#Japan #Otaru #Kuragumi #Blueforest

Revitalization Project for Otaru Ryokan Kuragumi

Introduction

The renowned ryokan, Kuragumi, located in Otaru's Asarigawa Onsen region, is set to embark on a revitalization journey starting June 20, 2025. This project is a collaboration between three companies: Onko Chishin Co., Ltd., Blueforest Capital Partners Co., Ltd., and SMFL Mirai Partners Co., Ltd. Together, they aim to enhance the ryokan's standing and contribute to the local tourism industry's growth.

Project Overview

Kuragumi has been a symbol of quality hospitality in the Otaru area, featuring unique architectural designs by the illustrious architect Makoto Nakayama. The strategic acquisition of Kuragumi by SMFL Mirai Partners from Otaru Tourism Planning sets the stage for a new operational approach. Meanwhile, Onko Chishin will oversee hotel operations and marketing strategies, while Blueforest will focus on asset management to maximize the ryokan's value.

The objective of this initiative is to revisit Otaru Tourism Planning’s business strategy and foster further development of Kuragumi. With its acclaimed serene stay experiences and high-quality service, the project aims to leverage each company's strengths to elevate the brand further.

Otaru City and the Local Tourism Landscape

Otaru City attracts numerous day-trippers from Sapporo, and though the projected number of tourists visiting the city surpasses 8 million in 2024, overnight visitors remain low at about 12.2%. This indicates a trend of low lodging rates compared to other areas within Hokkaido. Additionally, while tourists tend to gather around the canal area, the Asarigawa Onsen region, which is the only hot spring district in the city, struggles with visibility and visitor flow, presenting challenges to local tourism.

The approach adopted by these three companies is to preserve the established brand strength and spirit of hospitality at Kuragumi, ensuring that it contributes to the area’s sustainable attractiveness in the long run.

About Kuragumi

Kuragumi sets itself apart with 18 uniquely designed guest rooms inspired by Otaru's historic warehouses. The ryokan includes five interconnected buildings: lodging, a bathhouse, a lobby, and a dining area, all meticulously designed by the acclaimed architect Nakayama.

Guests can choose between two room types: river-facing, which offers stunning views of the Asarigawa, and garden-facing, showcasing a charming Japanese garden. The onsen features sodium and calcium chloride water, promising healing benefits for muscle pain, nerve pain, and fatigue recovery, all set in a tranquil natural environment.

Kuragumi offers an all-inclusive service model, ensuring all dining and beverage options are included in the stay, reinforcing a high-value experience for guests.

Facility Overview

• - Location: 2-685 Asarigawa Onsen, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0154
• - Number of Rooms: 18
• - Capacity: 72 guests
• - Check-in: 15:00 | Check-out: 11:00
• - Parking: 19 spaces available
• - Shuttle Service: Free shuttle from Otaru Chikukō Station and Asari Station (reservation required)
• - Phone Number: 0134-51-5151
• - Official Website: Kuragumi

Future Prospects

Renovation works are scheduled to start in August 2025, with a grand reopening anticipated in December of the same year. Updates will be provided as plans develop.

Company Profiles

1. Onko Chishin Co., Ltd.
- President: Tomoki Matsuyama
- Headquarters: Shinjuku, Tokyo
- Established: February 1, 2011
- Website: Onko Chishin
- Specializes in hotel and ryokan management and promotion.

2. Blueforest Capital Partners Co., Ltd.
- President: Hiroki Osanai
- Headquarters: Chiyoda, Tokyo
- Established: June 2023
- Website: Blueforest
- Focuses on optimal financing strategies and asset management.

3. SMFL Mirai Partners Co., Ltd.
- President: Akira Ueda
- Headquarters: Chiyoda, Tokyo
- Established: October 1, 2018
- Website: SMFL Mirai Partners
- Engages in real estate-related businesses and financial services.

Conclusion

As Otaru continues to grow as a tourist destination, the revitalization of Kuragumi promises to enhance its appeal, focusing on sustainability, quality hospitality, and community engagement. With a strategic vision in place, these companies aim to create a lasting impact on the local tourism landscape.