Shizuka Ryokan, VICTORIA
Airing Date: Jul 4th, 2005
Shizuka Ryokan is set amidst 3.5 acres of tranquil bushland in Victoria's picturesque spa country. Fully authentic in every detail including its architecture, furnishings and gardens, Shizuka Ryokan has the traditional simple, elegant interior and an appreciation of the materials and workmanship which have combined to create it.
It is said that traditional Japanese dcor, free of the clutter of most modern homes, leaves space for the spirit to expand. The Japanese word shizuka means tranquillity and the word ryokan refers to the highest level of traditional Japanese accommodation, offering an unsurpassed standard of service and comfort.
The guestroom ensuites have pebble flooring, double sized spas and individually shino glazed ceramic hand basins. Guestrooms feature tatami matting, furnishings and each has a courtyard.
At night a surprise awaits you when, in traditional ryokan fashion, staff replace the tables and chairs in your room with authentic Japanese futon bedding. Your futon enables you to experience the centuries old tradition of Japanese style slumber. Soak up the simple charms and timeless beauty of the ryokan experience as you luxuriate in your ensuite spa bath.
If you feel like pampering yourself further you must try the Shizuka Ryokan signature facial. For over 1,200 years Japanese women have used completely natural cleansing, exfoliating and hydrating techniques to look after their skin. These beauty rituals where elevated to an art form by the Japanese Geisha.
Today you can experience their beauty secrets with a unique facial which utilises the restorative and nourishing properties of white tea, lotus root, camellia oil, azuki beans, black sugar and the most precious ingredient of all - nightingale droppings. Sterilised by ultra-violet light, they contain precious natural enzymes to smooth and lighten the skin. Ancient skin brushing techniques and the use of beautifying acupressure points on the face and legs are just some of the features of this exotic treatment.
Shizuka Ryokan is renowned for its authentic traditional cuisine, it is one of the few venues in Australia offering a fully authentic Japanese breakfast menu. The authentic tray of delicious Japanese breakfast favourites, carefully selected to balance flavour, texture and appearance, includes some delicacies not commonly offered in Australia. The home-style Japanese breakfast platter includes sukiyaki infused pumpkin topped with black sesame seeds, baked Atlantic salmon and rich white miso soup, complete with wakame seaweed, shallots and tofu.
Further Information
A 2 night package starts from $498 a couple, including 1 dinner & daily breakfast.
The first 100 callers receive free 1 hour massage.
Book by 31/7/05
Shizuka Ryokan Ph) 03 5348 2030 www.shizuka.com.au.
Visit: www.visitvictoria.com.
