Grand Mercure Ise Shima Resort to Launch Unique Wood Education Space for Children in 2026

Grand Mercure Ise Shima Resort: A New Era of Family-Friendly Experiences

Scheduled to open on April 1, 2026, the Grand Mercure Ise Shima Resort & Spa is set to unveil a unique initiative named 'Matoya no Mori.' Nestled within the breathtaking Ise Shima National Park and overlooking the stunning Matoya Bay, this innovative kids' space will utilize local Mie Prefecture timber to create an interactive environment where children and families can learn about wood culture.

Collaboration for Community Enrichment

The project is a dynamic collaboration between the Mie Prefectural government, local workshop Kanjindo, and renowned illustrator shanty. 'Matoya no Mori' embodies the spirit of 'mokui'—a concept emphasizing the relationship between children and wood. This initiative encourages families to engage with natural materials, fostering appreciation for the significance of forests and timber products. The space will feature four key areas: 'Forest Square,' 'Storybook Forest,' 'Learning Wall,' and 'Creation Workshop,' each designed to provide enriching and hands-on experiences.

In recognition of its commitment to sustainable practices, the Grand Mercure also strives to promote the cyclical use of forest resources in Mie, having registered as a participant in the 'Wood Declaration' project and obtained certification as a 'Mie Forest Education Station.'

The Importance of Family Oriented Facilities

With families, particularly those with elementary school-aged children, comprising nearly half of the resort's guests, the new space addresses concerns about the uniformity of existing children's facilities, which often fail to convey local values and sustainability. 'Matoya no Mori' will be a breakthrough in providing educational and enjoyable experiences that utilize regional resources, ultimately enhancing guest satisfaction during their stay.

Additionally, the establishment will introduce a new family-friendly accommodation option: the 'Family Superior Room.' This room is designed with spaciousness in mind, featuring a Hollywood-style bed configuration and separate furniture for children’s comfort and convenience. The room is equipped with baby essentials, making it easier for parents traveling with infants, reducing the need to pack additional items.

Interactive Zones Designed for Learning

- 1. Forest Square: A tactile experience where children can feel the warmth and texture of Mie Prefecture timber. The flooring and play equipment are crafted from local materials and finished with natural beeswax, showcasing the hotel’s logo on custom-designed toys.

- 2. Storybook Forest: A reading haven featuring books related to nature, designed for families to enjoy. The aim is to create a cozy atmosphere where both children and adults can appreciate the tranquility of wood while immersing themselves in stories.

- 3. Learning Wall: With the support of Mie Prefecture, this interactive wall will educate about local forestry practices, connecting play with learning. Artworks by illustrator shanty will enhance the space, depicting experiences like stargazing and nighttime festivities.

- 4. Creation Workshop: This area will offer a hands-on woodworking experience using scraps of timber, acorns, and recycled materials to stimulate creativity. The guided activities will allow children to craft their own keepsakes, fostering a sense of accomplishment and a memorable experience.

Special Workshops for Golden Week

During the Golden Week holidays, the resort will host a special workshop titled 'Creating My Forest Bag.' On May 4th and 5th, participants can craft eco-friendly bags using local timber and natural materials. These engaging activities will allow families to connect while creating personalized items to take home as souvenirs.

Event Details:

- Dates: May 4th and 5th, 2026
- Time: 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM
- Location: 'Matoya no Mori'
- Capacity: First 50 guests each day, pre-registration via a QR code upon hotel arrival.
- More Information: Event Registration

A Commitment to Sustainable Experiences

The Grand Mercure Ise Shima Resort's initiative represents a robust effort to weave local timber resources, community collaboration, and educational opportunities into a cohesive family-friendly experience. This approach not only reinforces the importance of ecological awareness but also enriches the overall value of staying at a resort where guests can truly immerse themselves in the local culture.

As the resort celebrates its second anniversary on April 1, 2026, a refreshed buffet dining concept featuring dishes made from locally sourced ingredients will complement the new kid-friendly space, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience is on every family’s itinerary.

For those looking for an invigorating escape in a setting enriched by natural beauty and cultural significance, the Grand Mercure Ise Shima Resort & Spa is the perfect destination.