HOSHINO RESORTS' onsen ryokan brand, KAI, offers "Moments of Craftsmanship," experiences that allow guests to immerse themselves in local culture. At KAI Izumo, which welcomes spring, a new program has been introduced where guests can learn the art of enjoying sake from the master brewer of the long-established "Sakamochida Honten" brewery.

Since its inception, the KAI brand has been committed to "providing hospitality unique to the region and season." The "Moments of Craftsmanship" program, offered by KAI, collaborates with local artisans, craftspeople, and producers, allowing guests to witness and participate in their rare skills firsthand. At KAI Izumo, an experience unique to the region, said to be the birthplace of sake, has been curated.

Sakamochida Honten, a venerable brewery founded in 1877, is located near Sakaga Shrine in Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture, where the god of sake is said to be enshrined. Here, guests have the opportunity to learn about the connection between Shinto rituals and sake, and the profound depths of sake from Yusuke Mochida, the fifth-generation master brewer.

Sake brewing is deeply influenced by the land's soil, water, and people, leading to the saying, "Brewing sake is agriculture." To truly appreciate this, the "Moments of Craftsmanship" program introduces various tasting methods. Guests can explore the nuances of sake through "vertical tasting" (comparing different vintages), "horizontal tasting" (comparing different rice varietals), and "temperature tasting" (comparing at different temperatures), discovering how subtle changes can unlock distinct flavors.

At KAI Izumo, where all rooms feature open-air onsen baths, guests can also enjoy a ritual bath with sake and salt, and experience Kagura, a traditional dance performed to welcome the gods. Furthermore, by savoring a kaiseki dinner featuring seasonal ingredients perfectly paired with Izumo's exquisite sake, guests can deepen their appreciation for the spirit and discover a newfound love for sake.