Hoshino Resorts will be opening the KAI Anjin in Ito, Shizuoka on April 13, becoming the company’s first hot springs ryokan (“inn”) to use interior design firm Super Potato. The company conceptualized an old-world, nautical ambiance for the resort, to complement the inn’s waterfront location and history.
The property receives its name from “Anjin Miura,” the Japanese name given to William Adams who was a British navigation officer. Adams built the first Western-style sailing vessel in Japan in the port of Ito. Ieyasu Tokugawa, the founder and first shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate of Japan, recognized him for this achievement and gave him the Japanese name of Anjin (“pilot”). Anjin Memorial Park is located in front of the property.
This 45-room ryokan will be the second KAI property in Ito (the other being KAI Ito), and the 14th overall for the brand. The San Buena Deck on the top floor is built to resemble an actual ship’s deck, and provides guests a space to relax and enjoy the ocean view. Below, the outdoor hot spring bath overlooks the Pacific Ocean. Both the men and women’s areas have granite indoor baths and stone outdoor baths, cooled by the sea breeze. The hot springs are available all day.
At KAI Anjin, local cultural items in the guestrooms include: nautical items, such as marine lanterns turned into works of art and working antique record players and records. All rooms have a separate living area with a sofa and a sleeping space with KAI’s signature “Cloud Pillows.”
Dining at KAI Anjin combines Japanese cuisine with British food culture – continuing the theme of honoring Adams. The signature dish is the Japanese Fish ‘n’ Chips, which is made with "tatami iwashi" (a Japanese food product made from baby sardines), giving the dish a fragrant umami taste. KAI's interpretation of this dish is served with potatoes cooked in flavored soy sauce and bonito. Also available at the hotel: afternoon tea.
Good to know: In the summer, guests can also enjoy a fireworks show from the semi-private dining room.
Through a special regional program called “KAI Activities,” guests can experience local culture. “The Blue-Eyed Samurai’s Journey,” tells the tale of Anjin Miura, from his arrival in Japan to the construction of his Japanese-made western-style sailing vessel. It runs daily for KAI guests. Other program subjects may vary by season.
KAI is a collection of traditional Japanese inns founded in 2011 by Hoshino Resorts, all with fewer than 50 rooms. KAI properties highlight a location-centric design, authentic onsens or natural hot spring baths, traditional experiences, and kaiseki dining derived from indigenous ingredients.
KAI resorts are located in Aso, Atami, Kaga, Hakone, Itō, Izumo, Matsumoto, Tsugaru, and the Kai Alps.