[Oirase Keiryu Hotel] Edible Moss Balls Debut! Introducing 'Oirase Kokedama Ice', a Shaved Ice Dessert that Stimulates Intellectual Curiosity by Replicating the Formation of Oirase Gorge's Natural Moss Balls

The 'Oirase Kokedama Ice', an edible moss ball, makes its debut at 'Oirase Keiryu Hotel by Hoshino Resorts', located along the Oirase Gorge in Aomori Prefecture. Available exclusively on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from June 5 to August 30, 2026, this shaved ice stimulates intellectual curiosity by replicating the formation of the natural moss balls that represent Oirase Gorge. Guests can enjoy shaved ice modeled after a natural moss ball along with five types of condiments that express its grand formation process. Paired with an original drink inspired by the cool scenery of Oirase Gorge in summer, it is a deep culinary experience that lets you trace the story woven by nature. About Hoshino Resorts Aomori Area 20th Anniversary In November 2025, Hoshino Resorts will celebrate its 20th anniversary of operations in Aomori Prefecture. To commemorate this, special events will be held at three facilities: Aomoriya, Oirase Keiryu Hotel, and KAI Tsugaru. Under the theme 'To an Aomori Trip Full of Love!', we will provide deeply satisfying moments through exceptional experiences packed with love for Aomori. Feature 1: A one-of-a-kind shaved ice that represents the natural 'moss balls' scattered throughout Oirase Gorge The moist climate and valley terrain of Oirase Gorge nurture over 300 species of moss, covering even the tops of rocks with a green moss carpet. The 'moss ball', where plants weave a landscape upon a foundation of moss, has been expressed in shaved ice so it can be enjoyed not only visually but also through taste. The expansive moss is recreated with fluffy ice fragrant with matcha and herbs. As you dig in with your spoon, rich brownies and crumbles representing the bedrock beneath the moss emerge. It is a special dish where you can eat, see, and learn about the mysteries of nature woven by natural moss balls. Feature 2: Five condiments expressing the formation process from moss growing on rocks to trees budding The natural moss balls scattered in Oirase Gorge originate from the land formed by pyroclastic flows from the Hakkoda Mountains. Moss attaches to that bedrock and creates soil. Seeds of plants carried by wild birds sprout there, and rich trees grow, creating a mystical landscape woven by the cycle of life over many years. To allow guests to taste this grand formation with all five senses, we have prepared five types of condiments. We offer cookies representing birds carrying seeds, chocolate puffs representing tree seeds, fresh herbs representing budding life, yogurt sauce representing plant humus, and warabimochi (bracken-starch dumplings) representing moss shining with humidity. Through these, you can enjoy a deep flavor that makes you feel as if you are reliving the history traced by the landscape of Oirase Gorge. Feature 3: An original drink inspired by the cool scenery of Oirase Gorge dotted with 'moss balls' In summer, a cool wind from the Pacific Ocean called 'Yamase' (*1) enters Oirase Gorge, and deciduous broad-leaved trees create shade. The cool scenery where fresh moss sparkles in the sunlight filtering through the trees is expressed in an original herb tea soda. Lemongrass green tea, green spices, mint, and lime create a gorgeous aroma, recreating the refreshing air of the breathing forest. When enjoyed with the shaved ice, you can savor the story of the forest spun over a long period with a refreshing aftertaste. *1 A cold, highly humid sea fog that blows into the Tohoku region from June to August. 'Oirase Kokedama Ice' Overview - Period: Limited to Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from June 5 to August 30, 2026 - Time: 14:00 - 15:00 - Price: 3,850 yen (tax included) - Includes: Moss ball shaved ice, condiments, drink - Location: Keiryu Terrace - Capacity: 10 people - Reservation: Required by 13:00 the day before via the official website (https://hoshinoresorts.com/en/hotels/oirasekeiryu/) - Note: In case of bad weather, it may be held indoors. Related Information A themed room...