Hotel Indigo Karuizawa

At the foot of a volcano, which really does set the mood, this boutique hotel in the Karuizawa mountains threads Japanese architectural detail through a quietly stylish international frame. The 155 rooms lean into the forest setting, some with garden patios, some with woodland views from the tub. A Thai-style spa by HARNN handles relaxation; the single all-day restaurant, Kagaribi, handles meals with, of all things, an Italian accent.