This minimalist luxury floating hotel sails you through Japanese islands

When it comes to minimalist design at its finest, few can compare to the creative flair of Japanese interiors.

Case in point: there’s a new floating hotel which weaves you through Japanese islands.

Called Guntû, it’s a nineteen-room cabin which floats in the Seto Inland Sea, offers breathtaking views of the ocean and the many-layered ridges of the surrounding mountains. Which, frankly, might be the true taste of luxury onboard this floating ryokan.

Named after the blue crabs indigenous to the area, it’s designed by esteemed architect Yasushi Horibe, whose portfolio and accolades include the Architectural Institute of Japan for Charnel House in Chikurin-ji in 2016, among others. Timber flooring, walls, and ceilings are used across its 19 cabins, each designed to capture optimal views of the surrounding landscapes.

Each room features modern Japanese screens to provide additional privacy and folding glass doors which open up to the terrace outside. Noteworthy facilities aboard the Guntû include wellness and spa spaces (like a sauna, communal bath, treatment room, and gym), a host of dining spaces which include a tea room, a fresh-fish-only sushi bar, bar, and grill counter.

Fancy an evening under a star-speckled sky on the ocean? Head up to the observation deck for a spot of tipple and, of course, stunning views of the sea and coastline. It truly is a great alternative to make an actual luxury experience of your Japanese island-hopping travels, with the option of six routes that guests can choose from.

Fall oceans deep in love as you sneak a peek of its stunning space in the gallery above – you’ve been duly warned!

Sarah Khan

Photos: Guntu Japan

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