EPICURE LOVES

KAI Sengokuhara

Banish thoughts of a fusty and old-school ryokan. KAI Sengokuhara marries modern minimalism with an inn 700 meters up in the mountains of Sengokuhara, Hakone. Each of its 16 rooms feature masterpieces from 12 Japanese and international artists, mesmerising glass fixtures from contemporary glass artist, Mio Muraki, and a private outdoor bath filled with the mineral-rich spring water from the volcanic Owaku-dani Valley. An atelier, overlooking lush gingko trees (or cherry blossoms in springtime), not only comes with painting and drawing materials for guests to channel their inner Murakami, but also conducts workshops for time-honoured crafts such as tenugui (traditional hand-dyed cotton-based towels). Likewise, the outdoor hot spring is perched above the greenery and is enveloped by a sublime glow, thanks to the dramatic water gardens and bioluminescent stones come evening. Its kaiseki course is no less magnificent. Expect Wagyu and abalone, cooked atop heated stones, and the crème de la crème fruits of the season. Room rates from 37,000JPY/S$462 (includes two meals). 817-359 Sengokuhara Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture 250-0631. Tel: +81 50 3786 1144