The site is situated just north of the 1000-meter forest road, which runs east-west at an altitude of 1000 meters in Karuizawa Oiwake. Surrounding the area are few residential structures, and to the north lies a national wildlife sanctuary, ensuring that no future development will occur and preserving the existing forest. The site features a flat, diamond-shaped layout, one side of which adjoins a gravel road. The axis of the short diagonal is oriented almost due south, while the site itself exhibits a fan-shaped slope that complements the diamond configuration, making it challenging to interpret the seemingly straightforward shape. Upon my initial visit, I was struck by the pristine forest that gently sloped to the south, leading me to believe it would be an ideal location for constructing a simple cabin that fosters a connection with nature. To maintain a more primitive ambiance, we opted to minimize alterations to the site's original shape and to design various levels that harmonize with the natural topography. The lower level serves as a roofed outdoor space, the middle level functions as a semi-outdoor interior area, and the upper level provides an independent living space, ensuring greater privacy as one ascends. Furthermore, each level is adaptable, allowing for versatile use without being confined to specific functions, resulting in a minimalist environment. For instance, the lower level features an entrance porch and a terrace that connects to the garden, transforming into the main dining area during the summer months. The middle level is encircled by a kitchen, benches, and a wood-burning stove, creating an expansive hall that can serve multiple purposes. Both the terrace and hall can be fully opened to connect them seamlessly. A bench in the hall is positioned diagonally opposite the terrace bench, while considerable distance is maintained between spaces in both plan and cross-section, enabling one to fully appreciate the harmonious forest setting. The upper-level sleeping area connects to the hall via a change in elevation, serving as a spacious sofa for daytime relaxation and a sleeping area at night. The bathroom faces the mountainside opposite the road, allowing for an immersive experience of the vibrant northern forest. The three forest-set levels feature openings designed to resonate with the surrounding woodland, and by positioning them at varied elevations according to the site, they achieve a greater integration with the forest environment. The structure is a single-story wooden building constructed using traditional methods, with elevated floors supported by a minimal foundation and partially overhanging. The five exposed pillars supporting the roof of the hall are 75 x 150 mm flat columns that also function as mullions for the wooden fittings, ensuring a cohesive connection with the forest. Main structure: Traditional wooden construction Construction: Hapia Design