The Setouchi region, long celebrated for its art and culture, now welcomes a major architectural milestone. NOT A HOTEL has officially opened its SETOUCHI property on Sagishima Island’s southwestern cape. Notably, the project marks the first completed work in Japan by Bjarke Ingels Group.
Accessible by speedboat or helicopter, the exclusive retreat features a shared restaurant and three private villas. As a result, the development introduces a new level of secluded luxury to the region.
Tradition Reimagined Through Design
The architecture carefully balances innovation with heritage, while drawing directly from traditional Japanese housing. Expansive glass facades connect interior spaces with the surrounding landscape, offering a modern interpretation of shoji screens. At the same time, the layouts incorporate tatami-based spatial logic, reinforcing cultural continuity.
In addition, the villas feature sweeping curved walls built using rammed earth sourced from local soil. Consequently, the structures blend seamlessly into the island’s natural terrain. Named “360,” “270,” and “180,” each villa reflects its position and panoramic views over the Seto Inland Sea.
“NOT A HOTEL Setouchi represents our first completed buildings in Japan, a culture that has had a profound impact on myself and my understanding of architecture,” shared Bjarke Ingels. “The archipelago around Sagishima is like a Japanese landscape painting… Traditional and modern, integrated and outstanding, Scandinavian and Japanese, the villas are architectural oxymorons embodying seemingly contradictory elements into a holistic hospitable whole.”
A New Model of Ownership
During development, the property introduced a fractional ownership model, allowing buyers to pre-purchase access to the villas. Owners can use their allotted stays across the three residences or exchange them within the broader network. As a result, the concept offers both flexibility and exclusivity.
“We are beyond honoured to have partnered with BIG in realising the company’s first buildings in Japan,” stated Shinji Hamauzu. “This is a landmark moment for NOT A HOTEL’s mission to make Japan even more valuable, and we are sure that BIG’s three SETOUCHI villas will provide their owners with unprecedented experiences for years to come.”
Operations have now officially begun, with all three villas open to their owners.