Pritzker Prize-winning architect Shigeru Ban’s latest project is a minimal Japanese mountain resort designed to connect guests with nature.

Shishi-Iwa House is located in Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture, and sits surrounded by woodland. Its 10 bedroom rooms – which are available to book with rates on inquiry – frame views across the Yatsugatake mountains, with many of them opening directly onto private balconies, or the resort’s tree garden, filled with cherry blossoms and Japanese maples.

The boutique hotel stretches across three separate villas, each designed to encourage guests to socialise with each other, but also reconnect with the surrounding scenery. Those looking for some alone time can always head for the resort’s timber-lined library, which offers views over the landscape from its fully glazed end.

See more resorts designed by Shigeru Ban