Located on the slopes of Mt. Takachiho, where the myth of Tenson Korin (the descent of the grandson of the sun goddess) remains, this hot spring inn offers a view of Sakurajima beyond the Kirishima highlands. Guests can also relax both physically and mentally while soaking in the sulfur spring water from Mt. Kirishima and enjoying the rich nature in the bathing hut nestled in a field of Japanese pampas grass. All guest rooms are local-style, featuring Satsuma washi paper, Oshima silk pongee, Satsuma pewter ware, which are traditional crafts of Kagoshima Prefecture, and headboards made with "shirasu," a volcanic ejecta unique to Kagoshima.
KAI Cultural Discovery
KAI, a hot spring ryokan brand developed throughout Japan, offers "KAI Cultural Discovery" activities to enjoy the unique charms of each region, such as traditional crafts, performing arts, and food.
Tenson Korin Dance
At KAI Kirishima, guests can enjoy a performance of the Tenson Korin Dance. Tenson Korin is an ancient Japanese myth about the founding of Japan and the beginning of its history, which has been passed down in the Kirishima area. Staff members perform a dynamic dance using kagura bells and drums to depict a part of the Tenson Korin story.
KAI Signature Rooms
All 49 guest rooms are local-style rooms that use the region's characteristics. All rooms offer a magnificent view of Sakurajima and Kinko Bay. The rooms are also furnished with Satsuma washi paper, Oshima silk pongee, and other local items to enhance the region's charm.
Four furnishings that reflect the charm of the region:
KAI Local Flavors
Kaiseki cuisine with a playful touch, such as an appetizer using "akumaki," a seasonal Japanese sweet, is served on tableware made of traditional Kagoshima crafts such as Satsuma ware and Ryumonji ware. The main dish of the special kaiseki cuisine is Wagyu beef and Kurobuta pork steamed in black vinegar. Inspired by the mythical Kirishima, the dish is steamed in a two-tiered steamer representing heaven and earth, with Wagyu beef, Kurobuta pork, and seasonal vegetables. The rising steam is truly impressive. Kurobuta pork, a Kagoshima specialty, can be enjoyed with sesame sauce and black vinegar ponzu.
Special Features
Public Hot Springs
The bathing hut is located in a field of Japanese pampas grass, accessible by a slope car from the guest room building. It features an open-air bath where you can bathe while enjoying the natural scenery, and two indoor baths: one with hot water flowing directly from the source and another with lukewarm water to let the hot spring ingredients soak into your skin. It is said that quietly soaking in Kirishima's sulfur spring (pH 5.6) will give you clear, bright skin after bathing.
Overview of KAI Kirishima
Address: 2583-21 Kirishimayama, Taguchi Kirishima, Kirishima City, Kagoshima Prefecture
Number of Rooms: 49
Starting Room Rate: Starting from 31,000 JPY per night (per person for a 2 person room, includes tax, service charge, breakfast, and dinner)
Directions: 15 minutes by car from JR Kirishima-Jingu Station, about 45 minutes by car from Kagoshima Airport
About KAI Brand
"Japanese Auberge" in classic hot spring regions
KAI is a leading brand of hot spring ryokan where every establishment offers a contemporary take on traditional Japanese inn whilst keeping Western comforts. KAI invites one to discover the multifaceted aspects of Japan through natural hot springs, exploration of local arts and entertainment, and classic Kaiseki-style course meals using local and seasonal flavors. Experience Washoku, Japanese cuisine, presented on carefully selected ceramics for full exposure to culinary sensations.
About Hoshino Resorts
Hoshino Resorts was first established as a Japanese inn/ryokan in 1914 in Karuizawa in Nagano Prefecture before it began the operation of other resorts in Japan. Today, it has evolved into a highly influential hotel management company and is run by 4th-generation family member Yoshiharu Hoshino. Providing a unique experience focused on the local charms of each destination and a high level of omotenashi, Japanese-style hospitality, the company has expanded rapidly out of Karuizawa since 2001 and now operates more than 60 accommodations both in and outside Japan with one of the following categories: luxury hotel brand “HOSHINOYA,” hot spring ryokan brand “KAI,” countryside resort hotel brand “RISONARE,” city tourism hotel brand “OMO,” free-spirited hotel brand “BEB,” or other unique lodgings.
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