#Japan #Luxury Resort #Karuizawa #Anantara

Anantara's First Luxury Hotel in Japan: A Vision Unveiled

The List Group, a comprehensive real estate company, has announced a groundbreaking project that marks the debut of the Anantara luxury brand in Japan. This development, known as the Anantara Karuizawa Retreat, will be located in the pristine natural environment of Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture, and is set to begin operations in 2030.

On July 10, 2025, List Development Co., Ltd. (LD), a consolidated subsidiary of List Co., Ltd., signed a hotel management contract with Royal Minor Hotels Co., Ltd., represented by Kohei Motoyama. This contract formalized the plans for the Anantara Karuizawa Retreat at a signing ceremony held at the Tokyo American Club. The retreat will be enveloped in approximately 10 acres of forest, with views of the iconic Mount Asama, and will feature a total of 51 high-end accommodations, including suites and villas.

LD is dedicated to planning and developing high-quality living spaces, and its current portfolio includes its condominiums, office buildings, and resort properties in the Tokyo metropolitan area. Recently, the company has shifted its focus towards the development of luxury condominiums and hotel resorts, with its first hotel condominium slated for completion in Hakuba Village, Nagano in December 2024.

The Anantara Karuizawa Retreat will capitalize on the natural beauty and accessibility of Karuizawa. It's situated just a 15-minute drive from the Karuizawa Station on the Hokuriku Shinkansen and only about an hour from Tokyo. This prime location provides convenient access for travelers from surrounding cities like Nagano, Kanazawa, and Takasaki. Known as a popular summer retreat, Karuizawa boasts numerous outdoor activities year-round, including golf, hiking, hot springs, and skiing, making it increasingly appealing to international tourists, especially from Asia. The retreat is also within a 2-3 hour journey from Haneda Airport and Narita International Airport.

The resort will comprise 51 units, including 23 suites ranging from 60 to 120 square meters and 18 villas with two to three bedrooms, projected to range from 70 to 270 square meters. A selection of these villas may also be offered as branded residences in the future, with details to be unveiled as plans progress. To enhance the guest experience, the retreat will feature three dining options, including an all-day dining venue, a specialty restaurant, and a bar. Furthermore, the Anantara Spa, known for its wellness offerings, will adapt its services to suit the region. Various wellness programs, including hot spring experiences, will be available throughout the property. Guests can also enjoy amenities such as a pool, fitness center, library, and versatile function spaces suitable for corporate events.

The signing ceremony included speeches from notable figures such as Yukihiro Kitami, CEO of List Co., Ltd., and William Ellwood Heinecke, founder and chairman of Minor International Public Company Limited, who shared insights about the partnership's significance.

Kohei Motoyama, President of Royal Minor Hotels, expressed pride in collaborating with List Development on the Anantara Karuizawa Retreat. He emphasized the shared vision and expertise in creating luxury experiences, which align with the Anantara brand's commitment to high-quality service and unique design.

Hiroyuki Kiuchi, President of List Development, highlighted the honor of bringing the renowned Anantara brand to Japan, stating that the project aligns seamlessly with their goal to provide high-quality lifestyle experiences. He emphasized the significant demand for luxury accommodations in this internationally recognized tourist destination, and expressed confidence that this project will offer guests a truly enriching luxury experience.

The Anantara Karuizawa Retreat is expected to become a new landmark in the region, contributing to the local economy while showcasing Karuizawa's rich natural environment and scenic beauty.

Project Overview

• - Location: Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture
• - Accessibility: Approximately 15 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station (Hokuriku Shinkansen)
• - Site Area: 41,933.01 square meters
• - Opening: 2030
• - Room Count: 23 suites (60–120 square meters), 18 villas (70–270 square meters, total of 28 units)

Please note: The project is currently in the preparation stage for building confirmation application, and the details shared in this announcement may be subject to change. Further information regarding facilities and sales will be provided as plans are finalized.

About Anantara

Anantara Hotels & Resorts is designed to create luxurious environments that highlight the local attractions, allowing travelers to connect authentically with the essence of their destinations. With a robust presence across Thailand, Asia, the Middle East, the Indian Ocean, and Africa, Anantara recently began making its mark in European capitals as well, featuring a portfolio of 59 hotels across 25 countries.

About Minor Hotels

Minor Hotels, a core operation of Minor International PCL, is one of the largest hospitality and leisure companies in the Asia-Pacific region, managing over 560 properties in 57 countries. With a vision to create "a more passionate and connected world," they cater to the diverse needs of modern travelers through their portfolio, which includes the renowned brands Anantara, Avani, Elewana, NH, and many others.

The Royal Minor Hotels Co., Ltd. was established on March 31, 2025, and focuses on hotel management and operations, further strengthening the luxury segment of the hospitality industry in Japan.