A trip to Japan isn’t complete without a stay at a ryokan, and Gora Kadan in Hakone National Park captures this authentic experience in a world-class way. A 90-minute drive outside of Tokyo, the luxurious, traditional Japanese inn was originally a summer retreat of the Imperial family, and it now attracts both local and international travelers from all over the world. Melissa is joined by Ryutaro Hashimoto, the CEO of Gora Kadan and co-head of Japan at Star Asia, and Malcolm MacLean, the founder and current managing partner of Star Asia. Hashimoto San has spent almost a decade at Star Asia and became the CEO of Gora Kadan in 2017. Malcolm has over 24 years of experience in real estate investment in the U.S., Europe and Asia. He studied economics at Cambridge University and obtained a bachelor’s degree in economics and law from Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut. Malcolm and Hashimoto San share their insight into not only Gora Kadan but Japan as a whole—including onsen baths, tea ceremonies, the safe culture and why Japan has the best skiing in the world. They also explore why investment in Japan continues to grow and reveal impactful cultural insights. Plus, don’t miss their must-visit restaurants and some exciting news for future openings in Mount Fuji planned for 2025.

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Hotel Legends: Japan's Gora Kadan