Soak in the Hot Springs and Enjoy the Luxurious Local Cuisine at Hoshino Resorts in Yamaguchi Prefecture

09.October.2019 | FOOD / SPOT

On March 12, 2020, Hoshino Resorts will open a brand new resort around Yumoto Hot Spring (Nagato, Yamaguchi prefecture). Following plans for a new hot spring district in Nagato that were created in January 2020, Hoshino’s hot spring resort brand KAI will be opening a resort in Nagato with numerous spa facilities. With the cooperation of the local government and community, this plan has been put into action. 

 

As part of the masterplan, Hoshino KAI Nagato will include a cafe called Agebono Cafe. This will be the first KAI resort to extend their cafe services to non-guests. The cafe will sell sweet dorayaki pancakes that guests can enjoy while strolling the streets of the hot spring district. 

 

KAI is a hot spring ryokan brand owned by Hoshino Resorts and can be found all over Japan. The theme of KAI resorts is traditional yet new. Although the room designs are inspired by nature and old and traditional Japanese culture, they cater to the needs of modern guests.

Exterior Appearance

KAI Nagato is the 16th hot spring resort of Hoshino KAI. It is located in the north of Yamaguchi prefecture and is surrounded by grand mountains. The resort sits by the peaceful Otozure River which is the main source of hot spring water for Yumoto Hot Spring. KAI Nagato is located where Agebono bridge stretches across the river. The resort aims to provide guests with an enriching experience of Yamaguchi’s traditional old tea house residences (Ochaya Yashiki) as well as the opportunity to indulge in the regions finest traditional culture, food and experiences.  From the lobby to the guest rooms, the resort is full of Yamaguchi’s samurai culture.

KAI Guest Room

The designs for the guest rooms were inspired by Yamaguchi’s samurai. Each room is fit for a Feudal Lord. The beds are located on flooring which is slightly higher than the rest of the room. The surrounding wooden pillars create a luxurious private atmosphere.

Patterned Wall Decoration

The wall behind the bed is decorated with Tokujihori washi paper which is a type of Japanese paper unique to Yamaguchi prefecture and has a history dating back to the Muromachi period over 800 years ago. This special paper has even been acknowledged as an Intangible Cultural Asset to Japan. The beautiful dainty paper has been dyed a variety of bright and elegant colours to create this beautiful masterpiece. 

Hagi Ware *This is currently still in production so the appearance may vary.

 The room even has a Tokonoma, which is a small alcove where artistic pieces are displayed. Old Hagi ware, which was traditionally used for tea-making, is displayed here. 

Luxury Banquet for One

Enjoy a luxurious banquet for one made with locally sourced seasonal ingredients in a semi-private dining space. Each meal is served on a dainty dish. As Yamaguchi Prefecture is the second largest squid producer in the country, KAI Nagato serves the region’s highly-praised Yamaguchi squid as an appetizer and as sashimi. The sweet, soft and chunky squid will leave your mouth watering for more. The dinner set also includes a range of pickled vegetables and a luxurious plate of seasonal sushi and sashimi. All dishes are served in special Hagi ware. 

KAI Nagato was created to fulfil the goal of creating a relaxing hot spring district where visitors can stroll for a relaxing break. KAI has taken one more step towards achieving this goal by creating the Agebono Cafe, which is the first ever KAI cafe to extend its services to non-guests . 

The cafe serves Japanese dorayaki pancakes with sweet jam fillings made using Yamaguchi’s original citrus fruits such as Yamaguchi’s original Nagato Yuzukichi and the Natsu Mikan. The Natsu Mikan was introduced to Japan from overseas and is now cultivated in Yamaguchi prefecture. Enjoy the refreshing tangy citrus flavour of Yamaguchi prefecture as it perfectly balances with the sweet jam flavour. This is best enjoyed with a cafe latte. 

 

Hoshino Resorts KAI Nagato is packed with the cultural wonders and flavours of the region. Take a moment to relax in the Yumoto Hot Spring and explore the culture of Japan.

RECOMMENDED ENTRIES

  • Indulge in the Best of Japan’s Nature this Autumn at Hoshino Resorts

    03.October.2019 | SPOT

    KAI is a hot spring ryokan brand of Hoshino Resorts which provides the perfect Japanese accommodation experience to enhance your stay. This autumn, KAI is providing guests with an enhanced seasonal experience to fully embrace the beautiful golden and amber autumn atmosphere. Spend some time soaking in the hot springs, taste the finest ingredients of the autumn season and even explore the unique features of the area through art. Hoshino Resorts is offering you a completely unique trip this autumn.

     

    KAI Autumn Plans are being implemented at the following resorts: KAI Hakone, KAI Sengokuhara, KAI Aso, Kai Alps, KAI Kinugawa River, KAI Tsugaru and KAI Kawaji.

     

    Hoshino KAI Japanese Autumn Onsen Ryokan Plans 2019

    Hoshino Resorts released a video to show how their different accommodation features allow for guests to maximise their Japanese autumn experience. Today, we will be introducing just one autumn activity that you can experience at each of the resorts.

     

    Autumn Leaf Illumination at KAI Hakone Miyanoshita, Kanagawa

    Estimated best time to visit: Late November to early December

     

    From September 6 to December 7, 2019, there will be a beautiful autumn leaf illumination display taking place around the open air baths, which is the perfect opportunity to relax under the auburn atmosphere of autumn. The autumn leaves fall at different times all over the Hakone region due to the mountainous and hilly terrain. This prolonged autumn season provides plenty of opportunities to watch the beautiful illumination display as you enjoy a moment of serenity, soaking in the soothing springs surrounded by the stunning scenery. 

     

    Illumination Times: 16:00 – 01:00

     

    Paint the Picturesque Autumntime at KAI Sengokuhara, Kanagawa

    Estimated best time to visit: Mid November- End November

     

    Enjoying a relaxing soak at KAI Sengokuhara Hot Springs is the perfect way to appreciate the picturesque view of any season. On September 1, 2019, they introduced the perfect accommodation plan to fully relax their guests. 

    The guest rooms are equipped with traveller’s art supplies. From the gorgeous terrace view to the outdoor hot spring view, guests are provided with the opportunity to capture the beauty of the surrounding nature in their own way wherever they feel like it. The autumn view outside every single guest room is breathtaking ― the perfect opportunity for the guests to refresh and relax their minds with a beautiful painting. 

     

    Autumn Leaf Artwork

    Available to customers who check in between September 1, 2019 – November 30, 2019 

    Price: From ¥43,400 

    *Price based on the price per guest per night for a two-person room. Tax and service charge not included. 

    Includes: Room fee, dinner, breakfast, rental art set and art museum tickets

    Reservations: https://kai-ryokan.jp/sengokuhara/

     

    Your Own Private Outdoor Natural View at Okomori Koyo Onsen KAI Aso (Senomoto Hot Springs, Oita Prefecture)

    Estimated best time to visit: Mid October – early November 

     

    KAI Aso is located in Kuju National Park. Each guest room is surrounded by a lush forest, creating the perfect opportunity to soak in the hot springs and take in the beautiful view of the autumn leaves with lots of privacy. 

     

    In the outdoor hot spring, guests can enjoy the beautiful faint yellow Mongolian oak and the natural red leaves. Guests can also get a Japanese citrus bathing set which is scented using a range of Japanese citrus fruits to further enhance your natural autumn colour experience. The guest rooms are equipped with coffee sets which you can enjoy whilst bathing. 

    Available to customers who check in between October 1 and 31.

     

    Price: From ¥46,480

    *Based on the price per person per night in a 2-person room. Tax and service charge not included. 

    Includes: Room fee, dinner, breakfast, bathing set (1 set per room), coffee beans, Aso spring water pet bottle and a range of hot spring rental items: (Pillow for hot spring use, waterproof book cover, coffee mill and coffee dripper)

    KAI Reservations Telephone Number: 0570-073-011

     

     

    Please check KAI’s official website to find out more about the wide range of autumn plans on offer.

  • Stroll the Edo Streets as an Elegant Samurai and Make Tea in the Feudal Lord’s Residence

    04.October.2019 | SPOT

    Sakura, Chiba is home to important cultural heritage and even what is also known as the “Samurai Town”. Now you can stroll around the beautiful old streets of Sakura dressed as a Samurai, attend a relaxing zen session and even take part in a tea ceremony as part of a limited period tourist plan. The Samurai tour is mainly aimed at foreigners, however Japanese people who are curious about samurai culture are also more than welcome to join. 

     

    Sakura Castle Samurai Stroll

    In 2016, Sakura became one of the four cities of the Hokuso region to be designated as a Heritage site under the title “An Edo Travelogue through Four Hokuso Cities” for its preservation of the old Edo culture. Old buildings full of secrets can be spotted all over the town, creating the old atmosphere of the Edo period. Embrace the elegant remnants of the Edo period with a relaxing stroll in Samurai clothing. Who knows what you might discover.

    Your relaxing stroll will be led by a tour guide who knows a lot about the history of Sakura. This is a wonderful opportunity to take beautiful pictures of the historical Samurai house (Bukeyashiki). Your tour guide will also show you Hiyodorizaka, which is a natural path lined with a dense forest of tall bamboo trees where Samurai are said to have often pass by. Every year, the bamboo and wooden sword martial arts sessions in the program are also very popular. 

     

    ◇ Running:

    October 26

     November 9, 23

     December 14, 21

    January 11, 25

    February 8, 22

    March 12, 28

    April 9, 25

    May 9, 16

     

    ◇ Times: 9:30 ー 12:30

     *The program will still run in bad weather excluding stormy or severe weather.

    ◇ Prices:

    ¥6,500 per person (Includes lunch voucher and entry to the samurai house)

    * ¥6,000 per person when you purchase tickets as a group of 3 or more.

    ◇ Tickets

    Reservation Website: https://www.govoyagin.com/ja

    Apply Directly to Sakura City Tourism Association

    TEL: 043-486-6000

    Email: sakurashi-kankou@catv296.ne.jp

    * Phone calls will be answered in Japanese only.

     

    Zen Meditation and Tea Ceremony in the House of a Feudal Lord

    There are also guided zen meditation and tea ceremony sessions which are available for a limited period only. These guided zen meditation and tea ceremonies will take place in the Kyuhottatei ー one of Japan’s most preserved traditional-style feudal lord residences. This luxurious Edo-style mansion was built 130 years ago and is classified as an Important Cultural Property.  

     

    ◇ Running:

    October 16,

    November 7, 19

    December 6, 18

     

    ◇ Times: 9:00 ー 12:30

     *The program will still run in bad weather excluding stormy or severe weather.

     

    ◇ Prices:

    ¥10,000 per person (Includes lunch voucher, entry to the Kyuhottatei and tea ceremony participation fee.)

     

    ◇ Tickets

    Please enquire directly to the Sakura City Tourism Association

    TEL:  043-486-6000

    Email Address: sakurashi-kankou@catv296.ne.jp

    * Phone calls will be answered in Japanese only.

     

    If you are curious about Edo Samurai culture, you won’t be disappointed by this program.

  • Roof Star Gardens Illumination Event to Take Place On GINZA SIX’s Rooftop Garden

    02.October.2019 | SPOT

    Ginza’s biggest shopping centre GINZA SIX has announced that it’s set to light up its rooftop garden with an enchanting illumination event titled Rooftop Star Garden which will begin on November 26 and run until February 24 next year.

     

    Standing at 56 meters high, the rooftop garden is the “closest place to the stars” in Ginza. This will be GINZA SIX’s first ever illumination event and it will shine a bright spotlight against the nightscape of Ginza’s streets.

     

    Rooftop Star Garden will take place in two areas in the garden: the Water Fountain Area and the Forest Area, both of which will welcome star-themed light shows.

    The theme of the Water Fountain Area is “Shooting Star,” whose LED lights will elicit a sense of profoundness in its observers. 147 LED lights will form the main monument of this area, with bright, sparkling illuminations that will remind one of shooting and twinkling stars.

    The Forest Area is made up of two separate areas between the Water Fountain Area. Lasers will shoot through crystals, creating an ocean of countless specks of light that look like little stars that make it feel like you’re in space.

     

    This limited-time event is the perfect way to spend this year’s Christmas, so don’t miss out.

     

    *Photos are for illustrative purposes only

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  • Enjoy a Hot Footbath Inside an Igloo with a Glass of Sweet Sake at Hoshino Resorts KAI Alps

    22.November.2022 | SPOT

    Starting February 1, 2023, visitors to Nagano will be able to experience an unforgettable winter experience at Hoshino Resorts KAI Alps. The Kamakura Footbath will invite guests to soak their feet in a warm bath as they sit in a traditional Japanese igloo while sipping local amazake and enjoying the snowy scenery. 

     

    Soak your Feet Inside a Hot Footbath Inside a Kamakura

    During February when snowfall is the heaviest, these kamakura, or igloos, can be spotted in the hotel’s courtyard. A private footbath is available inside each structure, which will keep guests from experiencing the cold wind. According to many, having a cool body and warm feet is the perfect recipe for a good night’s sleep and good health.

     

    Taste Amazake from a Local Brewery

    Kurazukuri Amazake is brewed at Hokuan Brewery in Omachi, Nagano. Made exclusively from home-grown, expertly polished sake rice, the sweet beverage has a delicate flavor similar to wagashi. Why not warm your body from the inside out with this traditional drink?

     

    Enjoy the Winter Landscape Illuminated by Bamboo Lights

    Around each kamakura are a sea of bamboo lanterns, popular in the area. Guests can gaze out at the cold winter landscape beneath the awesome peaks of the Japanese Alps while pondering what the spring will bring. 

  • Hoshino Resorts KAI Tsugaru in Aomori Prefecture to Hold Special Snow and Sake Event

    16.November.2022 | SPOT

    Hoshino Resorts KAI Tsugaru, a hot-spring hotel located in Owani, Aomori Prefecture, will hold a special snow and sake event from February 1 until February 28, 2022. Hotel guests will be invited to enjoy drinks before dinner with a special winter twist–under a kamakura! A kamakura is the Japanese equivalent of an igloo, and local sake will be cooled by the snow as guests enjoy a glass while taking in the gorgeous scenery.

    Famed author Osamu Dazai described the seven types of snowfall found in the Tsugaru region in his work Tsugaru. To allow visits to enjoy the many different types of snow in Aomori, seven unique sakes will be prepared and depending on the snowfall each day, the sake guests are served will change. This unique experience is sure to leave an impression. Who would you like to bring along?

     

    Tsugaru Snow Lanterns

    Seven lanterns designed by Iemasa Yamahata will be placed on the inside of the kamakura. Each has a different color and pattern and each is based on one of the seven types of snow: powdery snow, large snowflakes, grainy snow, watery snow, granular snow, sleet,  and crusted snow.

  • Night Strawberry Picking Tour Opens at Hoshino Resorts Risonare Atami in Shizuoka

    11.October.2022 | FOOD / SPOT

    The scenic Hoshino Resort Risonare Atami in Shizuoka Prefecture, known for its spectacular views and hot springs, will begin hosting Night Strawberry Tours, inviting couples to pick strawberries in an illuminated greenhouse from January 6 until March 30, 2023. The event is only available on even-numbered days, and only one couple per day can participate. Beni Hoppe Strawberries are a specialty of the area, and this is the 10th event of its kind. Fittingly, guests can enjoy their strawberries with 10 unique condiments. 

     

    Enjoy Fresh Strawberries with 10 Condiments

    Guests can enjoy ten unique condiments with their strawberries, including condensed milk, mascarpone, and pistachio. When the mild flavor of condensed milk is combined with savory pistachios, the fresh, full-bodied sweetness of the Beni Hoppe strawberries reaches a new level. Visitors are welcome to ask the staff for the best combinations, or are welcome to experiment themselves!

     

    Pick Strawberries at Night in a Private, Shimmering Greenhouse

    After dinner, guests will leave the hotel to begin the Night Strawberry Tour. A red carpet is laid out in the illuminated greenhouse, and those taking part in the tour will enjoy strawberry picking as they sip a glass of rose champagne. 

     

    See how Strawberries are Cultivated

    Beni Hoppe strawberries are made by combining the Akihime and Sachinoka varieties. In Japanese, the name means red cheeks, and the name was inspired by the Japanese term hoppe ga ochiru*, meaning “my cheeks are falling off.” This is often used to describe food that’s extremely flavorful. These particular strawberries are award-winning, so visitors won’t want to miss this exclusive experience!

     

    *See Shizuoka Prefecture’s official website for more information.

  • Hoshino Resort Launches Oceanfront Onward Beach Resort Guam

    31.May.2022 | SPOT

    Hoshino Resorts currently operates 56 facilities in Japan and abroad, and the company has just added another gorgeous property to the list. Starting March 30, Hoshino Resorts acquired all shares of the Onward Beach Resort Guam. Going forward, the hotel will undergo extensive renovations and will be relaunched as a Hoshino Resorts branded location. This is the fifth Hoshino property to be located overseas and the second in the United States. 

     

    The Onward Beach Resort Guam is located 10 minutes by car from downtown Tumon. At the hotel, guests can enjoy a quiet stay away from the hustle and bustle of the city, with a private beach and unrivaled views of the sunset. 

     

    The resort also boasts one of the largest water parks in Micronesia, where adults and children can enjoy themselves all day long. With plenty of chances to both relax and stay active, this is the perfect location for any travel lover!

  • Local Sumikko Gurashi and Rilakkuma Goods for Sale in Shimonoseki

    23.May.2022 | FASHION / SPOT

    The Daimaru location in Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi Prefecture, will soon begin selling limited edition Rilakkuma and Sumikko Gurashi goods! About 1,400 rare goods previously only available at 10 locations around Japan will be available in Shimonoseki from May 25 until May 30. Inspired by locales around the country, these adorable items will inspire you to travel when you can!

     

    Limited Edition Sumikko Gurashi Goods

     

    Ise Shop Exclusive

    Dangling Stuffed Animal

    Dangling Stuffed Animal

     

     

    Jisho-ji Shop Exclusive

    Dangling Stuffed Animal

     

    Kyoto Kiyomizu-Zaka Shop Exclusive

    Dangling Stuffed Animal

    Shrine and Temple Stamp Book

    Castella Manju

     

    Dazaifu Shop Exclusive

    Dangling Stuffed Animal

     

    Rilakkuma’s Teahouse & Rilakkuma’s Bath Exclusive Goods

     

    Arashiyama Shop Exclusive

    Honey Castella Manju

     

    Miyajima Shop Exclusive

    Stuffed Animal

    Roasted Mochi Pieces, Soy Sauce Flavor (with Can)

    Kurokawa Shop Exclusive

    Japanese Pattern Towels

     

     

    Dogomachi Shop Exclusive

    Stuffed Animals

     

    Kusatsu Shop Exclusive

    Stuffed Animal

     

    With over 700 Sumikko Gurashi goods available, each symbolizing a specific locale with a cherry blossom theme, it won’t be easy to choose which items you’ll want to take home. Photo spots will also be set up at the venue, so come snap some pics for social media! Also, look forward to the Summer Bread and Sweets Festival 2022 in the adjacent venue!

  • Sound Installation by DJ Licaxxx to be Unveiled at Yamaguchi Center for Arts and Media

    11.May.2022 | MUSIC / SPOT

    The Yamaguchi Center for Arts and Media will house a new work by DJ Licaxxx, the fifth installment of the ‘sound tectonics installation.’ The new work, Reason and Emotion ‘22, will be on display in the museum’s courtyard. 

     

    Licaxxx is a popular DJ and beatmaker who has been active in many unique fields over the past few years. The artist has created music for commercials and other advertisements while also contributing works to museums and art spaces.

     

    The new sound installation features trackmaker Dan Kubo and electronic musician Kazuki Muraoka as collaborators. The goal of this ongoing project is to critically examine the act of viewing art in general, including music, and to generate music in real-time based on the current environment. The installation is impacted by weather, temperature, and the number of people viewing the work. The courtyard venue faces the main foyer and features a large glass atrium. 

     

    Come enjoy a new listening experience like no other before the installation disappears in November.

  • Hoshino Resort Aomoriya Holds Cherry Blossom Viewing Event Under a Cozy Kotatsu

    21.March.2022 | SPOT

    Hoshino Resort Aomoriya, an inn where visitors are invited to fully enjoy Aomori’s culture, will begin its Hanami Kotatsu event from April 1 until May 31, 2022. Guests can enjoy local sake while warming themselves beneath a cozy kotatsu. In the chilly Aomori spring, a kotatsu) will be set up beneath the blooming trees for visitors to comfortably view the cherry blossoms. Hot-water bottles will also be available for rent if guests can a little too cold!

     

    April in Aomori is spring according to the calendar, but it’s still quite chilly. Nevertheless, the people of Aomori look forward to flower viewing to overcome the cold winter and enjoy the long-awaited arrival of spring.

     

    Three Fun Additions to Make Cherry Blossom Viewing More Fun

    1  A Traditional Umbrella with a Sakura Pattern

    Next to each kotatsu is a row of Japanese umbrellas with cherry blossoms painted on them, spreading the pink cherry blossom imagery all around. When opened, the umbrellas are covered with cherry blossoms, making you feel as if you are under the cherry blossoms in full bloom.

     

    2 Choose a Local Sake and Sake Cups for a Flower Viewing Sake Tower

    Choose your favorite local sake and three sake cups to make a sake tower! Guests can choose from 10 Aomori sake brands, each with unique aromas and flavors. 

     

    3 Cherry Blossom Patterned Cotton-Filled Hot Water Bottle for Extra Warmth

    To keep extra warm beneath the kotatsu, a cotton blanket with a cherry blossom pattern and a hot-water bottle are available for rent. Doesn’t it sound heavenly?

  • Nagato Yumoto Onsen in Yamaguchi Illuminated for a Limited Time

    18.January.2022 | SPOT

    From January 28 until February 27, 2022, Nagato Yumoto Onsen in Yamaguchi Prefecture will host the ‘Otozuregawa Uta Akari,’ a light-up event based on a poem by children’s poet Mizusu Kaneko. 

     

    The event will feature poem narration and music, with motifs created by children and students in the city set up to create an unforgettable scene. The ‘Uta Akari Gentou Rondo,’ a light performance set to a poem reading, and thousands of light bowls created by young people in the city will be  prepared at the venue. 

     

     

    Sound and Light Entertainment ・Gentou Rondo Area

    Welcomed by 3,000 Lights ・Misuzu’s Garden Area

    Welcomed by 3,000 Lights ・Misuzu’s Garden Area

    New Area・Dreaming Fish Area

    Hage Ware Lampshades・Light of the Earth Area

     

     

     

    Performances

     

    Misuzu’s Garden Area(Onyu, Lawn Area)

    About 3,000 elementary and junior high school students in the city created light motifs for the event. Inspired by the timeless poetry of Misuzu Kaneko, these illuminations will warmly welcome visitors.

     

    Otozuregawa Area(Onshinkawa Onsen Park)

    Large-scale lighting motifs created by local residents and workshop participants will be installed along the river. The slowly flickering illuminations will seem to float atop the gently flowing water, creating a fantastic scene.

     

    Dreaming Fish Area(Onshinkawa Onsen Park)

    In 2022, the event will take up more space on the property. A fish-shaped light will be placed in the center of Onshinkawa Onsen Park, and guests will be invited to see the many sea-inspired works donated by kindergarten and nursery school students.

     

    Light of the Earth Area(NearOntoshoku)

    Lampshades made of local Hagi ware will be installed along the riverside path near the hot spring resort. More than 20 of these lampshades were made by local elementary school students along with cooperation from teachers from the Fukagawa Kiln. The crafting school has a history of 360 years in the Minose area near Nagato Yumoto Onsen.

     

    Gentou Rondo Area(Near Bamboo Forest Stairs)

    Watch as shadow puppets dance to the music and recitation of poems by Misuzu Kaneko! The lights in the bamboo grove and plaza will playfully change as the night goes on. 

     

  • Limited Time Atami Plum Cafe Opens at Risonare Atami Resort

    12.January.2022 | SPOT

    Hoshino Resort Risonare Atami will open the Atami Plum Cafe from January 6 until March 11, 2022. Guests can experience the early arrival of spring beneath the plum blossoms, and at the cafe space on the top floor of the hotel, visitors can feast on a number of plum-inspired dishes. 

    The Atami Plum Garden, located near the resort, is one of the most famous places in Japan to see plum blossoms early. The first blossoms usually open up in late November or early December, and this event will get people excited about welcoming the warmer spring months.

     

    A false plum tree will welcome visitors to the cafe, and the ceiling will also be covered in lavender blossoms. The tables, chairs, and garlands are all themed to welcome spring, and the terrace will feature a plum-shaped kotatsu. Guests sitting beneath it can stay warm while gazing out at the vast ocean.

     

    The Plum Gelato Plate features three varieties made with plum pulp, jam, and paste. Why not give it a try?

    Plum Gelato Plate: ¥2,000 (Tax Included) *5 available per day

  • Video Released of Winter Event at Hoshino Resort’s Banta Cafe in Okinawa

    05.January.2022 | SPOT

    Located in wonderfully warm Okinawa, Hoshino Resort is the perfect getaway for those wanting a warmer winter. The Banta Cafe overlooks the ocean, and from December 1, 2021, until January 31, 2022, the cafe is putting on the ‘Illumi-Banta: Night Lights by the Sea’ event. Of course, Illumi-Banta is a portmanteau of the words ‘Illumination’ and ‘Banta,’ but the Okinawan word iyumibanta means ‘a cliff overlooking the fish.’ The entire location, from the top of the cliff all the way to the sea, will be bathed in otherworldly light. A special menu is available during the event period, serving up food perfect for eating as guests wander by the seaside. A number of Okinawan workshops have also brought local craftsmen to the site to show off their creations.

     

    Okinawa is warm in the winter, and this event has been perfect for those wanting to avoid being chilled to the bone during the holidays. For those unable to attend, the video above was filmed using a drone and shows the incredible heart of this event. Who knew that water could be so blue?

     

    A Fantastic World of Light and Ocean Life

    Banta Cafe sits on a cliff above the water, and the waters beneath it hide gorgeous coral reefs. Watch the sea come to life, as the ocean, white sand beach, and rock formations are illuminated. The lights will change colors during the daily light show along with the tides, giving a different impression depending on the time of day. The pavilion on the seaside terrace is also illuminated with motifs inspired by traditional Okinawan textiles.

     

    Playful Plant Shadows

    On the large roof deck located at the entrance, large fern and palm leaves have been arranged to welcome guests along with other plants local to Okinawa. Using lights, the shadows from these plants reach massive heights on the 4-meter high Ryukyu limestone walls. This takes shadow puppets to a whole new level!

     

     

    Enjoy a Lantern-Lit Night Picnic

    The night cafe will be selling a special Strolling Soup Set menu, inviting guests to venture out onto the sandy shore with a lantern in hand to enjoy a meal beside the sea. Guests can choose two of the available four soups along with a crispy baguette and herb butter.


    Hours: 18:00-20:30 (Last Order)
    Price: Strolling Soup Set for Two, ¥2,600

     

     

    The Night Light Market, a Gathering of Proud Okinawan Artists

    On Saturday nights from January 8 to January 29, the Night Light Market will bring various artists and craftsmen from Okinawa to the Hoshino Resort. These artists will be excited to share the culture of Okinawa and will offer a range of products made of locally sourced materials. Guests can even try their hand at local crafts at the indoor Gorogoro Lounge!

    Running: Every Saturday Night from January 8 – January 29, 2022

    Hours: 18:00-21:00

  • Hoshino Resort’s Banta Cafe in Okinawa to Open Limited-Time Night Cafe During Winter

    19.October.2021 | FOOD / SPOT

    Located in wonderfully warm Okinawa, Hoshino Resort is the perfect getaway for those wanting a warmer winter. The Banta Cafe overlooks the ocean, offering unmatched views. From December 1, 2021, until January 31, 2022, the cafe will hold the ‘Illumi-Banta: Night Lights by the Sea’ event. Of course, Illumi-Banta is a portmanteau of the words ‘Illumination’ and ‘Banta,’ but the Okinawan word iyumibanta means ‘a cliff overlooking the fish.’ The entire location, from the top of the cliff all the way to the sea, will be bathed in otherworldly light. A special menu will also be available during the event period, serving up food perfect for eating as guests wander by the seaside. A number of Okinawan workshops will also bring local craftsmen to the site to show off their creations. Why bundle up when you can enjoy a warm winter by the ocean? 

     

    A Fantastic World of Light and Ocean Life

    Banta Cafe sits on a cliff above the water, and the waters beneath it hide gorgeous coral reefs. Watch the sea come to life, as the ocean, white sand beach, and rock formations are illuminated. The lights will change colors during the daily light show along with the tides, so don’t miss it!

    Light Show Times: 18:30, 20:00, 21:00 *Each show lasts about five minutes.

     

    Playful Plant Shadows

    On the large roof deck located at the entrance, large fern and palm leaves have been arranged to welcome guests along with other plants local to Okinawa. Using lights, the shadows from these plants reach massive heights on the 4-meter high Ryukyu limestone walls, and guests are encouraged to try making some fun shadow puppets for the perfect snapshot!

     

    Enjoy a Lantern-Lit Night Picnic with the Strolling Soup Set

    The night cafe will be selling a special Strolling Soup Set menu, inviting guests to venture out onto the sandy shore with a lantern in hand to enjoy a meal beside the sea. Guests can choose two of the available four soups along with a crispy baguette and herb butter. 

    Hours: 18:00 – 20:30 (Last Order)

    Price: Strolling Soup Set for Two, ¥2,600

    Includes: Two types of soup and bucket for two people, lantern and basket rental

     

    Four Types of Soup

    ・ Minestrone
    Filled with colorful vegetables, such as tomato, bitter melon, and yellow carrot

    ・Clam Chowder

    Packed with seafood flavor and a unique mix of Okinawan spices

     

    ・Consomme with Yushi Tofu
    A lightly-salted soup made with Okinawa’s fluffy Yushi Tofu and thick-cut bacon

     

    ・Yam and Cauliflower Potage
    Creamy potage with white cauliflower and brightly colored yam

     

    The Night Light Market, a Gathering of Proud Okinawan Artists

    On Saturday nights from January 8 to January 29, the Night Light Market will bring various artists and craftsmen from Okinawa to the Hoshino Resort. These artists will be excited to share the culture of Okinawa and will offer a range of products made of locally sourced materials. Guests can even try their hand at local crafts at the indoor Gorogoro Lounge!

    Running: Every Saturday Night from January 8 – January 29, 2022

    Hours: 18:00-21:00

     

    Wouldn’t you prefer a warm Okinawan winter? 

  • Hoshino Resort Tomamu Offers Limited-Time Salmon Themed Package

    12.August.2021 | FOOD / SPOT

    One of the largest resorts in Hokkaido, Hoshino Resort Tomamu will be offering a ‘Family Salmon Trip’ package starting on September 4, 2021. This two-day, one-night plan will be available until October 31, 2021, and features a salmon-themed room complete with salmon pajamas! The accompanying meal plan includes dishes made from different parts of salmon, complete with a challenge: try your hand at making salmon roe, and enjoy your creation at breakfast the next day! Who knew that a salmon-themed getaway was even possible? 

     

     

    Salmon Room

    Bath inspired by a salmon roe bowl

     

    Salmon Roe making experience

     

    Children’s Salmon Plate

    Salmon Dinner

    Breakfast ‘Salmon and Roe Oyako-don’

     

     

    Why the salmon theme? The source of the Mukawa River is located near the resort, and where salmon are said to migrate, leaping upstream. Starting in September 2017, the salmon travel plan was introduced to inspire visitors to enjoy this fish at peak season. During the two-day, one-night stay, guests can surround themselves with all things salmon, going so far as to feel like one themselves! This ‘Family Salmon Trip’ was launched to give children a chance to experience the fun, based on one of Hokkaido’s most beloved dishes. 

     

    The plan includes a room decorated from floor to ceiling in fishy furnishings, including salmon curtains, mugs, figures, and cushions. The bedroom is inspired by the salmon’s difficult trek up the river, with a bed frame depicting father and son bears attempting to make a catch. Children will have a blast transforming into a salmon in their special pajamas, complete with a nightcap. The whirlpool tub offers stunning views, but that’s not all–with the help of bath salts, the bathtub transforms into a bowl of salmon roe, with a new salmon fillet float to make the experience even more memorable!

     

    Families can change into a cook’s coat and try their hand at preparing salmon roe, which will then be used in next day’s ‘Salmon and Roe Oyako-don’ breakfast. The ‘Children’s Salmon Plate’ features a collection of unique salmon dishes on a fish-shaped plate, while adults can enjoy the featured Salmon Dinner, which uses every part of the salmon, from the nose to the tip of the tail!

     

    How do you feel about a salmon-themed family vacation? 

     

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