Irabu Island sits at the western edge of Okinawa's Miyako group, reached via a 3,540-metre bridge that arcs over water so clear the locals christened it 'Irabu Blue'. IRAPH SUI, a Luxury Collection Hotel, occupies a coveted stretch of coast, each room facing the sea and several with their own plunge pool. Days unfold around an infinity pool that appears to spill straight into the ocean, a spa drawing on Miyako sea salt and sun, and a French restaurant turning local wagyu and reef fish into something rather special. Sunsets here are dreamy beyond belief – you won't want to miss one.
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Ranging from cosy 46-square-metre doubles to the vast Presidential Suite (complete with its own pool and jet bath), all 58 rooms and suites face the ocean. Expect sandy linens, deep indigo accents that nod to the sea outside, and balconies or gardens built for lingering with a coffee (or something stronger). Bathrooms are generous and well equipped, TWG tea and a stocked minibar are standard, and select suites add a private plunge pool or whirlpool for total indulgence.
The 17:30 ritual: free-flowing fizz and ice cream by the infinity pool as the sun drops into that famous Irabu Blue. Simple and terribly addictive.
Swing by the lobby between 2pm and 4pm to blend your own bath salts from dried herbs and Miyako snow salt. You'll be wanting to take some home.
Irabu is properly remote: no shops or restaurants beyond the hotel gates, and everything (even Sawada Beach) requires a car or the hotel shuttle. Isolation is rather the point.
Iraph Sui, a Luxury Collection Hotel can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made Japan trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended Japan trips featuring Iraph Sui, a Luxury Collection Hotel or get advice and suggestions from one of our Japan specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.
Stays at Iraph Sui, a Luxury Collection Hotel start from around $290, or US$290, per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.
A collection of connected islands in Japan’s south with bluer-than-blue waters & beaches to die for.
