- 2025.04.10
- NEW: SSH Events 2025-2026 as of April 2025
Shishi-Iwa House is a collection of intimately crafted retreats, fusing a mastery of contemporary architecture, design and art with culinary tastemaking and a deep connection to nature.
Wrapped in wild forests and mountain peaks, Shishi-Iwa House Karuizawa is located in an idyllic resort town just an hour by train from Tokyo. It is home to three architectural masterpieces. SSH No.01 and SSH No.02 by Shigeru Ban opened in 2018 and 2022; SSH No.03 by Ryue Nishizawa in 2023. These are the first hotel projects for both Pritzker Prize-winning architects. Guests are able to stay at all three houses, which are a few minutes apart on foot.
Architecture has the power to impact emotions. The enhancement of both mental and physical well-being lies at the heart of Shishi-Iwa House. We offer a tailor-made program of events and activities throughout the year.
Just on its doorstep is a cornucopia of nature, with the retreat perfectly positioned to enjoy Karuizawa’s landscape, from national parks and bird sanctuaries to protected forests. Waterfall walks, forest bathing, bird watching plus seasonal cherry blossom and maple tree appreciation are among outdoor highlights.
Inside, guests can read art and architecture books from the Library, enjoy a hinoki-scented soak in the Bathhouse, relax with a shiatsu or ayurvedic massage, take part in meditation or tea rituals in the Teahouse and enjoy traditional sweets in the ochanoma Lounges. Art is also center stage, with an extensive private collection of paintings, woodblock prints and photography by a spectrum of acclaimed artists.
Shola, our restaurant at SSH No.02, serves contemporary Japanese-French cuisine, crafted with seasonal ingredients from local farms. Guests can also relax at The Forest Terrace with a matcha cappuccino or a signature SSH maple leaf tea. After dark, rare wines, whiskies and cocktails are served at The Bar.
Shishi-Iwa House offers a 21st-century lifestyle for active, sophisticated, creative individuals who enjoy a passion for design, art, quality food and drink and seasonal nature.
- Chef Retreat 2024 featured in CNA LUXURY 9th April 2025
- Where do top chefs go for a creative reset? This leafy resort in Karuizawa, Japan
- Shishi-Iwa House featured in The Telegraph 28th March 2025
- I escaped the tourist hordes in the ‘Hamptons of Japan’
- Shishi-Iwa House featured in Japan’s Best Countryside Hotels Bloomberg 19th March 2025
- Travel to Japan is exploding. Here are five great hotels worth adding to your “Tokyo-Kyoto+1” itinerary.
SSH
SPECIAL OFFERWELLNESS
OFFERINGS
AT SSH
Shishi-Iwa House will offer a curated selection of state-of-the-art wellness treatments and devices, widely used by professional athletes to optimize performance, accelerate recovery, and enhance overall well-being. These cutting-edge technologies not only aid in physical and mental recovery but also support immune function by promoting cellular regeneration and reducing inflammation. They will complement our existing traditional wellness offerings, such as shiatsu massage and the hinoki bathhouse. More than just a wellness experience, this initiative serves as a touchpoint within the creative architectural space of Shishi-Iwa House, providing guests with an opportunity to step away from the noise of the city and discover new inspirations in a tranquil, thoughtfully designed environment.
Contact to book: inquiry@shishiiwahouse.com
SSH
SPECIAL OFFERSSH
PREMIUM TRIAL
PROGRAM
We are delighted to present a bespoke premium trekking program that explores trails in Japan Alps renowned not only for their natural beauty but also for their profound spiritual and historical significance in Japan. Our program is carefully crafted to offer an enriching experience, ensuring both safety and comfort. You will be accompanied throughout your journey by our dedicated bilingual staff and professional guide, who will provide expert support and cultural insight. All logistics, including transportation, meals and nutrient snacks, trekking gear, equipment, and overnight accommodations (if necessary), are seamlessly managed by our retreat, so you can fully immerse yourself in the adventure.
Contact to book: inquiry@shishiiwahouse.com
SSH
SPECIAL OFFERFARM VISIT
AND
DINNER PACKAGE
Discover an exclusive culinary journey that connects nature, local craftsmanship, and refined
gastronomy. This immersive experience begins with a visit to Duca Farm, where guests can explore the
origins of fresh, seasonal ingredients. The journey continues at Shola, where these carefully selected
ingredients are transformed into an exquisite dining experience, showcasing the harmony between
nature and modern Japanese cuisine. Enjoy an evening of thoughtful flavors, artistry, and hospitality in
the serene setting of Shola at Shishi-Iwa House.
Price:
JPY 22,000++ per person
All-inclusive of the shola seasonal dinner course,transports, and farm visit.
NATURE
Be it a meditative garden stroll or a forested mountain hike, treat yourself to a full recharge in nature.
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THE RESTAURANT: SHOLA
Savor a taste of Karuizawa with exquisite meals at The Restaurant Shola, a curated collection of rare drinks in The Wine & Whisky Bar and a local craft coffee in the treetops at the Forest Terrace – all open to non-staying visitors as well as overnight guests.
LEARN MORE- SSH PROGRAM
-
Bespoke tours, insider introductions and curated creative events: there’s always plenty to do at SSH.
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- THE NEIGHBORHOOD:
KARUIZAWA -
Say hello to the neighbors: from local chefs to the most popular craft coffee roasters in town.
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SSH SELECTS
From ceramics to towels, discover SSH’s bespoke collection of contemporary lifestyle goods.
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FUTURE
OPENINGS
And there’s more to come. Find out which
award-winning Japanese architects are
currently working on our next SSH openings.