Nago, Okinawa, Japan

The newest and most luxurious of Okinawa’s select band of five stars is this beautiful hotel overlooking Nago Bay, in the far north of the island. Part of the American-owned Ritz-Carlton group, it is surrounded by a manicured 18-hole golf course, and offers accommodation in 48 single-level wooden villas encircled by traditional Okinawan-style stone walls. Watched over lion-dog shiima guardians, the suites are wonderfully light, cool and beautifully furnished. Views extend over the links to the sea. Everything you require for a rejuvenating stay, including a top-notch spa, is on site, but some of Asia’s most beautiful beaches line the nearby coast.