KAI Izumo: A Sanctum of Serenity and Tradition designed by NOMURA Co.,Ltd
KAI Izumo, the latest gem in the Hoshino Resorts KAI collection, reimagines the traditional ryokan experience in the ancient city of Izumo, Shimane Prefecture. Crafted by NOMURA Co., Ltd, this hot spring inn is a living tribute to the region's rich mythology and cultural heritage, offering a sanctuary for both body and soul. Nestled near the revered Izumo Taisha Shrine, the ryokan serves a spiritual purpose: to cleanse and prepare visitors for their pilgrimage to the shrine, inspired by the concept of 'Umi Iro Misogi,' or Sea Color Purification.
KAI Izumo is situated on the western side of the property, offering sweeping views of the iconic Hinomisaki Lighthouse, the tallest stone lighthouse in Japan. The inn features a book lounge, an exquisite restaurant, large public baths with open-air hot springs, and 39 meticulously designed guest rooms that reflect the changing hues of the Sea of Japan.
Crafted Design and Symbolism
Upon entering KAI Izumo, guests are greeted by a striking entrance feature that symbolizes the setting sun over the Izumo coastline. This emblem, made from finely processed steel with impurities known as Noro, pays homage to the region's historical Tatara ironworking traditions, where the finest Tamahagane steel was once produced. This entrance, which is already a popular photo spot, is a symbolic gateway to a stay filled with history, craftsmanship, and spiritual renewal.
The rooms at KAI Izumo are divided into two distinct design motifs, each reflecting the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. The western-facing rooms feature indigo-tinted living areas that enhance the rich orange glow of the setting sun over the Sea of Japan, creating a calming and meditative ambiance. On the other hand, the eastern-facing rooms draw inspiration from the mysterious hues of dawn, with walls covered in locally crafted Sekishu washi paper dyed in shades of dawn blue and red ochre. These spaces capture the unique characteristics of the Hinomisaki area, incorporating local materials and colours that reflect the natural rhythm of the day.
Connecting Guests to Izumo's Spiritual Legacy
KAI Izumo has woven mythology into its design and experiences, paying homage to visitors' profound spiritual bond with Izumo Taisha Shrine. Guests are invited to embark on a purification journey, guided by the Sea of Japan. Sea Color Purification is echoed in every facet of the ryokan, from the serene outdoor hot springs to the thoughtful design elements that mirror the changing hues of the sea and sky.
Beyond its visual and cultural allure, KAI Izumo beckons guests to partake in local traditions through immersive experiences. The ryokan's tranquil garden hosts captivating Kagura dance and tea ceremony performances, offering a window into Izumo's mythological past. The seasonal menu is a celebration of the region's culinary treasures, featuring delicacies like basket clams and red queen snow crab, meticulously chosen to showcase the best of local cuisine.
A Unique Response to the Location
The ryokan's location near Izumo Taisha and Hinomisaki Lighthouse allowed it to elevate its design beyond the typical KAI brand experience. The western-facing rooms capture the majestic sunsets, while the eastern-facing rooms symbolize the dawn, creating a unique relationship between the guest and the surrounding elements of nature. The result is an immersive experience where guests feel deeply connected to the environment in body and spirit.
By weaving the mythology of Izumo and the natural beauty of Hinomisaki into the heart of the design, KAI Izumo offers a more profound, more reflective experience. It's a place where every moment—a sunrise over the sea or a meditative soak in the hot spring baths—is an invitation to pause, reflect, and rejuvenate. The inn is both a destination and a journey, where history, nature, and spirituality converge to create an unforgettable experience.
More than just a luxury retreat, KAI Izumo is a vibrant cultural ambassador for the region, providing visitors with exciting opportunities to engage with Izumo's storied history. Daily Kagura dance performances and traditional tea ceremonies further enrich the experience, drawing guests closer to the area's mythological roots. The ryokan's seasonal menu offers a refined taste of local delicacies, with standout dishes featuring the best of Izumo's seafood, such as basket clams in spring and summer and queen snow crab in the winter months.
KAI Izumo is a retreat designed not just for relaxation but also for reflection. Here, the sea, sky, and earth elements come together to create an environment that nurtures both the body and the soul. In every detail, from its architecture to its culinary offerings, the ryokan embodies the spirit of Izumo as a place where history, nature, and craftsmanship converge.
For more information, please visit: https://www.nomurakougei.co.jp/
*This project is one of the shortlisted project in the Sky Design Awards 2024 - Interior Design: Hotel & Resorts Division