Azuma Farm Koiwai, set to open April 2026, is a new boutique nature retreat developed through a collaboration between Azumi Japan and East Japan Railway Company (JR East). The property is conceived as an intimate countryside escape set within the storied grounds of Koiwai Farm in Iwate Prefecture, one of Japan’s most historic farmstead landscapes. The property is the first destination under the newly launched Azuma Farm brand.
Azumi Japan has been guided by hotelier – and Aman Resorts Founder – Adrian Zecha, Co-Founder and Chairman, who introduced the Azumi brand as a modern interpretation of the ryokan, inspired by his longstanding admiration for Japanese culture and heritage. Conceived to express the themes of sea and water, Azumi reimagines one of Japan’s most iconic hospitality forms for a contemporary audience. Its inaugural property, Azumi Setoda, opened in 2021 in Setoda, Onomichi City in Hiroshima Prefecture, on Ikuchijima in the Seto Inland Sea, and is set within a restored historic salt merchant’s estate.
The Azuma Farm brand embraces the philosophy of ‘Farm Life,’ a way of living centered on harmony with land, seasons, food, and community. At Azuma Farm Koiwai, this philosophy shapes the retreat’s design, culinary approach, guest programming, and deep integration with the surrounding environment.
A great solo travel tip spotted this week on Hotel Designs.
