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TRAVEL | HOSHINO RESORTS Karuizawa
To Know Is to Savor. Returns: Hoshinoya Karuizawa (Part 2)
HOSHINO RESORTS Karuizawa is also a proper eco-resort. That's why it feels so good.
By the way, isn't this modern and lovely? It's the "Water Jug" found in the refrigerator of the guest rooms at Hoshinoya Karuizawa. It functions as a container yet evokes a sense of "water-ness," making it truly appealing. I thought it must be an original, and wondered if it was for sale. When I asked the staff, I received an unexpected reply: "You can buy it on Amazon." Seriously? (It was true).
This "Water Jug" was newly developed by Hoshinoya Karuizawa in collaboration with tableware brand "ARAS" and "Ishikawa Resin Industry," which recycles plastic products, as part of a project to eliminate bottled water in guest rooms. It is made from 100% recyclable materials and is currently introduced in all HOSHINO RESORTS facilities, as well as at the Towada Kanko Hotel and Aomoriya in Aomori.
The design was handled by "secca inc.," a creative group from Kanazawa. The design is said to be based on a 3D scan of a block of ice naturally melting, capturing its texture. The design is inspired by the story of how this region has flourished thanks to the meltwater from mountains like Mount Asama. It's no wonder it has such a "water-like" feel.
Behind Hoshino Onsen Tombo-no-yu, there is a hydroelectric power generation facility.
This is the hydroelectric generator.
Utilizing the elevation difference within the grounds, water flow is created and sent to the turbine inside the facility.
HOSHINO RESORTS has been involved in hydroelectric power generation for over 100 years, making it the originator of the "eco-resort" concept. Hoshinoya Onsen Ryokan, the predecessor to Hoshinoya Karuizawa, introduced its own hydroelectric power generation in 1917, as electricity had not yet reached the resort's location at that time.
"We officially began hydroelectric power generation in 1929. The third-generation owner, Kasuke Hoshino, succeeded in lighting lamps using a traditional water wheel."
This story was shared by Chihiro Abe from the Karuizawa FM Unit, who guided us through the facilities.
The river flowing through the village, a signature feature of Hoshinoya Karuizawa, actually serves as a reservoir regulated for hydroelectric power generation. This river draws water from the clear streams originating from Mount Asama. However, administrative permission would not be granted solely for aesthetic water features. Permission was granted specifically for its use in hydroelectric power generation. According to Ms. Abe, "I consider it a dam."
There are three power generation facilities on the premises. Currently, two of them are in operation.
"In this day and age, it's cheaper to buy electricity. Nevertheless, we want to generate the energy we use ourselves, using natural energy, in our own location."
Hoshinoya Karuizawa thoroughly utilizes the geothermal heat from its hot springs. The key facility for this is here. Beneath Hoshinoya Karuizawa, the latest equipment has been installed.
In addition to the self-hydroelectric power generation that has been ongoing for 100 years, they have now implemented systems utilizing waste heat from the continuously flowing hot springs and geothermal energy. Hoshinoya Karuizawa currently produces approximately 70% of the total energy consumed within the resort, covering an area of about 40,000 square meters.
Perhaps it is because of this background that one feels their mind sharpened and filled with a warm feeling when visiting this place. Above all, spending time at this ultimate eco-resort will undoubtedly offer new insights into our daily lives.
HOSHINO RESORTS Karuizawa
Address | Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture, Hoshino
Access | Approx. 15 minutes by car from JR Karuizawa Station (free shuttle bus available), approx. 25 minutes by car from Usui Karuizawa IC
Number of Rooms | 77 rooms (Check-in 15:00, Check-out 12:00)
Rates | From ¥112,000 per night (per room, tax and service charge included, meals separate) *Image shows Mizunami room
