Hoshino Resorts
is a Japan-based international operator of ryokan (Japanese inns) with its head office in Karuizawa, Nagano. Founded in 1904 by Kuniji Hoshino as a forestry business in Karuizawa, in the Japanese Alps, it opened its first hot spring resort in 1914. Rebranded by Yoshiharu Hoshino in 1995 as Hoshino Resorts, it has expanded across Japan and Asia with an eco-friendly policy, use of organic local produce at its restaurants, self-sufficient energy usage, and a theme of traditional Japanese-style resort accommodation. Part of the company's original theme is what Japan would be like if it continued to modernize without the influence of the West. Hoshino Resorts has also developed its bridal business through Hotel Bleston Court, a real estate leasing business, and its food business. Noriyuki Hamada, Executive Chef of Bleston Court Yukawatan restaurant in Karuizawa became the first ever Japanese chef to be recognised at the Bocuse d'Or in January 2013, winning third prize, while Hoshinoya Kyoto chef Ichiro Kubota earned a Michelin Star in October 2012. History Hoshino Resorts began life in 1904, as a forestry business in Karuizawa, which had just begun to become popular as a location for holiday villas. Founder Kuniji Hoshino then opened the first