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Azuma Farm Koiwai luxury retreat opens in Iwate, Japan on April 23 with forest villas and regional immersion

architecture-design · 2026-04-17

On April 23, Azuma Farm Koiwai will launch in Iwate Prefecture, Japan, providing upscale hospitality that highlights the Tohoku region. The establishment is a project of Naru, which was founded by Fumitomo Hayase in 2017, in collaboration with East Japan Railway Company. Hayase brings 12 years of experience from Aman Tokyo and Amanemu. The brand draws inspiration from the Jōmon-period communities, dating from 14,000 BCE to 300 BCE. Architect Shiro Miura designed the site to harmonize with the surroundings, featuring 22 Forest Villas and two Garden Villas constructed from century-old red pine and local materials. Amenities include a gathering area, an onsen opening in November, and a menu centered on regional ingredients. Guests can enjoy activities such as horseback riding, ironware tours, hiking, and cultural experiences. The retreat, located at 68-77 Maruyachi, Shizukuishi, Iwate 020-0507, Japan, covers eight hectares within the expansive 3,000 hectares of Koiwai Farm.

Key facts

  • Azuma Farm Koiwai opens on 23 April 2024
  • Located in Iwate Prefecture, Japan at historic Koiwai Farm
  • Developed by Naru hospitality company founded by Fumitomo Hayase
  • Partnership with East Japan Railway Company
  • 22 Forest Villas (65.7 sq m) and 2 Garden Villas (87.4 sq m)
  • Architecture by Shiro Miura of Rokkakuya inspired by Jōmon-period settlements
  • Uses century-old red pine from Koiwai's managed forest and other local materials
  • Onsen facility opening in November 2024

Entities

Artists

  • Fumitomo Hayase
  • Adrian Zecha
  • Shiro Miura
  • Koizumi Nizaemon
  • Daven Wu

Institutions

  • Naru
  • Aman Tokyo
  • Amanemu
  • Azumi Setoda
  • East Japan Railway Company
  • Koiwai Farm
  • Rokkakuya
  • Wallpaper*
  • Phaidon Wallpaper* City Guide

Locations

  • Tokyo
  • Japan
  • Morioka
  • Kyoto
  • Iwate Prefecture
  • Tohoku
  • Hakone
  • Nikko
  • Seto Inland Sea
  • Shizukuishi
  • Iwate District
  • Sanriku coast
  • Ainosawa
  • Hachimantai
  • Joboji
  • Tono
  • Ninohe
  • Singapore
  • South-East Asia

Sources