Shinagawa Beach resort: Friendship and luxury on the sands of Balapitiya
Located on a picturesque strip of land on the Balapitiya beachfront, the Shinagawa Beach resort which was officially launched on December 1, boasts a multitude of facilities and a location that is truly serene. Going beyond a boutique hotel on the golden sands that opens to its visitors a holiday in luxury, Shinagawa Beach also serves to strengthen bilateral ties shared between Sri Lanka and Japan.
The charming Japanese lanterns hung across the courtyard added resplendence to the atmosphere while tucked in a corner was a barrel full of the Japanese rice wine, Sake, brewed to perfection, signifying the joyous mood that engulfed the opening of Asia PLC’s latest venture.
Speaking at the launch, Senior Minister for International Monetary Co-operation, Dr. Sarath Amunugama stated that it is the call of the hour to build such resorts, as Sri Lanka readies itself for an expected arrival of over 2.5 million tourists in the coming year, with large numbers from the East. “Japan is Sri Lanka’s best friend, and we need to keep this friendship going,” he said. Japanese Ambassador in Sri Lanka, Nubohito Hobo mentioned how this was a good example of the Japanese diversifying their business interests in the country. “Sri Lanka offers so much for the easy going traveller, while there is a magnificent attraction for nature lovers. This is the first in a series of investments to come.”
It has been just two years since the President of Teoria Investment Company Ltd, Shigenori Shinagawa’s first visit to Sri Lanka and he has been mesmerized by the scenic beauty and investment potential in the country. In his speech, he paid tribute to the longstanding friendship, stating that his intention is to remind people of the wealth of good that statesmen such as former president J. R. Jayewardene has done to Japan, recalling the famous speech at the San Francisco Treaty conference.
The 26-room upscale property, (with 24 deluxe rooms and 2 suites) offers guests a personal and relaxed experience, owing to rooms that are small yet luxurious. Simplicity runs high through the entire design of the hotel, while elements taken from the beach fuse with contemporary design in adding zest to the hotel. “Our product concept has memorable aspects of coastal charm that will deeply touch our guests,” says General Manager of Shinagawa Beach, Pushpitha Udawatte. “In addition to classics from around the world, we’ve got our own imaginative take on many recipes in keeping with the latest food and beverage trends.”
The restaurant gives epicurean food-lovers something to be excited about whilst the bar has a signature menu of the finest cocktails.
It is no surprise that they also do the best Sushi in town, along with various other seafood delicacies that symbolise Japan’s strong impression on the hotel. One may assume the hotel to host Japanese staff, but it has taken initiatives to create employment opportunities for the locals.
The resort’s pool is perfect to spend all day at with just a few carefree steps taking you across to the ocean. At the spa, ancient healing techniques originating in the Land of the Rising Sun give retreat for the body and mind, while the adrenaline junkies have the options of jet skiing, diving and other water sports. Other excursions arranged by the hotel include a boat ride on the Madu Ganga, with a stopover at its historic island temple, a visit to the vibrant Ambalangoda Mask Factory or a morning spent watching the whales at Mirissa. Shinagawa Beach aspires to add colour to the Balapitiya Beach, while having its foundations rooted in the story of a beautiful friendship between two countries.