As you may already know, Japan is now going through a very difficult time due to earthquakes and following tsunamis.

We really appreciate your concern for our safety. We also wish your family, friends and business associates in Japan are safe and sound.

We would like to inform you that both HOSHINOYA karuizawa and HOSHINOYA Kyoto were, very fortunately, not affected by the earthquakes at all. There were no damages on either property or injuries to the guests and the staffs.

HOSHINOYA Karuizawa also has been operating regularly, with some tremors felt on 11th and 12th. Karuizawa area was not in jeopardy since the epicenter was far. As of 12th, Nagano Shinkansen (bullet train) Line resumed its full operation and the all highways once closed for precaution are reopened.

HOSHINOYA Kyoto has been operating as calm and peaceful as usual along with other infrastructures such as Kansai Airport, all highways and railroads including bullet trains intact. Since it is located much far south from the affected areas, there have been no warnings or precautious measures issued.

The biggest concern for Japan now is the damaged nuclear power plant in Fukushima Prefecture. However, the technicians are working to avoid the worst possible scenarios and both HOSHINOYA Karuizawa and HOSHINOYA Kyoto have a safe distance, 250 km in a straight line away from the troubled power plant.

The good news is that all tsunami warnings have just been cancelled, and that the worst seems over now. We will report you as Japan fights to rise up once again and as situation unfolds further.

Again, thank you for your prayer and support, which we definitely in need for our sooner recovery.

Sincerely,

Hirokazu Sawada, General Manager, HOSHINOYA Karuizawa
Masae Kikuchi, General Manager, HOSHINOYA Kyoto