The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto will celebrate its 10th anniversary of opening on February 17, 2024. The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto hotel staff has embarked on the “Original Sake Project,” focusing on rice cultivation to commemorate this significant milestone and celebrate with our esteemed guests who have supported us.
As a kickoff to the project, approximately 40 hotel staff members participated in the rice planting event held on June 6. The chosen location for rice cultivation is the Sagano area in Ukyo-ku, Kyoto, designated as a “Historic Preservation District.” This beautiful land has received special designation as a carefully selected area within the “Historic Preservation District” represented by the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism.
While the Sagano area has been historically known for rice cultivation and agriculture, recent challenges, such as the abandonment of farmland due to a lack of successors, have resulted in the gradual loss of the once-picturesque landscape with rice fields and swaying rice stalks. Concerns have also been raised regarding the ecological impact caused by the excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
This project focuses on environmentally friendly rice cultivation using local biomass compost, lactic acid bacteria, and organic bio-fertilizers. With the support of Add Plants Corporation (https://www.addplants.co.jp/), which received the “Excellent Business Award for Promoting Sustainable Tourism in Kyoto” from Kyoto City last year, we aim to create an environment that restores the beauty of the Sagano area by fostering habitats for water bugs and dragonflies in the rice fields and attracting fireflies in summer and dragonflies in autumn.
This project not only commemorates the 10th anniversary of our opening but also aligns with The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company’s ongoing social and environmental conservation efforts under the “Community Footprints” initiative.
The production of the original sake is planned in collaboration with Yamanashi Meijo Co., Ltd., which has a 300-year history of sake brewing in Yamanashi Prefecture, with the anticipated start of offering in late January 2024.
The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto 10th Anniversary “Original Sake Project” Schedule:
Rice Planting: June 6, 2023 (already completed)
Rice Harvesting: September to October 2023
Sake Brewing: October to November 2023
Shipment and Delivery: Late January 2024
*Please note that the schedule is subject to change without prior notice.
Rice field location: Saga area, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City
Sake brewing: Yamanashi Meijo Co., Ltd. 2283 Daigahara, Hakushu-cho, Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture
https://www.sake-shichiken.co.jp/
About The “Community Footprints”
The “Community Footprints” initiative is The Ritz-Carlton’s social and environmental responsibility commitment. It incorporates “expanding global social responsibility” into its service philosophy, long-term plans, and operational activities. This endeavor aims to promote the well-being of children, environmental stewardship, and alleviate hunger and poverty. For more detailed information, please visit the link: www.communityfootprints.com and follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/RitzCarltonCSR.
About The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto
Located alongside the Kamogawa River with breathtaking views of the Higashiyama Mountains, The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto is situated in the perfect location, close to lively areas such as Gion, Kawaramachi, and Pontocho, making it a convenient urban resort for both tourism and business. The architectural design harmonizes the fusion of traditional Japanese elements and contemporary Western style, blending seamlessly with the historic surroundings. With luxurious spaces adorned with the essence of Kyoto’s traditions and culture, we offer a unique and exquisite experience that cannot be found elsewhere. The hotel features 134 guest rooms, boasting an average room size of 50 square meters, the largest in Kyoto City, and provides a range of amenities, including restaurants, bars, banquet facilities, and a spa.
