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| KAI Matsumoto |
KAI Matsumoto in Nagano Prefecture reopened on 4 August 2026 following an extensive renovation that introduced a fresh interpretation of luxury Japanese hospitality.
Operated by Hoshino Resorts, the revitalised ryokan embraced a new concept, “A Ryokan Immersed in Matsumoto Elegante”, blending traditional Japanese onsen culture with contemporary design, Italian cuisine, regional wine and Matsumoto’s strong connection to music.
The reopening created a distinctive new accommodation experience for travellers seeking an authentic Japanese ryokan stay with a modern international character.
Music Meets Japanese Design
The redesigned KAI Matsumoto connected Matsumoto’s celebrated music culture with traditional craftsmanship.
Every guest room was upgraded to a GAKU no Ma Signature Room, featuring vinyl record players, high-fidelity speakers and custom Matsumoto Keisei-nuri artwork. The distinctive local lacquerware incorporated techniques influenced by guitar finishing, reflecting the city’s connection with musical instrument craftsmanship.
The standout GAKU Suite offered 130 square metres of space, with a private piano, sauna, plunge pool and open-air bath.
The lobby was also transformed with a dramatic 10-metre atrium inspired by Matsumoto’s guitar-making heritage. Beside the performance stage, the new NAGANO WINE BAR provided a stylish setting for discovering wines from the region.
A Traditional Onsen Experience Reimagined
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| KAI Matsumoto |
Drawing on the historic Asama Onsen, which was once used as a private bath by the lord of Matsumoto Castle, the property offered eight types and 13 variations of hot spring bathing.
Guests could choose from open-air baths, lie-down pools and aromatic Hinoki sawdust treatments, creating multiple ways to enjoy the restorative qualities of the natural hot spring waters.
A new post-bath lounge provided a peaceful place to relax while enjoying seasonal garden views and locally produced Shinshu apple vinegar.
Italian Cuisine Meets Shinshu Wine
KAI Matsumoto also introduced a major culinary departure from traditional ryokan dining with its first full Italian dining course.
Guests were able to enjoy refined Italian cuisine created using local ingredients while dressed comfortably in yukata. The menu was complemented by a selection of more than 50 regional wines, showcasing the quality and character of Nagano’s cool-climate vineyards.
The culinary experience continued into the evening at the NAGANO WINE BAR, where guests could enjoy a glass of Shinshu wine before experiencing the nightly Sonority Concert.
An Immersive Matsumoto Escape
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| KAI Matsumoto |
The property reflected the distinctive character of Matsumoto while providing international travellers with a sophisticated and immersive way to experience Nagano Prefecture.
For travellers seeking luxury Japan travel beyond Tokyo and Kyoto, the reopened KAI Matsumoto presented a compelling reason to explore Matsumoto’s culture, mountains, hot springs and emerging wine scene.
KAI Matsumoto Contact Details
KAI Matsumoto by Hoshino Resorts
Website: https://hoshinoresorts.com/en/hotels/kaimatsumoto/
Phone: +81 50 3134 8092
Address: 1-31-1 Asama Onsen, Matsumoto, Nagano 390-0303, Japan
Operator: Hoshino Resorts
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