#Japan #Tokyo #POLARIS HOLDINGS #KOKO HOTELS #dashi packs

KOKO HOTELS Unveils Unique Dashi Welcome Service

In a striking move to elevate guest experiences, KOKO HOTELS, managed by Polaris Holdings, has partnered with Henna Shosha Co., Ltd. to introduce original dashi packs as part of its welcome service. Starting from October 2025, KOKO HOTELS will reinvent itself under the new brand concept "Here Discovery Begins," emphasizing both comfort and a cultural journey for guests.

A Taste of Tradition

The welcome service, featuring the dashi packs, allows guests to easily prepare a fragrant broth with just hot water. For international visitors, it offers a taste of the famed Japanese umami, while local guests are transported back to familiar flavors that evoke nostalgia. The initiative aims to immerse all guests in the rich traditions surrounding Japan's dashi culture.

The Rebranding of KOKO HOTELS

Polaris Holdings plans to merge with Minashia Co., Ltd., which manages HOTEL WING, by December 2024. Following this merger, KOKO HOTELS will reinvent its brand identity on October 1, 2025, heralding a significant transformation. The new brand concept aims to provide heartwarming, memorable experiences, connecting guests with local products and the sincere hospitality of the hotels.

Why Dashi for the Welcome Service?

The decision to introduce dashi in the welcome service stems from KOKO HOTELS' commitment to creating an inviting atmosphere for its guests. Dashi, a key component of Japanese cuisine, combines regional ingredients and reflects the unique climate and culture of various areas. This not only enhances the palate but also forges connections to Japan's diverse cultural landscape.

The dashi packs provided come from Shinmarumasa Co., a company with over 90 years of expertise in producing high-quality dashi and seasoning products. Their consistent dedication to quality ensures that the dashi served remains true to its roots, offering five regional varieties that reflect the distinct characteristics of different parts of Japan.

A Service That Resonates with Guests

Henna Shosha Co., Ltd., renowned for its innovative approach, believes that the dashi experience transcends beyond taste. Each bowl of dashi tells a story of its origins, encouraging guests to explore deeper connections with the land, people, and culture of Japan. During this collaboration, the goal is to provide not just food, but an experience enriched with memories and cultural significance.

Comments from Leaders

Kazuyoshi Shimojima, COO of Polaris Holdings, expressed that their ongoing dedication to regional collaboration and creating sensory experiences for guests is reflected in the new dashi welcome service. He stated, “Through the flavors of our dashi, we can communicate the essence of local cultures and foster lasting impressions among our guests.”

Ho Yong-Ju, President of Henna Shosha Co., Ltd., highlighted the company’s commitment to revitalizing local resources. “This partnership with KOKO HOTELS resonates with our mission to unveil the beauty and subtlety of Japan's regions. We are delighted to introduce this cultural experience through dashi.”

Meanwhile, Hiroko Matsushita of the Tourism DX Team emphasized the importance of not just providing products but creating meaningful experiences. Her belief is that these dashi packs, tailored to regional specialties, will immerse guests in the warmth of Japanese culture.

Conclusion

As KOKO HOTELS gears up for its transformation, the introduction of the original dashi welcome service exemplifies a thoughtful approach to hospitality. It invites guests to embark on a journey of discovery through flavors, enhancing their stay in a manner that is timely, culturally rich, and uniquely Japanese. As the new brand concept rolls out, the partnership between KOKO HOTELS and Henna Shosha is poised to enrich the travel experience for individuals seeking both comfort and cultural engagement.