Tadao Ando, champion of minimalist architecture, has completed this intimate retreat on the island of Shikoku in his home country, Japan. The seven room hotel, called Setouchi Aonagi, provides a calming and refreshing environment through its luxurious yet minimal aesthetic—an aesthetic that Ando has perfected. Ando's signature design elements fill the structure; the large expanses of concrete, framed openings, and connection with nature scream Ando without appearing overly branded.

Simple and comfortable furnishings fill the interior along with the many terraces the retreat offers. A long outdoor pool is tucked behind tall concrete walls while an indoor pool for the spa mimics this same design. Large windows show off the view in nearly every room of the hotel, reminding the resident of Japan's lush natural world at every turn.

I'm ready to book my trip to this lovely getaway—care to join me?