Izumo, Japan
Opened
2023
Price
$$$
Rated for
Design Luxe WellnessOutside the door
The house
BalnibarbiSubterranean cliff lodge
Carved directly into coastal rock, subterranean spaces gaze across the Sea of Japan with a focus on dramatic coastal sunsets.
What it’s good at
Remarkable
Eight cave-style rooms carved into coastal rock with raw concrete and warm woodwork.
What they say
One Michelin Key
Michelin
its eight rooms are carved bunker-like into the cliffside, and each one is given a perfectly framed view out to sea…
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
Set along the quiet Taki shoreline, the retreat sits steps from the sand, framed by coastal cliffs and crashing surf.
The rooms
Cave-style interiors pair raw concrete with warm wood, opening onto recessed terraces equipped with private open-air jacuzzi tubs.
The sauna
Cedar benches look through panoramic glass toward the sea, opening onto an outdoor cold plunge pool and relaxation terrace.
At the table
A 40-metre counter looks out across the Sea of Japan, serving charcoal-grilled Shimane Wagyu and seasonal local seafood.
How it began

Built into the cliff face, the retreat anchors a coastal revitalization project celebrating the rugged Shimane coastline.
Good to know
Stay here
Izumo Hotel The Cliff
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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.