Ripplewood Lodging is nearing the completion of the second phase of its 3.5bn yen (£17.4m, 26m euro, $31m) plan for the Phoenix Seagaia Resort in Myazaki, Japan.

The improvements include a major investment to develop a range of Japanese hot springs – or onsen baths – and the expansion of the 39th floor spa.

Construction begun last December and is expected to be completed by 1 October.

Michael Glennie, CEO of Ripplewood Lodging, said: “We have been planning these new developments over the last two years and phase two is part of our long-term commitment to the rebirth of Phoenix Seagaia Resort.

“I’m confident that the completion of these developments will attract a significant number of travellers not just from Japan, but other Asian markets as well.”

While the onsens will benefit from a number of new accompanying facilities – including a restaurant offering traditional kaiseki and fusion foods in a friendly yukata environment – the spa will draw its culinary delights from a new Spa Cuisine menu at it’s Grand Blue restaurant.

Due open on 1 October 2004, the spa’s seven treatment rooms will offer a full list of massages and treatments, based on both traditionally western and local methods.

Hot stone massages, Shiatsu, reflexology, and Thai massage are all available, while a comprehensive selection of pine, milk, flower, seaweed and sake baths offer guests an opportunity to try something special.

Body wraps and body scrubs will also be available, alongside facials and skin care programmes.

The Phoenix Seagaia is managed by Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide and Banyan Tree will operate the spa facilities.

The resort is built on 300 hectares of pine forest and facilities include two Sheraton hotels, cottages, condominiums, a 5,000-person conference centre and 99 holes of championship standard golf courses.