MASU
Designed ByMasamichi KatayamaMASU is famed interior designer of Wonderwall®, Masamichi Katayama's reinterpretation of traditional “sukiya” architecture, a Japanese style based on the simplicity and elegance of teahouse design. These four new homes are tailored for contemporary living, allowing owners to create special moments and immerse themselves in a world of refined aesthetics detached from ordinary life.
The name MASU comes from the name of the traditional square-shaped Japanese box used in measurement. The grid-like floor plan normally used in wooden architecture is repurposed for steel construction to create a more spacious and open design while maintaining its modular structure.
Wonderwall®
Masamichi Katayama
The renowned interior designer Masamichi Katayama is the founder of Wonderwall®, internationally recognized for its innovative approach to conceptual design and its ability to balance modern elements with respect for traditional style. The firm handles a diverse range of projects worldwide, from boutiques and branded spaces to the overall planning of large commercial facilities. Notable works include NOWHERE (BUSY WORK SHOP® HARAJUKU, the Japan House London, an overseas project spearheaded by Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, global flagship stores for Uniqlo in New York, Paris, and Ginza, and Tokyo Toilet in Ebisu Park. In 2020, Katayama received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the FRAME AWARD 2020, hosted by the design magazine FRAME (Netherlands). Photo: Kazumi Kurigami
Architecture designed for modern connoisseurs, offering an immersive experience of nature.
Inspired by Kenzo Tange’s iconic residence in Seijo, this design explores the global impact of Japanese architecture and its subtle connections with Western architectural thought. Through a modern reinterpretation of cultural elements, it creates a living space that seamlessly blends tradition with contemporary innovation.
A fusion of sukiya elegance and modernist architecture innovation
Japanese wooden architecture, built with meticulous calculations and modular design, results in a beautiful and rhythmic structure. MASU adapts traditional design to modern steel construction, with a 4x4m grid that expands the spacing between columns, creating a more open and flexible space.
The elevated structure is a design style seen in masterpieces such as the Katsura Imperial Villa and Kenzo Tange’s former Seijo residence. It provides expansive views from the second-floor living area and creates versatile pilotis that seamlessly connect the building with the surrounding forest, thereby enriching the living space.
The framework of the building consists of slender columns, crafted by welding steel plates to create clean, sharp edges, giving them the appearance of wood. These columns harmonize with the 360-degree deck on the second floor and the roof design, creating a sense of lightness, as if the structure gently floats above the forest of Kitakaruizawa.
The open first floor and private living space on the second floor are connected by a staircase that seems to float, supported only on one side. The minimalist use of structural elements enhances the delicate architectural beauty, creating a harmonious balance of subtle tension and uplifting energy.
Each MASU unit offers a unique sukiya experience
Each of the four villas features a unique “Masu” space designed for different purposes. Catering to the needs of modern connoisseurs, you can choose a house based on its function—whether it’s a Japanese-style room, a theater room, a study, or a bedroom.
JAPANESE-STYLE ROOM
In the Japanese-style room equipped with a hearth for making tea, you can experience a refined sense of beauty and mindfulness through enjoying the art of the tea ceremony. The room can also serve as a bedroom when accommodating multiple guests.
STUDY
The desk space is inspired by mid-century design, with a custom-made table featuring storage on both sides and charging stations in the center. A bold red carpet, contrasting with the other rooms, helps create a mental shift and focus.
THEATER ROOM
Sink into Pierre Paulin’s Dune Sofa and immerse yourself in rich sounds and visuals in a space designed for the maximum enjoyment of movies and music. A record player and a curated selection of records by Katayama are available for your listening pleasure.
BEDROOM
This special bedroom, distinct from the master bedroom, can be arranged as a Hollywood twin or as separate twin beds. It’s ideal for families or groups of friends, offering flexibility to suit various stay scenarios and ensuring comfort for multiple guests.
Relax with iconic Sixties modernist furniture
Depending on the season, the large windows offer a view into lush greenery, vibrant autumn leaves, and serene snowy landscapes. Mid-century designer masterpieces and custom furniture by Katayama create a tranquil space that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
The open atrium provides a welcome invitation inside
As you enter, an open atrium welcomes you with its spacious, unpartitioned design. A floating staircase elegantly leads to the modern second-floor living area, while an Isamu Noguchi pendant light adds a touch of character and elegance to the space.
A dining room enhanced by the forest breeze
The first-floor dining room is gently connected to the forest through pilotis, allowing for many versatile uses. By opening the doors, you can seamlessly blend the indoors and outdoors, creating a unified space for gathering and relaxation.
East meets West
A fusion of interior design for timeless elegance
AKARI
ISAMU NOGUCHI - 1951
The “Sculptures of Light,” produced over 35 years ago with more than 200 models, are based on the traditional Gifu lantern. They utilize the light-diffusing qualities of Japanese washi paper and the structural properties of bamboo ribs, embodying modernism’s pursuit of the fusion of functionality and beauty.
CN108 BENCH
GEORGE NAKASHIMA
The bench, designed to retain the natural shape of the wood, features a functional yet refined form. Its contrast between the curved seat and straight back and legs is particularly striking. With masterful craftsmanship and intricate woodworking, this piece beautifully merges practicality and artistry.
WOMB CHAIR -MEDIUM
EERO SAARINEN
True to its name, which means “womb,” this design offers a cocoon-like sense of comfort with its rounded shape. The seat and backrest are seamlessly molded from FRP, covered in fabric, and supported by sleek, slender steel pipe legs, creating a light and airy structure.
NELSON CANE BENCH
GEORGE NELSON
The simple design of the wooden frame with rattan weaving fits effortlessly into any space, serving as a bench, display stand, or low table. This versatile piece, combining natural materials and functionality, is a hallmark of mid-century modern design.
Bringing color to the living spaceConceptual art by Mika Tajima
This piece translates sound into digital data, brought to life through jacquard weaving. It evokes the essence of abstract art while adding a distinctive allure to the space.
Bathroom bathed in dappled sunlight, connected to the forest
The 4x4m bathroom, positioned to offer views of the surrounding nature, includes a cold plunge for a refreshing contrast, with easy to the adjacent sauna. It’s the perfect retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle, providing an ideal space to rejuvenate both mind and body.
Finding balance in
comforting silence
The sauna is next to the bathroom, separated by glass. Step onto the adjacent deck for an outdoor air bath, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the majestic forest outside.
A Bedroom floating
among the trees
Every element that touches the skin, from carpets and curtains to partition walls, is carefully selected to enhance comfort while preserving the natural texture of the materials. Beyond the glass windows, the expansive view of beautiful nature unfolds, allowing you to quietly enjoy the changing seasons.
A 360-degree deck seamlessly connected to the forest
On the second floor, you’ll find a 360-degree deck seamlessly connected to the surrounding forest. Each room features full-height glass doors, allowing direct access to the deck from anywhere. This harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor spaces offers an immersive experience of the changing seasons, bringing nature closer to your living space.
Experience the ultimate joy of immersing yourself in nature.
An outdoor living space equipped with a fireplace, where you can relax to the flickering flames and the soothing sounds of a crackling fire. Whether you’re dining, reading, or resting, this space allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Kitakaruizawa.
Getting there
Travel time from Tokyo
Address: 2286-340 Hosohara, Oaza Omae, Tsumagoi Village, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture, Japan
Masterplan
| MASU-1 | MASU-2 | MASU-3 | MASU-4 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Area Including Terrace | 526.8 sq m (5,670.42 sq ft) | 526.8 sq m (5,670.42 sq ft) | 526.8 sq m (5,670.42 sq ft) | 526.8 sq m (5,670.42 sq ft) |
| Bed/Bath | 4 beds 1 bathrooms | 4 beds 1 bathrooms | 4 beds 1 bathrooms | 6 beds 1 bathrooms |
| Max. Occupancy | 6 | 6 | 4 | 6 |
| Private Sauna | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Pet-friendly | No | No | No | No |
| Other Features | Japanese-style room | Theater room | Study | Extra bedroom |
Property details
- Name
- NOT A HOTEL KITAKARUIZAWA MASU
- Property location
- 2286-351 Hosohara, Omae, Tsumagoi Village, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture
- Urban planning area
- Outside the city planning area
- Land use zone
- Unspecified
- Land area
- MASU-1: 7,337.10 sq m, MASU-2: 5,154.21 sq m, MASU-3: 6,070.77 sq m, MASU-4: 5,894.73 sq m
- Structure & size
- Two-story steel frame structure
- Total units
- 4 units
- Indoor area
- 189.59 sq m
- Total area (Indoor Area+Terrace+Pool+Courtyard)
- 218.01 sq m
- Total floor area
- 526.80 sq m
- Layout
- MASU-1: 2Bedroom, MASU-2; 2Bedroom, MASU-3: 2Bedroom, MASU-4: 3Bedroom
- Expected completion date of building
- End of July 2026
- Start date for owner use
- Undecided
- Design
- Wonderwall®
- Construction
- Undecided
- Developer/Seller
- NOT A HOTEL Co., Ltd.
- Management company
- NOT A HOTEL MANAGEMENT Co., Ltd.
- Building confirmation numbers
- MASU1: Building Confirmation No. CIAS00978 (2024), MASU2: Building Confirmation No. CIAS00979 (2024), MASU3: Building Confirmation No. CIAS00980 (2024), MASU4: Building Confirmation No. CIAS00981 (2024)
- Rights form
- Land: Land: Leasehold, Building: Co-ownership
- Total purchase price (1/48 share)
- JPY 74,814,300 (tax included)
- Management fees (1/48 share)
- JPY 186,600 (tax included)
- Reservation
- Reservations can be made from 12 months before the desired stay date, within the range of the allocated number of available nights for that date.
- Total shares available for purchase/room
- 48 shares (1 share allows 30 nights per year)
- Number of shares purchased in phase 1
- 12 shares (each share includes 30 nights of annual use)
- Exchangeable facilities
- Yes
- Membership restrictions
- In accordance with the NOT A HOTEL Owner Agreement Terms.
- Transfer or cancellation of membership and its conditions
- The membership rights can be transferred with the approval of NOT A HOTEL after three years from the date of acquisition.
- Facility usage restrictions
- In accordance with the NOT A HOTEL Terms of Use
- Number of exchangeable facilities and their usage conditions
- All NOT A HOTEL locations across Japan (four locations opened at the time of this property’s sale) will be provided to the operating company for use, and the operating company will manage them as hotels.
- Last updated
- October 17, 2024
LOCATION
At the Foot of Mount Asama, a Secret Haven Through the Seasons
Savor the seasons of Kitakaruizawa with your taste buds
At the restaurant “Sekiboku,” you can enjoy river fish, beef, and game prepared over charcoal at an irori (hearth) counter. We also offer private dinners and BBQs tailored to your preferences.
An active stay
in harmony with nature
Located in the highlands at the northern base of Mt. Asama, North Karuizawa offers a wealth of spots to fully enjoy the great outdoors, including farms and adventure parks. From hiking to winter sports, indulge in a wide range of outdoor activities amidst the majestic natural surroundings.
Personal assistance,
just a tap away
Connect with your Concierge at anytime through NOT A HOTEL App. Get notifications for travel itineraries, reservation reminders, and weather reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
* Some properties do not have closets, but you can still store your belongings.
* Storage availability, features, and specifications vary by location.