GOTO Retreat Ray / TAISEI DESIGN Planners Architects & Engineers

This is a small luxury hotel that has been planned as a symbol of the ongoing efforts to spread the appeal of Goto City in Japan’s Nagasaki Prefecture and revitalize the Abunze Coast area to the south of the city, in order to revitalize the Goto region. The site is located in Saikai National Park. The Goto Islands, known for their historical significance as a port of call for Japanese missions to Tang China (618–907), and a place of faith for hidden Christians seeking refuge from the mainland, have fostered a unique culture that encompasses their role as a hub for cross-cultural exchange with the continent. On January 28, 2022, the Goto Islands were designated as the Goto Island (Shimo Goto area) Geopark in recognition of the efforts made there to preserve and utilize their geological heritage. Located close to the Abunze Visitor Center, a key Geopark facility, and also near the Abunze Coast, this hotel commands a panoramic view of the extinct volcano Mt. Onidake. Local administration and residents, therefore, have great expectations for the hotel to contribute to regional revitalization.