Setouchi Aonagi, Matsuyama, Japan

Fans of architect Tadao Ando will be pleased to hear of the recent opening of this intimate seven-room retreat just outside the city of Matsuyama on Japan’s smallest island, Shikoku.

Completed 17 years ago as a private guesthouse, the building was later turned into a small modern art museum before re-opening as the Setouchi Retreat Aonagi. Overseeing each of the transformations, Ando’s signature minimalistic approach has remained clear, from the large exposed concrete, bright white surfaces and straight lines throughout the space.

We suggest plumping for the Aonagi maisonette suite, which – with its eight-metre high ceiling – boasts spectacular views of the sparkling Setouchi inland sea. Other highlights include the outdoor lap pool that visually extends into the vista beyond, while Japanese restaurant, Minagi, serves carefully prepared casual kaiseki dinners with an emphasis on the abundant seafood in the area.