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. The retreat is made up of three houses (SSH No.01, SSH No.02 and SSH No.03), designed by Shigeru Ban and Ryue Nishizawa, both Pritzker Prize-winning architects. Guests are able to stay at – and explore – each of these uniquely designed wooden houses, which are less than a minute apart on foot.

Just on its doorstep is a cornucopia of nature, with the retreat perfectly positioned to enjoy the very best of Karuizawa’s landscape, from national parks and bird sanctuaries to government-protected forests. Hiking, museums, shops, restaurants and hot spring onsen are also within walking distance.

The heart of the retreat is the upper level of SSH No.02, where guests enjoy meals at The Restaurant, relax with a coffee on the Forest Terrace and savor rare drinks at The Wine & Whisky Bar. Other features include a library, wellness treatments, seasonal gardens and guided art and architecture tours.

Shishi-Iwa House is not just a hotel: it’s a 21st-century lifestyle for active, sophisticated, creative individuals who enjoy a passion for design, art, quality food and drink and seasonal nature.

Shishi-Iwa House Hakone will open in 2024.