KAI, a leading onsen ryokan brand by Hoshino Resorts will open its 24th property in Kusatsu Onsen, Gunma Prefecture.

Recognised as one of Japan's top onsen destinations, Kusatsu Onsen has a long history believed to date back to the Kofun period (circa 3rd to 6th century AD). Revered for its healing waters, it has long been cherished as a place of therapeutic bathing.

Situated at the base of Mt. Kusatsu-Shirane, this natural hot spring boasts an impressive flow of over 32,000 litres per minute, making it the highest naturally discharged volume of any hot spring in Japan[1].

Kusatsu Onsen is valued for its iconic Yubatake, a picturesque water field that functions as the town's main hot spring source, and for Yumomi, a traditional method of cooling the mineral-rich waters without dilution. This distinctive culture, along with its communal baths, is beloved by locals and continues to draw visitors year-round.

KAI Kusatsu is scheduled to open on 7th June 2026 and will be the first KAI brand property in Gunma Prefecture, and the second Hoshino Resorts operated facility in the area.

The facility's concept is “a forest hot spring inn connected by a tunnel to the Kusatsu onsen landscape.” Nestled on a hillside overlooking Mt Kusatsu-Shirane, the expansive, nature-rich retreat will feature multiple buildings, including guest room wings, a dedicated bathhouse, and a separate lounge.

A private tunnel will provide direct access to the Kusatsu Onsen town and be exclusive for guests to enjoy the contrast of a nature-rich retreat and the vibrant atmosphere of the historic town.

Furthermore, Hoshino Resorts will also open KAI Miyajima in the Miyajima area in the Japanese summer of 2026, marking its first venture into Hiroshima Prefecture. 

Strategically located with views of the Great Torii Gate of Itsukushima Shrine, all guest rooms will offer spectacular ocean views of the Seto Inland Sea. The public hot spring is designed to provide an experience akin to being immersed in the sea.

In addition to arranging direct access from the hotel to Itsukushima Shrine, KAI Miyajima will reintroduce the "Setouchi Ancient Sauna”, a traditional bathing method long practiced in the Setouchi region, offering a unique stay that deeply connects guests with the local culture and history.

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About Hoshino Resorts

Hoshino Resorts was first established as a Japanese inn/ryokan in 1914 in Karuizawa in Nagano Prefecture before it began the operation of other resorts in Japan. Today, it has evolved into a highly influential hotel management company and is run by 4th-generation family member Yoshiharu Hoshino. Providing a unique experience focused on the local charms of each destination and a high level of omotenashi, Japanese-style hospitality, the company has expanded rapidly out of Karuizawa since 2001 and now operates more than 60 accommodations both in and outside Japan with one of the following categories: luxury hotel brand “HOSHINOYA,” hot spring ryokan brand “KAI,” countryside resort hotel brand “RISONARE,” city tourism hotel brand “OMO,” free-spirited hotel brand “BEB,” or other unique lodgings.

https://www.hoshinoresorts.com/en/

About KAI

KAI is a leading brand of hot spring ryokan where every establishment offers a contemporary take on a traditional Japanese inn whilst keeping Western comforts. KAI invites one to discover the multifaceted aspects of Japan through natural hot springs, exploration of local arts and entertainment, and classic Kaiseki-style course meals using local and seasonal flavours. Experience Washoku, Japanese cuisine, presented on carefully selected ceramics for full exposure to culinary sensations.

[1] Source: Kusatsu Onsen Tourism Association HP