guntû

Hotel review

This stylish cruise hotel offers guests a unique way to see Japan’s Seto Inland Sea. Embarking from Onomichi in Hiroshima, the hotel boasts nineteen, beautifully appointed wood-panelled guest cabins. Designed by celebrated architect Yasushi ­Horibe, the boat-hotel interiors feel luxurious and inviting, with carefully curated areas for rest and relaxation. With trips available from one to three nights and stops in sites of cultural interest around in the area, this hotel offers a contemporary hospitality experience for travellers to Hiroshima.

The hotel offers three cabin categories: the guntû suite, grand suites and terrace suites. All the cabins are spacious and comfortable and invite you to wake up with views of the waves from floor-to-ceiling windows. The guntû suite faces the direction of travel, giving you the exceptional experience of moving with the ship as you lie in bed. The suite also boasts an outdoor covered bath, the perfect place to soak in the sea views. The generously sized grand suite offers a furnished terrace in addition to a separate seating area and huge bed, while terrace suites have a cosier layout.

Reservations are all full-board, with food available from the fresh Sushi Counter or the gourmet restaurant, under the direction of acclaimed chef, Kenzo Sato. Enjoy themed after-dinner cocktails on the hotel deck or in the romantic lounge. The next day, after a rich, locally sourced breakfast, explore some of the 700 islands in the area as the ship docks, depending on your itinerary. Sites of interest include contemporary art island Naoshima and a local soy sauce brewery. From the routes to the ship itself, the guntû is an exclusive getaway, ideal for adventurous couples.

HG Staff Review published: 03/07/2024