Interview
We interviewed Shiraiwa Ryo from the Sales Support Team at Kurashiki International Hotel.
This interview features content from the initial coverage conducted in October 2021.
There are many art pieces in the building, aren't there?
Shiraiwa
Yes, you can see them up close.
In the same lobby, there are works by Kojima Torajiro, who collected pieces that form the foundation of the Ohara Museum of Art, and his great-grandson Kojima Shintaro.
Coincidentally, the works were created exactly 100 years apart.
Since the renewal in 2019, we have displayed Hojyo Takako's "Guardian god – Takahashigawa" at the entrance.
This oil painting depicts the Takahashi River flowing through Kurashiki City, created specifically for Kurashiki International Hotel.
Hojyo Takako is an invited artist in the Artist-in-Residence program by the Ohara Museum of Art.
Her work is also featured in the article "Special Opening of Yurin-so in Spring 2019: A Display Enjoying the Green of the Roof, Works, and Garden".
In the accommodation area, there are ceramic works by Funaki Kenji, who studied under Bernard Leach, and works by his child Funaki Shinji.
Is there a deep connection with the Ohara Museum of Art?
Shiraiwa
Kurashiki International Hotel and the Ohara Museum of Art are separate organizations, but there is a connection with the Ohara family, and the relationship is still strong.
We create special lunches themed around the works of the Ohara Museum of Art, and Kurashiki International Hotel handles weddings at the Ohara Museum of Art, so we collaborate as well.
In September 2021, we offered a Monet morning plan.
After enjoying a private morning tour of the Ohara Museum of Art with a special guide to view Monet's "Water Lilies," guests could enjoy a special morning meal at the hotel featuring recipes from the recipe book "Monet's Table."
Additionally, for those staying with us, we sell advance tickets to the Ohara Museum of Art at a discounted price of 1,300 yen instead of the usual 1,500 yen.
We also carry some museum merchandise.
Are there any efforts to help guests experience the industries of Kurashiki?
Shiraiwa
The textile industry created the economic foundation of Kurashiki.
We display tapestries made from representative products of the textile industry, such as canvas, tatami edging, Sanada cord, and denim at the landings of each staircase.
This shows our respect for each textile product and our intention to live together with the community.
What points do you pay attention to in order to meet customer trust?
Shiraiwa
We strive to provide a relaxing service for our guests.
To maintain the level of service, we are diligently training our staff.
Additionally, to improve the English conversation skills of our service staff, we invite external instructors twice a month for English conversation lessons.
Currently (September 2021), due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there is not much demand, but we continue this practice.
There is support within the company for obtaining qualifications, so those who want to study beyond English conversation can do so in a supportive atmosphere.
What is your personal favorite part of the hotel building?
Shiraiwa
The hotel's logo, a hexagon, is incorporated in various places throughout the hotel.
In the staircases, at the entrance of the restaurant, and in other places.
At first, I didn't notice it, but guests who are interested in architecture pointed it out to me.
In 2019, the hotel underwent its first full closure since opening for longevity renovations. What kind of renovations were they?
Shiraiwa
These renovations aim to create a "hotel that lasts for 100 years."
The main focus was on seismic retrofitting.
Additionally, although not visible from the outside, we significantly replaced aging plumbing.
Furthermore, the entire building's air conditioning was changed to individual air conditioning, allowing guests to freely adjust the temperature of their air conditioning.
There are also parts that we chose to keep, even though we could have made them new.
In Europe, buildings that are hundreds of years old are still in use, right?
At Kurashiki International Hotel, we hope guests can enjoy a historic building without it becoming too outdated.
Are there things that have not changed since the establishment of the hotel, aside from the building?
Shiraiwa
There are items on the grand menu of the restaurant that have not changed.
History cannot be changed with money.
I imagine the hotel is in a difficult situation due to the impact of COVID-19. What measures are you taking?
Shiraiwa
We are thoroughly taking precautions to prevent the spread of infection within the hotel, such as disinfection and ventilation.
Additionally, in the restaurant, we have created bento boxes for takeout and delivery.
Delivery is available for orders of five or more, but only in the vicinity of Kurashiki, and we have been utilizing it for events.
While the business side is very challenging, we have a tradition built by our predecessors, and we aim to keep it alive.
All of our staff are working hard to ensure that guests who come to us are truly satisfied.
Spend Time at a Hotel Walking with Kurashiki
Kurashiki International Hotel, which has an international perspective while blending into the local community and conveying its charm.
With the slogan "Heartfelt hospitality walking with Kurashiki," we welcome people.
The hotel serves as a gateway to tourism.
Having a reliable and dignified hotel at the entrance of the Bikan Historical Area allows me, as a citizen, to confidently say, "Come to Kurashiki."
In the lobby, gentle background music welcomes you along with numerous paintings.
Just climbing the stairs captivated me with the beauty of the curves of this magnificent architecture.
Stay in a room where you can feel the warmth of wood, or enjoy French cuisine.
Please spend a heartwarming time at Kurashiki International Hotel.
