From December 12, 2026 to February 28, 2027, Hoshinoya Okinawa (星のや沖縄), a seaside resort in Okinawa, will once again serve the winter-only "Amber-Scented Afternoon Tea" (琥珀香るアフタヌーンティー), which showcases the appeal of Okinawan rum. Hoshinoya is a brand whose properties each offer an extraordinary experience built around an original theme.
Sugarcane, which is harvested in winter, is a representative Okinawan crop with a history of more than 400 years. In recent years, awamori distilleries have begun producing rum made in Okinawa Prefecture, sharing a new side of the island. The afternoon tea uses three types of rum that differ in aging and production method in its sweets and savories. New this year are limited drinks that pair well with rum, including teas, coffee, and a sugarcane herbal tea. Guests can enjoy an elegant winter moment for adults at the poolside facing the sea, surrounded by the rich aroma rising from the teacup.
Three Rums With Different Aging and Production Methods, Expressed in Sweets and Savories
The afternoon tea begins with three kinds of savarin
Sweets and savories decorating a brass tea stand
The afternoon tea is made with rum distilled from sugarcane, which is harvested in Okinawa's winter. It starts with "three small savarins" (3種の小さなサバラン), whose flavor changes step by step from the gentle sweetness of sugarcane to the deep richness of brown sugar and the mellow aroma of rum. Rums that differ by aging period and production method are arranged throughout the menu, such as a shikuwasa tart paired with light white rum and a confiture made with dark rum known for its deep richness, so the character of rum can be enjoyed in every item.
Three Limited Drinks to Enjoy the Rum's Deep Aroma
Three limited drinks for enjoying changes in aroma
New this year are drinks that let guests enjoy the rich aroma of rum along with the steam rising from the teacup. The three options are:
- Rum Cinnamon Tea (ラムシナモンティー): The spicy aroma brings out the richness of the rum
- Jamaican Coffee (ジャマイカンコーヒー): Coffee that pairs well with the rum's vibrant aroma
- Sugarcane herbal tea: Made with sugarcane, the origin of rum
Paired with the sweets and savories, they let guests enjoy rum in a variety of ways.
Afternoon Tea at the Infinity Pool Overlooking the Sea
The infinity pool with a scenic view
The pool at Hoshinoya Okinawa is heated, so it can be used comfortably even in winter. Part of the poolside is shallow, and guests can enjoy tea and sweets while occasionally dipping their feet in the pool to relax. Sofas and beach beds are placed at various spots with good views around the infinity pool, which seems to blend into the sea. In a space created by tropical plants, guests can spend time soothed by the rich aroma.
"Amber-Scented Afternoon Tea" Details
- Period: December 12, 2026 to February 28, 2027
- Time: 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM, 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM
- Price: ¥8,000 per person (tax and service charge included). Accommodation fee is separate.
- Included: Afternoon tea set, tea cocktail, champagne
- Capacity: 8 guests per day (up to 4 guests per group)
- Reservations: Accepted on the official website until 14 days before
- Eligibility: Hotel guests aged 20 and over
- Notes: The program may change depending on the weather. Ingredients and menu items may change depending on availability.
Hoshinoya Okinawa
The infinity pool facing the sunset sinking into the sea
Hoshinoya Okinawa is a resort stretching along the coastline, conceived as a "gusuku residence" (グスクの居館) that elevates Ryukyuan culture and life alongside the sea. The grounds, surrounded by "Gusuku Walls" (グスクウォール) inspired by historic sites in Okinawa and by the natural coastline, feature colorful fields and gardens, guest rooms facing the sea, and a dojo (道場) for experiencing Okinawan culture.
- Address: 474 Gima, Yomitan Village, Nakagami District, Okinawa 904-0327
- Rooms: 100 rooms; check-in 3:00 PM / check-out 12:00 PM
- Rate: From ¥170,000 per night per room (tax and service charge included, meals not included)
- Access: About 1 hour by car from Naha Airport (airport limousine bus available for a fee)
- Opened: July 1, 2020
