#Japan #Hokkaido #Unwind Hotel #Otaru #Beni Zakura

Unwind with Hokkaido's Summer Flavors at UNWIND HOTEL & BAR

On September 20, 2025, UNWIND HOTEL & BAR Otaru will host a special one-day cocktail pairing event at its bar, Bar Ignis Otaru. This unique experience invites guests to savor the enchanting scents of a Hokkaido summer through a carefully curated selection of cocktails inspired by local flavors.

Operated by Global Agents, which runs LIVELY HOTELS across Japan, this event aims to highlight the beauty and culture of Hokkaido. The cocktail menu will feature three exclusive drinks created using the unique craft gin from Beni Zakura Distillery, Hokkaido’s first craft gin distillery. This celebration is perfect for both seasoned enthusiasts and those new to cocktails, as the event will take place in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The Craft Distilling Experience

The cocktails will showcase Beni Zakura Distillery’s eclectic range of craft gins. Guests can look forward to the use of locally sourced herbs that form the basis of these spirits. Each cocktail will be paired with delectable bar snacks made from Hokkaido’s premium produce. Here's a preview of what to expect:

1. Fuki No To Cocktail paired with Hokke Nanban Zuke (Herb-style): This refreshing drink features a gin made with spring-picked Fuki No To, showcasing the vibrant flavors of the season, served simply to highlight the gin's essence.

2. Hop Cocktail with Pork Porchetta: Utilizing hops from Kamifurano, this cocktail combines aromatic gin with a unique foam infused with passion fruit, creating a drink that beer lovers will appreciate. The crunchy yet juicy pork pairs beautifully with this refreshing cocktail.

3. Hamanasu Cocktail paired with Jasmine Tea-infused Crème Brûlée: Highlighting the floral notes of Hamanasu, the main botanical used in the gin, this drink offers a vibrant aromatic experience, enhanced by the creamy dessert.

An Engaging Experience

In addition to enjoying the cocktails and food pairings, guests will have the opportunity to interact with the distillers from Beni Zakura, who will share stories and insights into the gin-making process and the significance of the local herbs. Attendees can appreciate the sensory experience of seeing, smelling, and tasting the ingredients firsthand.

The setting for this event, Bar Ignis Otaru, is an open and inviting lobby bar without doors, encouraging a casual and friendly atmosphere. It has been well-received, especially by younger guests who appreciate its accessibility. This event is designed for both hotel guests and local visitors, aiming to create an ordinary occasion for extraordinary experiences.

Each session will be limited to 10 participants to ensure a relaxed and intimate setting. Guests will enjoy a predetermined pairing menu, eliminating any indecision during the ordering process, and allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the craftsmanship of the bar.

Event Details

• - Date: September 20, 2025
• - Time: 1st Session: 15:00 - 16:30, 2nd Session: 19:00 - 20:30
• - Location: UNWIND HOTEL & BAR Otaru, 1F Bar Ignis Otaru
• - Entry Fee: 5,000 yen (including three gin cocktails and bar snacks)
• - Dress Code: None required

The Legacy of UNWIND HOTEL & BAR Otaru

Originally built in 1931 as Japan's first foreigner-only hotel, UNWIND HOTEL & BAR Otaru has a rich history, including serving as a military club during WWII. The hotel has undergone extensive renovations to maintain its historical charm while providing modern amenities. It aims to be a bridge between the local culture and travelers, embodying a unique blend of past and present.

Experience the magic of Hokkaido this September at UNWIND HOTEL & BAR Otaru, where the flavors of summer await you. Don’t miss this chance to indulge in an extraordinary cocktail pairing event surrounded by both culture and camaraderie.