Okinawa, an archipelago in southern Japan, has garnered global attention as one of the world’s “Blue Zones” – regions where people exhibit remarkable longevity and health, often living past 100 with minimal chronic disease. The archipelago is also often called Japan’s tropical paradise, known for a diverse range of attractions that blend its unique Ryukyuan culture, stunning natural beauty, and a poignant history.
So when I was invited to spend some cool days in March in Okinawa, courtesy of Grand Mercure Okinawa Cape Zanpa, I couldn’t say no. It is the first luxury Grand Mercure brand to enter Japan with its “proudly local” premium hotel offerings, with local hosts and experiences. Flying to Okinawa is made easy with ANA Airlines — we stayed a night at Mercure Tokyo Haneda before flying out the next day. Upon our arrival at Naha International Airport, it took us 70 minutes to reach the hotel grounds. Conveniently located on Zanpa Beach, I checked into the Superior Twin Room with balcony that overlooks the glistening sea with crimson sunsets as my background picture.
After a major renovation, the Grand Mercure Okinawa Cape Zanpa leaves travellers stunned by its dramatic transformation — this isn’t just a fresh coat of paint; it’s a complete reimagining that has elevated the resort experience to an entirely new level. Stepping into the Grand Mercure Okinawa Cape Zanpa’s lobby is an immediate immersion in elegance. The lofty high ceilings create an expansive, airy feel, drawing the eye upwards. This grandeur is perfectly complemented by a majestic stairway, curving gracefully to upper levels, hinting at the luxurious experience awaiting guests throughout this stunningly transformed resort.
The hotel also boasts of one of the largest swimming pool in Okinawa, featuring adult pools (with one being heated), as well as an area just for kids with slides and fun water facilities.
As evening beckons, the light dramatically dims, transforming the ambience. A corner is set up for drinks after dinner, featuring an array of whiskeys to sakes and wines coupled with light snacks.
What I like best
To soothe weary muscles, there is a revitalising onsen experience. Guests can immerse themselves in spacious public baths, including an open-air bath where they can feel the sea breeze and potentially witness stunning sunsets over Cape Zanpa. There’s also an observation bath offering expansive views, and a sauna to complete the holistic relaxation, making it a perfect retreat after a day of exploring.
I’ve had some restful nights in my hotel room as the bed was firm enough for my liking and the pajamas provided were comfortable and cosy, most importantly. There was ample of space for me to move about, and I liked that I was able to stand in my balcony and enjoy the natural, cool breeze brushing against my skin.
I also liked that the Le Sensoriel at Grand Mercure Okinawa Cape Zanpa offers a vibrant buffet experience, perfect for both breakfast and dinner. Emphasising local Okinawan ingredients and culinary culture, the spread seamlessly blends Japanese and Western cuisines. Guests can savour unique Okinawan specialties like truffle-flavored bitter gourd “chanpuru” or fresh seafood dishes with rice. For dinner, expect a diverse array including live kitchen stations with roast beef and modern takes on local favorites like Agu pork cold shabu. The experience is enhanced by all-you-can-drink options, including sparkling wine for breakfast and a full selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages for dinner, making it a seamless culinary journey for the whole family.
What could be better
The waiting time for the lifts could take a bit longer when there are bigger crowds.
While I appreciate the peace and quietness around the hotel’s location, it can be difficult to get around if you do not drive a car.
Activities around Cape Zanpa
Cape Zanpa, on Okinawa’s western coast, is a truly dramatic natural landmark. It’s famous for its towering 30-meter high cliffs that stretch for approximately two kilometers, where the powerful East China Sea waves crash against rugged rocks, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
A prominent feature of the cape is the Zanpa Lighthouse, a striking white structure that offers breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views from its observation deck. It’s also renowned as the last place on Okinawa’s main island to witness the sunset, making for unforgettable golden hour experiences. The area around the cape is a well-maintained park, featuring walking trails, a massive 8.75-meter-tall “Zanpa Great Shisa” statue (Japan’s largest), and the popular Zanpa Beach nearby for swimming and relaxation.
Another must-visit place is the Cape Zanpa Drive-In, an American-inspired burger place that serves their famous fried chicken burger, sausage cheese burger and sweet potato french fries. Perfectly juicy, the fried chicken burger packed a punch of goodness that left me wanting more. Also, the whole place is a vibe, with an ’80s aesthetics. I picked up their cool in-house brand T-shirt as a souvenir for my husband.
While the weather did disappoint us that one day when we were bound to go whale-watching in the ocean, we made up with a trip to Ryukyu Glass Works Umikaze to create our own handblown glass. Though the experience took me less than 20 minutes (a full hands-on experience which I did in Oita, Tokyo took me two to three hours), I still got to enjoy the fun process. Beside the facility, there are also a few ceramics pottery shops and I quickly popped in to shop for a few more souvenirs.
Another highlight was a visit to Yachimun no Sato, meaning “pottery village.” It is a charming hamlet nestled in Yomitan Village, Okinawa, and is renowned as a hub for traditional Okinawan pottery, known as yachimun. This rustic earthenware is characterised by its earthy textures, vibrant colors reminiscent of the sea and sky, and often features unique, rustic patterns.
The village is home to numerous pottery workshops and galleries, many of which utilise traditional “noborigama” climbing kilns. Visitors can stroll through the peaceful streets, observe artisans at work (some workshops offer hands-on experiences), and browse a wide array of handmade ceramics, from practical tableware to decorative Shisa guardian figures. Yachimun no Sato offers a genuine glimpse into Okinawa’s rich craft heritage and provides an opportunity to find unique souvenirs.
This trip was made possible by Accor Hotels.
Book a stay at Grand Mercure Okinawa Cape Zanpa now.
