Hoshino Resorts' hot spring ryokan brand "Kai" opened "Kai Zao" in Yamagata Prefecture, Japan, on October 15, 2026. Located at Zao Onsen, this marks the group's first entry into Yamagata Prefecture and the 26th facility under the "Kai" brand, adding another Tohoku destination for travelers who want to make the stay itself the highlight of their trip.
The building features a tower-like silhouette in the shape of a regular tetradecagon, with the surrounding mountain scenery serving as a key element of the space. The design concept connects to Zao's Okama crater landscape and its hot spring culture. Rather than rushing between multiple sightseeing spots in a single day, this type of accommodation is better suited to a leisurely, extended stay—one where guests can slowly experience the changing light, scenery, and dining rhythms both indoors and out.
Zao offers distinct travel themes across different seasons; winter is often associated with skiing and the "snow monster" (juhyo) ice formations. However, whether specific natural scenery can be seen still depends on the season, weather, and on-site conditions. Before booking, it may help to first decide what you value most—hot springs, architecture, winter activities, or mountain views—and then arrange transportation and length of stay accordingly.
Those planning trips in the near term should pay particular attention to closure days: from October 20 to December 16, 2026, the facility will be closed every Tuesday and Wednesday for maintenance. Room rates, availability, and transportation access information should be confirmed based on actual dates. It's advisable to fix your accommodation dates first, then build the rest of your Yamagata itinerary around them.
