Violinist Momoko Arai Talks About Nature, Her Dog, and Music | あさま空山望 5th Anniversary Story – Vol. 01
"あさま空山望," nestled at the foot of Mount Asama and surrounded by lush nature
As we celebrate our 5th anniversary, we’ll be speaking with people who have been connected to this place in various ways to hear about their experiences at あさま空山望 and the moments they hold dear.
We spoke with violinist Momoko Arai, who has been organizing “Concerts to Enjoy with Your Dog” at あさま空山望.
The sounds of birds, the rustling of the wind, and sometimes even the voices of her beloved dogs become part of the music—. We spoke with her about the unique charm of performances that can only be created in nature, her daily life with her dogs, and her feelings toward あさま空山望.
Momoko Arai
Violinist. She loves dogs and music, and captivates many people with her delicate and warm tone. To date, she has released four original albums. Known for songs such as “Sora Yama Nozomi” and “LINO,” she places great importance on performances that resonate with nature and their surroundings.On Saturday, October 17, and Sunday, October 18, 2026, we will host the "Autumn Foliage Concert with Your Dog," featuring Momoko Arai.
We welcome not only dog lovers but also anyone who enjoys music.
Table of Contents
Being Together −Being Together—
A moment I cherish at the start of each day
Photo by @sasaki_photo
What values and aspects of your time are most important to you, Ms. Arai, in your daily life and work?
I make the most of my mornings.
My morning routine—which sets me up for a great day—is taking my dog for a walk and stopping by a café for a break.
Breathing in the fresh morning air and refreshing my mind and body—this is a very important time for me.
The luxury of “having nothing to do—in a good way”
What was your first impression when you visited あさま空山望 for the first time?
I was deeply moved to find myself surrounded by nature and to wake up to the sound of birds singing.
I woke up naturally and early, and it was a very pleasant way to start the day.
An environment where “there’s nothing to do—in a good way” feels like a real luxury, and when I just let nature take its course, I feel as though toxins are being flushed from my body and mind, and I’m regaining my energy.
In an instant, I was hooked on あさま空山望.
The sounds of birds, insects, and even my dog become music.
How does performing in a natural setting—especially with your dogs by your side—differ from performing in a concert hall?
When you play in a place surrounded by nature, you can hear the sounds of birds and insects. Those sounds become part of the music, too.
I pay close attention to my customers' faces, but I look at my dogs' faces even more (lol).
Some dogs tilt their heads at sounds they’ve never heard before, while others cheer on the crowd with “Woof, woof!” during the applause—and some even fall asleep because it feels so good.
I find those adorable little gestures—which you don’t usually see at regular concerts—really soothing.
The owners are also listening while enjoying seeing their dogs do things they don't usually do.
I hope you all make wonderful memories—that’s what I always hope for with this “Concerts to Enjoy with Your Dog” series.
unobstructed view
Nozomi Sorayama｜Momoko Arai MV
Autumn Foliage Concert Reel
*MV was recorded on the ASAMA KUZANBO walkway "Way of the Sky" with a view of Mt. AsamaLINO
Momoko Arai / LINO (Live performance to celebrate the release of her 3rd album "LINO")
To あさま空山望, Celebrating Its 5th Anniversary
Please share a message for あさま空山望 as it celebrates its 5th anniversary. Also, please tell us what you find appealing about Nozomi Sorayama based on your visits so far, and if there’s anything in particular you like about her.。
Congratulations on your 5th anniversary!
I'm always impressed by the wonderful setting, the delicious food, and the hospitality.
I love that the villa-style accommodations ensure plenty of private time, the quality and variety of the meals, and—above all—the fact that I can enjoy the natural surroundings and my stay here with my dog.
Please continue to be a wonderful place that brings healing to people.
It will always be one of my favorite places.
Music Performed Once Again by あさま空山望 This Fall
Please tell us what makes this concert special and which pieces you’d like the audience to pay special attention to.
On July 22, 2026, I released my fourth album, *Gift*. The song ”Gift,” featured on the album, is a melody that expresses how the smiles, love, insights, and all the scenery my beloved dog shared with me are the greatest gifts she gave us humans throughout her life as a dog. Actually, this song was inspired by Sakura, my Standard Poodle who passed away last year—and she was here with me at this concert last year. I hope Sakura is listening to this right here at あさま空山望.
We hope that the smiles and the bond between the owners and their dogs at this concert will remain in your memories as a precious gift.
Going to My First Concert with My Dog
Please share a message for those attending a classical concert for the first time, as well as anyone considering bringing their dog along.
This concert will feature a mix of classical pieces and original compositions. I’m sure there will be some classical pieces you’ll recognize. Thanks to the wonderful arrangements by pianist Dai Sakakibara—whose pop-inspired style is truly captivating—the stuffy image of classical music will be completely transformed, and I’m sure you’ll enjoy the performance. It’s absolutely fine if your dog barks or doesn’t sit still! Please feel free to come along with your dog!
"あさま空山望present Autumn Foliage Concert"—Enjoy It with Your Dog or Other Pet
On Saturday, October 17, and Sunday, October 18, 2026, we will once again host our fall concert where you can enjoy the music with your dog.
Enjoy a piano trio featuring Momoko Arai (violin), Dai Sakakibara (piano), and Kohei Morita (double bass) amidst the autumn colors of Kitakaruizawa’s natural scenery.
Launched in 2024, this marks the fourth edition of the event. As we celebrate our 5th anniversary this year, in addition to the concert, we’re offering a variety of activities you can enjoy with your dog, such as yoga and nose work.
＜愛犬と楽しむ紅葉コンサート＞
Event Schedule(2 times total)
Saturday, October 17, 2026 – Evening Performance: Doors open at 4:00 p.m.; Show starts at 4:30 p.m.
Sunday, October 18, 2026, Matinee: Doors open at 11:00 a.m., Show starts at 11:30 a.m.venue Sky Deck Dining Terrace
Performing Artists Piano Trio: Momoko Arai [violin] / Kohei Morita [double bass] / Dai Sakakibara [piano]
Free for elementary school students and younger, dogs, and guests staying in あさま空山望 rooms; 1,500 yen for adults
Includes one hot beverage
Charity Concertwill be donated to the animal welfare organization "Casa"す
This concert, now in its fourth year, is being held as a charity event for the animal welfare organization “CAHSA (Casa),” and a portion of the admission fees will be donated to support their efforts to rescue dogs and cats. “CAHSA (Casa)” is active primarily in the Kansai region, and with your support, we are helping to protect the lives of these animals.
"Tenku Dai Dining" Restaurant
Address: 2032-2577 ASAMA KUZANBO, Kitakaruizawa, Naganohara-machi, Agatsuma-gun, Gunma
Access 40 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station North Exit
Google Maps Home Page
On the day of the concert, the dog park will also be open to the public.
5th Anniversary Story
To celebrate the 5th anniversary of あさま空山望, we’ll be sharing messages from people who have been involved with this site once a month.
Please look forward to the next installment of our 5th Anniversary Story.
