gun. The unusual preparing for take off. shape is the result of erosion from wind and waves that gradually ate away at the limestone at the water surface. The flight back from Phang Nga Bay brings more landscape vistas and hidden lagoon views. An experienced and knowledgeable pilot narrates the 40-minute
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By Scott Rainen
PRU
Phuket's First Michelin Star Phuket’s own PRU, a restaurant founded on an ethos of sourcing 100 percent of its ingredients from the surrounding Thai landscape, has been awarded a Michelin star in the Michelin Guide Bangkok, Phuket and Phang-Nga 2019. PRU is the first non-Bangkok area restaurant to be awarded this distinction, though Ruean Panya in Samut Sakhon and Suan Thip in Nonthaburi also received stars this year. PRU is among a total of 23 one-star restaurants selected in the 2019 edition, and it is one of 10 that are being listed for the first time.
Locally Minded Housed within the Trisara luxury resort, PRU’s name is an acronym derived from “Plant, Raise, Understand” and also serves as a nod to Trisara’s in-house farm, “Pru Jampa.” The 96-hectare organic farm produces many of the indigenous ingredients used in the restaurant’s cuisine. Much of the farm’s produce is composed of native flora that was preserved when land was cleared for the resort’s construction in 2004; the farm is also responsible for some animal-based ingredients such as free-range chicken eggs. Other seafood and meat-oriented dishes are typically sourced from surrounding rivers, coasts, and neighboring farms of greater Phuket.
Chef Jimmy The restaurant’s Head Chef Jim Ophorst first made a name for himself in the culinary world at Gaggan in Bangkok, named the best in Asia two years in a row by The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list. Chef Jimmy has carried his experiences growing up near the sea in the Netherlands with him as inspiration for such PRU dishes as smoked abalone with duck egg and hamachi tartare, though the bulk of PRU’s offerings tend to be vegetable-based. Chef Jimmy takes an overall holistic approach to his cooking, believing that a great product at the table tems from building strong connections with the surrounding farmers and community. In a recent interview for the Michelin Guide, Chef Jimmy also pointed to his style of treating his chefs and staff at PRU like family as a significant contributor to the restaurant’s success. Chef Jimmy’s team prepares cuisine in either six- or eight-course fashion, with wine pairings tailored according to the main courses available on a given night.
Organic andSustainable PRU and its on-site organic farm within Trisara have played an integral role in a movement that has sought to blend international tastes with regional ingredients, fostering a more sustainable approach to creating gourmet meals while benefiting a local network of small-scale producers. This “farm-to-table” approach is beginning to appear as a focus for many other Thai restaurants and eateries named on this year’s list. The Pru Jampa farm also takes this philosophy of sustainability beyond the table to its waste management practices. Even kitchen scraps, for example, return to the farm in the form of nutrient-rich compost, and naturally occurring red worms help keep the soil aerated and fertile. Free-range chickens and goats are also kept on-site, and native plants from flowering reeds to lotus blossoms line freshwater ponds and serve as garnishes for PRU entrees. The Trisara ponds often yield catches of catfish that find their way to the table.
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THE FACES OF THE By Jay Tindall
“T
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he number of tourists coming to Badakhshan is increasing,” says Odinamamadova Khinzobeg, a teacher in an Ishkashim; she speaks of this particular stop along the Pamir Highway in the Wakhan Valley in Tajikistan. Just over the raging Panj River is Afghanistan. “We hope that the quality of life will get better. It is better than last year.”
WAKHAN VALLEY
Bounded by the Hindu Kush and Pamir mountains, the people of the Wakhan Valley are known as the Wakhi. Found at a conjunction of Central Asia, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and China, the history of the Wakhi people and the Wakhan Corridor is complex. The journey across the Pamir Highway long. It can be unpredictable, barren, and cold. In the faces of the Wakhi people, there is warmth.
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“The people wore traditional Wakhi clothing, the women with their hair braided on both sides and embroidered hats. For most images of the Wakan Valley conjure scenes of stark, dry mountains. But, with the people, it is always colorful.� - Jay Tindall
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“The friendliness of a people is often a cliche in travel writing, but in the case of the Wakhi people it happens to be true. They’re not just a people with a fascinating history, culture, and architecture; these are the caretakers of one Central Asia’s greatest treasures.” - Jay Tindall
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Featured Itinerary:
TOHOKU SPRING
Between late April to early May, the springtime cherry blossoms of the Tohoku Region come alive. This week-long tour from luxury tour operator Remote Lands takes travelers to some of the best sites in Tohoku for viewing the blossoms, such as Kitakami Tenshochi Park, Kakunodate, and Hirosaki Castle. The region’s later blooming season means smaller crowds and cheaper tickets, but the scenery is equally beautiful. Along the way, you’ll also get a taste for the northern region’s culture, have some great meals, and stay in luxurious accommodations.
Day 1: AIZUWAKAMATSU, FUKUSHIMA
Aizuwakamatsu’s Tsuruga Castle is surrounded by meticulously landscaped grounds that come to life when the cherry trees bloom. The castle offers expansive views, and there is a quaint teahouse within the park. Be sure to catch Aizu Sazaedo Temple, a one-of-a-kind double-helix wooden structure built in 1796, and the enchanting Oyakuen Garden.
Day 2: YAMAGATA CITY, YAMAGATA
En route to Yamagata City, see cherry blossoms at Hanamiyama Park, Fukushima City, and Uesugi Shrine, Fukushima City. There is also the 38-kilometer Okitama Sakura Corridor, which runs through idyllic onsen towns and popular blossom viewing sites.
Day 3: YAMAGATA CITY, YAMAGATA
Kajo Castle Park is the epicenter of cherry blossom activity in Yamagata City with 1,500 cherry trees. Additionally, the Mamigasaki River’s “sakura lane,” where cherry trees line the river, is a mesmerizing sight. Both are illuminated at night.
Day 4: KAKUNODATE, AKITA
Along the Hinokinai River in Kakunodate, cherry trees in full bloom cover a two-kilometer-long strip of road. Tourists can also climb a nearby hill to look down on the blossoms or explore the town’s wonderfully preserved samurai district.
Day 5: MORIOKA, IWATE
Though Morioka Castle burned down in the 17th Century, granite ramparts remain and it is now a picturesque park with 200 cherry trees. Koiwai Farm, which is about 20 kilometers outside of the city, offers more opportunities for sakura viewing.
Day 6: HIROSAKI, AOMORI
Hirosaka Castle contains beautifully preserved Japanese architecture, some of which dates to 1611 CE, and around 2,500 cherry trees. Surrounding moats and lakes create an idyllic atmosphere, and when the petals fall the water’s surface becomes a sheet of pink.
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Luxury Summer Games with
Catherine Heald
The Summer Games in Tokyo is one of the most highly-anticipated sporting events in Asia. Remote Lands is offering pre and post luxury touring for this once in a lifetime event, taking travelers as far afield as Kyoto for a unique Japanese experience before the Games. Catherine Heald, Remote Lands’ CEO, is here to tell us more about luxury touring for the Summer Games in Tokyo. What is the most important thing you want luxury travelers to know about the upcoming Summer Games in Tokyo? This will be an incredible event, and we expect it to sell out early since many corporations have already blocked most of the rooms. We have ourselves blocked rooms and there is high demand for what promises to be the best Summer Games ever, with many cultural experiences in addition to the sporting events. What are some of the signature Remote Lands experiences you would advise travelers not to miss during their time in Tokyo? As in most urban destinations, there are the famous must-see places such as the Imperial Palace Gardens and Akihabara and Shibuya Crossing, and then there are the lesser known places/ experiences such as the Digital Art Museum, Fukugawa Fire Ceremony, Bonsai Museum, Sword Lesson, and Taiko drumming Lesson. Having a mix of both must-sees and special experiences is ideal. The geisha dinner and tea ceremony are very famous experiences to have mainly in Kyoto, but they are expensive and important to experience while in Japan. What will be some of the logistical challenges of planning a luxury holiday around the biggest sporting event on the planet?
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Traffic promises to be horrendous in Tokyo. Normally we do all touring by private car, driver and guide, but for the Olympics we are encouraging everyone to travel by rail or foot to avoid sitting in traffic. There will be many English-speaking staff standing around ready to assist with the trains, so it will be much easier than usual to find one’s way around Tokyo and to find the sporting venues. Of all the places in Japan, why should luxury travelers look forward to Kyoto before and after the Games? If you have never been to Japan, the two most important places to go are Tokyo and Kyoto. Kyoto was one of the ancient capitals and represents Old Japan, whereas Tokyo is New Japan. Old and New Japan coexist happily, and it is important to experience Old Japan in order to gain any understanding of Japan.
Luxury River Cruising onboard the
Family-friendly soft adventures
Private cinema
Daily water-based excursions
Infinity plunge pool
• Modern, State-of-the-art, award-winning ship design • Dining by Chef David Thompson • Most exclusive staff-to-guest ratio of 1:1 on the river • Excursions limited to no more than 10 guests per guide • Interconnecting family suites • Daily biking and kayaking excursions • Fleet of 4 private speedboats
Suites for families
Gym
FAMILY- FRIENDLY DEPARTURE AND SOFT ADVENTURE The Aqua Mekong is a perfect luxury family adventure. The all suite 20 cabin cruiser is fitted out with numerous daily active water-based and shore-based excursions to chose from. Ideal for the active family or for the leisure-focused couple that wants to experience authentic Mekong river life in either Cambodia or Vietnam. SUMMER RATE PROMOTION: Receive 30% off our all-inclusive cruise on the Aqua Mekong during the Summer Season: May 3rd to Aug 13th, 2019 (Inclusive)
For more information, contact your Travel Professional
www. aquaexpeditions.com
