Latest news with #Omotesando
Yahoo
12 hours ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Aston Martin Unveils Ultra-Luxury Private Residence in Tokyo's Most Desirable Location
Aston Martin Unveils Ultra-Luxury Private Residence in Tokyo's Most Desirable Location originally appeared on Autoblog. If the article detailing Aston Martin's residence tower in Miami left you wanting more, you're in luck! The British automaker recently revealed N°001 Minami Aoyama, Tokyo, its first ultra-luxury residence in Asia, and what a residence it is. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Created in partnership with Japanese luxury real estate developer VIBROA Inc., the four-story residence is situated in Tokyo's Omotesandō neighborhood, a renowned shopping district located between Harajuku and Aoyama. Right away, the façade stands out thanks to its vertical metal louvers, whose appearances change as the sun rises and falls in the sky, reflecting off their surface. Glimpses of the interior can also be seen between the louvers. The first floor houses the spa facilities, including a sauna and spa bath with natural Hinoki timber cladding and a specially designed audio system. Right next door is a landscaped private terrace, with its own outdoor Onsen pool and seating. Oh, and about that audio system, the entire residence has a Bowers & Wilkins Audio System wired in, so your tunes can play in any room. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The basement takes advantage of the site's sloping nature to house a gym, wine cellar, a golf simulator system, a private spa, and three en-suite bedrooms. The two-car garage, or "automotive gallery" as Aston Martin refers to it, features adaptive lighting and a wave-textured metal ceiling. The cars can also be from within the house, thanks to the glass panel that separates the garage from the lounge and meeting room on the ground floor. Natural light was reportedly a high priority when building the residence, and as you ascend to the rooftop terrace, the materials transition from dark to light "to mirror the journey towards the light." The terrace contains a kitchen facility, a section of planted green roof, and tremendous views of the Tokyo Tower. Oh, and speaking of that staircase, Aston Martin and VIBROA Inc. call it an "origami staircase," made from folded steel and illuminated by a pendant chandelier. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The two companies also curated some very fitting Italian furniture for the residence, ranging from bespoke wardrobes to kitchen cabinets by Italian brand Molteni&C. The kitchen sports black lava stone surfaces and gray oak cabinetry, with "nebula steel" and pewter metal accents throughout. If you're worried that these are all off-the-shelf pieces, fret not, as reportedly many of the pieces were custom-designed under Aston Martin's direct supervision. I'm a design nerd, whether it's modern minimalism, 1970s kitsch, or everything in between. I was already entranced by Aston Martin's Miami residences, but their Japanese residence knocks it out of the park. It's clean, yet it doesn't feel empty. The various materials and colors used throughout, like the wood and dark metals, create a cozy, modern, and classy ambiance simultaneously. View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article Aston Martin and VIBROA Inc. don't mention a price tag or owner, of course, but considering the prices of their Miami residences, and the fact that this was built as a private residence, it's probably a figure that us mere mortals can't comprehend. Aston Martin Unveils Ultra-Luxury Private Residence in Tokyo's Most Desirable Location first appeared on Autoblog on Jun 27, 2025 This story was originally reported by Autoblog on Jun 27, 2025, where it first appeared.
Daily Mail
17 hours ago
- Automotive
- Daily Mail
The luxury house Aston Martin built
Aston Martin doesn't just want to flog its luxury cars to well-heeled clients - now it wants to sell them a lifestyle. The British auto firm based in Gaydon, Warwickshire has today unveiled its first ultra-luxury house. However, if you wanted it, you'd need to pack your bags and move to Tokyo first. The N °001 Minami Aoyama home has just been completed in the Japanese capital in partnership with real estate developer Vibroa. The four-storey private residence is situated in the city's highly desirable boutique Omotesandō neighbourhood, meaning you'll need a sizable collection of zeros in your bank account to afford it. The townhouse extends the company's exclusive property portfolio, which already includes the Aston Martin Residence apartment block in Miami . It also designed the interiors for 'The Astera' complex on Al Marjan Island in the United Arab Emirates. Both are worlds away from affordable housing. And while the mega mansion boasts a gym, wine cellar, theatre, dedicated golf simulator, and a private spa, the garage is arguably the most incredible showpieces of all. 'N°001 Minami Aoyama is a true showcase for bespoke craft, high-end technology and a unifying design language that parallels the truth to materials, perfect proportions and effortless beauty of Aston Martin's range of luxury sports cars,' so Aston Martin's blurb says. But what are the important figures in the sales brochure? It offers three storeys above a substantial basement level, three en-suite bedrooms, and a total floor area of 724 m2 (7,793 ft2). On the outside, it's - unsurprisingly - a stunning spectacle. The exterior façade to the front uses vertically-aligned metal louvers of varying proportions and angular fins that are split by a singular LED light, which looks like the spine of the electric building. 'Together, these create a shifting presence throughout the day as light plays on the reflective surfaces, providing animation as well as privacy,' the car maker claims. And they also provide a tiny glimpse of the lavish interior finishes, like the rippled mirrored ceilings and a wilderness of plants on the first-floor spa terrace. To the rear is balconies galore, with four in total as well as a selection of enormous portrait windows that flood light into the property. There's a roof-top terrace too, with 360-degree views of the affluent district of the Japanese city - including Tokyo tower - as well as an entertaining space, outdoor kitchen, and planting section that acts as a mini garden oasis. Back indoors, one of the main focal points of the property is its dramatic sculpted staircase. This is formed from folded steel and shaped to give the impression of a piece of origami. Running from the basement and ground floor, adjoining an internal garden and illuminated by a feature pendant chandelier, it is one of the most jaw-dropping aspects of the luxury home. An ultra-expensive kitchen features black lava stone surfaces and Italian-crafted grey oak cabinets, which are contrasted by nebula steel and pewter metal accents throughout. Many of the unique furniture pieces were custom designed under Aston Martin's direct supervision, too. This includes the first-floor spa, with sauna and bath finished in natural Hinoki timber cladding and using a specially designed audio system. There's an outdoor Onsen pool too, with seating on the private terrace. Like its cars, Aston Martin also commissioned a fully-integrated Bowers & Wilkins audio system that plays in every room of the residence. It's not a garage; it's an 'automotive gallery' The 'showcase space' consists of two covered parking spaces that presents a two-vehicle collection 'as if they were sculptural works of art'. A 'special glass vision panel brings the vehicles into the lounge and meeting room on the ground floor,' the car maker says. The garage area has adaptive lighting and a wave-texture metal ceiling for a final splash of opulence. From the outside, with the gallery shutters open, it reveals the incredible garage roof as well as a peek inside the premium pad's living space. Announcing its completion, Marek Reichman, executive vice president and chief creative officer at Aston Martin said: 'Throughout the design and construction of N°001 Minami Aoyama we have worked closely with Vibroa to celebrate the influence of Tokyo's culture, history and style. Before you pick up the phone to call a real estate agent in Tokyo to inquire about the price, save yourself the time. That's because the property was sold to a private buyer back in 2022.
Daily Mail
a day ago
- Automotive
- Daily Mail
The house Aston Martin built: British car firm unveils luxury Tokyo mansion... with a lavish garage
Aston Martin doesn't just want to flog its luxury cars to well-heeled clients - now it wants to sell them a lifestyle. The British auto firm based in Gaydon, Warwickshire has today unveiled its first ultra-luxury house. However, if you wanted it, you'd need to pack your bags and move to Tokyo first. The N°001 Minami Aoyama home has just been completed in the Japanese capital in partnership with real estate developer Vibroa. The four-storey private residence is situated in the city's highly desirable boutique Omotesandō neighbourhood, meaning you'll need a sizable collection of zeros in your bank account to afford it. The townhouse extends the company's exclusive property portfolio, which already includes the Aston Martin Residence apartment block in Miami. It also designed the interiors for 'The Astera' complex on Al Marjan Island in the United Arab Emirates. Both are worlds away from affordable housing. And while the new mega mansion boasts a gym, wine cellar, theatre, dedicated golf simulator, and a private spa, the garage is one of the most ridiculous showpieces of all. 'N°001 Minami Aoyama is a true showcase for bespoke craft, high-end technology and a unifying design language that parallels the truth to materials, perfect proportions and effortless beauty of Aston Martin's range of luxury sports cars,' so Aston Martin's blurb says. But what are the important figures in the sales brochure? It offers three storeys above a substantial basement level, three en-suite bedrooms, and a total floor area of 724 m2 (7,793 ft2). On the outside, it's - unsurprisingly - a stunning spectacle. The exterior façade to the front uses vertically-aligned metal louvers of varying proportions and angular fins that are split by a singular LED light, which looks like the spine of the electric building. 'Together, these create a shifting presence throughout the day as light plays on the reflective surfaces, providing animation as well as privacy,' the car maker claims. And they also provide a tiny glimpse of the lavish interior finishes, like the rippled mirrored ceilings and a wilderness of plants on the first-floor spa terrace. The N °001 Minami Aoyama home has just been completed in the Japanese capital in partnership with real estate developer Vibroa The four-storey private residence is situated in the city's highly desirable boutique Omotesandō neighbourhood, meaning you'll need a sizable collection of zeros in your bank account to afford it It offers three storeys above a substantial basement level, three bedrooms, and a total floor area of 724 m2 (7,793 ft2) All three bedrooms have en suite facilities and all the furnishing are luxury. The wardrobes leading into the walk-in dressing area are hand-crafted in Italy To the rear is balconies galore, with four in total as well as a selection of enormous portrait windows that flood light into the property. There's a roof-top terrace too, with 360-degree views of the affluent district of the Japanese city - including Tokyo tower - as well as an entertaining space, outdoor kitchen, and planting section that acts as a mini garden oasis. Back indoors, one of the main focal points of the property is its dramatic sculpted staircase. This is formed from folded steel and shaped to give the impression of a piece of origami. Running from the basement and ground floor, adjoining an internal garden and illuminated by a feature pendant chandelier, it is one of the most jaw-dropping aspects of the luxury home. The staircase links the roof terrace to the basement, with the latter featuring a bespoke wine cellar filled with the finest imports These beautiful rippled mirrored ceilings in the first-floor spa area contrast the sauna and bath, which are finished in natural Hinoki timber cladding. This area also boasts a specially designed audio system for the ultimate tranquil escape Marek Reichman, executive vice president and chief creative officer at Aston Martin said design pays tribute to 'the influence of Tokyo's culture, history and style' The mansion benefits open plan living on different levels, with contrasting use of dark and light throughout to divide rooms An ultra-expensive kitchen features black lava stone surfaces and Italian-crafted grey oak cabinets, which are contrasted by nebula steel and pewter metal accents throughout. Many of the unique furniture pieces were custom designed under Aston Martin's direct supervision, too. This includes the first-floor spa, with sauna and bath finished in natural Hinoki timber cladding and using a specially designed audio system. There's an outdoor Onsen pool too, with seating on the private terrace. Like its cars, Aston Martin also commissioned a fully-integrated Bowers & Wilkins audio system that plays in every room of the residence. Like its cars, Aston Martin also commissioned a fully-integrated Bowers & Wilkins audio system that plays in every room of the residence It's not a garage; it's an 'automotive gallery' Last, but by no means least, it wouldn't be an Aston Martin house without an equally extravagant garage to go with it. Well, it has this - though it's not called a garage. This is an 'automotive gallery'. The 'showcase space' consists of two covered parking spaces that presents a two-vehicle collection 'as if they were sculptural works of art'. A 'special glass vision panel brings the vehicles into the lounge and meeting room on the ground floor,' the car maker says. The garage area has adaptive lighting and a wave-texture metal ceiling for a final splash of opulence. It wouldn't be an Aston Martin house without an equally extravagant garage to go with it. Well, it has this - though it's not called a garage. This is an 'automotive gallery'... The 'showcase space' consists of two covered parking spaces that presents a two-vehicle collection 'as if they were sculptural works of art'. A 'special glass vision panel brings the vehicles into the lounge and meeting room on the ground floor,' the car maker says Announcing its completion, Marek Reichman, executive vice president and chief creative officer at Aston Martin said: 'Throughout the design and construction of N°001 Minami Aoyama we have worked closely with Vibroa to celebrate the influence of Tokyo's culture, history and style. 'The city has always held an important creative space within our design studio, and Aston Martin's increased presence in Japan and Asia has provided fertile ground for inspiration and collaboration. 'For Aston Martin, design is something that goes beyond automotive inspiration. I see fashion, architectural and even culinary references being considered by our team when developing their work.' Before you pick up the phone to call a real estate agent in Tokyo to inquire about the price, save yourself the time. That's because the property was sold to a private buyer back in 2022. How to find a new mortgage Borrowers who need a mortgage because their current fixed rate deal is ending, or they are buying a home, should explore their options as soon as possible. Buy-to-let landlords should also act as soon as they can. > Mortgage rates calculator > Find the right mortgage for you What if I need to remortgage? Borrowers should compare rates, speak to a mortgage broker and be prepared to act. Homeowners can lock in to a new deal six to nine months in advance, often with no obligation to take it. Most mortgage deals allow fees to be added to the loan and only be charged when it is taken out. This means borrowers can secure a rate without paying expensive arrangement fees. Keep in mind that by doing this and not clearing the fee on completion, interest will be paid on the fee amount over the entire term of the loan, so this may not be the best option for everyone. What if I am buying a home? Those with home purchases agreed should also aim to secure rates as soon as possible, so they know exactly what their monthly payments will be. Buyers should avoid overstretching and be aware that house prices may fall, as higher mortgage rates limit people's borrowing ability and buying power. What about buy-to-let landlords Buy-to-let landlords with interest-only mortgages will see a greater jump in monthly costs than homeowners on residential mortgages. This makes remortgaging in plenty of time essential and our partner L&C can help with buy-to-let mortgages too. How to compare mortgage costs The best way to compare mortgage costs and find the right deal for you is to speak to a broker. This is Money has a long-standing partnership with fee-free broker L&C, to provide you with fee-free expert mortgage advice. Interested in seeing today's best mortgage rates? Use This is Money and L&Cs best mortgage rates calculator to show deals matching your home value, mortgage size, term and fixed rate needs. If you're ready to find your next mortgage, why not use L&C's online Mortgage Finder. It will search 1,000's of deals from more than 90 different lenders to discover the best deal for you. Be aware that rates can change quickly, however, and so if you need a mortgage or want to compare rates, speak to L&C as soon as possible, so they can help you find the right mortgage for you.
Telegraph
29-04-2025
- Telegraph
Holidays to Japan have never been more popular – here's how to do it better than everyone else
Cloud-brushing skyscrapers, flashing neon and seas of salarymen. The rhythmic whisk of matcha in the stillness of a tatami mat tea room. The dancing hands of a sushi chef slicing sashimi on a cypress wood counter. Decadent quantities of world-class powder snow. Steam rising from a hot spring onsen bath. And the list goes on. Japan has long been a timeless haven of colourfully unique experiences. It's home to a spectrum of only-in-Japan moments, balancing the rich layers of its deep cultural heritage with a futuristic modern edge – whether enjoying dinner in a robot restaurant in Tokyo or slipping shoes off at the threshold of a centuries-old Zen temple. Japan's diversity is mirrored in its geography. The landscape of the scattered archipelago – a narrow vertical stretch of volcanic islands – ranges from the snow-flecked ski resorts of northernmost Hokkaido to the subtropical island gems of southern Okinawa. And it's never been more popular. Tourism is booming – as is well documented, along with a growing reports of overtourism. This, however, should not deter visitors – instead, it should inspire them to get creative and explore the many quieter, less obvious spots. For many, one timeless draw is Japan's legendary food (Tokyo alone has 170 Michelin-starred restaurants – the highest number in the world). Culinary experiences vary wildly from shiny skyscraper eateries to tiny hidden sushi counters – plus countless local restaurants specialising in a cornucopia of treats such as soba noodles, tempura, ramen, yakitori (skewered chicken) and tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlets). For others, the appeal is rooted in its aesthetics – from the modern minimalism of architect Tadao Ando's concrete buildings, to the wabi-sabi philosophy of transience and imperfection experienced in the stillness of tea rooms and Zen gardens. It was a mix of all the above (plus a sprinkling of romantic notions relating to cherry blossoms) that prompted me to swap my native London for Japan 17 years ago. After nearly two decades of living here (now based in the old kimono district of Kyoto), there is still so much more to see and learn. My itinerary does not attempt to cover everything, a near-impossible feat in two weeks. It does, however, aim to offer a curated taste of the cultural richness and diversity Japan has to offer, with the goal of creating memories that linger long after flying home – starting with Tokyo. Days 1, 2 & 3 Tokyo Find your feet in the city The first day of your trip will be occupied by an overnight flight from London to Tokyo. On arrival, after checking in at Trunk(Hotel) Cat Street, wander around Harajuku, the street fashion mecca. Soak up the rainbow-bright crowds of teenagers strolling down Takeshita Dori. Then, get a glimpse of the other side of Japan: just behind Harajuku station, roam through a wide forested path to the serene sanctuary of Meiji Jingu shrine. Next, head past the fashion flagships of tree-lined Omotesando. Pick up some Issey Miyake shopping at the northern end of Omotesando, before exploring time-capsule traditional treasures (plus the serene gardens) at the Kengo Kuma-designed Nezu Museum. Skip the city crowds If jetlag is kicking in, make the most of rising early and try to skip the crowds at Sensoji – Japan's oldest temple – wandering along its lively market walkway, in Asakusa, an atmospheric old district in eastern Tokyo. Not far away is Ueno Koen, one of the city's oldest public parks, filled with national museums, shrines, a lotus pond and quality people-watching. For a low-key detour, head a little farther east to Yanaka, one of the few neighbourhoods to have survived wartime bombing – resulting in a rare time-warp atmosphere. Stroll through its cherry-tree-filled cemetery and sip coffee in old-school cafés. Don't miss Scai the Bathhouse, one of Tokyo's best independent contemporary galleries, housed, as its name suggests, in an old sento bathhouse. Later, for dinner, head to Kyubey in Ginza for quality sushi – asking for a counter seat to watch the master chefs at work. Day 4 Kanazawa Take the bullet train Take a bullet train to the crafts-rich Hokuriku region, which hugs the Sea of Japan coastline, west of Tokyo – and in around three hours, arrive at Kanazawa. This mountain-wrapped city is a historic gem in Ishikawa prefecture, famed for its wooden architecture and quality craftsmanship. Check into the sleekly comfortable (and convenient) Hyatt Centric Kanazawa near the station, before exploring highlights, such as the historic lanes of the Higashi Chaya district and Kenroku-en, one of Japan's top-three traditional gardens. Don't miss the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, with world-class exhibitions housed within clean, minimal lines of curved concrete and glass designed by architects Sanaa. Day 5 Kaga Onsen Recharge in an onsen This is often when jetlag fatigue kicks in: take a break from exploring and jump on a 45-minute train to Kaga Onsen (about halfway between Kanazawa and Kyoto), home to a hub of generations-old onsen ryokan inns. One stand-out gem is Beniya Mukayu – an innovative family-run inn that exudes a sense of stillness and beauty – through its seamless blend of ryokan heritage, intuitive omotenashi hospitality, tea culture and delicious cuisine mixed with contemporary design and art installations alongside a serene green garden. Not to forget its onsen bathing: recharge with addictively restorative soaks in its mineral-rich hot spring baths. Stay the night to wake feeling refreshed. Day 6 & 7 Kyoto The ancient city It may be famously busy, but a trip to Japan is still incomplete without a visit to the ancient city and time-capsule of traditional culture: Kyoto. Take a Thunderbird train from Kaga Onsen to Kyoto Station (around one hour 45 minutes). Despite the furore over tourist volumes, visitors tend to stick to the same places – making certain spots intensely busy, while others are refreshingly peaceful. It's worth checking out different neighbourhoods and smaller temples for a taste of local Kyoto. Staying at Aman Kyoto is a good example of this: it's located in the rural north-eastern reaches of the city, with countless local makers, temples, shrines on its doorstep (accessible via hotel bicycles). For those who prefer to be in the heart of the city, the Shinmonzen, a beautiful art-packed Tadao Ando-designed hotel, is located in geisha district Gion, which is bracingly busy – yet this hotel sits on one of the quieter streets, overlooking a serene river, making it the perfect spot to pause and recharge. See the sights A day of exploring. Rise early (to avoid the crowds) if visiting popular spots such as the Philosopher's Path, the stunning hilltop Kiyomizu-dera temple and Nijo Castle. The best way to enjoy the grid-lined lanes of Kyoto is on two wheels: hire a bicycle (Kyoto Eco Trip can deliver them to your hotel). Explore the historic green gardens at Gosho – the Imperial Palace Park – and temples which tend to be a bit quieter, such as Yoshimine-dera and Daitoku-ji. At the end of the day, treat yourself to a poetically crafted Kyoto dinner in a serene traditional setting, at the Michelin-star-worthy Kikunoi Honten. Day 8 Koya San The sacred mountain Another early start to bid Kyoto sayonara and embark for Mount Koya, one of the nation's most sacred mountains, in Wakayama prefecture. After a string of trains, take a cable car to reach the mountaintop town. Upon arrival, check into Fudo-in, one of countless local temples that take in guests. Then stroll among the exquisite temple architecture before viewing the tombstones deep in the forest at Okunoin, Japan's biggest cemetery. Back at the temple, tuck into a vegetarian Buddhist dinner. Day 9 & 10 Osaka Japan's second city Witness the monks' pre-sunrise prayers, complete with drumbeats, chanting and incense burning before a gold altar. After breakfast, head back down to earth on the cable car – and travel by train to Osaka. Heaven for foodies, Japan's second-biggest city is famed for its down-to-earth atmosphere and boisterous nightlife. It's also the setting for Osaka Expo 2025, running from April 13 to October 13. Head to Yumeshina on Osaka Bay to explore a string of international pavilions wrapped in a giant wooden ring designed by architect Sou Fujimoto (be sure to book tickets in advance). Check into the Four Seasons Osaka for a cloud-brushing taste of luxury; or Zentis Osaka for a less-pricey design hotel experience. Cookery, culture and karaoke Learn how to make Osakan street food – from okonomiyaki pancakes to udon noodles – at an Eat Osaka cookery class run by local mothers. Nakanoshima is also worth exploring – home to a growing hub of museums and culture spots. Take your pick from the Nakanoshima Museum of Art, the Museum of Oriental Ceramics and the Nakanoshima Children's Book Forest, a library designed by legendary Osakan architect Tadao Ando. In the evening, drink beer with locals in an izakaya -style pub, before letting off steam at karaoke. Day 11, 12 & 13 Naoshima Island life Next, head out to sea. Take two trains to Uno port in Kagawa prefecture, and then a private boat to Naoshima. A contemporary art mecca, this small fishing island is a textbook template of how to revitalise an ageing rural community through art. This year, the acclaimed (and ever-growing) Setouchi Triennale returns, a 100-day contemporary art festival spanning 17 islands and coastal areas, which started on April 18 ( The best place to stay is Benesse House a sleek minimal concrete space by the architect Tadao Ando. Check in for two nights before exploring the subterranean Chichu museum, with its treasured Monet Water Lilies, art installations on local wooden houses, and the abstract rock installations in the Lee Ufan Museum. Remote beaches and rural creativity Hop on a local ferry to neighbouring island Teshima. Here, hire an electric bicycle at the port and cycle across the hilly rural landscape, soaking up the creative atmosphere – from the minimal white Teshima Art Museum, inspired by a drop of water, to Christian Boltanski's installation on a remote beach where visitors can record their own heartbeat. Return to Naoshima and finish up with a muscle-warming soak at I Love Yu, a kitsch bathhouse in Miyanoura Port. Art experiences Take a ferry back to Takamatsu Port. Next stop: Isamu Noguchi Garden Museum. It was in the tiny village of Mure that the sculptor built his home and studio, both painstakingly preserved – in a beautiful natural setting (an advance appointment is essential). Take a 20-minute train ride to Furutakamatsu Minami and a 10-minute taxi, before being escorted through the intimately scattered abstract artworks. Head to Takamatsu airport and fly to Tokyo Haneda. For a final touch of luxury, check into the Palace Hotel, which fuses contemporary comforts and quality design with legendary hospitality, in a prime location overlooking the Imperial Palace moat. Day 14 Tokyo Final farewell Request a table on the terrace for your final breakfast (looking out for passing swans). If you have time, enjoy some last-minute shopping – from the boutiques and flagships of Omotesando to the department stores of Ginza. Fly back to UK. When to go Autumn is perhaps the best time of the year to visit, with mild weather, blue skies and vivid landscapes of fiery-leafed trees. From late December and early January, temperatures drop – making it a good time to head to a northern ski resort or south for some Okinawan winter sunshine. Spring brings the iconic cherry blossom season (and lots of crowds). Golden Week around May is best avoided as it's so busy. July and August are uncomfortably hot and humid in Tokyo and Kyoto – making it a good time to escape to the cooler green mountains of northern Japan. What to book Local specialists Among the best independent Japan travel specialists is InsideJapan (0117 409 4908; with its vast network of contacts and expertise for all budgets. It offers a 14-day Ultimate Japan cultural adventure costing £3,711pp (excluding flights). The trip passes through Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kaga Onsen, Kyoto, Naoshima and Osaka, with the price including 13 nights accommodation, transport, some private guiding and experiences such as tea ceremony and a street food tour. Blow the budget At the more luxury end of the spectrum, Black Tomato (0207 426 9888; can curate a high-end bespoke itinerary from £60,000 for a group of four people (excluding flights), including top accommodation (including Benesse House on Naoshima and Beniya Mukayu), a string of curated experiences and private guiding. On a budget Japan Journeys (020 8064 2771; offers Japan Arts Revealed, a 10-night self-guided tour tailored for lovers of arts and crafts, with visits to Tokyo, Kyoto, Kurashiki, Naoshima, Fukuoka and Arita, including B&B accommodation and a seven-day rail pass (excluding international flights), from £1,595pp.
South China Morning Post
18-04-2025
- Business
- South China Morning Post
Hong Kong pharmacy joins Russell Street retail scene to capitalise on rent slump
A local pharmacy has emerged as the newest tenant on Russell Street in Causeway Bay, filling the space previously leased by Italian luxury lingerie brand La Perla to take advantage of a 46 per cent slump in rents in one of Hong Kong's costliest retail strips. Advertisement Yu Shing, the pharmacy owner, is expected to pay about HK$1 million (US$129,000) a month for the premises at 22-24 Russell Street, according to property agents, who declined to be named because the information is private. No other tenancy terms were immediately available. La Perla, which signed a long-term lease for HK$7.5 million a month in 2015, vacated the four-storey building in September 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic. Since its exit, the landlord Emperor International has rented out the space on a weekly or monthly basis, including to pop-up stores The Yu Shing leasing deal marks the latest change of tenant mix in Causeway Bay, one of Hong Kong's four core shopping districts, as the city's retail industry continues to grapple and evolve with economic conditions and changing spending habits among local consumers and tourists. Retail space along Russell Street in Causeway Bay once commanded the highest rates among global shopping strips. Photo: Sun Yeung Tenants along Russell Street, a 250-metre-long thoroughfare, paid as much as US$2,671 per square foot on average in annual rent at the peak of the market in 2018, topping global shopping strips including the Champs Elysees boulevard in Paris, Omotesando in Tokyo and Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, according to Cushman & Wakefield. Advertisement
