KAI Sengokuhara
Japan
PERSONALITIES
Art aficionados. Hot spring lovers. Foodies.
MOMENTS
Tradition made modern. Private onsen facing the mountainside. The simple yet intricate beauty of the kaiseki dinner.
BEST VISITING MONTHS
Anytime, whether your preference is so sun or snow. Visit March to May for spring blossoms and June and July to experience the Hydrangea Train.
COST
WHY STAY
Nestled in the serene mountains of Hakone, KAI Sengokuhara emerges as a haven of tranquility and artistic inspiration. As Japan's inaugural art hotel, this modern ryokan blends the richness of Japanese craftsmanship with contemporary artistry, boasting 15 rooms and 1 suite adorned with unique artworks created by resident artists. The intimate sanctuaries feature light woods, tatami flooring, and washi paper screens, creating a harmonious fusion of Japanese modernity and traditional craftsmanship. Glass walls offer panoramic views of the surrounding forest and mountains, with private hot spring onsen baths on each balcony, allowing guests to soak in steaming onsen water sourced from the nearby Owakaduni Valley.
In keeping with ryokan traditions, guests exchange shoes at the entrance for flax-fabric kimono-style gowns known as yukata, immersing themselves in the refined simplicity of Japanese living. The hotel's artistic character is accentuated by the residency of 12 Japanese and international artists, whose creations adorn the premises, from abstract paintings to light sculptures. Regular creative workshops further enrich the cultural experience, ranging from tenegui-decorating to bonsai classes.
Beyond the immersive art encounters, KAI Sengokuhara beckons guests to indulge in the quintessential Hakone experience—onsen bathing. Serene communal onsen baths, nestled in modern concrete-walled outdoor gardens, offer picturesque views and therapeutic soaks. As night falls, a water garden adjacent to the outdoor bath transforms into a mesmerizing work of art, illuminated by glowing stones. KAI Sengokuhara, with its unique synthesis of art, onsen, and natural beauty, promises an unforgettable retreat in the heart of Hakone's landscape.
WHY WANDER
Immerse yourself in the wild beauty of Hakone, where volcanic landscapes and scenic hiking trails rival the best in the world. Hakone is a mountainous town, nestled in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park amidst the scenic wonders of Japan, renowned for its hot springs and iconic views of Mount Fuji. At KAI Sengokuhara, guests can immerse themselves in the essence of Japanese culture through nightly workshops, including the traditional art of decorating tenugui, a classic Japanese handkerchief. Beyond artistic endeavors, KAI Sengokuhara embraces the therapeutic benefits of Hakone's famed hot springs, offering massages by nationally certified staff to enhance relaxation and improve blood circulation after a soothing bath.
INDULGE IN
At KAI Sengokuhara, dining is a culinary journey that transcends the ordinary, offering an exquisite experience for aficionados of Japanese cuisine. The highlight of the culinary offerings is the dinner service, presenting an elaborate multi-course contemporary kaiseki banquet-style feast. Each dish is a masterpiece, meticulously crafted with seasonal local ingredients that showcase the region's culinary richness. Try tofu-covered grapes or the indulgent sake-seasoned crab.
Breakfast at KAI Sengokuhara continues the quintessentially Japanese culinary experience featuring traditional elements such as rice, grilled fish, and soft-grilled yam. For those seeking an adventurous twist, try a glass of passion fruit amazake, a traditional fermented rice drink.
GETTING THERE
Take a two-hour high-speed train from Tokyo.
WILD INITIATIVES
The use of locally sourced materials in construction, coupled with a dedication to Japanese craftsmanship, reflects a sustainable ethos that honors the region's natural resources. In line with Hakone's cultural and ecological richness, KAI Sengokuhara engages in responsible practices such as waste reduction, energy efficiency, and water conservation. The resort's culinary offerings emphasize the use of seasonal, locally grown ingredients, supporting regional agriculture and minimizing the carbon footprint associated with food sourcing. With private onsen baths utilizing volcanic hot spring waters, the ryokan harnesses the healing properties of the earth in a sustainable manner. KAI Sengokuhara's commitment to environmental stewardship ensures that guests can indulge in the beauty of Hakone's landscapes with the knowledge that their stay aligns with principles of conservation and mindfulness.
*Images property of Hoshino Resorts