curiosity plans the sen resort as a sanctuary among the lush greenery of japan's mountains

curiosity has unveiled plans for the sen resort, a new project that offers a sanctuary among the lush greenery and river of japan’s mountains of hakone. the tokyo-based multidisciplinary studio has envisioned sen as a stage where japanese hospitality and nature come together, immersing guests into a luscious setting where they can enjoy the comforts of home and the extravagance of the beautiful location. the resort comprises an intricate collection of villas, each with specific functions and features, all of which are connected through bridges that run across the water.all images courtesy of curiosity

‘the sen resort is still a vision and a conceptual project yet to be realized and its’ purpose is to expand the limit of hotels and show our philosophy of hospitality design,’ explains curiosity. ‘with this project, we aim to open unique possibilities with new partners to challenge existing ideas and ready to move to the next.’ the project is set deep within the mountains of hakone, and benefits from lush natural surroundings that change dramatically with each season. a bridge guides guests to the resort’s entrance, where they encounter an intricate collection of villas, each with specific functions, that vary from tea rooms, restaurants, lounges, spas, and bedrooms.

the guestroom villas are designed to honor the surrounding nature, while the centerpiece of each room is a sunken space that serves as a sofa during the day and as the sleeping area at night. facilities at the sen resort also include three restaurants and a bar, each located at a different volume and approached with a different design in mind. the first restaurant takes its cues from the edo period and offers guests fresh sushi by the river, where they will be able to enjoy the japanese delicacy surrounded by red maple trees in autumn, or near snow-capped mountains in winter.

at the same time, a second restaurant comprising a white work of art, beautiful and delicate, floating in the middle of the river, is dedicated to serving tofu. hidden within a grove of trees, a third restaurant of glass walls filled with smoke offers a unique dining experience focused on smoked cuisine. last, in the cascade bar, guests can enjoy a drink surrounded by the presence of a powerful waterfall.

curiosity has completed the sen resort with a unique pool located within the river and directly in front of a waterfall. there, guests can enjoy the flow of the river, relax on the deck and ‘become one’ with the surroundings. in addition, hidden in the maze of the forest, the spa villas are small pavilions floating on the river. these spaces evolve during the treatment, slowly opening to reveal the scenery around.