~ Hoshino Resorts' first venture in Gifu Prefecture, offering hospitality with famous hot springs, the warmth of wood, and mountain cuisine ~
Hoshino Resorts is proud to announce the opening of KAI Okuhida, the 24th property in its distinguished "KAI" brand of hot spring ryokans, on September 5, 2024. Nestled in the heart of the Okuhida Hot Spring Village in Gifu Prefecture, KAI Okuhida marks Hoshino Resorts' inaugural venture in the region.
Embracing the concept of "Wake up to the serenity of a mountain hot spring and relax in a traditional Hida-designed inn," KAI Okuhida invites guests to unwind in the embrace of nature. Experience the rejuvenating hot springs while breathing in the fresh mountain air, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of the Hida region, where time-honored traditions and craftsmanship shine.
Beyond the soothing hot spring baths in the spacious communal bathhouse and the private open-air baths in select guest rooms, guests can also explore the enchanting hot spring river meandering through the courtyard or indulge in the tranquil footbath nestled within the annex. KAI Okuhida offers a truly immersive hot spring village experience.
Background of KAI Okuhida's development
The Okuhida Hot Spring Village, enveloped by the majestic peaks of the Northern Alps, boasts one of Japan's most abundant hot spring sources, with a remarkable flow rate of 37,000 liters per minute (*1). The region is also blessed with abundant forests and a legacy of exceptional woodworking skills passed down through generations.
Inspired by this breathtaking natural landscape and rich history, KAI Okuhida seamlessly blends the pleasures of a mountain hot spring retreat with the essence of traditional crafts and techniques, reimagined through a contemporary lens. The central courtyard, reminiscent of the iconic stone wall landscapes that once defined the area, invites contemplation and connection with nature. As one strolls along the hot spring river, the distant mountains and the nearby trees shimmer with a vibrant energy. KAI Okuhida aspires to be a sanctuary where guests can reflect on the harmony between nature and the cherished traditions of the local people, fostered by the mountains of Hida, the bountiful hot springs, and the verdant forests.
*1 Japan Spa Association "Hot Spring Statistics"
Features of KAI Okuhida
1. Courtyard: A Serene Oasis at the Heart of Your Stay
KAI Okuhida's courtyard, embraced by the guest room wings, the bathhouse, and the annex, serves as a tranquil haven for exploration and relaxation. Inspired by the tradition of leisurely strolls to communal bathhouses in the village's past, the design encourages guests to meander not only to the on-site hot spring baths but also to venture out into the surrounding natural beauty.
The courtyard's terraced stone walls, reminiscent of the area's mountainous terrain, lead the eye towards the awe-inspiring Mount Akadana, an active volcano that stands as a testament to the region's geological wonders.
The open-air courtyard features a gently flowing hot spring river, its banks adorned with native broadleaf trees and indigenous plants. The stepping stones in the river and the stones that form the foundation of the courtyard and wooden fences are repurposed from the original construction site, harmonizing seamlessly with the landscape. A serene footbath at the far end invites guests to soak their feet while gazing at the breathtaking mountain vistas, which transform with each season, from the vibrant blossoms of spring to the lush greenery of summer, the fiery foliage of autumn, and the pristine snowscape of winter.
2．Public hot spring: An Open-Air Bath Inspired by Snow Corridors
The open-air bath in the public hot spring draws inspiration from the snow corridors that grace the Okuhida region during its snowy winters. The unique design, with an opening overhead, frames a view of the sky and the snow-white walls, creating a sense of peaceful seclusion. Guests can immerse themselves in the soothing waters while listening to the gentle sounds of the flowing spring and gazing up at the endless expanse of the sky, which twinkles with stars on clear nights.
The indoor bath offers two distinct experiences: the "hot bath," fed by a free-flowing natural hot spring, and the "lukewarm bath," ideal for deep relaxation. The spring water, characterized by its neutral pH and high mineral content, including metasilicic acid and metaboric acid, is known for its gentle and nourishing properties. The Okuhida Hot Spring Village boasts over 100 hot spring sources, each with its unique characteristics, including simple springs, sulfur springs, hydrogen carbonate springs, and chloride springs. After exploring these diverse outdoor baths, guests can return to KAI Okuhida's baths for a final, restorative soak.
Hot spring type: Sodium/Calcium-Hydrogen Carbonate/Chloride Spring (Neutral Hypotonic High-Temperature Spring)
Benefits: Chronic muscle and joint pain, cuts, poor circulation, dry skin, depression, recovery from fatigue, health promotion, etc.
3．Guest Rooms: "Hida MOKU no Ma" - KAI Signature Rooms with a Modern Twist
At KAI, each property offers KAI Signature Rooms that showcase the local culture. At KAI Okuhida, all 49 guest rooms are designed in the "Hida MOKU no Ma" style, where the warmth of natural wood and the essence of Hida permeate every detail. In contrast to the subdued tones of the ryokan's exterior, the guest rooms feature vibrant accents of red, reminiscent of the dazzling floats seen in the Takayama Festival.
Traditional Hida Shunkei lacquerware adorns the walls and room signs, while original Hida-dyed cushions add pops of color. These touches bring the beauty of Hida's handicrafts into the intimate space of the guest rooms. The headboards, crafted with curved wood motifs, showcase a gradation of beech, ash, cherry, and oak woods, representative of the region's broadleaf trees, creating a sense of warmth and enclosure.
Each room also features curved wood chairs made by Hida Sangyo, a local furniture maker, using broadleaf trees sourced from Hida City. Lanterns crafted from 800-year-old Sanchu Japanese paper cast a soft, inviting glow. More than half of the guest rooms, 28 in total, offer the luxury of an open-air bath and a sofa where guests can relax after their soak, still enveloped in the warmth of the hot spring.
4. KAI Cultural Discovery: "Hida Takumi Experience" - Connecting with Hida's Craftsmanship
As part of the KAI brand's commitment to showcasing local culture, KAI Okuhida offers the "Hida Takumi Experience," a KAI Cultural Discovery program that provides a glimpse into the 1,300-year history of Hida's master craftsmen. Guests can try their hand at bending wood and create a unique curved wooden handle for a KAI original furoshiki wrapping cloth. The dedicated space for this activity features a design wall inspired by the forests of Hida and displays well-loved tools such as chisels and planes, fostering a connection with the spirit of Hida's artisans. Gifu Prefecture, where Okuhida Hot Spring Village is located, boasts a forest coverage of 81% of its total area (*2). This abundant forest resource has nurtured the development of traditional techniques and crafts. The "Hida Takumi Experience" offers a deeper understanding of the region's heritage and its profound relationship with wood.
*2 Gifu Prefecture Forest and Forestry Statistics
5. Cuisine: KAI Local Flavors
Dinner is served in a semi-private dining room, where guests can savor kaiseki cuisine, a multi-course meal that celebrates the local culinary traditions. The highlight is the Hida beef "hobayaki," where succulent Hida beef is grilled on a magnolia leaf alongside a "tsuto" (*3). Guests can sear the meat to their preferred level of doneness before enjoying its exquisite flavors.
The dishes are presented on aged wood platters reminiscent of a traditional hearth, adding a touch of rustic charm to the dining experience.
*3 A traditional carrying vessel made by bundling or braiding reeds, bamboo skins, or straw to wrap and transport food.
Property Overview
Property name: Hoshino Resorts KAI Okuhida
Location: 138 Hirayu, Okuhida Onsengo, Takayama, Gifu 506-1433
Phone number: 050-3134-8092 (KAI Reservation Center)
Number of guest rooms: 49 rooms (28 rooms with open-air baths)
Facilities: lobby, dining room, travel library, shop, relaxation room, large public bath (separate for men and women, 1 open-air bath each, 2 indoor baths each), footbath, courtyard
Price: From 31,000 yen per night (per person for 2 people sharing a room, including tax and service charge, dinner and breakfast)
Access: About 4 minutes walk from Hirayu Bus Terminal
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