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A Culinary Tribute to the Forest at Akaiignis

As Christmas approaches, the beautifully designed retreat 'Yunoyama Sosuikyo,' part of Akaiignis's luxury hot spring resort in Mie Prefecture, invites guests to a unique dining experience. This year, the establishment is collaborating with local hunter Masaya Takagi, the third generation of his family in the hunting profession. In light of the recent increase in wildlife damage and the challenges posed by aging hunters, this collaboration not only aims to provide exquisite game cuisine but also to promote sustainability and environmental responsibility.

On December 24th and 25th, guests can partake in a specially curated Christmas dinner that epitomizes the region's commitment to preserving its natural heritage. Under the careful expertise of Michelin-starred Chef Ryuji Tejima, who hails from the acclaimed Restaurant PAGES in Paris, the menu will feature game sourced directly from the lush mountains of Kumano, in an effort to highlight the connection between the chef's culinary philosophy and the resources provided by the land.

The Story Behind the Game

As an integral part of this experience, Masaya Takagi passionately shares his insights regarding the bounties of the forest. The dishes will showcase high-quality venison and boar, which are prepared under stringent hygiene protocols and processed promptly to ensure the highest standard. Every dish will reflect a respect for the forest, support for agricultural practices, and a commitment to passing down hunting culture to future generations.

Chef Tejima's philosophy emphasizes the interplay of flavors evoked by cooking over open flames. His approach brings forth not just the taste but the aromatic nuances of the ingredients, capturing the essence of winter in the forest. Each course will be a vivid representation of the forest through culinary art.

An Immersive Experience with HINOMORI's Flame-Cooked Dishes

HINOMORI specializes in dishes that utilize the distinct flavors that fire brings. From perfectly roasted cuts of aged beef to the subtle intricacies imparted by flames on seafood, each dish at HINOMORI takes full advantage of local Mie ingredients. This dedication to the environment and local supply chain highlights the beauty of sustainable dining.

The food will be paired with carefully selected wines and sake that complement the game’s rich and earthy flavors, enhancing the dining experience. Chef Hata's expertise as both a chef and a certified sommelier allows him to create exquisite pairings that echo the themes of fire and forest throughout the evening. The wine selections will range from robust reds to natural varieties, along with traditional sake made in Mie, all resonating with the spirit of the season.

Event Details and Reservations

The HINOMORI Christmas dinner will take place exclusively on December 24th and 25th, starting promptly at 18:00 each evening. Reservations can be made via phone or online, with a price of 25,000 yen per person (exclusive of tax), which includes a welcome drink. It’s essential to note that this special course focuses primarily on game, and modifications to the menu are not available.

Feel free to delve into this culinary narrative where each dish tells a story of fire, forest, and tradition as you savor every moment of this extraordinary holiday celebration.

Whether you're a local or visiting, enjoy this unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature's flavors while contributing to sustainable practices this Christmas.

About the Guests and the Venue

Masaya Takagi, as the lead hunter, brings with him a family legacy of commitment to hunting and conservation. Meanwhile, Chef Ryuji Tejima's expertise represents an evolution of culinary artistry born from traditions in both Japan and France. Together, they invite guests to forge new connections with both the cuisine and the culture of the region.

The stunning 'Yunoyama Sosuikyo' features villas designed with a blend of natural materials including clay, wood, and glass, setting the perfect backdrop for this exceptional dining experience. With its scenic location at the foot of the Yunoyama Hot Springs, it’s more than just a meal—it's a full-bodied experience of Mie's natural beauty, hospitality, and culinary brilliance.