Auberge Day (Ōberuju no Hi)

What Is Auberge Day?

April 21 each year is "Auberge Day," established by the Japan Auberge Association, a group of auberge owners and chefs. The date commemorates April 21, 1986, when Japan's first full-fledged auberge, "Auberge au Mirador," opened in Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture. The day aims to share the appeal and culture of the auberge.

What Is an Auberge?

"Auberge" is French for "inn," and in this context refers to a restaurant with rooms to stay in. With cuisine at the center of the experience, an auberge is a place where guests can deeply savor local ingredients and culture during their stay—a style of accommodation that has been growing in popularity in Japan in recent years.

• Restaurant plus lodging: Dining takes center stage, with the overnight stay as an extension of the meal.
• Locally sourced cuisine: Course meals centered on local ingredients.
• Small-scale, high quality: Unlike large hotels, auberges offer quiet, refined stays.

Background and Origin of Auberge Day

The Japan Auberge Association works to share the appeal of auberges and regional food culture. April 21, the opening day of the Hakone auberge regarded as the beginning of full-fledged auberges in Japan, also carries the wish that people will start a wonderful journey as spring arrives.

• Established by: The Japan Auberge Association
• Origin of the date: The opening of "Auberge au Mirador" in Hakone on April 21, 1986
• Purpose: Sharing the appeal and culture of the auberge

Why Auberges Are Gaining Attention

An auberge is more than just a place to stay—it's valued as a "stay-and-savor culinary experience" that lets guests deeply engage with a region's food culture and nature.

• Taste the local charm: Enjoy seasonal ingredients and traditional dishes with a modern twist.
• A quiet setting: Often located in nature-rich areas, far from urban bustle.
• A destination in itself: Offers a new style of travel—"staying for the food."

Fun Facts About Auberges

• French origins: Originally simple inns for travelers, auberges evolved into establishments centered on fine dining.
• Growth in Japan: Starting with the 1986 opening in Hakone, auberges spread to nature-rich areas around the country.
• The chef takes center stage: At many auberges, the chef's philosophy and worldview shape the entire establishment.

Ideas for Auberge Day

• Stay at an auberge: Treat yourself to a luxurious trip centered on great food and quiet time.
• Cook with local ingredients: Bring the auberge spirit home by cooking with regional produce.
• Learn about local food culture: Research the unique ingredients and traditional dishes of a particular region.
• Read a chef's book or watch a documentary: Get a deeper sense of the passion and philosophy behind great cooking.

April 21: Where Fine Dining Meets Travel

Auberge Day is a reminder of the rich lifestyle of "traveling to enjoy food." The appeal of an auberge—savoring a region's nature and culture while spending unhurried time—offers a fresh perspective on busy daily life.

On April 21, take time to care for yourself through delicious food and a comfortable stay. You might just discover a new way to enjoy travel.