8.5m “Forest Myth”! A huge floor-to-ceiling window frames the breathtaking seasonal scenery of the Oirase Gorge

▲ The lobby bursts with vitality in the fresh green season. (Photo / Provided by Hoshino Resorts)

Text and photos / Miss V

After a long journey, v finally arrived at Hoshino Resorts’ “Oirase Gorge Hotel.” Exhausted and barely able to tell east from west, v felt all fatigue melt away upon entering. After settling luggage in a corner of the lobby, the group headed straight to the “Aomori Apple Kitchen” to satisfy their hunger.

▲ This time, v flew with EVA Air to Hakodate, then took the Hokkaido Shinkansen to Shin-Aomori Station, followed by a hotel shuttle bus.

▲ The hotel front desk.

▲ Moss is a highlight there, and one can’t help but admire the Japanese attention to detail.

Nestled along the Oirase Gorge, it is the only hotel by the clear stream and surrounded by deep forests. Throughout the four seasons, it enchants visitors with ever-changing breathtaking beauty. Outdoors, the scenery is mesmerizing, while inside, the hotel’s decor is equally impressive. In the center of the lobby stands the giant fireplace “Forest Myth,” an 8.5-meter-tall bronze sculpture depicting humans dancing with forest sprites. As majestic as it is, the backdrop of the full-floor windows reflects the panoramic view of the stream and jungle, like a living painting, offering a truly feast for the eyes.

▲ Free coffee and tea are available in the West Wing lounge, and v deeply regrets not having more than half a cup. The apple tea bags contain real fruit pieces, releasing a natural sweetness that lingers.

▲ There may be no green leaves or red maple this season, but v still loves the desolate beauty it brings. For those wanting to see the vibrant energy of nature in fresh green season, plan your trip in May or June.

Although v visited neither during the lively fresh green season nor the famed million-color autumn foliage season, the austerity has its own beauty — a moment of reflection and a perfect atmosphere for quiet conversation with oneself.

Also, beautiful scenery and afternoon tea are simply made for each other. While lazily gazing at nature, savoring treats like the “Happy Apple Mille-Feuille” and “Spring Water Coffee,” one truly understands the meaning of happiness.

▲ Actually, v didn’t get to try them (blame the temptation of local snacks), but they’re said to be delicious.

▲ Just seeing it is a sight to behold — an exclamation from food-loving v.

The brand-new “Streamside Open-Air Bath” was completed in April this year, and v had to experience the gentle touch of the Hakodate Onsen. But even before soaking, her inner girlie side soared when she discovered... the toiletries have a sweet apple scent, instantly winning her over. After bathing, v happily stepped outside. Though a few seconds of cold gave her goosebumps, once back in the hot spring, she was instantly healed.

▲ That apple puree exfoliating bottle is just too adorable.

▲ In the morning, you can enjoy the river view; at night, the bath is beautifully lit, offering a different kind of charm.

On the way back to the room at night, v passed the West Wing lounge “River God.” Standing 10 meters tall, it is the final work of Taro Okamoto. Unlike “Forest Myth,” which is based on the concept of a male deity, “River God” is inspired by a female spirit. So despite being 1.5 meters taller, it doesn’t have that masculine dominance (v guesses it might be due to the material), but instead exudes a gentle aura. Watching other guests gather here, attentively listening to guides explain the ecology, with dim lighting and the wafting aroma of coffee, this literary vibe is exactly what v loves.

▲ River God. (Photo / Provided by Hoshino Resorts)

▲ Autumn’s “Forest Myth.” (Photo / Provided by Hoshino Resorts)

[Transportation Information]
1. Fly direct with EVA Air to “Hakodate,” transfer at “Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station” to the Hokkaido Shinkansen (about 60 minutes) to “Shin-Aomori Station,” then take the free shuttle bus (about 90 minutes) to reach the “Oirase Gorge Hotel.”
2. Fly direct with EVA Air to “Sendai,” transfer at “Sendai Station” to the Tohoku Shinkansen (about 90 minutes) to “Hachinohe Station,” then take the free shuttle bus (about 90 minutes) to reach the “Oirase Gorge Hotel.”

[Package Tours]
Tang Gui-zhen International Travel Agency (02-2712-0009)
Aomori Spring 5-Day 4-Night Self-Guided Tour (EVA Air flights via Hakodate or optional return via Sendai)
Package includes: One night with two meals (buffet) at “Oirase Gorge Hotel,” one night with two meals (buffet) at “Aomoriya,” EVA Air individual flight ticket (including taxes), JR East Japan & JR Hokkaido South-North Rail Pass, two nights’ accommodation at a hotel in Hakodate (including breakfast)

▲ Just lying there, staring out the window...

[Hotel Information]
Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel
Address: 231 Kubiku, Oku, Oirase, Towada-shi, Aomori 034-0398, Japan
Phone: 0176-74-1111 / +81-(0)50-3786-1144
Website: (Japanese official site) http://www.oirase-keiryuu.jp/ (Chinese version) http://www.oirase-keiryuu.jp/ch/
Reference price: From TWD 5,950 per person for one night with two meals