Bath Made from Ancient Cypress of more than 2000 years
In the large public bath at Hoshino Resort “Kai Tsugaru”, there is a bath made from a 2000 year old cypress tree. The Hiba tree, used on the floor, is smooth to the touch but slip resistant, making it safe for both adults and children. While bathing, you will be surrounded by the scent of the forest, which will allow you to forget the stresses of daily life. Owani Onsen opened in Hirosaki many years ago. It is said to have a history of about 800 years. There is a theory that in the 1190’s, when the monk Enchi became ill, the alter ego of Dainichi Nyorai stood next to his pillow while he was sleeping, and predicted that bathing in the hot spring in this land would cure his illness. This lead to the discovery of Owani Onsen. And since then, Tsugaru clan lords continued to develop this location as a place to cure sickness. The hot spring water of Owani Onsen is colorless, transparent and a somewhat thick. It also adds moisture and softness to the skin. Many travelers and merchants from ancient times have visited here.
Room with local ambience “Tsugaru Kogin” Japanese style room with adjacent room
The Hoshino Resort “”Kai”” brand has created an exlusive “”Gotochi (local)”” room, collaborating with local traditional artisans. The Gotochi room at “”Kai Tsugaru”” is the “”Tsugaru Kogin room””, full of the charm of Tsugaru Kogin embroidery developed jointly with local artist Iemasa Yamahata who produces Aomori’s traditional craftwork, “”Tsugaru Koginsashi””. “”Tsugaru Koginsashi”” was developed as a way to increase the strength and warmth of clothes during the Muromachi period. Eventually, it was used to decorate the kimonos worn in the Mutsu (current Aomori Prefecture) area and became known as “”Tsugaru Koginsashi””, a traditional craft of Aomori. You can enjoy not just viewing, but also touching the warm texture of the craft made carefully using traditional methods.
The meals also express the transition of the four seasons, strictly using local ingredients, sometimes traditionally and sometimes innovatively. The fun of travelling is mainly in the food, and you can enjoy a meal to highlight your visit to Aomori. The meals will leave a lasting impression on your palate and eyes with its surprising flavors and beautiful presentation.
Tsugaru Shamisen performed in front of a masterpiece.
There are a lot of cultures that represent the various regions in Japan, such as unique music, crafts, performing arts and cuisine. Guests can enjoy the attractive features of each region and their hospitality by staying at “”Kai”” “”onsen”” style inns. At Kai Tsugaru, Kohei Shibuya, the Tsugaru Shamisen national champion, and the staff who leared to play the “”shamisen”” from him, perform live in the lobby every night at 9 pm.
In the spring, to celebrate the arrival of spring in Aomori after the snow melts, “”Tsugaru Aiyabushi”” is often played. Another song representing spring is “”Sakura Sakura””, followed by “”Ringobushi (Apple Song)”” a song about apple flowers, another product of Aomori, which blooms soon after the cherry blossoms have scattered. These performances will allow you to share in the joy of spring’s arrival in Aomori.
