Saijo, Japan
Itomachi Hotel 0
Zero-energy architectural hotel
Zero-energy architectural hotel
Powered entirely by solar, the hotel runs as an open civic hub where guests and locals share coffee and communal kitchens.
What it’s good at
Notable
Artesian spring water bubbles through courtyard basins and supplies carafes in every room.
Listed
Seven detached villa suites contain private open-air baths fed by natural hot springs.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
It’s Japan’s first zero-energy hotel, with two airy levels connected by open-air walkways and topped by a large, angular roof.
Somewhere quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
In Saijo beside the Itomachi precinct, where artesian spring water wells up beneath Mount Ishizuchi.
The rooms
Blonde wood floors and pale green tiles line the minimalist rooms, where pure mountain spring water runs directly from the tap.
The onsen
Soak slowly.
Detached villa suites have private open-air baths fed by free-flowing hot springs, and indoor tubs draw fresh mineral water.
Restaurant
Reception Cafe
A 16-meter curved terrazzo counter serves dietitian-supervised breakfasts made with seasonal Ehime vegetables and local grains.
At the table
A communal kitchen with Balmuda appliances lets guests cook fresh produce bought from the neighboring Itomachi Marche.
How it began
Architect Kengo Kuma drafted the master plan in 2016, turning former farmland into a model for carbon-neutral community design.
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.