Greenity Iwata in Shizuoka, Japan, features soothing, biophilic design and a bath house fed by natural hot spring water. Olivia Palamountain reports

Greenity Iwata, which welcomed its first guests on November 29, 2024, is a serene hotel that features 55 rooms, including ten premium suites.

Located on hilltop in Japan's western Shizuoka prefecture, it has been designed to complement the surrounding sea and mountains, an environment that inspired the interiors and landscaping of the hotel.

A pair of public onsen baths draw natural hot spring water from 1,500 metres below ground, with each featuring indoor and outdoor bathing areas and saunas. The mineral-rich waters are believed to have skin-purifying properties.  Two restaurants serve French and Japanese cuisine using local ingredients, while the property also houses a lounge, bar, chapel and two private banquet rooms. The grounds include landscaped gardens featuring seasonal plants and trees.

Additionally, the hotel aims to serve as a community hub, bringing together locals and visitors to celebrate the region's history, culture and industry.Located an hour from Tokyo by bullet train, Iwata is perhaps best known as the home of Mount Fji. It also the headquarters of Yamaha Motor; visitors can explore the company's motorcycle heritage at its Communication Plaza museum.

The region has a spectacular natural environment of coastline, mountains and lakes, including the beautiful Izu Peninsula, which has been described as “Japan’s Riviera” and was designated as a Global Geopark by UNESCO in April 2018.The area offers several natural attractions, including Shishigahana Park's seasonal cherry blossoms, the Okegayanuma nature reserve - one of Japan's premier dragonfly habitats - and the Ryuyo Insect Nature Observation Park. Cultural sites include the Yanahime Shrine, Old Akamatsu House and Old Mitsuke School.

It also produces some of the country’s finest food and drink, fromwasabi to fresh seafood. Shizuoka is Japan’s biggest producer of green tea.