NOT A HOTEL KITAKARUIZAWA
IRORI 2.0
Expertise
Business Development
Project Management
Design
Brand Direction
CG Visualization
Life Cycle Management
Hotel Management
Building on the original concept of “IRORI” — a villa centered around a sunken hearth designed for gathering and conversation — “NOT A HOTEL KITAKARUIZAWA IRORI 2.0” brings new life to the forest of Kitakaruizawa. While preserving its original charm, the villa has been updated with an infinity pool that blends into the woods and new sofa seating around the hearth for greater comfort. The open space, framed by wood and glass, draws the changing seasons closer, allowing guests to feel immersed in nature. Beyond the villa, the surrounding grounds are also evolving, with a kids’ park and café & dining facilities underway. This tranquil yet vibrant setting invites people to reconnect with nature and one another — a contemporary take on the traditional hearth, where quiet moments and warm conversations unfold.
Member
Collaborators
Spec
Building Name
NOT A HOTEL KITAKARUIZAWA IRORI2.0
Location
2286, Hosohara, Oomae, Tsumagoi-mura, Agatsuma-gun, Gunma 377-1512, Japan
Completion
Scheduled for late July 2027
Design Period
4 months
Construction Period
18 months
Site Area
4800㎡
Building Footprint
294.9㎡
Total Floor Area
299.1㎡
Akinori Nagashima
Architect
As the flagship model of NOT A HOTEL KITAKARUIZAWA, “IRORI” has been a beloved retreat since its opening. Now, it has evolved with a major update—featuring a newly built infinity pool that appears to float at treetop level while preserving its signature blend of glass transparency and warm timber. Suspended on the second floor, the pool offers a surreal experience: in summer, you swim through deep greenery; in winter, you drift into a world of white. It’s a space where guests can feel the shifting seasons with all five senses—surrounded by the quiet embrace of the forest.
Shiho Sasaki
Project Manager
“NOT A HOTEL KITAKARUIZAWA IRORI” has already become a beloved retreat for many owners. It was both an honor and a responsibility to be part of its evolution. We focused on how to breathe new life into the concept of “glass and timber architecture floating in the forest,” which lies at the heart of IRORI. As new buildings emerge and the area expands, our mission was to enhance the experience without compromising IRORI’s quiet symbolism. We are moving forward with care and intention, determined to exceed the expectations of those eagerly awaiting the arrival of IRORI 2.0.