Oirase Keiryu Hotel by Hoshino Resorts, nestled along the Oirase Stream in Aomori, will begin serving "Oirase Kokodama Ice" from June 5 to August 30, 2026, on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The dessert takes inspiration from the stream's iconic natural moss balls (kokodama), recreating their formation through a layered shaved ice experience paired with five thematic condiments and an original drink.
Hoshino Resorts Aomori 20th Anniversary
In November 2025, Hoshino Resorts marked 20 years of operations in Aomori Prefecture. To celebrate, three properties — Aomoriya, Oirase Keiryu Hotel, and Kai Tsugaru — are offering special programs under the theme "A Trip Full of Love for Aomori."
Aomori 20th Anniversary Special Site
Feature 1: A One-of-a-Kind Shaved Ice Shaped Like a Natural Moss Ball
The humid climate and valley topography of the Oirase Stream nurture more than 300 species of moss, carpeting even the surface of rocks in lush green. The iconic kokodama — mounded shapes formed by layers of moss and plants growing atop one another — inspired the design of the shaved ice. The outer layer is a soft, fluffy mound of matcha- and herb-scented ice representing the moss. Dig in with a spoon and a rich brownie and crumble appear beneath, representing the bedrock underlying the moss. It is a single dish that lets guests eat, see, and learn about the natural wonder of the Oirase Stream.
Feature 2: Five Condiments Depicting the Formation of a Moss Ball
The natural kokodama of the Oirase Stream trace their origins to pyroclastic flows that poured down from Mt. Hakkoda and solidified into bedrock. Moss then took hold on the rock surface, building up soil. Seeds carried by birds germinated and grew into trees, creating the layered, cyclical landscape visible today. Five condiments are prepared to let guests experience this grand natural history through taste:
A bird-shaped cookie and nuts evoke the wild birds that carry seeds through the forest.
Chocolate puffs represent the seeds of trees.
Fresh herbs capture the moment of new growth and sprouting life.
A yogurt sauce represents decomposed plant matter returning to the soil.
Warabimochi (bracken-starch jelly) brings to mind the glistening, moisture-wrapped moss of the stream. Together, these elements recreate the long history of the Oirase landscape in a single tasting experience.
Feature 3: An Original Drink Evoking the Cool Scenery of the Oirase Stream
Each summer, a cold, moist sea fog called "Yamase"* rolls in from the Pacific Ocean, cooling the Oirase valley and casting dappled light through the canopy of deciduous broadleaf trees. An original herbal tea soda has been created to capture this refreshing scene. Lemongrass green tea is lifted with green spices, mint, and lime, evoking the crisp air of a moss-breathing forest. Enjoyed alongside the shaved ice, the pairing offers a complete immersion in the story of the stream's ancient forest.
*Yamase: a cold, humidity-laden sea fog that blows into the Tohoku region between June and August.
"Oirase Kokodama Ice" Details
- Period: Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, June 5 to August 30, 2026
- Time: 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM
- Price: ¥3,850 (tax included)
- Includes: Kokodama shaved ice, condiments, and drink
- Venue: Keiryu Terrace
- Capacity: 10 guests
- Reservations: Required by 1:00 PM the day before; book via the official website
- Note: May move indoors in the event of bad weather
Related Activities at Oirase Keiryu Hotel
Moss Suite Room
This one-of-a-kind guest room is designed entirely around the theme of moss. Real moss appears in the living room walls and underfloor features, creating a space where guests feel surrounded by the verdant textures of the stream.
Moss Morning
Guests staying in the Moss Suite Room can enjoy a special breakfast called "Moss Morning." The signature smørrebrød (Scandinavian-style open-faced sandwich) features avocado, arugula, and other ingredients arranged to evoke the sight of moss growing on rocks along the stream.
*Smørrebrød: an open-faced sandwich originating from Scandinavia.
Moss Walk
Accompanied by a Keiryu (stream) Concierge, guests spend about two and a half hours walking roughly 1 km along the middle reaches of the Oirase Stream — a stretch that normally takes about 30 minutes. Using spray bottles and magnifying glasses, participants observe the micro-world of moss up close. The concierge explains the structure, ecology, and relationship of moss to the broader forest, making this an engaging activity for curious minds.
Moss Ball Making Experience
In this in-hotel workshop, guests create their own kokodama using moss, ferns, maples, beeches, and other plants found in the Oirase area. The finished kokodama can be taken home as a living souvenir of the trip. (All plant materials are sourced from licensed nursery suppliers.)
Moss Art Wall in the Public Area
Displayed in the Keiryu-BASE lounge is a massive moss art installation approximately 8.5 meters wide and 2 meters tall, using seven real moss species native to the Oirase Stream, including Leucobryum juniperoideum and Hypnum plumaeforme. Guests can touch the moss, feel its soft texture, and use magnifying glasses to explore its intricate details.
About Oirase Keiryu Hotel by Hoshino Resorts
Oirase Keiryu Hotel is the only resort hotel located directly along the Oirase Stream. An open-air bath looking out over the stream and a lobby featuring a monumental fireplace by artist Taro Okamoto are among its standout features. The hotel operates under the concept of "Keiryu Slow Life," encouraging guests to slow down and immerse themselves in the stream's natural surroundings.
- Address: 231 Tochikubo, Okuse, Towada City, Aomori Prefecture 034-0301
- Access: Approximately 90 minutes by car from JR Hachinohe Station (free shuttle bus available, reservations required)
- Official Website: https://hoshinoresorts.com/ja/hotels/oirasekeiryu/
