Takaone Hotel by Kei Kaihoh Architects: Ecological Design Meets Mountain Hospitality

Located in Hachioji, Japan, Takaone Hotel by Kei Kaihoh Architects is a transformative renovation project redefining hospitality at the edge of urban life and natural landscapes. Situated just in front of Takaosanguchi Station, the terminus of the Keio Corporation Railway’s Takao Line, the hotel offers seamless access from Shinjuku, making it an ideal gateway to Mt. Takao’s scenic trails, rivers, and cultural attractions. Completed in 2021, the 2,126 m² facility balances modern comfort with ecological sensitivity, emphasizing the transition from town to forest.

A Community-Centered Hospitality Concept

Rather than functioning solely as a hotel, Takaone was conceived as a community hub. The project, led by Keio Corporation, integrates local stakeholders including trail runners, craft brewers, and educators to showcase the lifestyle and recreational offerings of the Takao region. This multifunctional approach positions the hotel as a base for mountain exploration, educational camps, and local exchange, enhancing both visitor experience and community engagement.

The indoor café on the first floor, formerly a semi-outdoor space, now serves as a welcoming hub for guests and residents alike. The central courtyard accommodates workshops, gatherings, and outdoor activities, while terraces overlooking the station platform create rest stops for cyclists, dog walkers, and travelers. Daily wood-fire experiences and nature-focused programming further enrich the sense of place.

Flexible and Sustainable Interior Design

The hotel’s interior prioritizes adaptability and comfort. Guest rooms feature movable fixtures, allowing intimate spaces for couples or larger arrangements for teams of up to nine. Louvered doors channel the natural wind from Takao Valley, while open corridors maintain visual and auditory connectivity between spaces. Materials salvaged from local demolition: concrete debris, fallen leaves, and nearby timber, inform the aesthetic, reflecting the natural resilience and ecological character of Mt. Takao.

Plantings are designed to interact with native species while respecting mountain etiquette, including a dedicated shoe-washing station to minimize ecological disruption. This approach allows the hotel grounds to evolve naturally over time, reinforcing the project’s commitment to sustainable architecture.

Ecological Planning at the Heart

At Takaone, the network of residents, climbers, staff, flora, and materials is treated as an interconnected ecosystem. The design deliberately blurs subject-object relationships, fostering dynamic interactions between humans and nature. By embracing ecological planning, Takaone Hotel not only provides accommodation but also serves as a living laboratory for sustainable mountain hospitality, community collaboration, and environmental stewardship.

All photographs are works of  Soichiro Suizu, Yuki Tsunesumi