Soothe the stress of work and escape urban life.

First Impressions As the first Hoshino Resorts property in mainland China, Hoshino Resorts KAI Tiantai opened in 2021. Nestled at an altitude of 800 meters in Shiliang Town, Zhejiang’s Tiantai Mountain, it blends seamlessly into the natural surroundings with understated elegance. The mountain road is adorned with blooming Litsea cubeba, adding a splash of color to the journey. Upon arrival, the hotel’s unique design immediately stands out. It features separate reception and lobby areas, offering a private space for check-in. Stepping through the entrance feels like leaving the mundane world behind. Staff at the reception converse in Japanese and the soft local dialect, while refreshing wagashi (Japanese sweets) and tea are served to ease travel fatigue. Room Ambiance Each guestroom embodies the Zen concept of "purifying the six senses," free from excessive details or bold colors, allowing guests to unwind from daily stresses and rejuvenate amidst history and nature. The rooms are tranquil and comfortable, with floor-to-ceiling windows, elegant Chinese-style furniture, and warm lighting that promotes relaxation. Pre-placed on the bed are handmade ramie homewear (a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage item), along with matching shoes and soft socks, showcasing thoughtful attention to detail. Zen Activities Morning Baduanjin: In the morning, I changed into the hotel-provided meditation attire and joined the Baduanjin session. By the Yangyun Pool, where the sky meets the water, I overlooked the rolling mountains and followed the instructor’s rhythm. The fresh air and serene environment immersed me fully, energizing and calming me for the day ahead. Evening Zen Meditation: At night, I participated in a Zen meditation session in a tranquil setting. Closing my eyes, I let go of distractions, focused on my breath, and embraced inner peace. This return to the natural rhythm of "rising with the sun and resting at sunset" revitalized both body and mind through ancient timekeeping practices. Trip to Guoqing Temple Itinerary The hotel’s prime location makes Guoqing Temple easily accessible, with a 20–30 minute drive. The hotel also arranges transportation for guests. The winding mountain road offers scenic views, and the temple is reached swiftly. Impressions of Guoqing Temple Guoqing Temple is the birthplace of the Tiantai School, the earliest Buddhist sect in China, founded here during the Sui Dynasty. The renowned monk Jianzhen visited before his voyage to Japan, where he later established the Japanese Tiantai School. Thus, Guoqing Temple is revered as the ancestral temple by Japanese Buddhists. The temple’s architecture is simple yet majestic, with a solemn atmosphere and bustling incense offerings. Strolling through, one can feel the weight of its millennia-old history and the profundity of Buddhist culture. Other Hotel Experiences Culinary Delights Breakfast: Guests can select their breakfast the day before, choosing from Chinese, Japanese, or Western set menus. A semi-buffet station offers fruits, vegetables, mains, and desserts to cater to all tastes. Signature Dish: The Chinese restaurant’s sand garlic bean noodles are a must-try, delicious enough to order every meal. Leisure Activities Tea Lounge and Library: The lobby lounge provides panoramic mountain views and all-day tea service. The library houses over 1,500 volumes of the Siku Quanshu, perfect for cultural immersion during downtime. Photo Experience: The hotel offers complimentary photoshoots. Dressing in traditional attire transports you back in time, with meticulous makeup and photography creating unforgettable memories. This stay at Hoshino Resorts KAI Tiantai, combining Zen practices and a visit to Guoqing Temple, was profoundly rewarding. The hotel’s exceptional service, unique design, and diverse activities allowed me to unwind in nature and culture, while the temple’s deep history and spiritual heritage cleansed my soul. An unforgettable journey—I eagerly await my next visit.