In today’s “Age of Awe,” 63% of travelers are willing to invest more in “transformational or out-of-the-ordinary travel experiences,” according to a Design Hotel survey. Here are a few jaw-dropping properties whose design intentionally embeds guests into the surrounding nature.
HOSHINOYA Bali (pictured): This resort village flourishes atop a hill looking down upon the sacred Pakerisan River flowing below, filling the property with tranquility, complementing the vibrant green hues of the surrounding jungle. The elevated gazebos, resembling a treehouse floating above the Ubud valley and jungle, ideal for guided morning stretching or savoring the flavor of a traditional Balinese medicinal drink (Morning Jamu). When designing this property, Rie Azuma spent time researching Balinese culture and Hindu temples to inform the design and architectural elements of the hotel.
KAI Yufuin: Situated between the majestic Mt. Yufu and a landscape of remarkable terraced rice fields, this restful hot spring ryokan is surrounded by pastoral scenery that changes with the harvest cycle. This property was designed by Kengo Kuma using elements of traditional Japanese architecture and the region’s farmhouse style, creating independent villas nestled within the rice fields resembling single-story farmhouses, allowing guests to view the rice fields which change with the seasons. Guests can also enjoy the outdoor onsen, fed by the bountiful, soft waters of the Yufuin Hot Springs, while taking in the views of open skies and Mt. Yufu.
HOSHINOYA Fuji: For travelers looking for a scenic escape, this sensory wonderland is in the woods surrounding Lake Kawaguchi and beneath the iconic Mt. Fuji. With minimalist cabins jutting out from the slopes of Japan’s tallest mountain, each guestroom is built to ensure that a third of the room is located outdoors balancing luxury, comfort, and connection with nature. Guests can enjoy an early-morning canoe beneath iconic Mt. Fuji with Lake Kawaguchi reserved to themselves, enjoy a forest concert on the Cloud Terrace surrounded by hundreds of red pinewood trees, or simply take in the unparalleled view of Mt. Fuji from their in-room terrace. Thoughtfully designed by HOSHINOYA property designer, Rie Azuma, this property helps make guests feel as though they are one with the surrounding nature.
