“Hidetoshi Honjo Appointed as New Head Chef at SETOUCHI RETREAT by Onko Chishin”
A Journey into the Art and Taste of Japanese Cuisine, Illuminating the Region’s Beauty
SETOUCHI RETREAT by Onko Chishin, a small luxury hotel located in Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture, is pleased to announce the appointment of Hidetoshi Honjo as the new head chef. With a deep passion for Japanese cuisine and a commitment to exploring the region’s unique charm, Honjo brings his wealth of experience to a new stage at Setouchi Retreat.
Against the backdrop of Setouchi’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, Honjo presents guests with an extraordinary culinary experience that marries exquisite presentation with delicate flavors.
About the Head Chef, Hidetoshi Honjo
Born in Osaka in 1970, Hidetoshi Honjo began his culinary journey at the age of 15. Honing his skills at traditional kappo restaurants in Osaka and prestigious hotels in Kurashiki, he further developed his expertise under Fujio Sato at the Hotel Associa Takayama Resort in Hida Takayama. Honjo served as head chef at the same hotel for eight years before taking on the role of head chef at the luxury ryokan Sanga in Atami.
In 2020, Honjo joined Onko Chishin, where he has since contributed to the culinary experiences at facilities such as Iki Retreat Kairi, Hakone Retreat villa 1/f, Goto Retreat, and Rebun Tourism Hotel Sakisou. Honjo has also played a key role in nurturing young chefs.
As of September 2024, Honjo steps into his new role as head chef at Setouchi Retreat. For his first time working in Ehime Prefecture, he aims to create unforgettable dining experiences using local ingredients and embracing the spirit of teamwork. Honjo is committed to pushing the boundaries of Japanese cuisine, crafting dishes that embody the essence of Matsuyama and Setouchi.
Expressing the Light of the Region on Each Plate
Honjo’s philosophy centers on “elevating the light of the region through culinary experiences.” Utilizing the finest local ingredients, he creates visually stunning Japanese dishes that tell a story of the seasons and the land’s history.
In collaboration with local farmers, fish markets, and producers, Honjo expresses the seasonal bounty and traditions of Setouchi through his cuisine. He also seeks to harmonize his creations with the artistic spaces of the hotel, designed by the renowned architect Tadao Ando. Honjo embraces innovative culinary styles, incorporating Western aesthetics and elements to craft groundbreaking dishes.
“Without a collaborative relationship between chefs and service staff, it’s impossible to deliver truly exceptional cuisine,” Honjo explains. Guided by this belief, he and his team work closely to respect and maximize the potential of each ingredient, striving to create the perfect dish for every guest.
This dish was conceived through collaboration with sommelier Kazunori Imazu, embodying the synergy between the culinary and service teams.
“The addition of tarragon creates an aromatic accent, further enhancing the pairing with wine,” says Imazu.
This memorable creation highlights the unique style of Honjo, complemented by Imazu’s impeccable wine pairings, offering guests an unforgettable dining experience.
About Sommelier Kazunori Imazu
Born in Hyogo Prefecture in 1988, Kazunori Imazu began his career at Hotel New Otani Tokyo after graduating from culinary school. With extensive experience in various dining establishments, including Michelin-starred restaurants, bistros, wine bars, and izakayas, Imazu developed a distinctive service style.
In 2018, Imazu joined Onko Chishin, inspired by his family roots in Ehime Prefecture. He has since built strong connections with local sake breweries, discovering rare Japanese sakes unique to the region. Imazu’s expertly curated pairings of local sakes and international wines have earned him widespread acclaim and a loyal following.
Notably, Imazu is the first in Ehime Prefecture to achieve the prestigious JSA Sommelier Excellence certification.
About SETOUCHI RETREAT by Onko Chishin
- A Fusion of Art and Minimalist Luxury
Setouchi Retreat Aonagi is a small luxury hotel that blends art with the minimalist elegance of Tadao Ando’s architecture. Originally opened as part art museum, the building was renovated under Ando’s supervision in December 2015 to become an all-suite hotel with just seven rooms.
The hotel’s concept of “Minimal Luxury” is showcased through its serene spaces adorned with art pieces, exquisite kaiseki dining crafted from seasonal Setouchi ingredients, two indoor and outdoor pools, and Shikoku’s first full-service luxury spa.
Facility Overview:
- Name: SETOUCHI RETREAT by Onko Chishin
- Address: 794-1 Yanagidani, Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture 790-2641
- Phone: +81 89-977-9500
- Rooms: 7 suites
- General Manager: Hitomi Shimoshiku
- Access: 50 minutes by car from Matsuyama Airport, 35 minutes from JR Matsuyama Station. Paid airport transfers available.
Official Website: Setouchi Retreat Aonagi
About Onko Chishin Co., Ltd.
Founded in February 2011, Onko Chishin specializes in the management, production, and consulting of hotels and ryokans. Known for operating unique and destination-worthy facilities, the company is dedicated to creating unparalleled travel experiences.
For more information, visit: Onko Chishin Official Site
