AZUMA FARM Koiwai.

Set on the historic grounds of Iwate Prefecture’s Koiwai Farm—a working dairy landscape dating back to 1891—AZUMA FARM Koiwai reframes luxury around rural heritage and agriculture. Developed by Azumi Japan and JR East, this secluded 24-villa retreat is tucked into a pine and cedar grove with views of Mount Iwate. Designed by Shiro Miura, the private garden and forest villas favor local materials over generic high-end formulas. Rather than keeping guests cocooned inside, the hotel acts as an active gateway to Tohoku's lesser-traveled north, arranging excursions to nearby lacquerware studios, wasabi farms, and the UNESCO temples of Hiraizumi. An on-site spa, a lobby fireplace, and a deep connection to the surrounding farmland make this a highly specific, grounded alternative to the typical resort.