Simose Art Garden Villa

Simose Art Garden Villa sits on the shores of the Seto Inland Sea in Otake city, just outside Hiroshima. Designed by the renowned architect Shigeru Ban, the property is both a hotel and an art museum. A large hall and eight movable, floating coloured-glass galleries house the exhibitions. The collection features approximately 500 works of art, including traditional Japanese dolls and paintings by Matisse and Higashiyama.

There are ten expansive villas on the grounds: five Forest Villas in a grove of trees and five Waterfront Villas next to a reflective water basin. Each is individually designed in an elegant minimalist style. Think large windows, neutral colours and natural materials. Many also have open-air baths or Jacuzzis.

Staying in the hotel enables you to visit Emile Gallé’s Garden and the Seaview Terrace above the galleries during quieter guest-only hours. You’ll also have access to a lounge and a well-equipped gym. Meanwhile, the on-site restaurant specialises in high-end French cuisine made using local ingredients.