GOTO RETREAT Ray: A Harmonious Blend of Modern Design and Rich History in Goto, Japan

Architectural Design by Archvision Hirotani Studio, Hashimoto Yukio Design Studio, and TAISEI DESIGN Planners Architects & Engineers

Located in the heart of the picturesque Goto Islands, the GOTO RETREAT Ray is a luxurious hotel designed to serve as both a symbol of the region's revitalization and a retreat for guests seeking serenity. This project, completed in 2022, spans 2,840 square meters and is situated in Saikai National Park, close to the Abunze Coast and the Abunze Visitor Center, a key Geopark facility. The hotel offers breathtaking views of the extinct volcano Mt. Onidake, which, alongside the Abunze Coast, forms an iconic part of the local landscape and heritage.

The Goto Islands have long been recognized for their historical significance as a vital port for Japanese missions to Tang China (618-907) and a place of refuge for hidden Christians. In January 2022, the region was designated as the Goto Island Geopark, underscoring the island's rich geological and cultural heritage. The GOTO RETREAT Ray is designed to contribute to regional revitalization while celebrating the area's unique cultural identity.

Architectural Concept and Design Approach

The design philosophy behind GOTO RETREAT Ray is deeply rooted in respect for the region's natural and cultural history. The hotel’s architecture integrates the local heritage and natural beauty of the Goto Islands with modern elements, creating a seamless connection between the building and its surroundings. The use of sustainable materials and modern construction techniques ensures that the design will endure while evoking the region's timeless spirit.

The hotel is designed with a strong awareness of the local landscape, which is characterized by its lava rock formations, lush native vegetation, and panoramic vistas. The long approach to the hotel, lined with vibrant native plants, leads guests through a gateway formed by an as-cast concrete canopy with a cedar board finish. This canopy, along with the surrounding architecture, brings to mind the region's iconic building traditions, such as thick wall columns, arch windows, and slit windows resembling bay windows.

Upon arrival at the hotel, guests are greeted by a serene water basin, reflecting the peaceful environment of the region. This calming feature, integrated into the approach, introduces guests to the tranquil ambiance that defines the hotel.

Interior Design and Guest ExperienceInside

the hotel, the interior design continues to reflect the connection between architecture and nature. The lobby is a masterpiece of design, with expansive aluminum paneling on the walls and ceiling, allowing the horizon and landscape to merge with the interior. A central resin table, designed to mimic a water basin, further reinforces the theme of natural serenity, with the table reflecting the clouds and blue skies above.

The guest rooms are designed for ultimate comfort, featuring wide-span sash windows (7.4 meters wide) that allow guests to enjoy unobstructed views of the sea. The open-air bathtub on the terrace provides an intimate experience, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the surrounding landscape. Additionally, mirrors placed strategically near the windows reflect the outdoor scenery, blending the interior and exterior spaces seamlessly.

The hotel’s design also highlights local craftsmanship, with materials sourced from Aica Kogyo Company, Kohler, Nagoya Mosaic-Tile, and PACIFIC HOUSE TEXTILE, among others. The collaboration between architects, engineers, and designers ensures that each aspect of the hotel contributes to a harmonious and immersive experience for guests.

Sustainability and Regional Revitalization

line with the Goto Islands' focus on sustainability and heritage preservation, the GOTO RETREAT Ray plays a key role in the region's ongoing revitalization efforts. The hotel is strategically located to support the growth of local tourism, while respecting the cultural and historical significance of its surroundings. The integration of sustainable design practices, such as the use of locally sourced materials and energy-efficient systems, ensures that the hotel remains a part of the landscape for generations to come.

The GOTO RETREAT Ray is not just a luxury hotel; it is a testament to the region’s rich history, cultural legacy, and commitment to sustainability. With its thoughtful design, which embraces the natural beauty of the Goto Islands and its architectural heritage, the hotel stands as an example of how modern design can coexist with and honor historical contexts.

All Photographs are works of Nacasa & Partners