TOKYO, July 11, 2007 (AFP) - Italian fashion designer Giorgio Armani's group said Wednesday, july 11th it will open its first spa this autumn in Japan, a nation beloved of both hot springs and high fashion.

Italian fashion giant Giorgio Armani Group Deputy Managing Director John Hooks(R) and Giorgio Armani Japan President Izumi Sasano announce the opening of the company's flagship shop - Photo : Toru Yamanaka/AFP

The Armani Group is opening its giant Armani/Ginza Tower in Ginza, one of Tokyo's ritziest districts, as part of its strategy to lure customers in Japan, already the company's largest market.

The 6,000 square-meter (65,000 square-foot) complex opening on November 8 will include a spa as well as a restaurant to "offer a complete lifestyle," the group said in a statement.

Armani's first spa will take inspiration from "ancient Roman thermal baths" and include private suites and an exclusive skincare line, the company said.

"I dream of a place where the body and the being are revitalised together in a nurturing and liberating experience," Giorgio Armani wrote in a statement.

Japan is dotted by natural hot springs, making bathing a popular form of relaxation.