Immersive Japan: Introducing Hoshino Resorts
If you’re searching for immersive Japan travels and authentic experiences, a stay at Hoshino Resorts should be at the top of your list. From serene natural landscapes to deeply rooted cultural traditions, Hoshino Resorts offers travelers a unique way to explore Japan beyond the typical tourist spots.
Recently, we had the pleasure of staying at Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel and Aomoriya in the stunning Tohoku region, and the experience was nothing short of amazing.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing retreat in nature, an intimate introduction to Japanese heritage, or a luxurious escape, Hoshino Resorts delivers an unparalleled journey through Japan’s most breathtaking destinations.
Immersive Japan: About Hoshino Resorts and Their Brands
Hoshino Resorts is a renowned hospitality group in Japan known for its commitment to providing immersive cultural experiences in some of the country’s most scenic and historical locations. The brand operates under four main concepts:
HOSHINOYA – Ultra-luxury ryokans blending contemporary comfort with traditional Japanese elegance.
KAI – Upscale hot spring ryokans focusing on regional specialties and local craftsmanship.
RISONARE – Family-friendly resorts with stylish designs and outdoor adventure activities.
OMO – Lively, city-based hotels catering to urban explorers.
Each Hoshino Resorts property is meticulously designed to showcase the local culture, landscape, and traditions of its location, making every stay a deeply enriching experience.
Immersive Japan: Find the Perfect Hoshino Resort by Location or Interest
Hoshino Resorts operates across Japan’s most iconic and hidden destinations, as well as international locations in Bali and Taiwan. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat in the mountains, a seaside escape, indulgence of traditional onsen hot springs, sustainable travel and eco tourism, or a cultural immersion in a historic town, Hoshino Resorts offers something for everyone.
Top Destinations in Japan
Tohoku (Aomori, Nikko, Sendai) – Stunning nature and hot springs.
Hokkaido (Tomamu, Otaru, Furano) – Winter wonderlands and ski resorts.
Kyoto & Tokyo – Urban luxury infused with traditional culture.
Okinawa – Beachfront resorts with an island paradise experience.
Nagano & Karuizawa – Serene nature and onsen (hot springs).
Each location provides exclusive experiences like tea ceremonies, seasonal festivals, outdoor excursions, and traditional arts.
Immersive Japan: Our Experience Staying at Hoshino Resorts in Aomori Prefecture
Oirase Keiryu Hotel: A Nature Lover’s Paradise
Nestled in the Oirase Gorge, Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel is an absolute dream for those who love nature, hiking, hot springs and tranquility.
The hotel is easy to find and sits along a stunning mountain stream just east of lake Towada in the Aomori Prefecture. The area is surrounded by lush forests and waterfalls that change beautifully with the seasons. Highlights of our stay included:
Beautiful and relaxing riverside open-air hot spring (onsen): after hiking through the Oirase Gorge, the soothing warm waters and natural surrounding of this amazing onsen were a welcome indulgence, especially listening to the peaceful sounds of the rushing stream below the hot spring.
Comfortable rooms that were a surprising mix of western and traditional Japanese tatami-style accommodations spacious enough for the whole family.
Traditional kaiseki dining featuring seasonal Aomori ingredients and a perfect mix of western and Japanese cuisines – plus ice-cold beer!
Aomoriya: A Cultural and Festive Experience
Hoshino Resorts Aomoriya offers an immersive journey into Aomori’s rich cultural heritage.
From Nebuta Festival performances to relaxing in an outdoor bath under the stars, our stay here felt like stepping into a living museum of Aomori traditions.
Must-experience activities:
Michinoku Matsuriya (showcasing the essence and stories about Aomori) – this amazing daily show changes during the seasons but is always full of incredible performances and unpredictable surprises! Book early as the show fills up fast.
Soaking in the outdoor batch – an open-air onsen surrounded by lush greenery offers a soothing and relaxing experience.
Stroll around the Komakionsen Shibusawa Park – located right next to the Aomoriya hotel, this park has .
Immersive Japan: Traveling to Hoshino Resorts
Getting to Japan
The most common entry points for international travelers are:
Tokyo (Narita or Haneda Airport) – Ideal for those exploring central & northern Japan.
Osaka (Kansai International Airport) – Great for travelers heading to Kyoto, Nara, and Hiroshima.
Hokkaido (New Chitose Airport) – Best for skiing and nature lovers.
Best Time to Travel to Japan
Spring (March-May) – 🌸 Cherry blossom season (most popular, expect crowds!).
Summer (June-August) – Warm and festival-packed, but humid.
Autumn (September-November) – 🍁 Beautiful foliage, fewer crowds.
Winter (December-February) – ❄️ Ideal for hot springs and skiing.
Getting to Hoshino Resorts
Shinkansen (Bullet Train) – Fast, comfortable, and scenic.
Buses & Taxis – Convenient, especially in rural areas.
Rental Cars – Best for flexibility, especially in the countryside.
Immersive Japan FAQ: What You Need to Know Before Staying at Hoshino Resorts
Q: Can I use credit cards at Hoshino Resorts?
Yes! Most locations accept major credit cards, though having some yen on hand is always recommended for smaller purchases.
Q: Is Hoshino Resorts family-friendly?
Absolutely! Many resorts, especially RISONARE properties, cater to families with kids’ activities, play areas, and interactive cultural experiences.
Q: What activities can I expect at Hoshino Resorts?
Each resort offers unique seasonal and cultural activities, including:
Hot springs (onsen) ♨️
Traditional Japanese dining 🍣
Guided nature tours 🍃
Tea ceremonies 🍵
Local craft workshops 🎨
Q: Is parking available at Hoshino Resorts?
Yes, most Hoshino Resorts provide parking for guests, especially in rural locations.
Q: What are some useful Japanese Phrases for Staying at Hoshino Resorts?
Hello – こんにちは (Konnichiwa)
Thank you – ありがとう (Arigatou)
Excuse me – すみません (Sumimasen)
Where is…? – 〜はどこですか？ (~ wa doko desu ka?)
Check-in, please – チェックインお願いします (Check-in onegaishimasu)
Immersive Japan Final Thoughts: Why You Should Stay at Hoshino Resorts
If you’re looking for an immersive, authentic, and off-the-beaten-path experience in Japan, Hoshino Resorts should be your top choice. Whether you’re soaking in a riverside onsen, exploring a local festival, or indulging in a multi-course kaiseki dinner, every moment at Hoshino Resorts connects you to Japan’s natural beauty and deep-rooted traditions.
Book your immersive Japan stay at Hoshino Resorts here
✨ Ready for an unforgettable journey? Start planning your stay at Hoshino Resorts today!
Ready to dive deeper? Explore our Destinations and Japan pages and be sure to check out additional reputable resources like the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) and popular travel platforms.
Related content: Northern Honshu Road Trip Part 1 (podcast), Northern Honshu Road Trip Part 5 – Oirase Gorge (podcast), Northern Honshu Road Trip Part 6 – Hachinohe and Hoshino Resorts Aomoritya (podcast), and Explore Tohoku: An Off-the-Beaten-Path Journey Through Japan’s Hidden Gem (blog)
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