HOKKAIDO

DISCOVER THE LUXURIOUS ZEN TOURISM JAPANESE-STYLE

Hokkaido, the beautiful island in northern Japan, has long been a popular destination for breathtaking natural landscapes and authentic traditions. But did y tourism? It's the perfect place for those seeking both the comfort of upscale accommo- discover this special aspect of tourism in Hokkaido, where relaxation, serenity, and luxury come together harmoniously.

RETREAT IN TRADITIONAL RYOKANS : these establishments combine traditional architecture, attentive service, and state-ofthe-art facilities. You can relax in private hot springs, enjoy soothing zen gardens, and savor kaiseki cuisine.

CONNECT WITH NATURE :

Hokkaido is renowned for its vast preserved natural spaces, offering an ideal environ- ment to reconnect with nature and find inner peace. Embark on hikes in the Daisetsuzan Mountains, where you can breathe in the fresh air and marvel at breathtaking panoramas. Let yourself be captivated by the magnificent lakes of Shikotsu and Toya, where you can relax on peaceful shores or take a soothing cruise The Shiretoko and Akan-Mashu National Parks also invite you to explore unique and preserved ecosystems.

LUXURY THERMAL RETREAT : Hokkaido would not be complete without a relaxing experience in the island's famous hot springs. Hokkaido's onsens (hot springs) offer an ideal setting to unwind and rejuvenate. Many luxury hotels offer exclusive thermal facilities where you can immerse yourself in outdoor hot baths while admiring the surrounding natural beauty Some onsens also provide traditional spa treatments, such as relaxing Japanese massages, to complement your wellness experience.

Luxury Zen tourism in Hokkaido is a unique experience that combines the elegance of luxury with the tranquility and beauty of nature Whether it's in traditional ryokans, connecting with nature, exploring the local culture, or relaxing in the onsens, travelers can find a perfect harmony between comfort and serenity. If you're looking for a soothing journey in the heart of Japan, Hokkaido is the ideal place to indulge in a luxury Zen tourism experience that you will remember for a long time.

STAY AT HOSHINO RESORTS KAI POROTO: A TYPICAL HOT SPRING RYOKAN ON THE SHORES OF LAKE POROTO : KAI Poroto, a property of the Hoshino Resorts group and the first KAI property in Hokkaido, unveils its "ryokan" concept. Hot springs in the shape of cones surrounded by Lake Poroto, this concept is characterized by a lake perfectly integrated into the surroundings, changing its appearance with the seasons. Moreover, all the rooms in the establishment face this lake, the focal point of KAI Poroto.

A PLACE OF WELL-BEING IN THE HEART OF NATURE AND AINU CULTURE

Shiraoi Onsen is a place where one can find a rare moor water source containing natural minerals derived from plants, which is extremely rare in the world. KAI Poroto is located on the shores of Lake Poroto, surrounded by the natural forests of Hokkaido, where many wild birds reside. The architecture, art, and décor of the property were c r by a rch native to Hokkaido By integrating the lake thoughtfully into the establishment, guests feel a deep connection to it. "Poroto ko" means "big lake" in the Ainu language. The building was inspired by "Poroto-kotan, " which has been maintained as a place for the transmission of Ainu culture. The hot spring pavilion is unique to this property, incorporating the "ketunni, " a tripod structure using logs as the base structure, and located near the lake. Moreover, KAI Poroto has entered into a partnership agreement with the town of Shiraoi to create an adjacent space that symbolizes the coexistence of ethnic groups and respects Ainu culture, working together to offer guests the opportunity to discover Ainu culture

BATHING IN THE MOOR HOT SPRING, A RARITY IN THE WORLD :

The hot spring at KAI Poroto is a moor spring, a rare phenomenon in the world. Moor springs contain natural minerals derived from plants and are characterized by their dark brown color. Humic acid, which promotes skin regeneration, and fulvic acid, which revitalizes the skin, are both used in cosmetics and can be found in this spring, also known as the "beauty spring." Additionally, since the quality of the spring at KAI Poroto is alkaline, the skin's metabolism is improved by eliminating dead cells, result- ing in smooth skin after bathing.

The two hot springs at KAI Poroto are called "Sankaku-no-yu" and "Maru-no-yu." Sankaku-no-yu is located inside the cone-shaped hot spring room and features both an indoor and outdoor pool. The architectural feature of the Ainu culture, the "ketunni," a tripod structure using logs, is once again employed to create the foundational structure of this hot spring. There are two indoor pools, the Atsuyu (hot water), which comes directly from the source, and the "Nuruyu" (warm water), which soothes the mind and body with its gentle warmth. In the outdoor pool overlooking Lake Poroto, guests can enjoy the ever-changing landscape throughout the seasons, such as vibrant green foliage, autumn leaves, and fresh snow.

The Maru-no-yu is a space that gives the impression of being inside a cave. It is designed in a way that visitors can imagine the moor spring gushing out from the earth. At the top of the dome in the indoor pool, there is a cavity that connects with the outside, allowing soft light to enter and illuminate the bath. Along with the Sankaku-no-yu, the hot spring will blend into the surroundings of Lake Poroto and aims to become a renowned and beloved hot spring for the local residents.