【The Ritz-Carlton Nikko】Welcoming Mr. Hiroyasu Kayama from "Bar BenFiddich," a one-night-only event, "Bartender Crossover vol.7," will be held on Saturday, March 30th.

Ranked 37th in "THE WORLD’S 50 BEST BARS 2023" and 4th in "ASIA’S 50 BEST BARS 2023," it stands as a unique cocktail bar that enthusiasts from around the world aspire to visit.

"The Ritz-Carlton Nikko" (located at 2482 Nakagū Shrine, Nikkō, Tochigi, General Manager: Alexander Westwood MacBride) has been hosting the event "Bartender Crossover" since last year, inviting the next generation of bartenders leading the global bar culture from some of Japan's highly acclaimed bars. In 2024, for the seventh edition of the event, they are bringing in the owner and bartender, Hiroyasu Kayama, from the unique cocktail bar "Bar BenFiddich," which ranked 37th in "THE WORLD’S 50 BEST BARS 2023" and 4th in "ASIA’S 50 BEST BARS 2023." The event will take place on March 30th (Saturday) for one night only, offering an exceptional experience that enthusiasts from around the world would desire to visit.

Mr. Kayama has been selected as one of the "BAR WORLD 100 – The industry’s most influential figures," chosen by the UK beverage specialist magazine 'Drinks International.' He is recognized as a bartender who garners intense attention from bar enthusiasts both domestically and internationally. Hailing from his hometown of Hiki District, Saitama Prefecture, where he was born and raised, Mr. Kayama owns a field known as "BenFiddich Field," cultivating over 40 varieties of herbs, including European herbs and Japanese indigenous species such as Mugwort and Juniper Berry. Embracing the concept of "farm to glass," he creates truly unique botanical cocktails.

Additionally, Mr. Kayama, invited as a guest bartender from various countries worldwide, travels to the countries of origin of various spirits and liqueurs. Sometimes delving into old literature, he learns about the origins of various spirits, applying this knowledge to enhance his own creations.

In organizing the event, Mr. Kayama visited the local area of Nikko, encountering various plants native to the region. As a unique offering available only during this event, he will present the "Seasonal Forest" cocktail. This special concoction harmonizes the plants native to Nikko with those from the "BenFiddich Field," creating a one-of-a-kind drink with vivid aromas layered intricately. It is a beverage that captures the essence of spring in Nikko, and the opportunity to savor the world of cocktails expertly crafted by Mr. Kayama of "Bar BenFiddich." We invite you to indulge in this exclusive experience during the event.

"Bartender Crossover vol.7 / Bar BenFiddich - Kayama Hiroyasu"

【Date】March 30, 2024 (Saturday) 7:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (Last Order at 10:30 p.m.)
【Venue】The Ritz-Carlton Nikko, 1st Floor, "The Bar"
【Menu】Exclusive cocktails incorporating ingredients from Tochigi Prefecture, signature cocktails from "Bar BenFiddich," and a selection of non-alcoholic cocktails, offering a total of four unique options.
【Inquiries】0288-25-5776 (The Ritz-Carlton Nikko Restaurant Reservation Direct Line) Email: rc.nikko.RestaurantReservation@ritzcarlton.com (*Reservations are available)
【Online Reservation】https://bit.ly/3T26Ff1

Introduction to Event Cocktails

On the day of the event, we will be offering a total of four cocktails. Additional cocktails will be announced on the day of the event.

Seasonal Forest

• Price: ¥3,000
• Ingredients: Gin, Lime Juice, Honey, Soda, Seasonal Botanicals
• An arrangement of Gin Fizz, crafted by focusing on the diversity of plants native to Nikko and harmonizing them with the plants from the BenFiddich Field. A unique and one-of-a-kind drink that captures the vivid aromas representing the changing seasons, an expression that can only be experienced in this local setting.

Hiroyasu Kayama

Hailing from Saitama Prefecture, Hiroyasu Kayama worked in bars in Tokyo before opening "Bar BenFiddich" in Shinjuku in 2013. He owns a farm called "Kayama Farm" in Tokigawa Town, Saitama, and proudly identifies as a "farmer bartender" cultivating cocktail ingredients. Kayama, who cherishes nature, advocates for 'Farm to Glass,' transforming locally sourced herbs, bark, and spices into cocktails. Active as a guest bartender at international events, he has also been involved in the production of various alcoholic beverages.

Bar BenFiddich

The name of the bar originates from Mr. Kayama's Gaelic language, where "Ben" translates to "mountain," and "Fiddich" to "deer." It is a bar known for its use of various botanicals in aged herbal spirits, absinthe, and so-called root and bark infusions. Renowned globally, it secured the 37th position in "THE WORLD’S 50 BEST BARS 2023" and an impressive 4th place in "ASIA’S 50 BEST BARS 2023."

[Bar BenFiddich Official Instagram]

https://www.instagram.com/benfiddich_tokyo/.

The Ritz-Carlton Nikko "The Bar"

Designed with the concept of a "Whisky Bar," the interior is adorned with shelves decorated with ceramic tiles, where whisky bottles are artfully displayed. Featuring a collection ranging from top-tier selections like "Ichiro's Malt" and "Hibiki" to exquisite whiskies from across Japan, including the "Akkanbe Distillery" in Hokkaido, the foothills of Mount Fuji's "Gotemba Distillery," and Okinawa's oldest "Shinzato Shuzo," the bar showcases carefully curated whiskies from around the world.

In this refined and relaxing space filled with pleasant music, The Bar offers signature cocktails inspired by local spirits and the rich nature and culture of Nikko. Additionally, award-winning cocktails from the "Marriott International Cocktail Competition" are served, creating a glamorous atmosphere for a delightful time.

[Official Website]
https://thebar.ritzcarltonnikko.com/.

About The Ritz-Carlton Nikko

Located on the picturesque shores of Lake Chuzenji with the majestic Mount Nantai, revered as a sacred mountain in the mountain-worshipping tradition, in full view, The Ritz-Carlton Nikko is the first luxury hotel in Tochigi Prefecture, nestled within the Nikko National Park. Harmonizing with the untouched nature of Oku-Nikko, the hotel offers a total of 94 spacious guest rooms, including 10 suites, providing panoramic views of the changing seasons.

Indulge in diverse cuisine featuring locally sourced ingredients at the Western and Japanese restaurants, enjoy a selection of whiskies from across the country at the bar, and experience relaxation at the spa and fitness studio that heighten the senses. The hotel also features an onsen facility drawing from the source of the Yumoto Onsen, a hot spring long cherished by the local community. The commitment to onsen is the first of its kind for The Ritz-Carlton brand, aiming to provide guests with an authentic Japanese experience.

Nikko, known for the UNESCO World Heritage site "Shrines and Temples of Nikko," is a popular destination celebrated for its rich nature, traditional culture, and ancient history. The hotel is within walking distance of the majestic Kegon Falls, one of Japan's Three Great Waterfalls. Discover the hidden charms of Nikko and partake in various activities that offer experiences in nature, culture, and spirituality.