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Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo: A Model for Garden Culture Revival

In a significant achievement, Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo, located in Bunkyo Ward, Tokyo, has been honored with the prestigious Good Design Award 2025 for its innovative "Garden Culture Rejuvenation and Promotion Model." This recognition, awarded by the Japan Design Promotion Association, highlights the hotel's commitment to preserving and promoting the cultural significance of Japanese gardens, which are often overlooked in modern hospitality.

Unique Garden Culture Revival Model

The hotel's gardens, a part of the famous Yamagata Three Famous Gardens established by statesman Aritomo Yamagata during the Meiji era, serve as a living testament to Japan's rich cultural heritage. Although the gardens were lost during World War II, they have undergone a remarkable revival since 2020. The hotel's approach transcends conventional hospitality practices, emphasizing not only the aesthetic beauty of gardens but also their role in cultural education, research, and community engagement. This model has been recognized both domestically and internationally, offering a compelling example of how commercial enterprises can play a vital role in cultural preservation.

Connecting People and Culture

At the heart of the hotel's operations lies the intent to interconnect individuals and culture through the lens of garden aesthetics. By redefining historical gardens as sites for experiences, education, and skill transmission, Hotel Chinzanso seeks to foster a unique value system that bridges nature with tradition and modernity. The judges praised the hotel's recognition of the garden as an essential asset that contributes to its overall value, especially in an era when many historical gardens face sustainability challenges.

Despite the Covid-19 pandemic pushing many in the hospitality sector towards efficiency and cost-cutting, Hotel Chinzanso made the bold decision to invest significantly in its gardens. This included creating immersive experiences like the "Tokyo Unkai," a garden event that allows visitors to explore and engage with Japanese culture through their senses. The hotel also collaborates with traditional garden craftspeople from locations like Kyoto and Shimane, further integrating research, education, and skill development into its model.

Comments from Experts

The jury emphasized the pioneering nature of the hotel's initiative to place the garden itself at the center of its value proposition, especially in an economic climate where maintaining historic gardens is increasingly challenging. They commended the hotel for choosing to invest in the garden, an asset that does not provide direct revenue, showcasing a strategic and long-term vision for cultural stewardship.

Notably, the project distinguishes itself by ensuring the garden is not merely a backdrop for leisure but rather a foundational element for research and experiential learning. It recognizes the ongoing evolution of the garden as a living cultural asset, offering solutions to contemporary issues like the shortage of skilled garden preservationists.

General Manager's Insights

Chihiro Tomihiko, the General Manager, expressed gratitude for the recognition and reflected on the past five years dedicated to cultivating the potential of the garden culture within hotel operations. His vision aims to preserve Japan’s unique aesthetic values and natural beauty. Tomihiko stated, "We are honored to receive this recognition for our design model that promotes cultural experiences. We remain committed to creating an environment where guests can appreciate the richness of Japanese culture."

As part of celebrating this award, Hotel Chinzanso will reintroduce guided garden tours this winter, designed to enlighten visitors on the history and philosophy behind the garden. Moreover, the hotel has launched dining plans that contribute a portion of proceeds towards garden conservation activities.

Special Products and Offerings

Guests can now purchase unique items from the hotel shop, including the "Tokyo Unkai and Seven Seasons Cookie Tin" and an original aroma stick diffuser titled "Healing Garden," allowing visitors to enjoy a piece of the hotel’s garden experience at home. These offerings underscore the hotel's ongoing efforts to extend the cultural resonance of its gardens beyond its premises.

In summary, Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo is redefining the landscape of luxury hospitality by integrating cultural preservation into its business model, making it a pivotal player in maintaining and transmitting the essence of Japanese garden culture for future generations.

For more information on the award-winning garden, visit: Good Design Award 2025