Design Anthology Retreat: Karuizawa, Japan

Just an hour by train from Tokyo, Shishi-Iwa House comprises three architectural masterpieces, each designed by a Pritzker Prize-winning architect. The first two houses were designed by Shigeru Ban in 2018 and 2022 respectively, while the third house is by Ryue Nishizawa of Sanaa Architects, opened just last year.

The properties were Ban and Nishizawa’s first hotel projects — and we now invite you to join us in Karuizawa to explore the houses and enjoy a bespoke itinerary covering the best of the town’s architecture, design and dining highlights. And given the town’s close proximity to Tokyo, it’s the perfect opportunity to tack on a few days in the capital.

Karuizawa is known for its rich architectural heritage and is home to significant architect-designed buildings and striking examples of traditional styles. Guests will have the unique opportunity to experience and learn about the area’s 19th-century Rokumeikan architecture, a formative period in the development of the Japanese vernacular, and visit landmarks such as Kazuo Shinohara’s Tanikawa House, the Hoshi Onsen and historic soba restaurant Kagimotoya.

The itinerary includes fine-dining and farm-to-table meals, guided tours of all Shishi-Iwa House properties, exclusive access to renowned buildings, private homes and storied hotels, as well as sake and wine tasting, wellness activities and the requisite spot of shopping.