The person who kindly agreed to be interviewed for the "CHALIE Invites You to an Extraordinary Experience at Kinugawa Kanaya Hotel" local departure and arrival accommodation plan, organized by Shinjuku Isetan Travel, was Joji Kanaya, President and CEO of Kanaya Hotel Tourism Co., Ltd.

John Kanaya, whose real name is Senji Kanaya, founded the Kinugawa Kanaya Hotel in 1978. He is the grandson of Zenichiro Kanaya, the founder of the Nikko Kanaya Hotel, Japan's oldest resort hotel. His grandson, Yuji, has inherited Senji's spirit. Now, let's talk about this Isetan Men's x Charlie Weiss x Kinugawa Kanaya Hotel collaboration.

Now, receive your key "CHALIE VICE" and head to your room with a breathtaking view.

The special plan available from October 7th (Saturday) to November 25th (Saturday) is set at the Kinugawa Kanaya Hotel. When you think of Kinugawa, the first thing that comes to mind is its stunning gorge scenery and autumn foliage, among the best in Japan.

--The Kinugawa River area is full of attractions from autumn to winter.

Autumn is beautiful with its vibrant foliage, and the boarding point for the Kinugawa River cruise is right in front of our hotel, allowing you to enjoy the stunning scenery of the gorge. The Yomeimon Gate of Nikko Toshogu Shrine, which has just undergone major repairs for the first time in about 40 years, is about a 25-minute drive away, and you can easily extend your trip to Lake Chuzenji, located at the entrance to Oku-Nikko. In addition, Tobu Railway operates the SL "Taiki" steam locomotive on the Kinugawa Line between Shimo-Imaichi and Kinugawa Onsen, and it's truly impressive to see it in motion.

--Please tell me about Kinugawa Kanaya Hotel.

Our hotel was founded by John Kanaya Senji, and it is a resort hotel in a valley setting that combines his spirit with a modern and sophisticated space and service. The entire hotel was renovated in 2012, and we strive to provide service that blends Japanese aesthetics with Western functionality, embodying the concept of "Wa-Kei-Yo-San" (respect for Japanese aesthetics and appreciation for Western functionality).

*From Tuesday, September 19th to Tuesday, October 3rd, a promotion will be held at Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building 8th floor = Isetan Men's Residence, in cooperation with Eldorado, the company that furnished the John Kanaya Suite at the Kinugawa Kanaya Hotel. The promotion will recreate the atmosphere of the Kinugawa Kanaya Hotel, creating a high-quality space where Japanese and Western styles harmonize.

What are the similarities between Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building and Kinugawa Kanaya Hotel?

—How is the concept of "harmony, respect, and appreciation of the West" embodied?

Our hotel, themed "East Meets West," aims to be a place where the traditions of Western and Japanese cultures merge and blend. Although it is a resort hotel, it has a unique story that sets it apart, and I personally think it's similar to Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building .

—So, there are similarities between Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building and Kinugawa Kanaya Hotel?

Yes, that's right. I love Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building , so I come here often. They really put thought into their brand story, every floor is interesting, and you always find something new. I think the world view of dandyism, full of the "spirit of hospitality" and "aesthetics" that we aim for, and the comfortable atmosphere are similar, so I've always wondered if I could work with Charlie Weiss someday.


—Indeed, Kinugawa Kanaya Hotel has the atmosphere of a "man's hideaway."

Yes, you can see the attention to detail from a male perspective and the fusion of Japanese and Western styles throughout the building, such as the cigar lounge and the arrangement of a bed in a Japanese-style room. Also, please take a look at the finer details, from the artwork such as "Dance of the Heavenly Maiden" in the entrance that welcomes visitors, to the old Noritake ashtrays that belong to our family.

—How can one enjoy the world of dandyism?

We recommend using our cigar salon and other services when couples come together, with the hope of helping the husband look his best. So please come prepared to dress up and enjoy this plan.

What are the inherited spirits of hospitality and the shortcuts to becoming a hotel expert for enjoying your travels?