#Japan #Tokyo #Tokyu Hotels #Japanese Gin #Botanical Grace

Tokyu Hotels Introduces 'Botanical Grace'

Tokyu Hotels & Resorts Co., Ltd. based in Shibuya, Tokyo, is excited to announce that it will be rolling out its award-winning cocktail, 'Botanical Grace,' across its 16 hotels nationwide from November 1st to November 30th, 2025. This elegant drink, crafted by bartender Kodai Kawase from Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel, secured the grand prize at the 2nd Tokyu Hotels Cocktail Competition held in September of this year.

The Tokyu Hotels Cocktail Competition aims to enhance the skills, creativity, and hosting abilities of bartenders ranging from young up-and-comers to seasoned professionals within the Tokyu Hotels network. In its second year, the competition saw participation from 26 bartenders representing 16 hotels. After fierce preliminary rounds, eight finalists showcased their talents at the final event on September 10th. This year, contestants were challenged to create an original cocktail that embodies the essence of Kagoshima using 'Japanese GIN Wabijin,' a gin made from locally-sourced botanical ingredients produced by Honbo Shuzo Co., Ltd.

Kodai Kawase emerged as the champion, and he shares his insights on 'Botanical Grace':

“This cocktail maintains the refreshing flavor profile of 'Japanese GIN Wabijin' with a spicy twist, while also incorporating 'Bontan Ame,' a renowned sweet treat from Kagoshima, in its liqueur form. The result is a cocktail that is sweet yet refreshing and accessible to all.”

Kawase highlights the careful balance of flavors, achieved by complementing the gin with pineapple juice and his homemade hibiscus syrup to enhance the cocktail’s richness and vibrant color. Lime juice peels adorn the drink, providing an aromatic accent thanks to the hibiscus syrup, and reflecting environmental consciousness in its design. The cocktail presentation is complemented by a garnish inspired by the traditional Kagoshima craft known as 'Satsuma Botan.'

Kawase expressed his dedication to crafting this cocktail, stating, “I hope everyone will enjoy this carefully curated drink that captures the traditional essence and abundant nature of Kagoshima.”

Guests can savor this unique cocktail across various Tokyu Hotels during the specified period, ensuring an enriching experience that celebrates Kagoshima’s culture and ingredients.

As part of its commitment to bartender development, Tokyu Hotels & Resorts continues to contribute to the evolution of bar culture and the revitalization of the industry.

'Botanical Grace' Cocktail Details:

Sales Period:

November 1, 2025 – November 30, 2025, though some hotels may have different serving durations.

Locations Selling the Cocktail:

The Capitol Hotel Tokyu, Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel, Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu, Kanazawa Tokyu Hotel, Nagoya Tokyu Hotel, Kyoto Tokyu Hotel, Hakuba Tokyu Hotel, Izu Imai Ham Tokyu Hotel, Miyako Island Tokyu Hotel & Resorts, Futako Tamagawa Excel Hotel Tokyu, Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu, BELLUSTAR TOKYO, A Pan Pacific Hotel, HOTEL GROOVE SHINJUKU, A PARKROYAL Hotel, THE HOTEL HIGASHIYAMA KYOTO TOKYU, A Pan Pacific Hotel, Sapporo Stream Hotel, Shibuya Stream Hotel.
Note: Serving times and pricing may differ across hotels. Alcohol will not be served to guests under the age of 20 or those planning to drive.

Profile of Grand Prize Winner, Kodai Kawase:

Position: Bartender at TOWERS Bar, Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel
Born: 1995 in Tokyo
Joined Tokyu Hotels: 2016 at Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel
Kawase shared his journey through the competition, stating:

“This was my second attempt following the first competition where I felt disappointment for not winning. I meticulously crafted 'Botanical Grace,' integrating my focus and creativity. I also refined my presentation skills, and I am elated to have achieved the grand prize this time. I won’t stop here; I plan to challenge myself further in external competitions while ensuring our customers have a relaxing time with our best performances.”

Additionally, the runner-up was Ryota Hirano from BELLUSTAR TOKYO, and the Honbo Shuzo Special Award was given to Mio Maikuma from THE HOTEL HIGASHIYAMA KYOTO TOKYU. Finalists included several illustrious names from various Tokyu properties, showcasing the high level of talent across the brand.

Conclusion:

Experience the delightful cocktail 'Botanical Grace' honoring the rich traditions and nature of Kagoshima at Tokyu Hotels across the country this November. These efforts reflect Tokyu Hotels & Resorts’ ongoing goal of nurturing talent and supporting the growth of the bar industry.