Royal Minor Hotels Co. – a joint venture between Royal Holdings Co. and Minor Hotels – has signed its first hotel management agreement in Japan, partnering with List Development Co. to launch Anantara Karuizawa Retreat.

Set to open in 2030, the luxury new-build will be developed on a 4.05-hectare forested site facing Mount Asama in Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture. The property will comprise 51 keys, including 23 suites ranging from 60m² to 120m² and 18 two- and three-bedroom villas between 70m² and 270m². The villas are being considered for branded residential offerings, with details to be announced in due course.

Anantara Karuizawa Retreat will offer nature seekers suites and villas in one of Japan’s most established luxury resort towns

The retreat aims to tap into Karuizawa’s appeal as a four-season destination, popular for its summer cool, scenic trails, hot springs, golf courses, and winter skiing. Located near the Karuizawa Hokuriku Shinkansen Station, it offers convenient rail access from Tokyo as well as from Nagano, Kanazawa, and other regional hubs. Its proximity to Haneda and Narita international airports also supports the area’s growing international popularity.

Facilities at Anantara Karuizawa Retreat will include three dining outlets, a spa with onsen, fitness centre, pool, library, residents’ lounge, and versatile meeting spaces.

List Development’s president and COO, Hiroyuki Kiuchi, noted that the location’s natural beauty, accessibility, and global recognition made it an ideal setting for the debut of the Anantara brand in Japan. He said the project aligned with the company’s commitment to creating high-quality living environments and contributing to the region’s revitalisation.

Kohei Motoyama, president and representative director of Royal Minor Hotels Co., commented that the partnership was a strong strategic fit due to its proven expertise in upscale developments.

“Together, we aim to create a retreat that coexists harmoniously with Karuizawa’s rich natural surroundings and further enhances its unique appeal,” said Kohei.

This agreement marks the first project under the Royal Minor Hotels joint venture, established in March 2025. The company plans to launch 21 hotels across Japan by 2035 under Minor Hotels’ Anantara, Tivoli and Avani brands, in collaboration with leading domestic developers.