In Akiu Onsen, Miyagi Prefecture, a new establishment, KAI Akiu, welcomed its first guests on April 25th, 2024. Embracing the theme of “A Samurai’s nature retreat near gushing waterfalls,” this ryokan rests in a picturesque spot overlooking the Natori River as it flows from the Ou Mountains. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquility of mountain streams and witness the ever-changing beauty of the seasonal landscape.
KAI Akiu marks the 23rd addition to the esteemed KAI brand, the second in the Tohoku region after KAI Tsugaru in Owani Onsen, Aomori Prefecture, and the first in Miyagi Prefecture.
Akiu Onsen, situated in Miyagi Prefecture, boasts a rich history dating back to the Kofun period some 1,500 years ago. Legend has it that it was frequented by emperors and feudal lords like Date Masamune for its therapeutic hot springs. Nestled discreetly within Akiu Onsen, KAI Akiu offers guests an authentic onsen experience beside the Natori River, surrounded by lush greenery. Throughout the seasons, from the vibrant hues of spring and summer to the fiery foliage of autumn and the serene snowscapes of winter, visitors can revel in nature’s splendor.
Masamune Date, a prominent feudal lord, played a pivotal role in shaping the prosperity of the Tohoku region, with Sendai as its nucleus. Under his rule, a refined and innovative culture known as the “Date culture” flourished, characterized by an openness to foreign influences. Drawing inspiration from this legacy, KAI Akiu integrates local produce, traditional craftsmanship, and hospitality imbued with the essence of Date culture. Guests are invited to indulge in a unique retreat, experiencing the elegance of a bygone era amidst cascading waterfalls—a testament to the sophisticated culture nurtured during Masamune Date’s reign.
KAI offers a distinctive lodging experience through its region-inspired rooms known as KAI Signature Rooms, providing guests with an immersive journey into local culture and craftsmanship. At KAI Akiu, these rooms draw inspiration from the breathtaking Rairaikyo Gorge along the Natori River, renowned for its deep blue hues and captivating scenery. Framed by the room’s windows, guests can relish in the seasonal spectacle of mountain streams.
Within these rooms, intricately designed desks feature Sendai glass art, reflecting a spectrum of green tones when illuminated. Upon entering, guests are greeted by room number signs crafted from Shiroishi washi paper—a traditional art form dating back to the Edo period—and sliding doors adorned with subtle kokeshi doll motifs, showcasing the incorporation of Miyagi Prefecture’s local elements into the interior design.
The exquisite glass art adorning the guest rooms is the creation of Koji Murayama, hailing from the esteemed Kaiba Glass Workshop nestled in Akiu. Murayama’s journey began with the revival of Sendai glass, a technique lost since the Edo period. Through meticulous research and craftsmanship, he successfully reproduced Sendai glass, utilizing sand sourced from the rivers of Sendai City. The resulting glasswork, with its radiant green hue, mirrors the lush natural beauty of Sendai, once revered as the “Capital of Trees.” When sunlight dances through these glass masterpieces, it conjures images of flowing rivers and glistening water surfaces, enriching the ambiance with a touch of tranquility.
In the dining area of KAI Akiu, guests are treated to a sumptuous dinner experience featuring kaiseki cuisine that highlights the rich local food culture. Semi-private rooms afford guests the perfect balance of intimacy and comfort during their mealtime.
The culinary journey commences with an appetizer of oxtail rillettes paired with Sendai miso, accompanied by Sendai-fu—a regional delicacy—and meticulously hand-grilled Michinoku senbei rice crackers. Adorning the tableware is a distinctive polka-dot motif reminiscent of the jinbaori, the battle surcoat purportedly worn by Masamune Date, a notable warlord from the Sengoku period.
Next, guests are treated to the horakumori, a tantalizing assortment of appetizers, pickled delicacies, seasonal offerings, and fresh sashimi, elegantly presented on an ozen stand reminiscent of those used in the meals of daimyo lords. Reflecting the bounty of Miyagi Prefecture’s lush landscapes and abundant seas, the pièce de résistance of the kaiseki meal is a hearty hot pot brimming with succulent beef, fresh vegetables, and delectable seafood—a harmonious blend of flavors that pays homage to the region’s culinary diversity. Drawing inspiration from Miyagi’s status as a prominent rice-producing area, delicate bundles of beef-wrapped sea urchins evoke the imagery of traditional rice straw bales.
As part of their commitment to immersive hospitality, each KAI property offers the KAI Cultural Discover program, inviting guests to delve into the unique traditional crafts, performing arts, and culinary traditions that define Japan’s diverse regions. Inspired by Masamune Date’s fondness for sake, guests can sip on locally brewed Miyagi sake while immersing themselves in the area’s rich history and cultural heritage, creating unforgettable memories during their stay.
The program unfolds within a bespoke chamber distinguished by its walls adorned in a deep indigo hue, known as kachiiro—a color revered by samurai for its auspicious connotations, symbolizing victory. Adding to the ambiance, golden sun motifs pay homage to Masamune Date’s battle flag, infusing the space with historical resonance. As participants engage in the activities, they have the option to don a haori, reminiscent of the attire worn by warriors beneath their armor.
Legend has it that Masamune Date’s appreciation for sake was so profound that he commissioned craftsmen to construct a dedicated mansion within the castle grounds for sake production. Today, Miyagi remains renowned for its rice cultivation, boasting a plethora of sake breweries, some tracing their origins back to the era when the Sendai Domain granted brewing permissions. Participants are invited to savor locally crafted sake associated with the Sendai Domain, raising their glasses in a toast following age-old customs. Through these shared experiences, guests immerse themselves in the ethos of camaraderie and forge meaningful connections with fellow participants, enriching their stay with moments of cultural discovery and fellowship.
Akiu Onsen’s rich heritage traces back over 1400 years to the late Kofun period, earning it a place among Japan’s esteemed “three hot springs.” Historically revered, it was granted imperial approval during the reign of an ailing Emperor, cherished by both nobility and common folk alike, including Masamune Date’s era, and continues to enchant visitors to this day.
Nestled within KAI Akiu, guests are treated to the serene allure of open-air rock baths enveloped by verdant foliage, accompanied by the soothing melody of mountain streams. Additionally, two indoor public baths offer respite from both physical and mental fatigue—a hot bath and a lukewarm soak—classified as sodium-chloride and calcium-chloride springs renowned for their warmth and therapeutic properties. Unique antibacterial metaboric acid and skin-smoothing calcium further enhance the rejuvenating experience, promoting a sense of well-being and vitality.
Overlooking the majestic Natori River, the Seseraki Lounge beckons with its terrace boasting a foot bath, inviting guests to savor the changing seasons amidst the tranquil backdrop of flowing waters. The name “Seseraki” evokes the gentle murmur of shallow streams, a sentiment echoed in Masamune Date’s poetic ode to nature’s eternal rhythm.
Drawing inspiration from Date’s botanical passion and eclectic interests, the lounge exudes seasonal charm, adorned with vibrant peonies and wisteria in spring, and delicate white bush clover in summer, alongside artifacts evoking the feudal lord’s legacy. Nightly live instrumental performances further elevate the ambiance, offering an immersive retreat where guests can unwind amidst nature’s embrace. Savoring a glass of locally sourced wine, seasonal beverages, or traditional Sendai dagashi sweets, the Seseraki Lounge invites guests to indulge in moments of tranquility and cultural immersion.
Location: 1 Hirakura, Yumoto, Akiu-machi, Taihaku-ku, Sendai, Miyagi
Room Capacity:
- 9 Japanese-style rooms (2 guests)
- 30 Japanese-style rooms (3 guests)
- 8 Japanese-style rooms (4 guests)
- 1 special room
- 1 pet-friendly room
Facilities: Lobby, travel library, terrace, shop, dining area, public baths (separate by gender, each with 1 open-air bath and 2 indoor baths), Yuagari lounge
Price: Starting from 31,000 JPY per person per night (based on double occupancy, inclusive of tax and service charge, includes dinner and breakfast)
Access: 30-minute drive from JR Sendai Station, 45-minute drive from Sendai Airport
Opening Date: April 25th, 2024