Welcome to Shizuka Ryokan!
This first edition of our regular bulletin will update you on what’s happening at Shizuka Ryokan and in the surrounding picturesque “Spa Country” of central Victoria during the Summer of 2005.
Australia's only authentic Japanese inn, Shizuka Ryokan is an indulgent retreat set amid tranquil bushland featuring traditional accommodation, delicious cuisine and luxurious spa treatments.
But don’t take our word for it – see the review in yesterday’s 15 December issue of “The Age (Melbourne) Magazine”.
THE GIFT OF TRANQUILLITY
With the intimacy of only six guestrooms, some people do miss out on stays at Shizuka Ryokan during the popular holiday periods. However, the good news is that you can still celebrate these special occasions and enjoy a stay at Shizuka Ryokan. Simply order a Gift Voucher so the lucky recipient can indulge with a stay at their own preferred time.
Perfect for that special someone, for the hard-to-buy-for individual or for the person who seemingly has everything, a luxurious stay at Shizuka Ryokan makes an indulgent, memorable and thoughtful gift this holiday season. Please book online soon as Santa is now fast approaching.
SUMMER IN SPA COUNTRY
Summer is a perfect time to visit spa country where the weather is comfortably warm but rarely humid. Summer also allows you to escape the city and coastal holiday crowds and enjoy a relaxing holiday at your own pace, a particularly welcome option after the hectic Christmas and New Year festivities.
Whether it’s bushwalking, bookshops, art galleries or markets, there’s something here for everyone. Spa country is a gourmet’s paradise, with an abundance of local restaurants and cafes serving innovative regional and international cuisine. Local wineries are also deservedly enjoying growing popularity. You can enjoy a surprising number of sporting, cultural, culinary, horticultural and just plain fun activities in the Daylesford/Hepburn Springs area this summer.
The school holidays (until 23 January) and the weekends and days adjoining the Australia Day holiday (26 January) are sure to be busy. Likewise, the Valentine’s Day weekend (11 – 14 February) and the Easter period (25 – 29 March) are always popular, so it’s not too early to book your visit to Shizuka Ryokan to avoid disappointment. Our new online booking facility makes it easy.
WHAT’S NEW?
Shizuka has undergone a major makeover during the past 18 months. The guestroom ensuites have all been entirely rebuilt, with stunning new tiling and pebble flooring. Fear not, the double sized spas and individually shino glazed ceramic hand basins remain.
Guestrooms now feature brand new tatami matting, furnishings and even the individual courtyard gardens are receiving makeovers. More news of recent improvements is detailed on the website, ranging from our new raked stone garden to the beautiful rustic ceramics now featured during breakfast and dinner.
NEW WEBSITE
Launched last month with 50 pages and still growing, our completely new site features comprehensive information on the retreat and easy-to-use response forms. Highlights include video footage from our various appearances on Australian and Japanese television as well as a number of beautiful panorama photographs and 360 degree virtual tours.
So, why not take a look at our new homepage at www.shizuka.com.au and then use the convenient feedback form to offer your comments on our facilities, services, website and newsletter? We’d love to hear your thoughts.
SPECIAL OFFERS
Please keep an eye out for our regular special offers available throughout the year. Incidentally, our pricing structure and popular package rates have recently been adjusted with the introduction of two new discounted seasons.