NOT A HOTEL KITAKARUIZAWA IRORI blends wood and glass amid japanese woodland

inside NOT A HOTEL KITAKARUIZAWA IRORI

Nestled amid a 20,000 square-meter forest in the Gunma Prefecture of Japan, NOT A HOTEL KITAKARUIZAWA IRORI has officially opened to guests this summer. Featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and high side lights, the retreat is an oasis of wood and glass; its name recalls the distinctive irori, a traditional Japanese sunken hearth, which is the centerpiece of this hidden property. It also houses two intimate bedrooms (with eight beds) and two bathrooms, alongside a living-dining area, all framing expansive views of the surrounding forest. 

all images © Kenta Hasegawa

recreating japan’s traditional sunken hearth

The central gathering space at NOT A HOTEL KITAKARUIZAWA IRORI welcomes intimate gatherings; guests can reserve private dinners featuring irori cuisine, complete with flickering flames and a backdrop of forest scenery. One of the two buildings is a pet-friendly model, featuring a dog run. Complementing the irori is a living-dining area, designed as an open, airy space within the retreat, extending to the terrace through floor-to-ceiling windows; the large dining table comfortably seats up to eight people. 

NOT A HOTEL KITAKARUIZAWA IRORI nestles amid a 20,000 sqm forest in Japan

meditative rooms and rejuvenating open-air baths

The bedrooms, meanwhile, are equipped with a spacious desk, creating a perfect setting for quiet contemplation or focused work. As for the bathrooms, the retreat has purpose built them for ultimate relaxation. Guests at NOT A HOTEL KITAKARUIZAWA IRORI can enjoy the stone bath carved from a large rock and brimming with rejuvenating natural hot spring waters. Open the doors, and the bathroom becomes a semi-open-air bath surrounded by forest. The bathing area also features a sauna, cold bath, and outdoor relaxation space.

a gathering space inspired by Japan’s traditional sunken hearth

The newly-opened Japanese retreat an be reached in either two ways. As a first option, guests are welcome to take a train from Tokyo to the Karuizawa Station, a duration of 75 minutes, and continue the rest of the journey by car, which takes about 35 minutes. Alternatively, they can drive non-stop from Tokyo and reach the location in 170 minutes. Booking are currently sold out for the summer period. 

an oasis of wood and glass

open the doors, and the bathroom becomes a semi-open-air bath

each bedroom features a study desk

framing scenic views of the forest

project info:

name: NOT A HOTEL KITAKARUIZAWA IRORI | @notahotel_official

location: 2286-340 Hosohara, Oaza Omae, Tsumagoi Village, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture, Japan

photographer: Kenta Hasegawa | @kentahasegawa

built area: 326.02 sqm 

site area: 20,000 sqm

program: 8 beds, 2 bathrooms