Watch live: Tokyo crowd gathers to see cherry blossoms before full bloom
Watch live as tourists gather in Tokyo to see the Japanese capital's cherry blossoms before full bloom.
The trees, also known as sakura, mark the onset of spring in the Asian country, with the beautiful pink and white flowers adorning the streets of many of its major cities.
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) confirmed the first blooming of a cherry blossom on Monday, when the specimen tree of the Somei Yoshino at Tokyo's Yasukuni shrine had more than five blossoms flowering on it - the minimum required for declaring the start of the festive season.
According to the JMA, the opening matched the average year, and was five days earlier than the opening in 2024.
The cherry blossoms, which typically reach their peak in late March to early April, regularly appear in Japanese culture, symbolising life, death and rebirth.
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Yahoo
4 hours ago
- Yahoo
World's most beautiful castles
What is it about castles that fascinates so many people around the globe? A lot of the allure derives from the history and human drama that played out within the walls, as well as the astonishing architecture that features on so many castles. But they're also romantic and somewhat mystical, places that spark our imagination and conjure visions of long-ago knights in shining armor and powerful warrior queens. 'Because they combine two functions, they are far more interesting than fortresses or palaces,' says Marc Morris, author of 'Castles: Their History and Evolution in Medieval Britain.' 'What makes a castle a castle is that it combines the functions of defense and dwelling — it's a fortification and a stately home rolled into one. Creating a building which is both comfortable and defensible is difficult. The ingenious ways in which castle-designers reconciled this balance is always intriguing.' Although we normally associate castles with European history, it's actually an architectural form found around the world — in nations as varied as Japan and India, Morocco and Mexico. Many are now hubs of living history where modern visitors can watch jousting and other ancient combat forms, listen to medieval music or watch artisans demonstrate the arts, crafts and everyday skills of a thousand years ago. They also make great backdrops for outdoor concerts, films, theater and military performances, or for the on-location filming of movies and television shows. 'With a castle you get not only the stories of sieges, but also stories of the domestic lives of the rich and famous,' says Morris. 'Castles are places were plots were hatched, marriages were consummated, murders carried out, royal babies born, and so on. With castles, you are never short of fascinating things to talk about.' Read on to find out more about 21 of the world's most beautiful castles, fortified homes that are both a feast for the eyes and a time trip back to the bygone age during which they were created. Located about 30 minutes by bullet train west of Osaka and Kobe, Himeji rises above the Inland Sea and is considered the epitome of the Japanese feudal castle. Both a Japanese national treasure and World Heritage Site, the elegant whitewashed structure is also called 'White Heron Castle' because of its resemblance to a great bird taking flight. Completed in the early 17th century, Himeji offers daily guided tours in Japanese and English. This classic medieval castle towers above the island of Rhodes in the Aegean Sea. Originally built as a Byzantine citadel, it was reworked into its present Gothic form by the crusading Knights of St John when Rhodes served as the headquarters of their grand master. During the brief Italian occupation of the Dodecanese Islands, Benito Mussolini used the castle as a holiday home. Its permanent archeological exhibitions feature relics from ancient Greece and the early Christian period. Even though many people consider this Bavarian masterpiece the epitome of a German castle, it's a relatively new creation, erected in the late 1800s at the behest of King Ludwig II. The Bavarian monarch instructed his architects to design something that would reflect both the operas of Richard Wagner and the romantic ideals of the Middle Ages — as much a fantasy as Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland, but with the snowcapped Alps as a backdrop and the Bavarian plains spread out beneath. Neuschwanstein is also a cinema darling, having appeared in numerous flicks over the years including 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang' and 'The Great Escape.' One of the most striking castles in all of Europe, the Alcázar rides a narrow, rocky promontory overlooking the plains of Old Castile in central Spain. Although it started life as a Roman fort, the structure evolved over hundreds of years into a prototypical medieval castle with a deep moat, drawbridge, round guard towers and a robust keep, as well as lavishly decorated royal chambers. Segovia Castle is most renowned as the home of Queen Isabella and powerful Phillip II before the royal court was moved to Madrid. Another offspring of the Romantic movement that swept 19th-century Europe, Pena crowns a hilltop near Sintra, Portugal. Commissioned by King Ferdinand II on the site of a ruined monastery dedicated to the Virgin of Pena, the castle is a flamboyant blend of various historic styles including Gothic, Moorish and Renaissance details. The castle's vivid red-and-yellow color pattern — and its flashy clock tower — endow Pena with a much more playful air than the somber castles found elsewhere in Europe. Erected in the early 17th century by the Mughal ruler of Rajasthan, the Amber Fortress crowns a hilltop near Jaipur, its stout walls reflected in the waters of Maota Lake. The palace complex inside the walls revolves around courtyards flanked by exquisite examples of Rajput architecture like the Maharaja's Apartments, Sukh Niwas (Hall of Pleasure) and Diwan-i-Am (Royal Audience Hall). Although it was once fashionable to ride an elephant up the steep entrance road, visitors are now advised to walk or take a 4x4 taxi. This massive mudbrick structure on the edge of the Sahara has starred in more than a dozen movies and television shows including 'Game of Thrones,' 'Gladiator' and 'The Man Who Would Be King.' The complex features a fortified lower town along the Asif Ounila River — where people still reside — and a partially ruined hilltop citadel. Berber-style guest houses provide accommodation for visitors to a ksar originally built in the 17th century as an overnight stop for caravans traveling between Marrakech and the Sudan. Founded in the waning years of the Viking Age, Kalmar Castle traces its roots to a 12th-century defensive tower overlooking the Kalmar Strait on the Baltic Sea. Four centuries later, King Gustav and his sons transformed Kalmar into a splendid royal residence that (with the help of renovation) looks much the same today as it did in 1592. In addition to exhibitions, children's activities and guided tours, Scandinavia's best-preserved Renaissance castle also features special events like an exhibition of ancient Egyptian artefacts, which is open until November 2025. Guarding the entrance to San Juan Bay, this 16th-century Spanish citadel is one of the most impressive structures in the Caribbean. Protected by a moat (with a drawbridge), stone battlements and rugged sea cliffs, the castle has repelled numerous attacks including several assaults by French pirates and a 1595 strike by Sir Francis Drake. However, it surrendered to US forces after a fierce naval bombardment during the Spanish-American War. Since 1962, El Morro and nearby Castillo San Cristóbal (the largest fort constructed by the Spanish in the western hemisphere) have been part of the San Juan National Historic Site. The grassy 'field of fire' in front of the castle is now immensely popular for picnics and kite flying. Although it's officially called a palace, Istanbul's sprawling Topkapi compound bears all the features of a classic castle: defensible site, fortified walls, powerful gateways and a royal residence occupied by the Ottoman sultans from the late 15th century when it was originally constructed until the 1850s. Converted into a museum when the Ottoman Empire dissolved after World War I, the Topkapi offers extensive gardens, wall-top walks overlooking the Bosphorus, the Ottoman Imperial Harem where the ruler's concubines resided and the Imperial Treasury with its famous emerald-encrusted golden dagger — stolen and eventually retrieved in the 1964 heist movie 'Topkapi.' Perched on an ancient volcanic outcrop at the end of the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle is considered the 'most besieged place' in Britain with at least 26 major attacks during its 1,100-year lifespan. From Mary Queen of Scots to Oliver Cromwell and Sir Walter Raleigh, many famous Britons are indelibly linked the ancient edifice. Britain's oldest crown jewels (the Honours of Scotland) are safeguarded inside a castle that also provides an incredibly fitting venue for the annual Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Music concerts, living history events and weapons demonstrations are among the many events staged throughout the year inside the walls. And bygone military mascots are buried in the castle's Dog Cemetery. Despite its diminutive size, the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg is well-endowed with castles — more than 50 are spread across an area smaller than London's metro area. The most spectacular of these is Schloss Vianden, poised high above the Our River in northern Luxembourg. Built on the site of an ancient Roman fortress that protected the empire from barbarian invasion, the castle was constructed between the 11th and 14th centuries. Blending aspects of Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance design, it remained in royal hands until 1977 when the Grand Duke bequeathed it to the state. Vianden's biggest annual bash is an August medieval festival with dueling knights, troubadours, jugglers and artisans. The Kremlin in Moscow may be better known, but it can't hold a candle to the one in Novgorod when it comes to medieval ambiance. Located 200 kilometers (124 miles) south of St. Petersburg, Novgorod was the seat of a powerful Russian republic from the 11th to 15th century when it was finally overshadowed by Moscow. That power was concentrated inside the detinets or kremlin with its sturdy walls and heavily fortified towers. Among its landmarks today are the Cathedral of the Holy Wisdom with its silver domes, the Novgorod Museum and the Millennium of Russia monument. There's no better example of the transition from the fortified castles of the medieval era to palatial homes of the Renaissance than this enormous chateau in the Loire Valley. Commissioned as a 'hunting lodge' by King François I in the early 16th century, the massive structure (440 rooms) took 28 years to construct. While it's moat, corner towers and keep are purely decorative, the 500-year-old castle has nevertheless protected some real treasures, not least the a magnificent double helix staircase said to have been inspired by Leonardo da Vinci. One of the finest examples of Chinese castle architecture is Shuri, a hilltop fortress and palace complex on the island of Okinawa in Japan. As the royal court of the independent Ryukyu Kingdom for more than 450 years — when the islands were heavily influenced by nearby China — Shuri developed a warren of imperial living quarters, audience halls, religious shrines and an extravagant throne room reminiscent of the Forbidden City in Beijing. The compound was heavily restored after World War II, when Shuri served as the local headquarters for the Imperial Japanese Army. The castle's present-day activities range from a morning gate-opening ritual called Ukejo and multilingual audio tours of the grounds to daily dance performances and nighttime illumination. England has far larger castles (Windsor) and others that are more steeped in history (Tower of London). But none boasts that textbook form of Bodiam Castle in East Sussex. Erected in 1385 as the bastion of a former royal knight, it's the epitome of a medieval castle – thick crenelated walls supported by nine stubby towers, arrayed around a square central courtyard and reached via a wooden walkway (a drawbridge in olden days) across a wide moat. Among its many visitor summer activities are archery sessions, dressing up in medieval costumes, afternoon tea with cakes and scones and guided tours. And just seven miles away is where the landmark Battle of Hastings played out in 1066. The only royal castle in the Americas hovers high above Mexico City. Erected in the late 1700s as a summer house for the viceroy of New Spain, the castle has played many roles since then, including the palace of Emperor Maximillian and an 1847 battle between Mexican troops and invading Americans that features in the 'Marine Corps Hymn' ('From the Halls of Montezuma …'). Nowadays Chapultepec is home to Mexico's National Museum of History. The royal quarters — including the precious Malachite Room and Maximillian's flamboyant bedroom — are included in castle tours. What makes this Slovenian castle so special is its astounding location — Predjama is arrayed across a cave mouth beneath a natural rock arch on the side of a sheer cliff. The lofty setting made it virtually impregnable when it was constructed in the 13th century. Attackers laid siege to Predjama on numerous occasions, but a secret passageway (that still exists today) allowed the defenders to come and go at will. Located 62 kilometers (38 miles) from Ljubljana, the castle and its park-like grounds host the Erasmus Knight's Tournament, a medieval festival and jousting competition staged every July. This island bastion overlooking the Bay of Naples is the oldest castle on our list, tracing its roots to the 5th century BC when Greeks colonized the region. From Roman legionnaires to Napoleon's troops, many armies have occupied Aragonese over the years. The castle now belongs to the family of an Italian lawyer who purchased the fortified island in 1912 and began restoration of its battlements, churches, convents, crypts and gardens. In addition to views that stretch all the way across the bay to Mount Vesuvius, Aragonese Castle boasts outdoor cafes, a bookshop, art exhibits and outdoor movies. Prague's imposing citadel is also one of the few castles anywhere in the world that still boasts real political power — the official residence of the president of the Czech Republic. Among the other landmarks inside its spacious confines are St Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, 10 gardens and a row of 16th-century cottages called the Golden Lane that once housed the castle guards. Guided tours, offered during daylight and evening hours, last around three hours. Reportedly damaged during Syria's recently ended civil war, Krak des Chevaliers remains one of the world's great castles — and the only one on our list that has experienced 21st-century conflict. Created in the 12th century by the Knights of St. John, the celebrated Krak is considered the epitome of a crusader castle in the Middle East and one of the greatest statements of medieval military architecture. The structure features two mighty walls separated by a moat on a steep hillside between Homs and the Mediterranean Sea. It's hoped that the end to the fighting in Syria will enable restoration and repair work. This article was first published in 2019. It was updated and republished in June 2025
Yahoo
5 hours ago
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Rediscovering Culinary Roots with the Luxury Group by Marriott International
Luxury Dining Series returns in 2025 with a new lineup of exceptional experiences by global culinary talents centered on 'Forgotten Flavors' SINGAPORE, June 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Following the success of last year's inaugural campaign, the Luxury Group by Marriott International announces the return of the Luxury Dining Series, a multi-city regional gastronomic journey taking place from July to September across Asia Pacific. This year's line-up of luxury hotels includes The St. Regis Osaka, JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa, JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resort & Spa, The Ritz-Carlton, Perth, The St. Regis Singapore, The St. Regis Jakarta, and The Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok. Each property will offer carefully curated culinary experiences prepared by Marriott International's talented culinary and mixology professionals from across the world. Marriott Bonvoy members will also have the opportunity to bid on these exceptional dining events using their Marriott Bonvoy Moments loyalty points. "We are thrilled to unveil the latest edition of the Luxury Dining Series, featuring an expansion of stops with a broader lineup of culinary talents across our global portfolio of luxury hotels," says Oriol Montal, Regional Vice President, Luxury, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International. "This year's exclusive collaborations and experiences will celebrate ancient ingredients reimagined for the modern palate, reflecting a key theme identified in The Future of Food 2025 report – "Forgotten Flavors". Through immersive collaborations and multi-sensory storytelling, we are offering crafted, unforgettable culinary experiences that seamlessly blend craftsmanship, cultural heritage, and innovation." Japan - July 11-13 - The St. Regis Osaka The highly anticipated launch of the 2025 series promises an extraordinary culinary celebration starting with The St. Regis Osaka and an impressive ensemble of gastronomic masters. To begin, Chef Takato Kitano, Head Chef of Wajo will join forces with Master Teppan Chef Yuki Oe of The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo, to pay tribute to the purity and depth of Japanese produce, highlighting pristine seafood, heirloom vegetables, and heritage culinary techniques. An exquisite collaboration awaits as Chef Agustin Balbi of Hong Kong's highly-acclaimed Andō – awarded by Michelin and Asia's 50 Best Restaurants list, amongst others, and Chef Michiaki Yoshida, Head Chef at La Veduta, will deliver an elegantly curated tasting menu that will seamlessly weave together timeless Italian flavors with the innovative precision of Japanese cuisine. The beverage segment introduces a dynamic 50 Best Bar Takeover at The St. Regis Bar, Osaka by Hideyuki Saito, the creative force behind Gold Bar at The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon, ranked on Asia's 50 Best Bars list. The bespoke cocktail menu will reflect his blend of precision, creativity, and global hospitality. Reinterpreting the traditional tea ritual, Executive Pastry Chef Alex Chong of The Singapore EDITION, renowned for his mastery of French pâtisserie and his thoughtful integration of Southeast Asian flavors, will offer creations blending delicate technique with bold creativity. The first leg of the series concludes in grandeur with an elaborate dinner at Brasserie RÉGINE, prepared by Chef Takatoki Minagawa, and Chef Ryuta Iizuka, who trained under the legendary Joël Robuchon, and acclaimed for his two Michelin-starred restaurant Ryuzu. Korea - July 17-20 - JW Marriott Jeju Resort & SpaJeju's culinary journey comprises an inspired celebration of its vibrant flavors and rich traditions. Setting the stage with culinary virtuosos, Paul Smart of Citrique at JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, Ryan Byrne of Atria at The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne, and Jayden Kim of The Flying Hog, the three talents will join forces in a Six-Hands dinner to create an impeccable contemporary tasting menu from the region's renowned land-and-sea bounty while presenting time‑honored techniques through a modern lens. Marking culinary excellence, both Atria and Citrique hold 14 Hats from the prestigious Australian Good Food Guide, whilst The Flying Hog has been recognized in the 2025 La Liste 1000. In The Lounge, Head Pastry Chef Sienna Wang and Chef Shigeru Nojima of the JW Marriott Hotel Tokyo, scheduled to open in Q3 2025, will bring their respective patisserie artistry and deep understanding of Jeju's local ingredients in an elevated Midsummer High Tea. Diners can expect delicate pastries paired with tea-inspired cocktails from award-winning Head Bartender Yosuke Asano of The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto. A singularly curated brunch at Yeoumul will pay tribute to the Haenyeo, Jeju's legendary female divers, with a selection of dishes in homage to the ocean's treasures. Chef Jin Lee of Yeoumul and Chef Hirotaka Nakashima of The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka, will prepare a menu inspired by Jeju's fresh seafood and local produce, elevated by the elegance and precision of kaiseki techniques. Uncover the legacy behind Jeju's traditional liquor-making where renowned fermentation artisan, Master Kim, joins Yosuke Asano for an exclusive masterclass seamlessly blending Korean heritage with the finesse of Japanese mixology. India - July 31- August 3 - JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resort & SpaExperience the grandeur of Daawat-e-Aaleeshan where Chef Riyaz Ahmed will craft a feast of authentic Indian flavors, setting the tone for a night of indulgence steeped in cultural richness. Another highlight inspired by the whimsical world of Alice in Wonderland, Director of Culinary Neeraj Rawoot brings his vision to life with an enchanting farm-to-table meal at the picturesque JW Garden, featuring fresh seasonal produce grown on-site. For an immersive and sensory dining experience highlighting different flavor components and held in unforgettable spaces across the property, the Five Elements Dinner will be prepared by renowned chefs Neeraj Rawoot, Riyaz Ahmed, Saiful Agam, Vu Van Thien, and Santosh Rawat. A Lazy Lakeside Brunch at EAST prepared by resident chef Saiful Agam who will join hands with Chef Vu Van Thien of Summer Pavilion, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, to reimagine the restaurant's signature cuisine blend drawing on Korean BBQ traditions, elevated Omakase techniques, and the soulful simplicity of Cantonese flavors. For a poolside leisurely experience, The Great Getaway Brunch will comprise a curated selection of cocktails, a global spread of grilled foods and decadent desserts, and live music, all set against the backdrop of the Nandi Hills. For cocktail enthusiasts or those seeking a lively evening, the Shaken & Stirred Collaboration with Kuldeep Rawat and Simone Ciambrone from the acclaimed The Bvlgari Bar in Ginza, ranked among the World's 50 Best Bars, is a rare chance to see the two talents fuse their unique mixology styles. Australia - August 15-17 - The Ritz-Carlton, PerthMasterfully curated by Chef Brian Cole of Hearth and Chef Katsuhito Inoue from Chef's Table at The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto, the East Meets West dinner will offer a seamless fusion of Australian open-fire cooking and Western Australian produce with refined Japanese kaiseki in a traditional multi-course dining format honoring seasonality, balance, and artistry. Closely collaborating with local producers, these two culinary maestros will also pair up for a second farm-to-table menu, dubbed as Farmers' Bounty. Exclusively available for one night only, this thoughtfully composed menu pays homage to the land, the season, and the hands behind the harvest. Presented by Chef Brian Cole and Pastry Chef Jiu Jiang, Hearth's reimagined afternoon tea experience will celebrate Western Australia's diverse landscapes, stories, and flavors, where each artisanal confection showcases the treasures of the region, from the creamy delights of Margaret River Dairy to the aromatic nuances of native bush spices. For cocktail enthusiasts, an exceptional tasting will be prepared by Marco Barsotti, Beverage & Bars Manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Perth, and award-winning Head Bartender Kentaro Wada from The Bar at The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo, where their curated menu of handcrafted tipples, paired with distinctive bites by Executive Sous Chef Stephen Cocks, will reflect their mastery and innovation. Singapore - August 29-31 - The St. Regis Singapore Staying true to the "Forgotten Flavors" theme, The St. Regis Singapore will feature an authentic Four-Hands Cantonese menu at Yan Ting by Executive Chinese Chef Chan Chung Shing, and Daniel Wong, Michelin-starred Chinese Executive Chef of Jin Xuan Chinese Restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong, with dishes that reintroduce indigenous ingredients in inventive ways to bridge tradition and innovation. Redefining fine dining, guests can also look forward to an exceptional six-hands menu at The Astor Grill, curated by Chef Vladmir Veiga, Head Chef of one Michelin-starred LAB by Sergi Arola of The Ritz-Carlton, Penha Longa Resort, Executive Chef Fabio Granata of The St. Regis Singapore, and Chef de Cuisine Angelo Sergio of The Astor Grill. In celebration of the 60th anniversary of Singapore's independence, Chef Angela Lai, former pastry chef of two-Michelin starred Tairroir Taipei, and winner of Asia's Best Pastry Chef in 2021 by Asia's 50 Best Restaurants, joins forces with Executive Pastry Chef Ng Chee Leong to reimagine the island's beloved sweet and savory flavors through a refined lens. A spotlight on three of Asia's most compelling cocktail destinations - Singapore, Jakarta, and Bangkok, Marco Dongi, Bar Manager of Bar Sathorn at W Bangkok from last year's Luxury Dining Series returns to collaborate with Paulo Naranjo, Bar and Beverage Manager of The St. Regis Jakarta to shake things up at The St. Regis Bar. Indonesia - September 11-14 - The St. Regis Jakarta The gastronomic adventures for the Jakarta stop will kick off with a decadent tasting of fine confections by celebrated Pastry Chef Janice Wong, featuring the rich flavor profiles of Indonesian cacao beans. Experience the Michelin-starred touch of IGNIV Bangkok, as Chef Arne Riehn brings his distinctive interpretation of modern Swiss cuisine to Jakarta. Journey through the Indonesian Archipelago with a family-style dinner led by Chef Almatino "Tino" Gabriel Ibrata, where the evening begins with a pre-dinner reception featuring a traditional Wayang performance, offering a cultural prelude to an immersive dining experience. The St. Regis Afternoon Tea experience will be designed by two celebrated pastry visionaries, Chef Janice Wong and Chef Kevin Lee. In sweet symphony, the menu marks an elevated take on afternoon tea, showcasing their avant-garde and bold flavor-driven approaches to desserts with a curated selection of sweet and savory bites. Exceptional evening experiences include a noteworthy bar takeover that will honor the origins of punch in Batavia; during this event, Yasuhiro Kawakubo of Punch Room at The Tokyo EDITION, Ginza, and Giovanni Graziadei of Punch Room at The Singapore EDITION will present signature creations from their respective bars that reflect the rich legacy of mixology. Thailand - September 25-28 - The Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok This year's series concludes in Bangkok at the newly opened The Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok. At Duet by David Toutain, Toutain himself and Chef Valentin Fouache will join hands with Chef Adam Catterall of Hong Kong's Michelin-starred Roganic, the acclaimed outpost of three-Michelin-starred Chef Simon Rogan. The trio will present a six-hands European tasting menu rooted in honoring local terroir. The Bangkok and Hong Kong collaborations continue with another six-hands meal focused on French tradition and Asian finesse between Duet by David Toutain and Hong Kong's Louise with Executive Chef Loïc Portalier. For a special Friends of Lily's brunch helmed by Chef Pop, guests can further expect an explosion of Middle Eastern, French and Thai flavors prepared by Chef Tala Bashmi, crowned MENA's Best Female Chef by The World's 50 Best, Chef Loïc Portalier, and Chef Jai of Charmgang. Adding to the excitement is an intimate private dining experience at Lily's exclusive to 10 guests. Crafted by Chef Tala, diners can expect a delectable blend of Bahraini cuisine in each soulful bite. Headed by Bar and Beverage Manager Ewen Ledan, Calēo Bar will feature a guest bar takeover by Simone Rossi, celebrated cocktail master from Hong Kong and creator of Ratafia Rossi, a distinctive Italian ratafia cherry liquor, and Angelo Sparvoli, Head Bartender of the legendary American Bar at The Savoy, London. Featuring beans from some of the most distinctive cacao regions around the world, guests can dive into a multi-sensory chocolate afternoon tea experience at Calēo, where they can enjoy guided tastings, and live demonstrations into the craftsmanship of Executive Pastry Chef Sylvain Constans behind each bite. Marriott Bonvoy members can use points to bid on unique experiences through the Marriott Bonvoy Moments program. This includes exclusive dining collaborations, cocktail masterclasses and more, at each of the seven destinations in this year's Luxury Dining Series. For the latest information and programming, please visit: To explore Marriott Bonvoy Moments, please visit Join the conversation @MarriottBonvoy and #MarriottBonvoyMoments. High-resolution images available here. ABOUT MARRIOTT INTERNATIONALMarriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of nearly 9,500 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 144 countries and territories. Marriott operates, franchises, and licenses hotel, residential, timeshare, and other lodging properties all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly awarded travel platform. For more information, please visit our website at and for the latest company news, visit In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on X and Instagram. Marriott encourages investors, the media, and others interested in the company to review and subscribe to the information Marriott posts on its investor relations website at or Marriott's news center website at which may be material. The contents of these websites are not incorporated by reference into this press release or any report or document Marriott files with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, and any references to the websites are intended to be inactive textual references only. ABOUT LUXURY GROUP BY MARRIOTT INTERNATIONALWith an unrivaled portfolio of eight dynamic luxury brands, Marriott International is creating authentic, rare, and enriching experiences sought by today's global luxurian. Spanning all corners of the world, Marriott International's Luxury Group offers a boundless network of more than 530 landmark hotels and resorts in over 70 countries and territories through The Ritz-Carlton, Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, EDITION, The Luxury Collection, JW Marriott, and W Hotels. From the world's most iconic destinations to the ultimate undiscovered gems, the international hospitality leader's collection of luxury brands is focused on elevating travel with highly contextualized, nuanced brand experiences that signal the future of luxury by allowing guests to indulge their passions while sparking personal growth. For more information, please visit ABOUT MARRIOTT BONVOYMarriott Bonvoy's extraordinary portfolio offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world, with more than 30 brands that are tailored to every type of journey. From The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis to W Hotels and more, Marriott Bonvoy has more luxury offerings than any other travel program. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, and through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments™, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques®. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Marriott International, Inc. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
14 hours ago
- Yahoo
Rediscovering Culinary Roots with the Luxury Group by Marriott International
Luxury Dining Series returns in 2025 with a new lineup of exceptional experiences by global culinary talents centered on 'Forgotten Flavors' SINGAPORE, June 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Following the success of last year's inaugural campaign, the Luxury Group by Marriott International announces the return of the Luxury Dining Series, a multi-city regional gastronomic journey taking place from July to September across Asia Pacific. This year's line-up of luxury hotels includes The St. Regis Osaka, JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa, JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resort & Spa, The Ritz-Carlton, Perth, The St. Regis Singapore, The St. Regis Jakarta, and The Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok. Each property will offer carefully curated culinary experiences prepared by Marriott International's talented culinary and mixology professionals from across the world. Marriott Bonvoy members will also have the opportunity to bid on these exceptional dining events using their Marriott Bonvoy Moments loyalty points. "We are thrilled to unveil the latest edition of the Luxury Dining Series, featuring an expansion of stops with a broader lineup of culinary talents across our global portfolio of luxury hotels," says Oriol Montal, Regional Vice President, Luxury, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International. "This year's exclusive collaborations and experiences will celebrate ancient ingredients reimagined for the modern palate, reflecting a key theme identified in The Future of Food 2025 report – "Forgotten Flavors". Through immersive collaborations and multi-sensory storytelling, we are offering crafted, unforgettable culinary experiences that seamlessly blend craftsmanship, cultural heritage, and innovation." Japan - July 11-13 - The St. Regis Osaka The highly anticipated launch of the 2025 series promises an extraordinary culinary celebration starting with The St. Regis Osaka and an impressive ensemble of gastronomic masters. To begin, Chef Takato Kitano, Head Chef of Wajo will join forces with Master Teppan Chef Yuki Oe of The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo, to pay tribute to the purity and depth of Japanese produce, highlighting pristine seafood, heirloom vegetables, and heritage culinary techniques. An exquisite collaboration awaits as Chef Agustin Balbi of Hong Kong's highly-acclaimed Andō – awarded by Michelin and Asia's 50 Best Restaurants list, amongst others, and Chef Michiaki Yoshida, Head Chef at La Veduta, will deliver an elegantly curated tasting menu that will seamlessly weave together timeless Italian flavors with the innovative precision of Japanese cuisine. The beverage segment introduces a dynamic 50 Best Bar Takeover at The St. Regis Bar, Osaka by Hideyuki Saito, the creative force behind Gold Bar at The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon, ranked on Asia's 50 Best Bars list. The bespoke cocktail menu will reflect his blend of precision, creativity, and global hospitality. Reinterpreting the traditional tea ritual, Executive Pastry Chef Alex Chong of The Singapore EDITION, renowned for his mastery of French pâtisserie and his thoughtful integration of Southeast Asian flavors, will offer creations blending delicate technique with bold creativity. The first leg of the series concludes in grandeur with an elaborate dinner at Brasserie RÉGINE, prepared by Chef Takatoki Minagawa, and Chef Ryuta Iizuka, who trained under the legendary Joël Robuchon, and acclaimed for his two Michelin-starred restaurant Ryuzu. Korea - July 17-20 - JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa Jeju's culinary journey comprises an inspired celebration of its vibrant flavors and rich traditions. Setting the stage with culinary virtuosos, Paul Smart of Citrique at JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, Ryan Byrne of Atria at The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne, and Jayden Kim of The Flying Hog, the three talents will join forces in a Six-Hands dinner to create an impeccable contemporary tasting menu from the region's renowned land-and-sea bounty while presenting time‑honored techniques through a modern lens. Marking culinary excellence, both Atria and Citrique hold 14 Hats from the prestigious Australian Good Food Guide, whilst The Flying Hog has been recognized in the 2025 La Liste 1000. In The Lounge, Head Pastry Chef Sienna Wang and Chef Shigeru Nojima of the JW Marriott Hotel Tokyo, scheduled to open in Q3 2025, will bring their respective patisserie artistry and deep understanding of Jeju's local ingredients in an elevated Midsummer High Tea. Diners can expect delicate pastries paired with tea-inspired cocktails from award-winning Head Bartender Yosuke Asano of The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto. A singularly curated brunch at Yeoumul will pay tribute to the Haenyeo, Jeju's legendary female divers, with a selection of dishes in homage to the ocean's treasures. Chef Jin Lee of Yeoumul and Chef Hirotaka Nakashima of The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka, will prepare a menu inspired by Jeju's fresh seafood and local produce, elevated by the elegance and precision of kaiseki techniques. Uncover the legacy behind Jeju's traditional liquor-making where renowned fermentation artisan, Master Kim, joins Yosuke Asano for an exclusive masterclass seamlessly blending Korean heritage with the finesse of Japanese mixology. India - July 31- August 3 - JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resort & Spa Experience the grandeur of Daawat-e-Aaleeshan where Chef Riyaz Ahmed will craft a feast of authentic Indian flavors, setting the tone for a night of indulgence steeped in cultural richness. Another highlight inspired by the whimsical world of Alice in Wonderland, Director of Culinary Neeraj Rawoot brings his vision to life with an enchanting farm-to-table meal at the picturesque JW Garden, featuring fresh seasonal produce grown on-site. For an immersive and sensory dining experience highlighting different flavor components and held in unforgettable spaces across the property, the Five Elements Dinner will be prepared by renowned chefs Neeraj Rawoot, Riyaz Ahmed, Saiful Agam, Vu Van Thien, and Santosh Rawat. A Lazy Lakeside Brunch at EAST prepared by resident chef Saiful Agam who will join hands with Chef Vu Van Thien of Summer Pavilion, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, to reimagine the restaurant's signature cuisine blend drawing on Korean BBQ traditions, elevated Omakase techniques, and the soulful simplicity of Cantonese flavors. For a poolside leisurely experience, The Great Getaway Brunch will comprise a curated selection of cocktails, a global spread of grilled foods and decadent desserts, and live music, all set against the backdrop of the Nandi Hills. For cocktail enthusiasts or those seeking a lively evening, the Shaken & Stirred Collaboration with Kuldeep Rawat and Simone Ciambrone from the acclaimed The Bvlgari Bar in Ginza, ranked among the World's 50 Best Bars, is a rare chance to see the two talents fuse their unique mixology styles. Australia - August 15-17 - The Ritz-Carlton, Perth Masterfully curated by Chef Brian Cole of Hearth and Chef Katsuhito Inoue from Chef's Table at The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto, the East Meets West dinner will offer a seamless fusion of Australian open-fire cooking and Western Australian produce with refined Japanese kaiseki in a traditional multi-course dining format honoring seasonality, balance, and artistry. Closely collaborating with local producers, these two culinary maestros will also pair up for a second farm-to-table menu, dubbed as Farmers' Bounty. Exclusively available for one night only, this thoughtfully composed menu pays homage to the land, the season, and the hands behind the harvest. Presented by Chef Brian Cole and Pastry Chef Jiu Jiang, Hearth's reimagined afternoon tea experience will celebrate Western Australia's diverse landscapes, stories, and flavors, where each artisanal confection showcases the treasures of the region, from the creamy delights of Margaret River Dairy to the aromatic nuances of native bush spices. For cocktail enthusiasts, an exceptional tasting will be prepared by Marco Barsotti, Beverage & Bars Manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Perth, and award-winning Head Bartender Kentaro Wada from The Bar at The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo, where their curated menu of handcrafted tipples, paired with distinctive bites by Executive Sous Chef Stephen Cocks, will reflect their mastery and innovation. Singapore - August 29-31 - The St. Regis Singapore Staying true to the "Forgotten Flavors" theme, The St. Regis Singapore will feature an authentic Four-Hands Cantonese menu at Yan Ting by Executive Chinese Chef Chan Chung Shing, and Daniel Wong, Michelin-starred Chinese Executive Chef of Jin Xuan Chinese Restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong, with dishes that reintroduce indigenous ingredients in inventive ways to bridge tradition and innovation. Redefining fine dining, guests can also look forward to an exceptional six-hands menu at The Astor Grill, curated by Chef Vladmir Veiga, Head Chef of one Michelin-starred LAB by Sergi Arola of The Ritz-Carlton, Penha Longa Resort, Executive Chef Fabio Granata of The St. Regis Singapore, and Chef de Cuisine Angelo Sergio of The Astor Grill. In celebration of the 60th anniversary of Singapore's independence, Chef Angela Lai, former pastry chef of two-Michelin starred Tairroir Taipei, and winner of Asia's Best Pastry Chef in 2021 by Asia's 50 Best Restaurants, joins forces with Executive Pastry Chef Ng Chee Leong to reimagine the island's beloved sweet and savory flavors through a refined lens. A spotlight on three of Asia's most compelling cocktail destinations - Singapore, Jakarta, and Bangkok, Marco Dongi, Bar Manager of Bar Sathorn at W Bangkok from last year's Luxury Dining Series returns to collaborate with Paulo Naranjo, Bar and Beverage Manager of The St. Regis Jakarta to shake things up at The St. Regis Bar. Indonesia - September 11-14 - The St. Regis Jakarta The gastronomic adventures for the Jakarta stop will kick off with a decadent tasting of fine confections by celebrated Pastry Chef Janice Wong, featuring the rich flavor profiles of Indonesian cacao beans. Experience the Michelin-starred touch of IGNIV Bangkok, as Chef Arne Riehn brings his distinctive interpretation of modern Swiss cuisine to Jakarta. Journey through the Indonesian Archipelago with a family-style dinner led by Chef Almatino "Tino" Gabriel Ibrata, where the evening begins with a pre-dinner reception featuring a traditional Wayang performance, offering a cultural prelude to an immersive dining experience. The St. Regis Afternoon Tea experience will be designed by two celebrated pastry visionaries, Chef Janice Wong and Chef Kevin Lee. In sweet symphony, the menu marks an elevated take on afternoon tea, showcasing their avant-garde and bold flavor-driven approaches to desserts with a curated selection of sweet and savory bites. Exceptional evening experiences include a noteworthy bar takeover that will honor the origins of punch in Batavia; during this event, Yasuhiro Kawakubo of Punch Room at The Tokyo EDITION, Ginza, and Giovanni Graziadei of Punch Room at The Singapore EDITION will present signature creations from their respective bars that reflect the rich legacy of mixology. Thailand - September 25-28 - The Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok This year's series concludes in Bangkok at the newly opened The Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok. At Duet by David Toutain, Toutain himself and Chef Valentin Fouache will join hands with Chef Adam Catterall of Hong Kong's Michelin-starred Roganic, the acclaimed outpost of three-Michelin-starred Chef Simon Rogan. The trio will present a six-hands European tasting menu rooted in honoring local terroir. The Bangkok and Hong Kong collaborations continue with another six-hands meal focused on French tradition and Asian finesse between Duet by David Toutain and Hong Kong's Louise with Executive Chef Loïc Portalier. For a special Friends of Lily's brunch helmed by Chef Pop, guests can further expect an explosion of Middle Eastern, French and Thai flavors prepared by Chef Tala Bashmi, crowned MENA's Best Female Chef by The World's 50 Best, Chef Loïc Portalier, and Chef Jai of Charmgang. Adding to the excitement is an intimate private dining experience at Lily's exclusive to 10 guests. Crafted by Chef Tala, diners can expect a delectable blend of Bahraini cuisine in each soulful bite. Headed by Bar and Beverage Manager Ewen Ledan, Calēo Bar will feature a guest bar takeover by Simone Rossi, celebrated cocktail master from Hong Kong and creator of Ratafia Rossi, a distinctive Italian ratafia cherry liquor, and Angelo Sparvoli, Head Bartender of the legendary American Bar at The Savoy, London. Featuring beans from some of the most distinctive cacao regions around the world, guests can dive into a multi-sensory chocolate afternoon tea experience at Calēo, where they can enjoy guided tastings, and live demonstrations into the craftsmanship of Executive Pastry Chef Sylvain Constans behind each bite. Marriott Bonvoy members can use points to bid on unique experiences through the Marriott Bonvoy Moments program. This includes exclusive dining collaborations, cocktail masterclasses and more, at each of the seven destinations in this year's Luxury Dining Series. For the latest information and programming, please visit: To explore Marriott Bonvoy Moments, please visit Join the conversation @MarriottBonvoy and #MarriottBonvoyMoments. High-resolution images available here. About Marriott International Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of nearly 9,500 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 144 countries and territories. Marriott operates, franchises, and licenses hotel, residential, timeshare, and other lodging properties all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly awarded travel platform. For more information, please visit our website at and for the latest company news, visit In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on X and Instagram. Marriott encourages investors, the media, and others interested in the company to review and subscribe to the information Marriott posts on its investor relations website at or Marriott's news center website at which may be material. The contents of these websites are not incorporated by reference into this press release or any report or document Marriott files with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, and any references to the websites are intended to be inactive textual references only. About Luxury Group by Marriott International With an unrivaled portfolio of eight dynamic luxury brands, Marriott International is creating authentic, rare, and enriching experiences sought by today's global luxurian. Spanning all corners of the world, Marriott International's Luxury Group offers a boundless network of more than 530 landmark hotels and resorts in over 70 countries and territories through The Ritz-Carlton, Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, EDITION, The Luxury Collection, JW Marriott, and W Hotels. From the world's most iconic destinations to the ultimate undiscovered gems, the international hospitality leader's collection of luxury brands is focused on elevating travel with highly contextualized, nuanced brand experiences that signal the future of luxury by allowing guests to indulge their passions while sparking personal growth. For more information, please visit About Marriott Bonvoy® Marriott Bonvoy's extraordinary portfolio offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world, with more than 30 brands that are tailored to every type of journey. From The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis to W Hotels and more, Marriott Bonvoy has more luxury offerings than any other travel program. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, and through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments™, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques®. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit Media ContactJoanna HuangDirector, Luxury PR & CommunicationsMarriott International, Asia Pacific excluding View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Marriott International Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
