Wine exploration
A wine-lover’s escape in Matsumoto, Japan.
Photography by ©︎Hoshino Resorts
17 November 2024
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Nestled in Nagano Prefecture, Matsumoto stands as a gem of cultural and historical richness, home to one of Japan’s few remaining original castles and the renowned Asama Onsen. This city, the second largest in the prefecture, invites travellers not only to explore its storied past but also to indulge in a rare fusion of Japanese hot springs and regional wine culture.
At the heart of Asama Onsen lies KAI Matsumoto, a luxurious hot spring ryokan managed by Hoshino Resorts. Once the source of the local feudal lord’s baths, these natural springs now flow through KAI Matsumoto’s opulent facilities, offering guests a rejuvenating experience across eight distinct baths.
These meticulously crafted baths, paired with nightly jazz recitals in the vast lobby and tastings of the region’s finest wines, set the stage for an experience steeped in elegance and relaxation.
True to the spirit of all KAI establishments, which weave regional culture into their design, amenities, and activities, KAI Matsumoto showcases the essence of the nearby Kikyogahara Wine Valley.
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Located in the southern Matsumoto Basin, this wine valley is known for its distinctive wine varieties, making KAI Matsumoto a dream retreat for wine enthusiasts. The ryokan is perfectly positioned for those journeying through the Japanese Alps, whether their travels lead them toward Takayama or the ski resorts of Hakuba, beyond the well-trodden Golden Route.
One of the highlights at KAI Matsumoto is its culinary program, where local wines are expertly paired with seasonal Japanese cuisine.
A standout dish is the red wine wagyu beef sukiyaki, where the rich, fruity depth of red wine elevates the salty-sweet sukiyaki broth, creating a memorable flavour experience. With more than 50 varieties of wine from 11 local wineries, KAI Matsumoto’s curated pairing courses are crafted to enhance every meal. Dining takes place in serene, private rooms that open to peaceful courtyard views, adding an element of tranquillity to the tasting journey.
Matsumoto itself is a city deeply rooted in music, celebrated annually with a summer festival helmed by the acclaimed maestro Seiji Ozawa.
For guests visiting during this season, the experience is enriched by evening concerts where Nagano wine is served, intertwining Matsumoto’s love for music with the valley’s rich winemaking heritage.
The ryokan’s accommodations marry elegance with artisanal innovation. The Signature Guest Rooms are thoughtfully adorned with traditional Japanese craftsmanship, including finely latticed shoji doors and exquisite ink-based paper marbling on fusuma panels. For guests seeking privacy, 15 of the 26 rooms offer outdoor hot springs, a luxurious touch for a personal retreat.
Just beyond KAI Matsumoto, the city’s storied past beckons, with Matsumoto Castle standing as its crown jewel. Often called the “Crow Castle” due to its striking black exterior, this National Treasure is one of Japan’s last 12 original castles and is often revered alongside Himeji and Kumamoto Castles. For history lovers and sightseers alike, a visit to Matsumoto Castle offers a window into Japan’s feudal era, completing the cultural tapestry that makes Matsumoto a compelling destination for wine, relaxation, and discovery.
With its refined ambiance, regional wine offerings, and immersion in both local culture and historical significance, KAI Matsumoto presents a rare and luxurious retreat, inviting travellers to savour the serene beauty and heritage of Matsumoto.
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