TOKYO (TR) – The purchase earlier this year by Shibuya Ward of an inn in Shizuoka Prefecture to be used as by senior citizens is raising concerns as the establishment had been featured in a number of adult videos (AV), it was revealed on Thursday, reports the Yomiuri Shimbun (May 16).
The ward bought the land and buildings of the 3,300-square-meter Kikusuikan hot springs resort, located in the seaside area of Kawazu, in April with the intention that it be used for retreats for senior citizens.
“We had no idea (about its past as a film-shoot location),” says a ward representative. “It had no influence on the purchase.”
The five-floor structure has 26 rooms, some of which provided a backdrop in the shooting of at least 11 AV productions by label Moodyz between 2006 and 2013, according to weekly tabloid Friday. The films were a part of the label’s “Bako Bako Bus Tour” series.
“We used it for a number of shoots,” confirms a representative from the company.
In a screenshot provided by Friday, naked performers can be seen frolicking in the inn’s pool.
Opening targeted for October
Constructed in 1927, Kikusuikan ceased operations in March after experiencing financial difficulties.
Shibuya Ward had been utilizing a similar facility for retreats in Kanagawa Prefecture. However, making reservations became difficult. A budget of 228 million yen was set aside this year for the purchase of the inn — priced, according to Friday, at 110 million yen — and renovation of its buildings, with a target of October for its opening.
A ward assemblyman, however, is concerned. “I wonder if citizens will want to use it,” says the assemblyman.
The ward spokesperson defends the purchase. “It does not matter what [the inn] was used for in the past,” says the representative. “We must proceed with creating peace of mind for residents who come to visit.”
