A groundbreaking ceremony for a new Four Seasons resort on the island of Okinawa, known as the Hawaii of Japan, has been held at the project site in Onna Village.
The ceremony, signalling the start of a massive three-year beachfront development, was officiated by the mayor of the village, Nagahama Yoshimi, and witnessed by key representatives from Onna Village and Berjaya Okinawa Development.
Four Seasons Okinawa is part of a one billion dollar development of about 100 acres along the western coast of the island, known as the Sunset Strip where most of the luxury resorts are located, and is close to the famous Manzamo Cape.
Comprising about 35 acres, the Four Seasons Okinawa will be an exclusively low-dense and low-rise resort development with 127 hotel rooms, 124 condo residences and 28 villa-type private residences.
There will be lively mix of epicurean restaurants and bars, a banquet venue, fitness and pool, spa, beach club and sports facilities, as well as public grounds and gardens.
Guests of honour performing the Kuwairenogi (Ceremony of Hoe) in Onna Village and, top of page, Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Vincent Tan speaking from Kuala Lumpur
The low-density layout of the resort will allow guests and homeowners to access every amenity by foot, bicycle or golf cart.
Berjaya Corporation Berhad’s executive chairman, Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Vincent Tan, said: “We are pleased to continue our successful partnership with Four Seasons, emulating the success of Four Seasons Hotel and Hotel Residences Kyoto, which has garnered numerous international recognitions and accolades.
“As well as Okinawa, we will also be building a Four Seasons Hotel in Yokohama. In total, we plan to build a total of 10 hotels with Four Seasons branding across Japan.”
He added: “Besides creating a host of long-term employment and business opportunities for the local community, it will put Okinawa on the world map as a prime destination to visit in Japan.”
Syed Ali Shahul Hameed, CEO of Berjaya Land Berhad, said: “Known as the Hawaii of Japan, Okinawa is an elevating destination and it is becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination in Japan.”
