VI
Scheduled to open in 2028 under an agreement with Fujita Corporation, this resort will mark the launch of the Alila brand in Japan, bringing the philosophy of "quiet luxury" to Sengokuhara – a highland region of Hakone known for its mineral-rich hot springs, expansive meadows, verdant mountain ranges, and a sense of eternal tranquility.
Located within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, Sengokuhara has long been considered a peaceful escape from urban life. It is a favorite among domestic and international visitors for its seasonal beauty, art museums, volcanic landscape, and panoramic views of Mount Kintoki.
In autumn, the famous pampas grass fields sway gently in the breeze, creating one of Hakone's most iconic natural landscapes. It is this balance of tranquility and pristine beauty that has made Sengokuhara the natural home for Alila's first hotel in Japan.
Architecture in harmony with nature.
The design of Alila Sengokuhara Hakone will be guided by harmony with nature and a deep respect for the mountainous terrain of the area. The hotel will showcase the minimalist architectural style of the internationally renowned architectural firm Kengo Kuma and Associates, a firm whose approach stems from a keen sensitivity to the topography, natural light, and materials.
Instead of imposing itself on the landscape, the resort is envisioned as an architectural journey that moves in sync with the terrain. The structures will adapt to the changing elevation of the land, allowing the surrounding forest and mountains to become part of the guest experience. Layers of views and materials will create a subtle sense of continuity between interior and exterior spaces.
“We are designing a hotel that will seamlessly blend into the magnificent natural landscape of Hakone,” architect Kuma shared. “Our architecture will become part of the landscape, undulating with the elevations of the site and integrating natural light to achieve an invisible connection with the surrounding environment.”
Onsen culture through Alila's lens
The focus of Alila Sengokuhara Hakone will be on the well-being experience shaped by one of Japan's most cherished traditions: the Onsen (hot spring).
The hotel will have 60 guest rooms, including 11 suites. Each room features a private natural hot spring bath, allowing guests to experience the restorative properties of Hakone's thermal spring water in a deeply private setting.
Beyond the spa grounds, the resort's wellness philosophy will be extended through physical activity, nature, and rituals. A yoga studio nestled within the surrounding landscape will offer guests a tranquil space to breathe, relax, and reconnect.
The cuisine at Alila Sengokuhara Hakone will be shaped by the surrounding land and waters, reflecting Alila's commitment to destination-centric culinary experiences. The resort's restaurants and bars will celebrate locally sourced ingredients through seasonal menus featuring produce harvested from nearby fields, forests, and seas.
The culinary menu is designed as a natural extension of the resort's ambiance: sophisticated yet approachable, expressive yet restrained. Guests are invited to explore the flavors of the region through carefully selected fresh produce and ingredients, chosen for their connection to Hakone in particular and the broader landscape of Japan in general.
Alila's moment: A deeper connection with Hakone
Guided by Alila's commitment to destination-centric and deeply experiential hospitality, Alila Sengokuhara Hakone will offer specially designed Alila Moments that reveal unique perspectives of the destination through culture, nature, and exploration. These experiences will encourage visitors to engage with Hakone beyond a typical vacation, whether through its landscapes, artistic traditions, seasonal rituals, or the land's long-standing connection to its healing waters.
Throughout the guest's journey, the resort aims to create a sense of wonder expressed through minimalist architecture, wellness, and a meaningful connection with the environment and the local community.
Currently, Hyatt operates 22 hotels across nine brands in Japan. The introduction of the first Alila hotel in Japan will bring Hyatt's portfolio in the country to 10 brands, supporting Hyatt's larger ambition to strategically double its portfolio in the country over the next decade.
