Vessel Hotel Development will renew the “Diamond Suite” at Lequ Okinawa Chatan Spa & Resort on July 12.
Supervised by hotel critic Nobuaki Takizawa, the suite pursues experiences described as “industry first,” “one of the largest in Okinawa,” and “unparalleled.” This is the second launch following the “BABA Suite” at Vessel Inn Takadanobaba.
Upon entering the guest rooms on the top floor, 7th floor of the premium building, guests are greeted by relaxing Okinawan folk music from “USEN MUSIC.” The size and openness are overwhelming. The room is a maisonette type, with an area of 373.3 square meters including the terrace. Notably, it features a 100-inch large television, purported to be the first in the hotel industry. Although initially assumed to be transported via elevator, it was actually brought in by stairs.
Three types of pillows, amenities from three brands, two types of showerheads, two types of coffee machines, and two types of hair dryers are introduced with the theme of “balance of usability and beauty.” Amenities include three types—Aromatherapy Associates, Eraba Shea, and Mikimoto. Showerheads are by Noend, and hair dryers by Dyson and Magnet. These elements offer the enjoyment of choosing and a personalized experience. Takizawa emphasizes this kind of experience is feasible because of the strength of small to medium-sized hotels. Manufacturers typically dislike being compared with other products.
Guests can enjoy videos in their favorite locations such as the balcony, pool, or bathroom with a waterproof portable TV, and a new TV is installed in the 2nd-floor bedroom. High-quality furniture like Sergio Mouille’s floor light and Ide’s chair are carefully selected, balancing design and comfort.
Despite being a resort hotel, conditions meet the demands for workcations by introducing Herman Miller’s Aeron chair. Many power outlets are also available to support the charging needs of multiple electronic devices.
Beer, soft drinks, Japanese tea, black tea, and red and white wine are complimentary. Six types of 36 Nespresso capsules and a pack of 36 Blue Seal ice creams are also included.
The terrace, which houses a private pool, barrel sauna, and jacuzzi overlooking the American Village, now includes a cold-water bath. The kitchenette is equipped with a Hoshizaki commercial ice maker, allowing a large amount of ice to be put into the sauna’s cold-water bath, lowering the water temperature by 6 degrees, providing satisfactory cold water baths even in Okinawa’s warm climate.
The expected average price is about 400,000 yen, fluctuating from the 200,000 yen to 500,000 yen range depending on the season. The pricing remains consistent with before the renewal, anticipating increased customer satisfaction and occupancy. Capacity is for 7 people, with those under the age of 18 not included in the count, offering cost-effectiveness for families, three-generational trips, and corporate use.
Takizawa comments that the renewal aims to enhance experiences to provide satisfaction commensurate with or exceeding the price, not merely to raise rates. Supervised from the perspectives of consumers, operators, and media, the hotel experience evolves from simply a stay to a high-value experience tailored to guests’ needs.
At the press conference, President Yoshirou Seo expressed confidence, describing the reason for requesting Takizawa by saying, “While the Diamond Suite boasts excellent facilities including one of the largest spaces in Okinawa, a pool, sauna, kitchen, and natural hot springs, there were challenges on the ‘soft side’.” Yet, “something truly excellent on the soft side was realized.”
As the first resort hotel developed by Vessel Hotel Development, Lequ Okinawa Chatan Spa & Resort opened in March 2020. Currently operating four hotels in Chatan Town, Okinawa Prefecture—including Lequ’s main building, premium building, Vessel Hotel main building, and annex. Partnering with the private sector, Chatan Town is promoting regional revitalization, and President Seo expressed a desire to “contribute to the revitalization of Chatan Town and Okinawa Prefecture with our owners.” (Research cooperation: Vessel Hotel Development)
