Cultural journey, this time Japan

Cultural journey, this time Japan, the country where I learned a lot from my youth when I first started to learn about the resort industry, about the art of joinery timber, about the typical Japanese ergonomics in design

When mentioning Japan, it is impossible not to mention the art of resort. From the quiet Zen gardens, where every stone and every blade of grass is meticulously arranged to create absolute harmony, to the traditional onsen (hot springs), where people seek relaxation and purification of both body and spirit. All are imbued with the Zen philosophy, promoting minimalism, tranquility and connection with nature.

I learned that resort is not just about luxury or comfort, but also about creating a space where people can truly find peace, recharge and connect with themselves. This has shaped my perspective on designing relaxing spaces, prioritizing comfort, sustainability and harmony with the surrounding environment.

The traditional Japanese art of carpentry, also known as Joinery Timber, is a living testament to meticulousness, patience and masterful technique. Instead of using nails, screws or glue, Japanese carpenters have developed hundreds of complex wood joints, connecting wooden planks together firmly and beautifully. Each joint not only ensures the durability of the structure but is also a work of art that contains ingenuity and intelligence. Learning about Joinery Timber has taught me the importance of precision, durability and beauty in every detail. It encourages me to seek design solutions that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly practical and capable of maintaining value over time.

Ergonomics is the science that studies the relationship between humans and the working environment, aiming to optimize comfort and efficiency. The Japanese have applied ergonomics deeply into their lives, from arranging compact but convenient living spaces, to designing everyday items to best suit the human body. The attention to the smallest details to create the best user experience is something I always appreciate and learn from.

My knowledge of Japanese ergonomics has helped me realize that design is not just about creating beautiful things, but also about creating useful, easy-to-use things that bring maximum comfort to users. That is why I always put users at the center of all my projects.

Japan is not just a country, but a great school. Their cultural values, philosophies and traditional techniques have opened up a new worldview for me, shaped my career path and inspired me to constantly learn and create. The cultural journey with Japan will continue to be an important part of my life and work.

Jiva Hoa Lư Retreat

Jiva Hoa Lư Retreat is a tranquil, five-star resort nestled in the heart of Vietnam's ancient capital, Ninh Bình. The location is characterized by its scenic natural beauty, situated within a forested valley of the Trang An UNESCO World Heritage site. Guests are surrounded by dramatic limestone karsts, serene rivers, and lush rice fields, evoking the peaceful ambiance of a traditional northern Vietnamese village.

Jiva Hoa Lư Retreat was developed by a team including owner Nguyễn Ngọc Quang, with architecture by Anh Tri Design Joint Stock Company and landscaping by Mein Garten. Its design theory blends traditional Northern Vietnamese architectural styles with modern luxury to create a tranquil, culturally immersive, and sustainable experience in Ninh Bình's natural landscape.

The retreat's design is heavily influenced by the history of Hoa Lư, Vietnam's ancient capital, seeking to recreate the atmosphere of a peaceful, old northern village. It honors the region's cultural past, with rooms and villas named after natural elements and restored antique wooden houses converted into key spaces, such as a 125-year-old French colonial church serving as the fine-dining restaurant, Hat Gao.

Nestled within the UNESCO-recognized Tràng An Scenic Landscape Complex, the architecture is designed to harmonize with the dramatic limestone karsts, serene rivers, and lush rice paddies. The layout features winding paths and villas arranged around a central pond, fostering a deep connection between guests and the natural environment.

Jiva Hoa Lư Retreat offers a collection of varied accommodation options, including spacious suites and private estates designed for both families and smaller groups. For larger parties seeking ultimate privacy, the Jiva and Hoa Lu Houses are two separate, 177 sqm private estates with three expansive bedrooms, a living room, dining areas, and a 70 sqm infinity pool. The resort also features two-bedroom suites, known as the Nature Suite and the Heritage Villa, which vary in size but offer generous living space, ensuite bathrooms, and private terraces with scenic views. 

 

Jiva Hoa Lư Retreat offers a serene escape with comprehensive amenities. For dining, the retreat features multiple establishments: the tranquil and chic. Nhật Yên restaurant blends Vietnamese and international flavors using locally sourced ingredients, while the upcoming 

Hạt Gạo restaurant. situated in a 120-year-old chapel, will offer traditional Vietnamese cuisine with a mindful dining concept. A dedicated lounge for wine connoisseurs, The Cellar Door, is also set to open.

The resort's wellness facilities are centered around the Chỉ Quán Spa, which provides restorative therapies and herbal steam sessions. For those seeking an active way to relax, the property includes a fully equipped Fitness Centre and a yoga deck positioned next to a natural stream. The tranquil . Tea House offers a meditative space for guests to participate in tea ceremonies. For events, an exclusive event space named the 

Jiva Event Room accommodates up to 100 guests for theatre or banquet-style functions. Surrounded by lush nature and featuring a sublime natural backdrop, it is ideal for intimate gatherings, weddings, and banquets.