News Archives
August 2010: "Mums & Bubs" Family Retreats
On selected dates* in September and December parents and/or carers can stay with their baby and experience a very special three-night “Mums & Bubs” family retreat package loaded with indulgences for the grown-ups and also for bub!
* If you know another three sets of "Mums & Bubs", you are most welcome to enquire regarding scheduling additional retreats on dates suitable to you.
A Certified Infant Massage Instructor will conduct several sessions to clearly explain and demonstrate Infant Massage techniques. Personal attention is assured as the maximum retreat size is just four rooms.
Infant Massage is clinically proven to achieve various outcomes including improved sleep management, enhanced parent/child bonding and alleviating conditions such as colic.
Also included is a two-hour private consultation with a midwife specialising in post-natal care including breastfeeding support, baby blues and baby settling techniques.
After experiencing the demands of a new baby, the grown-up guests are rewarded by experiencing delicious authentic breakfast cuisine and chilling-out in the truly tranquil ambience.
As optional extras, adults may also choose delicious dinners and luxurious spa and wellness treatments to augment their package.
Your "Mums & Bubs" retreat package is just $349 per night and includes...
- Three night's accommodation for two adults and one baby of pre-crawling age. To ensure your quiet enjoyment, this includes a guarantee that any adjoining room is unoccupied.
- Fully cooked breakfasts served on each morning
- A two-hour private consultation with a midwife.
- The Certified Infant Massage Instructor will offer a total of five hours of instruction, demonstration and discussion of Infant Massage techniques as well as instructional documentation to take away.
The total three-night package price of $1,047 is for two adults (whether parents, relatives, friends and/or carers) and a baby - which must be of pre-crawling age at the time of the retreat. Please bring all the baby's requirements including food and a travel cot.
Availability is extremely limited to only four guestrooms, so please book early to avoid disappointment. The three-night retreat dates are the evenings of 14, 15 & 16 September and 7, 8 & 9 December 2010. Click the link for more details on the technique of Infant Massage
April 2010: "Izakaya" tapas cuisine starts in May
"Izakaya" cuisine has been a favourite of the Japanese for many years. And now the Izakaya invasion has reached Victoria.
Shizuka Ryokan is proud to launch its new Izakaya service this month with the exciting new menu first available on selected Friday evenings from 14 May. Check the inclusions on the date required to check availability of this new service. Dates from July to be announced.
Book now and be amongst the first to try this new casual way of Japanese dining.
March 2010: Shizuka Ryokan featured on TV
Shizuka Ryokan features on the "Postcards" travel programme twice during March 2010.
Presenter Shane Crawford tastes the delights of Shizuka's cuisine during the visit. He also experiences a Reflexology Treatment during the stay.
The "Postcards" review was first broadcast in Melbourne on Sunday 7 March on the Nine Network. See the review here.
Then, two weeks later, the show offers a great prize from Shizuka Ryokan on its 21 March edition.
Check your local TV guides for broadcast times in other areas.
November 2009: SHIZUKA RYOKAN RECOGNISED FOR GOING THE EXTRA MILE
Shizuka Ryokan has been recognised for going the extra mile, being awarded Finalist in the unique accommodation category of the Melbourne Airport 2009 Victorian Tourism Awards.
The Japanese country spa and wellness retreat in Hepburn Springs was amongst over one hundred businesses and individuals from across the State who vied for top honours at the prestigious awards ceremony which was held recently at Crown Palladium.
The annual awards recognise leading businesses and individuals for their outstanding contribution to the Victorian tourism industry, which employs 185,000 people and contributes $15.8 billion to the economy each year.
Shizuka Ryokan proprietor Peter McConvill said “These awards recognise the very pinnacle of Victoria’s tourism industry and our achievement is a fitting tribute to all our dedicated staff ”.
The business offers a traditional Japanese inn accommodation experience, with authentic cuisine, luxurious spa treatments and a diverse range of therapeutic wellness services including Reflexology, Aromatherapy, Oncology Massage and Infant Massage Instruction.
The Minister for Tourism and Major Events Tim Holding congratulated the team from Shizuka Ryokan on their success.
“The awards highlight the success of individuals and organisations in the Victorian tourism industry.”
To be acknowledged as a finalist is a tremendous achievement and I applaud Shizuka Ryokan for going the extra mile to deliver memorable visitor experiences,” Mr Holding said.
Finalists are recognised for reaching a high standard, which achieved at least 75 per cent of the total possible score.
“The Victorian Government is proud to recognise the achievements of all those who have worked so hard to make Victoria a world-class tourism destination,” Mr Holding said.
The results of the 30 business and individual award categories were announced at a Gala Ceremony that celebrated excellence in tourism including accommodation and touring, education, training and marketing.
October 2009: Exciting new position for Manager
This iconic and award-winning boutique accommodation business seeks a full-time manager with all the following qualities;
• Strong focus on customer care
• Highly organised, with a fine eye for detail
• Naturally friendly, with excellent communication and people skills
• An assertive and proactive leader
• Reliable and trustworthy
• Enthusiastic, with excellent personal presentation
• Comfortable in a small yet highly professional work environment
• A team player, with a flexible and hands-on attitude when required
In addition, an interest and knowledge of wellness treatments and/or Japanese culture will be highly regarded.
This newly created opportunity coincides with ongoing expansion of the business as well as significant interstate promotion of the Daylesford and Macedon Ranges “Spa Country” region.
An attractive package will be offered to the right candidate. The position’s 5-day week includes weekends and public holidays.
This varied management role embraces dealing with guests, staff and suppliers across all aspects of the day-to-day functions of the business which operates six accommodation guestrooms, group function facilities, breakfast and dinner service for house guests, a busy day spa and an expanding health and wellness programme.
Further details are available online at www.shizuka.com.au or by calling the owners on (03) 5348 2030 during business hours.
Confidential applications, specifically addressing each of the above requirements, should be addressed to the proprietors:
Peter & Margaret McConvill
Shizuka Ryokan
japanese country spa & wellness retreat
Email: info@shizuka.com.au
Mail: 7 Lakeside Drive, Hepburn Springs, Victoria, 3461, Australia
Applications close at 5pm on Friday 27 November 2009.
September 2009: "Lead a Double Life in Daylesford"
The Daylesford and Hepburn Springs region feature in the latest tourism campaign from Tourism Victoria.
"Back to Booktown" draws in the bookworms to Clunes!
Clunes welcomes 'Back to Booktown 2009', the Community Event of the Year. Booksellers from all over the country are coming to Clunes to offer their treasures and award-winning writers are joining in the celebrations over the weekend 1- 3 May. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the books, the local food and wine and much much more.
On Friday 1st May, Frank Moorhouse, Matthew Condon, Julienne van Loon and Eva Hornung will run a one day writing workshop. Places are limited and cost $165, which includes morning and afternoon tea, a light lunch and concluding drinks with the writers. It promises to be a great way to begin the Booktown experience.
Discover antique books, nostalgia, and treasures held in eighteen bookstores dotted across the historic gold town. Well over fifty booksellers are offering their stock over the weekend.
Most of Clunes is already fully booked. However, accommodation is available in the nearby towns including Daylesford and Hepburn Springs.
More details are available at... www.booktown.clunes.org
"ChillOut" Festival a great success
Check out the video as this year's ChillOut Festival rounded up everything shiny, stretchy, clingy, glittery, daggy and fun to drag visitors back to a time when John Travolta was slim and cool (okay, he's still pretty cool) and Mamma Mia was number one in the charts.
Everyone breathed a great sigh of relief as official confirmation came that the fears and concerns of the recent bushfires were put behind and that we could look back at a wonderful ChillOut weekend.
The Country Fire Authority (CFA) had given the region the all clear. Phillip Beasley, Operations Manager for CFA Region 15, told Hepburn Council “We do not consider that there is any fire risk to the community or anyone attending ChillOut. In fact we think ChillOut is a positive move and will help the community get back to normality.” And the weather lent a hand too with cool, showery weather continuing for Daylesford and Hepburn Springs around the weekend. Then, mild weather was experienced for the long weekend itself and is expected to continue for the rest of March.
The Vic Roads Bushfire Information Line confirms the area is safe to travel. The recent fire was largely contained in bushland and farmland so all visitor venues are fully operational.
Please continue to your support for country Victoria and join the visitors returning to Daylesford and Hepburn Springs.
"ChillOut" to proceed in good conditions
This year's ChillOut Festival rounds up everything shiny, stretchy, clingy, glittery, daggy and fun to grab you by the glitterballs and drag you back to a time when John Travolta was slim and cool (okay, he's still pretty cool) and Mamma Mia was number one in the charts.
Everyone breathed a great sigh of relief as official confirmation came that the fears and concerns of recent week's bushfires can be put behind and we can now safely look forward to a wonderful ChillOut weekend.
The Country Fire Authority (CFA) has given the region the all clear. Phillip Beasley, Operations Manager for CFA Region 15, told Hepburn Council “We do not consider that there is any fire risk to the community or anyone attending ChillOut. In fact we think ChillOut is a positive move and will help the community get back to normality.” And the weather is lending a hand too with cool, showery weather set to continue for a few days for Daylesford and Hepburn Springs prior to the weekend. Then, mild weather is expected for the long weekend itself.
The Vic Roads Bushfire Information Line confirms the area is safe to travel. The recent fire was largely contained in bushland and farmland so all ChillOut venues are fully operational.
We've got a great weekend in-store so come show your support for country Victoria and join in the fun of ChillOut. Hope to see you in Daylesford and Hepburn Springs!
15 February: Bushfires remote from Spa Country
None of the prevailing bushfires are located close to the Daylesford / Hepburn Springs region known as "Spa Country".
However, in the broader interests of public safety, the following websites and call centres are of use for the latest bushfire updates.
If travelling, listen to ABC Local Radio or community radio stations.
ABC Local Radio Frequencies:
Alexandra 102.9 FM
Apollo Bay 89.5 FM
Ballarat 107.9 FM
Bendigo 91.1 FM
Bright 89.7 FM
Cann River 106.1 FM
Corryong 99.7 FM
Eildon 97.3 FM
Flowerdale/Hazeldene 97.3 FM
Goulburn Valley 99.7 FM
Horsham 549 AM
Latrobe Valley 100.7 FM
Mallacoota 104.9 FM
Mansfield 103.7 FM
Melbourne 774 AM
Mildura/Sunraysia 104.3 FM
Murray Valley 102.1 FM
Myrtleford 91.7 FM
Omeo 720 AM
Orbost 97.1 FM
Portland 96.9 FM
Sale 828 AM
Shepparton 97.7 FM
Upper Murray, Wodonga 106.5 FM
Warrnambool 1602 AM
Western Victoria 94.1 FM
For latest bushfire information, check the CFA and DSE websites or call the Victorian Bushfire Information Line on 1800 240 667.
Callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech/communication impairment may call textphone/ telewriter (TTY) on 1800 122 969.
Road closures
For road closures check the Vic Roads website or call 13 11 70.
Park closures
For park closures, check the Parks Victoria website or call the Parks Victoria Information Line on 13 19 63.
Updates on family and friends
If you are concerned about family or friends, call the National Registry and Inquiry Service 1800 727 077.
Transport
For updates on regional rail and bus transport visit V/Line and for suburban train updates visit Connex.
For donations
To donate to the 2009 Victorian bushfire Fund to assist individuals and communities affected by devastating bushfire visit the Red Cross or call the Victorian Bushfire Fund on 1800 811 700.
November 2008: Shizuka Ryokan featured in Newsweek magazine
Shizuka Ryokan has recently featured in the Japanese edition of Newsweek magazine.
The cover story entitled "Fascinating Japan", described a range of people throughout the world whose expertise and activities embrace aspects of the Japanese culture.
Proprietors Peter and Margaret McConvill's profile and photograph was published in the issue cover dated 15 October 2008.
October 2008: The prestigious Hepburn Regional Tourism Award for excellence is won by Shizuka Ryokan
Shizuka Ryokan has won the 2008 Hepburn Regional Tourism Award. The Japanese country spa retreat received the accolade at a presentation dinner at Sault Estate near Daylesford on Wednesday 17 September.
Presented by the Hepburn Regional Tourism Association, the awards recognise and encourage overall excellence and professionalism within the tourism industry. The judging panel conducted site visits to nominated business to inspect facilities and records and to verify written submissions.
Judging criteria included assessment of factors such as flair, passion, innovation, customer service focus, financial stability and viability, business planning as well as involvement and contributions to local tourism and the wider community.
Accepting the accommodation award at the event were Shizuka Ryokan proprietors Peter McConvill and Margaret McConvill. After the presentation, Peter McConvill said, “This award provides recognition of the value of nurturing a true customer service culture throughout the tourism and hospitality sector. The Hepburn Regional Tourism Association deserves congratulations for its important role in fostering standards of professionalism.”
Margaret McConvill added, “Our business is blessed with a wonderful team of skilled and enthusiastic people who all share the credit of achieving this important Regional Tourism Award. We are proud of our business and proud of ‘Team Shizuka’, with all members contributing on a daily basis to its ongoing success.”
The award coincides with the publication of a worldwide review of leading individuals promoting the Japanese culture. The cover story in the Japanese edition of Newsweek Magazine includes a profile of Shizuka Ryokan, thus drawing further international attention to the "Spa Country" region.
Peter McConvill concluded, “We are very pleased to be part of this industry, particularly in this beautiful region.”
September 2008: Hepburn Springs Bathhouse re-opens this month
First built in 1895, the famous Hepburn Springs Bathhouse re-opens this month after a two-year multi-million dollar renovation and refurbishment.
June 2008: See the Archibald Prize in Bendigo - and stop over at Shizuka and save
Bendigo Art Gallery is pleased to participate in the tour of the Archibald Prize as the exclusive Victorian venue, presented by the Principal Sponsor, Myer. The exhibition closes in late June.
Australia's most extraordinary art event, the Archibald Prize, first awarded in 1921, is one of this country's oldest and most prestigious art awards. From its outset, the Archibald Prize has aroused controversy while chronicling the changing face of Australian society. Numerous legal battles and much debate have focused on the evolving definitions of portraiture.
May 2008: 5th anniversary of ownership celebrated
Shizuka Ryokan owners Peter and Margaret McConvill have just celebrated five years of ownership of Shizuka Ryokan, during which time numerous enhancements were implemented.
The systematic upgrading of facilities and services has ranged from rebuilding the guest ensuites to launching new wellness services.
With all the local and Japanese staff, Peter and Margaret invite you to revisit Shizuka Ryokan and experience for yourself the new facilities and services on offer.
April 2008: Wellness services launched
A new series of therapeutic wellness services at Shizuka Ryokan are being progressively launched throughout 2008.
Shizuka Ryokan co-owner Margaret McConvill launched the services this month with the introduction of Clinical Aromatherapy consultations at the retreat.
Further details and appointments may be obtained from Margaret McConvill at;
Web: www.healthyaroma.com.au
Telephone: 0414 362 961
November 2007: Shizuka Ryokan on Japanese TV
The renowned broadcasting service NHK has recently featured Shizuka Ryokan in a documentary series broadcast nationally.
The programme was also packaged for international distribution via the governmental educational and cultural body The Japan Foundation.
This is the third appearance of Shizuka Ryokan on national television in Japan, with previous appearances on the Fuji TV and TV Tokyo networks.
August 2006: Fantasy in Daylesford
Tourism Victoria has launched an integrated marketing campaign highlighting the many and varied tourist attractions of the Daylesford, Hepburn Springs and Macedon Ranges region.
In a marked departure from most tourism destination marketing, the campaign features an artist's fantasy impression of the delights of the "Spa Country" region.
The quirky website features some special offers from Shizuka Ryokan.
April 2006: Swiss Italian Festa
Hepburn Springs comes alive with the annual Swiss Italian Festa from 21 to 30 April this year. Check out the exciting programme celebrating the region's cultural heritage at http://www.swissitalianfesta.com/
Some limited accommodation is still available at Shizuka Ryokan. Enquire now to avoid disappointment.
January 2006: Shizuka Ryokan receives Australia Day accolade
Shizuka Ryokan was presented with an award for best Hospitality and Tourism business at a civic reception held in Daylesford on Australia Day this year.
In the presence of federal and state members of parliament, local councillors and dignatories, the award was announced and presented by the Rotary Club of Daylesford to proprietors Peter and Maragret McConvill for the contributions of Shizuka Ryokan to the local community and also the tourism industry.
November 2005: Shizuka Ryokan releases colour booklet
In response to increasing interest and curiosity regarding the Japanese inn, Shizuka Ryokan has just published a 12-page booklet outlining its range of facilities and services.
The publication outlines the accommodation, cuisine, spa and function facilities available at what is considered to be Australia's only fully authentic Japanese retreat.
It also highlights comments about Shizuka Ryokan published in the media and also, most importantly, feedback from guests.
Containing nearly thirty full colour photographs, the booklet is available free of charge either by mail or by personal collection from Shizuka Ryokan.
September 2005: Shizuka Ryokan review on TV's "Postcards" travel programme
Shizuka Ryokan was profiled and reviewed on the popular Victorian travel programme "Postcards" during 2005.
"Postcards" highlighted the unique accommodation, cuisine and spa services available at the retreat. Also evident was the matchless ambience and service offered by Australia's renowned Japanese inn.
The retreat made available a special offer to viewers of the programme.
Presented by Sallianne Deckert, the segment was broadcast on Saturday afternoon 30 July at 5:30pm on GTV Channel 9 in Melbourne. It was also be broadcast on the WIN regional network on Sunday morning 31 July.
July 2005: Review on TV's "The Great Outdoors" travel programme
Shizuka Ryokan was profiled and reviewed on the popular national travel programme "The Great Outdoors" during July.
"The Great Outdoors" highlighted the unique accommodation, cuisine and spa services available at the retreat. Also evident was the matchless ambience and service offered by Shizuka.
The retreat made available a special offer to viewers of the programme.
Presented by Laura Csortan, the segments aired on Monday 4 July at 7:30pm. It was broadcast nationally on the Channel 7 and Prime regional networks.
June 2005: Daylesford Foto Biennale
Shizuka Ryokan offers fine wine to accompany the visual feast that is the Daylesford Foto Biennale.
Photography is a universal art form - just about everybody has a camera. Yet photography is unique in that it requires no special craft skills other than a good eye, though it can also be incredibly complex and technical.
Hepburn Shire celebrates the photographic art form in all its diversity with the month long inaugural Daylesford Foto Biennale from June 3rd to July 3rd 2005. The Biennale will be an open forum for the display, promotion and discussion of all things photographic - a visual feast of high critical acclaim and broad public appeal.
Shizuka Ryokan is proud to be a sponsor of this exciting event. In addition to supporting the visit of television personality and latter day photographer Brian Dawe, Shizuka Ryokan is also pleased to provide a special offer to Biennale attendees.
For all Daylesford Foto Biennale attendees booking an accommodation and dinner package of two nights or more, Shizuka Ryokan will throw in a bottle of fine local wine at absolutely no additional cost. Whilst you taste the talents of photographers from around Australia, why not take the opportunity to also taste some local winemaking talent as well?
Choose either the 2004 Rosebery Chardonnay from O'Shea & Murphy of the Macedon Ranges or perhaps the popular 2003 Cabernet Merlot from Sandy Farm of Denver via Daylesford.
Biennale attendees must mention this special offer when they first book their accommodation and dinner package at Shizuka Ryokan. This offer is not available with any other offer and may be redeemed with stays of two nights or more, inclusive of dinner on at least one night. Offer is valid for stays up to and including Sunday 3 July 2005.
May 2005: A more economical and flexible pricing structure
Shizuka Ryokan has refined its pricing structure to provide greater economies and flexibility. Some prices have been reduced, whilst no prices have increased. More days are also now available for one-night stays.
These improvements to the price structure have been initiated to better provide for today's more flexible lifestyles and working arrangements.
The enhanced structure is effective with all bookings made from 1 May 2005.
April 2005: Shizuka Ryokan is awarded official tourism industry Accreditation
Shizuka Ryokan has been rewarded for its commitment to professionalism and has become only the second business in Hepburn Springs to be awarded official tourism industry accreditation by the Tourism Accreditation Board of Victoria Inc.
The awarding of accreditation comes after a lengthy process of checks and auditing of a wide range of business practices to ensure that the business is operating in a highly professional, compliant and ethical manner.
Shizuka Ryokan now joins a small elite group of accredited businesses in the Daylesford and Hepburn Springs area. The business was officially accredited by the Better Business Tourism Accreditation Program after meeting a range of standards such as professional customer service, accuracy in advertising, compliance with health and safety standards and sound environmental practices.
The Better Business Tourism Accreditation Program has established minimum industry standards for operating a tourism business. The program requires businesses to measure and improve their performance continuously with a focus on improving and maintaining effective business planning and operating systems.
Although the primary aim of accreditation is to assist businesses to achieve enhanced or ‘better business’ practices, another important aim is to provide customers with the confidence to expect professional service. The Tourism Accreditation Board of Victoria Inc is currently stepping up its awareness program to consumers focusing on the various benefits of using accredited operators.
March 2005: Relaunch
In the presence of the Deputy Consul-General of Japan Mr Soemu Horie and the Mayor of Hepburn Shire Cr Michael Cheshire, the extensive enhancements to Shizuka Ryokan, Australia’s only authentic Japanese country spa retreat, were unveiled by its new management at a cocktail reception in Hepburn Springs on Thursday evening 3 March.
The legendary ryokan inns of Japan are renowned for their traditional architecture and interior design, authentic seasonal cuisine and warm hospitality. Shizuka Ryokan, meaning “Inn of Tranquillity”, brings these qualities and much more to central Victoria’s Spa Country.
A passion for Japanese culture and cuisine together with the meticulious eye-for-detail of owners Peter and Margaret McConvill have combined to create a new level of authenticity and amenity at this icon destination. During the two-year renovation and refurbishment programme just completed, bathrooms were rebuilt, furnishings renewed, gardens revitalized and services upgraded.
Recognising the quality and authenticity of the makeover, a national television network in Japan last year broadcast a profile story on Shizuka Ryokan during its highly regarded business programme. It has also enjoyed further media coverage in England, Taiwan, New Zealand and Australia, all during the past six months alone.
Proprietor Peter McConvill said, “The ongoing interest by the media indicates a recognition of just how authentic Shizuka Ryokan has become. Indeed in Japan itself, I have visited many ryokan where the quality of the facilities and services were not of the standard offered here.”
The retreat is increasingly popular with visitors from all over Australia and indeed beyond, all seeking a peaceful respite from a hectic lifestyle in an authentic environment and indulging in fine cuisine and wines, or perhaps even a Japanese sake rice wine or shochu spirit. The ryokan’s deep baths and its extensive menu of luxurious spa treats provide a sensual indulgence to complete the unique experience.
The cocktail reception to relaunch the significantly enhanced Shizuka Ryokan to government officials, community leaders, tourism industry representatives and the media also provided the platform for the announcement of further initiatives for the continued development of this respected and well known business.
February 2005: Longest Lunch
Shizuka Ryokan has been honoured by being selected to cater in the "Longest Lunch".
A prestigious and much anticipated local event of the annual Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, the Longest Lunch was held at Sault Estate this year on Friday 11 March. Guests indulged in exquisite local cuisine and wine at long tables set amidst the fields of lavender and overlooking the tranquil private lake.
With the Wombat State Forest as backdrop, lunchers feasted on creations sourced from the best in local produce and wine and all lovingly produced by the chefs of popular local restuarants Sault and Misto as well as Shizuka Ryokan Japanese Retreat.
Funds raised at the Friday 11 March function were donated to several local charities.
February 2005: Garden Makeover
All gardens and grounds of Shizuka Ryokan are currently experiencing major makeovers.
The four acres of bushland around the inn feature beautiful gardens reminiscent of Japan yet also sympathetic to the native surroundings. The stone pathway to the entrance transports guests closer to their Japanese experience, which is further enhanced by the simple contemplative stone garden in the guest wing as well as the individual courtyard gardens accompanying each guestroom.
The central stone garden has recently been rejuvenated by the addition of white pebbles which are now carefully raked in a style familiar to visitors to some of Kyoto's most famous gardens. Punctuating the simple design are several larger rocks and a subtle yet effective island of green and the stunning burgundy of the Japanese Maple, particularly accentuated when bathed in direct sunlight.
A significant planting programme has seen various new additions to the formal gardens as well as many of the natural bushland areas of the property. A number of Cherry Blossoms are now growing to add to the already significant number in the region.
The individual courtyard gardens are also progressively receiving major makeovers over the 2005 Summer period.
January 2005: New Liquor Menu
Celebrate the new year at Shizuka Ryokan with a completely new liquor menu.
Whether it's "Moet & Chandon" French Champagne, a local or regional Australian wine or perhaps a Japanese beer, sake or shochu, Shizuka Ryokan offers a varied selection of beverages with dinner, as room service, to stock the mini-bar or even to take away.
With so many birthdays, anniversaries and even proposals celebrated at Shizuka Ryokan, it is no wonder that the bubbly is in high demand. As well as the French Champagne, we also offer Domaine Chandon from the Yarra Valley of Victoria as well as another Australian favourite, Jacobs Creek.
Red and white wines are also favoured, with our carefully selected range varying from local favourites such as O'Shea and Murphy and Sandy Farm to the best of regional Australia wine from such famous areas as Margaret River in Western Australia and South Australia's renowned Barossa Valley.
Beers suit Japanese cuisine so well that Shizuka offers Asahi and Kirin from Japan as well as Aussie favourite Hahn Premium. A selection or Japanese sake and shochu is also available for the discerning.
December 2004: Refurbishments Complete
The 18 month renovation and refurbishment programme at Shizuka Ryokan has been completed.
Initiated to enhance both the physical environment and the service offering at Shizuka, the programme has touched on most aspects of the experience enjoyed by guests.
Having achieved a higher standard, management is determined to maintain this level by instituting an ongoing programme of routine enhancements from the beginning of 2005.
Highlights of the recent improvements include;
* All guest bathrooms have been entirely rebuilt and renovated and now feature stunning new tiling and pebble flooring.
* Guestrooms now offer new tatami matting, rustic to the eye, soft under foot and featuring that subtle fragrance so reminiscent of Japan.
* Brand new guestroom furnishings include stylish zaisu chairs and stunning zabuton pillows made exclusively for Shizuka Ryokan from genuine Japanese kimono fabric.
* The raked stone garden in the guest wing has been remodelled with new pebbles offering an unmistakable statement of style and refinement.
* The Kiyomizu lounge area has received various refurbishments amongst its furnishings.
* Virtually all cuisine is now served on newly arrived rustic ceramics, purchased exclusively in Japan for Shizuka Ryokan earlier this year.
* Cuisine services are continually being updated with enhancements to the breakfast and dinner menus as well as function offerings.
* Liquor services are being significantly expanded with a new wine list featuring imported and local champagnes, wines, sake and beers as well as soft drinks and selected refreshments.
* The courtyard and external gardens are receiving extensive makeovers and additional plantings are ongoing, including the introduction of various Cherry Blossoms.
* Mini Bar and room service refreshment facilities are being developed and expanded.
* Staff training has been enhanced to ensure that the level of guest service is continually exceeding expectations.
* Communications with guests have also been enhanced through improved telephone, email and online facilities.
November 2004: New Website
The new Shizuka Ryokan website was launched this month, aimed at providing intending guests with a real sense of the atmosphere and ambience of this unique destination.
Apart from offering a tantalising taste of the Shizuka Ryokan experience, the site also aims to provide an easily accessible and useful information resource for intending guests.
Highlights of the site include enhanced enquiry and booking facilities for guests as well as a much more comprehensive catalogue of information on the retreat and its many accommodation, cuisine, spa and special event services.
Intending visitors are afforded an intimate portrait of the resort through an extensive variety of television video footage, panorama virtual tours and stunning photography.
The launch of the website marks the culmination of an extensive 18 month refurbishment programme throughout all areas of the retreat.
January 2004: Shizuka Ryokan on TV in Japan
Shizuka Ryokan, Australia's only authentic Japanese inn, is the subject of a special edition of the "World Business Satellite" business show broadcast nationally in Japan in January.
Shizuka Ryokan's owner Peter McConvill said, "The TV station's visit illustrates the widespread interest in this truly unique business. In the five years since its creation, the Ryokan has attracted extensive media coverage, both in Japan and throughout Australia. In fact, this is not the first time that Shizuka has featured on Japanese television."
Peter continued, "The high profile of the guesthouse is increasingly attracting to the area new visitors specifically intent on staying with us. Whilst drawing in many Australians interested in Japanese culture and cuisine, and the odd homesick Japanese expatriate, we are also increasingly attracting the indulgent traveller and those seeking something unusual yet also highly authentic and eminently comfortable."
Peter has visited Japan numerous times since first living in regional Japan as a student over 25 years ago. He has previously worked as Cultural Affairs Manager of the Consulate-General of Japan in Melbourne and has consulted to the Japan National Tourist Organisation.
Peter added, "Australians are now quite comfortable taking off our shoes to walk on tatami straw matting, drinking green tea and, of course, indulging in the myriad sensations of Japanese cuisine which we now realise is so much more than simply raw fish."
"Australian travellers are becoming more discerning and are quite willing to forsake a four-poster bed for a futon. Shizuka Ryokan offers a little piece of Japan in regional Australia and a stay is much cheaper than the airfare to Kyoto!" he said.
The Director of the World Business Satellite programme, Mr Nobuyuki Oishi, said "Japanese people are very interested in learning about other countries and are particularly intrigued to observe how other people relate to aspects of Japanese culture. The authenticity of Shizuka Ryokan illustrates that imitation really is the best form of flattery."