The Ritz-Carlton to Develop First Resort Slated to be Set Amidst a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Nikko, Japan
Building on a growing desire for luxury resort experiences in stunning global locations, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company L.L.C. announced plans to bring its legendary style and service to Nikko, Japan. Surrounded by mountainous landscapes, sacred forests and rich traditions, The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko, owned by Tobu Railway Co., Ltd., is expected to open in 2020 and will be the brand's first resort in Japan to be set amidst a UNESCO World Heritage site.
“Today's luxury traveler is increasingly seeking out unique experiences and the opportunity to become immersed in a destination's culture. We are delighted to meet this need by opening exceptional properties in exciting new locations such as Nikko,” said Lisa Holladay, Global Brand Leader for The Ritz-Carlton. “We will be working to curate a Nikko experience that truly showcases what is special about this destination while bringing to life and honoring its UNESCO heritage.”
Located in the Northern Kanto region of Japan, Nikko lies approximately two hours North of Tokyo and is an outdoor and cultural tourism destination that features many natural jewels including the Kegon Falls and an array of famous Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines. Nikko, and the surrounding area, has long been known as a holy place and was named a UNESCO World heritage site due to the cultural, religious, and architectural significance of its richly decorated temples. Set amidst the mountains and forests that make up this special site, The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko is slated to be located along the East end of Lake Chuzenji and South of Mount Nantai and will provide guests with easy access to prominent scenic attractions including Nikko's National Park and the UNESCO World Heritage designated area.
“We are pleased to welcome the iconic Ritz-Carlton brand to Nikko, which can be easily accessed from our railway lines,” said Yoshizumi Nezu, President, Tobu Railway Co., Ltd. “The land surrounding the hotel has many stories to tell and is rich in history and abundant in nature. Through The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko we hope to introduce the various Nikko attractions to both Japanese and international visitors, eventually contributing to the strength of the Japanese tourism industry.”
The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko is set to feature 94 spacious guestrooms and suites, each designed to provide guests with an extravagant view of either Lake Chuzenji or Mount Nantai. Dining options are expected to include an all-day dining restaurant, a Lobby Lounge and Bar, as well as a Western restaurant. The fitness facilities and signature Ritz-Carlton Spa will offer an opportunity for complete rejuvenation through unique treatment rooms and a private Onsen - Japanese hot springs.
“Nikko has a long and rich history, making it an attractive destination for domestic travelers and a growing destination for overseas travelers looking to more deeply experience Japan and its culture,” said Paul Foskey, Chief Development Officer, Asia Pacific, Marriott International. “We are truly excited to be collaborating with Tobu Railway Co., Ltd. to bring yet another unique resort to Japan.”
About The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC
About The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., of Chevy Chase, MD., currently operates more than 90 hotels in over 30 countries and territories. More than 40 hotel and residential projects are under development around the globe. The Ritz-Carlton is proud to offer The Ritz-Carlton Rewards® in which members can link accounts with Marriott Rewards® and Starwood Preferred Guest® for instant elite status matching and unlimited points transfer. For more information or reservations, visit the company web site at www.ritzcarlton.com, for the latest company updates, visit news.ritzcarlton.com and to join the live conversation, use #RCMemories. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ:MAR).
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is a global leading lodging company based in Bethesda,Maryland, USA, with more than 4,200 properties in 80 countries and territories. Marriott International reported revenues of nearly $14 billion in fiscal year 2014. The company operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts under 19 brands, including: The Ritz-Carlton®, BVlgari®, EDITION®, JW Marriott®, Autograph Collection® Hotels, Renaissance® Hotels, Marriott Hotels®, Delta Hotels and Resorts®, Marriott Executive Apartments®, Marriott Vacation Club®, Gaylord Hotels®, AC Hotels by Marriott®, Courtyard®, Residence Inn®, SpringHill Suites®, Fairfield Inn & Suites®, TownePlace Suites®, Protea Hotels® and MoxyHotels®. Marriott has been consistently recognized as a top employer and for its superior business ethics. The company also manages the award-winning guest loyalty program, Marriott Rewards® and The Ritz-Carlton Rewards® program, which together surpass 50 million members. For more information or reservations, please visit our website at 
