Zenagi

Zenagi is a lovingly restored kominka (traditional Japanese farmhouse) secluded among the mountains, rice fields and bamboo forests of Kiso Valley in central Japan. You’ll have the entire property to yourself during your stay, along with an expert team of chefs, guides and other in-house staff.

There are three maisonette-style bedrooms available, each spread over two floors. On the ground floor is the bathroom, complete with a bespoke wooden bathtub overlooking a private Zen garden. Above, you’ll find the open-plan bedroom and living space. Decor is minimalist throughout the property, which retains many of its original features. Think black-lacquered floors, exposed timber beams in the ceiling and wall panels covered in washi paper.

Breakfast and dinner are included during your stay. You’ll dine on exquisitely presented multi-course menus, which showcase seasonal ingredients sourced from the surrounding forest.

What we particularly love about Zenagi are the outdoor activities you can enjoy and the opportunities to learn about different aspects of local culture. Follow in the footsteps of samurai by hiking part of the historic Nakasendo trail through preserved post towns and cypress forests. Visit a tea farm and make your own blend of green tea. Go canoeing along the Kiso river with a former Olympian as your guide. Or learn a traditional lacquerware decoration technique under the guidance of a local artisan on a private studio tour.