cofunia-1 (Metal): Private Lodge | Yamanobe Trail

Kogane – The Metal Room (2 Single Beds) Breakfast included A serene, single-story retreat where deep blue walls and brass accents evoke calm and clarity. Kogane is inspired by the ancient element of Metal, which represents clarity, stillness, and reflection in the Chinese Five Elements philosophy. At cofunia, each of our five buildings embodies one of the five elements—Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, or Water—and designed to awaken your senses through natural textures, and seasonal inspiration. The space A Design Retreat on Japan’s Oldest Road – Inspired by the Five Elements Reconnect with Nature, Season, and Senses Welcome to cofunia, a retreat created by people who believe in living simply, honoring the land, and reconnecting with what matters. Nestled in the quiet village of Tenri, Nara, cofunia sits along Yamanobe-no-Michi—Japan’s oldest recorded path—and at the foot of Nishiyamazuka Kofun, a 6th-century burial mound. Surrounded by over 40 ancient tombs, forests, and farmlands, this is a landscape where time slows down and the senses gently return. Inspired by the ancient philosophy of Yin-Yang and the Five Elements—Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water—each of our four guest lodges is designed to reflect one of these elements. Natural textures, reclaimed materials, and subtle seasonal touches create a sensory experience in every room. The fifth structure, the Fire Building, is our shared dining space where meals are prepared using fermented ingredients, herbs, and traditional techniques rooted in yakuzen (Eastern herbal cuisine). ◾️ What You’ll Love • A one-of-a-kind stay rooted in Japanese elemental philosophy • Traditional architecture meets natural materials and modern comfort • Direct access to the historic Yamanobe trail • An ideal escape for creatives, solo travelers, or couples seeking stillness • A warm, human-scale experience led by people who live this way of life ◾️ Who This Is For • Nature lovers and slow travelers • Guests interested in Japanese culture, architecture, or fermentation • Writers, designers, artists, and thoughtful explorers • Anyone looking for a deeper, quieter travel experience ◾️ Breakfast Included Start your day with a nourishing Yamato-style breakfast made from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The menu includes ancient rice cooked in an earthenware pot, fermented vegetables, and delicately seasoned side dishes. Western-style breakfasts are also available upon request. ◾️ Dinner Option (+4,000 JPY, reservation required) Experience a dinner course inspired by Japan’s long tradition of fermentation and Eastern herbal medicine. Meals are crafted to support the body through the seasons, guided by the philosophy of the Five Elements. Sample Menu • Appetizers (3 kinds): Deep-fried Koya-dofu, spring rolls, and sake lees–shiitake pâté • Grilled Plate: Yamato pork & tōki herb sausage, sesame tofu, and two seasonal vegetables • Hot Pot: Seasonal yakuzen-style herbal broth • Rice & Pickled Vegetables Please reserve in advance if you would like to include dinner in your stay. Vegan options are available. Guest access Guests will have exclusive use of the Kogane building, including its private bathroom. You are also welcome to enjoy the surrounding garden and our shared dining space, the Fire Building, where breakfast and dinner are served. Other things to note Other Things to Note • Check-in: 4:00 PM–8:30 PM / Check-out: by 10:00 AM • Free parking available • The property is located in a quiet farming village along the historic Yamanobe-no-Michi trail, about 30 minutes from Nara City by train or car. It offers a peaceful countryside setting—please be mindful of noise and respect the local environment. • Please let us know in advance if you have any dietary restrictions or will be arriving late. • Breakfast is included (Japanese or Western-style available). • Dinner is available by reservation (+4,000 JPY per person) and features seasonal dishes based on fermentation and Eastern herbal cuisine (yakuzen). Registration details M290044284