Private Retreat for Two

Meet the Yamasakis: Sanshiro, who runs a popular kissaten in Kyoto, and Momoko, who balances her work between Kyoto and Tokyo. Following a whirlwind two-day trip last year, they returned to Miyako Island for a more soul-soothing stay—a "retreat" at the rescape. In their busy lives, spending three full days together is a rare treasure. We had the privilege of joining them on this intimate journey as they embraced the luxury of doing nothing, together.

Upon arriving at Miyako Airport via a direct flight from the Kansai region, the Yamasakis checked into their "Comfort Cottage" at the rescape. With its private balcony and pool, the room felt like an open sanctuary. As they relaxed on the sofa with the windows wide open, they listened to the rhythmic waves from the beach and the gentle chirping of birds. Here, they found a luxurious silence—a vast contrast to the city. "The gap between our busy lives and this stillness is incredible," they shared. "But we’ve already settled into the island’s slow pace."

After settling into their room, the couple took a gentle stroll along the beach. They walked along the shoreline, discovering pieces of driftwood and seashells, before making their way through the coastal windbreak forest toward the reception building. Momoko was already wearing the indigo-dyed earrings she had just purchased at the hotel boutique during check-in.

They enjoyed a relaxing coffee break on the second-floor balcony of the reception building. Borrowing a book from the library, they delved into reading—a luxury often hard to find in their busy daily lives, but made possible by the slow pace of travel.

Another reason for visiting the reception building was the custom bath salt workshop. By blending their choice of natural salts, dried herbs, and aromatic essences, they created a unique blend to take back and enjoy in their room.

As the sun began to set, Sanshiro led Momoko back to the beach once more. Immersed in the rhythmic sound of the crashing waves, they cherished their quiet time alone together.
The following morning, they woke before dawn for a pre-booked morning yoga session. Despite being a complete beginner, Sanshiro felt at ease as the instructor started with gentle poses tailored for newcomers. Gazing out at the tranquil morning sea, they focused entirely on their bodies and breath. Although the clouds hid the sunrise, the movement of their bodies marked a refreshing and revitalizing start to the day.

In the afternoon, they enjoyed a massage on their private balcony overlooking the ocean. To soothe the stresses of daily life, they chose an original oil massage featuring Getto (Shell Ginger) essential oil. In Okinawa, Getto is also known as "Sannin," and its leaves are traditionally used to wrap and steam "Muchi" (rice cakes) for their antibacterial properties and fragrance. Lulled by the refreshing scent and the rhythmic sea, they gazed at the horizon together, experiencing a deep detox for both body and mind.

After their relaxing massage, they headed to the restaurant at the rescape for dinner. They savored a masterful blend of creative French-inspired cuisine and bold, charcoal-grilled dishes, all showcasing an abundance of fresh, local ingredients from Miyako Island. Following the meal, they moved to the bar downstairs. Sipping cocktails crafted with vibrant local fruits, they watched the night quietly deepen in a world of their own.

Away from the city and occasionally out of signal reach, the rescape offered the Yamasakis a rare chance to disconnect and indulge in the luxury of stillness. Most of their time was spent simply being present within the resort. By weaving small, special moments into their stay, they completed their intimate retreat—smiling, refreshed, and carrying with them a profound sense of peace. "An experience of a lifetime," as Momoko put it.