Asama Kuzanbo Launches First Artist-in-Residence Program Featuring Painter Yugo Kohrogi; Unveils Works Inspired by Mt. Asama's Sunset and Local Stones
Key facts
- Asama Kuzanbo Launches First Artist-in-Residence Program Featuring Painter Yugo Kohrogi; Unveils Works Inspired by Mt. Asama's Sunset and Local Stones
- Asama Kuzanbo, a villa resort operated by Kuzanbo Club LLC, has launched its first Artist-in-Residence program, showcasing the results of painter Yugo Kohrogi's stay. The exhibited works, including a painting capturing Mt. Asama's sunset and an installation of stones from Kitakaruizawa, have been added to the facility's collection. The program aims to foster creativity and regional appeal through art, with plans for continuation.
- Source: PR Times
- Date: June 11, 2026
Direct answer
Asama Kuzanbo, a villa resort operated by Kuzanbo Club LLC, has launched its first Artist-in-Residence program, showcasing the results of painter Yugo Kohrogi's stay. The exhibited works, including a painting capturing Mt. Asama's sunset and an installation of stones from Kitakaruizawa, have been added to the facility's collection. The program aims to foster creativity and regional appeal through art, with plans for continuation.
- Citation
- Asama Kuzanbo Launches First Artist-in-Residence Program Featuring Painter Yugo Kohrogi; Unveils Works Inspired by Mt. Asama's Sunset and Local Stones (June 11, 2026), PR Times
- Source
- PR Times
- Date
- June 11, 2026
Asama Kuzanbo, a villa resort operated by Kuzanbo Club LLC, has launched its first Artist-in-Residence program, showcasing the results of painter Yugo Kohrogi's stay. The exhibited works, including a painting capturing Mt. Asama's sunset and an installation of stones from Kitakaruizawa, have been added to the facility's collection. The program aims to foster creativity and regional appeal through art, with plans for continuation.
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- 📰 Published: June 11, 2026 at 11:00
- 🔍 Collected: June 11, 2026 at 11:27 (27 min after Published)
- 🤖 AI Analyzed: June 12, 2026 at 18:15 (30h 48m after Collected)
Kuzanbo Club LLC (Headquarters: Agatsuma-gun, Gunma Prefecture), operator of the "Asama Kuzanbo" villa resort, has launched its first "Artist-in-Residence Program" (Supported by: Kitakaruizawa Tourism Association) starting in 2026. The works created by the first artist-in-residence, painter Yugo Kohrogi, will be unveiled in the guest lounge. Additionally, a total of one artwork, born from the nature of Mt. Asama and stones collected locally, will be added to the facility's collection.
"Asama Kuzanbo" is a villa resort located amidst the grand nature with Mt. Asama in full view, themed around coexistence with the global environment. This program was initiated with the aim of providing artists with a space for inspiration in Kitakaruizawa's overwhelming natural environment, broadly disseminating the new creativity born from it, and uncovering new regional attractions through art.
■ Yugo Kohrogi, a Painter Active Domestically and Internationally
Kohrogi has created works in various locations both domestically and internationally, starting from his home prefecture of Kumamoto. He focuses on the ambiguity of light and visual perception, directing his attention to the act of "seeing" itself. Known for captivating many with his unique brushwork where figuration and abstraction resonate, he stayed at "Asama Kuzanbo's" deluxe suite "Cassiopeia" for approximately one month from April to May 2026, using it as his atelier. He engaged in creative activities while deeply immersing himself in the Kitakaruizawa environment.
Scenes from Kohrogi's stay
While Kohrogi is usually known for his impressive style featuring human figures as motifs, for this program, he directly sublimated the overwhelming natural environment surrounding the facility into his subject matter.
■ Ideas Gathered in the Majestic Nature of Kitakaruizawa Sublimated into Kohrogi's Unique Art
During his stay, Kohrogi extensively explored the surrounding areas. While conducting research on foot, he personally collected "stones" that became important compositional elements of his work. He also stated that he focused on the act of simply "gazing" at the rich landscape of Kitakaruizawa to expand his imagination.
Photo: Yugo Kohrogi
In the dense natural environment, where wild animals appear close to the villas, Kohrogi was immersed in his creation. Real-life experiences during his stay, the surrounding scenery, and the animals he encountered were shared in real-time through his social media.
■ Oil Painting Workshop Held to Connect the Region and Art
In addition to Kohrogi's residency creation, this Artist-in-Residence program also included initiatives to bring art closer to accommodation guests and local residents.
During his stay, an oil painting workshop led by Kohrogi was held as part of the event "Kitakaruizawa Mini Fiesta." Participants received direct advice from the artist while experiencing the unique expressions and joy of oil painting. Through interaction with an artist, with whom they rarely have the opportunity to engage, it was a moment for them to feel art in close proximity within the rich nature of Kitakaruizawa.
Artist's Message
It was an environment of deep nature where I encountered some kind of animal every day. During my stay, I was so completely absorbed in creation and research that I felt like I was meeting humans for the first time in a while at the exhibition venue; I spent my time purely facing nature. During my stay, I made it a daily routine to gaze at the morning and evening sun, and I feel that the sense of color within me has connected more deeply with this world.
It seems that around 10,000 to 20,000 years ago, the area around Mt. Asama was a vast lake, but I believe that what is constantly changing gently is the earth and this world. I would be happy if I could share the beauty of the twilight that someone felt in ancient times and the emotion I felt during this stay with someone else through this work.
▪️ Regarding the Residency Work "Λ 01"
As a result of this program, the installation work "Λ (Lambda) 01," which combines one canvas work and a group of works made from stones collected on-site, has been unveiled. The canvas, featuring beautiful gradations reminiscent of the shifting light and twilight of the Mt. Asama foothills, resonates with the stones that hold the memory of the local earth, creating a unique work that embodies the environment of Kitakaruizawa itself.
This work will be housed in the facility's collection as an important art piece commemorating Asama Kuzanbo's first initiative and will be carefully preserved within the facility in the future.
■ "Artist-in-Residence Program 2027" Applications to Begin This Autumn
"Asama Kuzanbo" plans to continue implementing this Artist-in-Residence program in the years to come. We will continue to invite artists from diverse genres, both domestic and international, to create a space where Kitakaruizawa's nature and art merge.
■ Selected Artist Profile
Yugo Kohrogi
Painter Born in Kumamoto in 1982
Completed Graduate School of Tokyo University of the Arts, Fine Arts
His work primarily depicts the subtle beauty hidden in everyday life and nature, confronting the fluctuations of light, the transitions of color, and the act of "seeing" itself. He has held numerous solo and group exhibitions in Japan. His latest solo exhibitions include "Longing for the Ephemeral" at the Kiyoriki Museum of Art (Fukuoka) and "Fluctus" at the Tsutaya Gallery in Kyoto in 2025. He also received the Fukuoka Art Award Excellence Prize in 2025, demonstrating his energetic activities.
Web: https://www.oguy.jp/ Instagram: @yugokohrogi
【"Asama Kuzanbo" Overview】
"Asama Kuzanbo," created under the supervision of world-renowned designer Junko Koshino, is a one-building rental villa resort nestled in the great nature of Kitakaruizawa. The vast site of over 60,000 square meters luxuriously accommodates 16 accommodation villas, the restaurant "Tenku Dining," the hot spring facility "Tenku Spa," a lounge, and a dog run. All villas offer a superb "Mt. Asama view" panorama, allowing guests to enjoy an extraordinary experience with their beloved dogs in a space that blends into nature, akin to glamping. Please enjoy a private time as if visiting a second home.
Location: 2032-2577 Kitakaruizawa, Naganohara-machi, Agatsuma-gun, Gunma Prefecture
Site Area: Approx. 62,000 square meters
HP: https://www.kuzanbo.jp/
INSTAGRAM: @asamakuzanbo_official
■ Regarding Asama Kuzanbo's 5th Anniversary Project
Asama Kuzanbo will celebrate its 5th anniversary on April 26, 2026 (Sunday). The concept for this anniversary year is "Asama where sky, mountains, and the five senses breathe, and beyond." Throughout the year, we will deliver experiences that allow guests to enjoy the nature and seasons of Kitakaruizawa with all five senses. Please look forward to it.
【Company Profile】
Company Name: Kuzanbo Club LLC
Representative: Genko Otachi
Address: 2032-2577 Kitakaruizawa, Naganohara-machi, Agatsuma-gun, Gunma Prefecture, 377-1412
Established: January 2020
Business Activities: Development, management, and operation of resort hotels
"Asama Kuzanbo" is a villa resort located amidst the grand nature with Mt. Asama in full view, themed around coexistence with the global environment. This program was initiated with the aim of providing artists with a space for inspiration in Kitakaruizawa's overwhelming natural environment, broadly disseminating the new creativity born from it, and uncovering new regional attractions through art.
■ Yugo Kohrogi, a Painter Active Domestically and Internationally
Kohrogi has created works in various locations both domestically and internationally, starting from his home prefecture of Kumamoto. He focuses on the ambiguity of light and visual perception, directing his attention to the act of "seeing" itself. Known for captivating many with his unique brushwork where figuration and abstraction resonate, he stayed at "Asama Kuzanbo's" deluxe suite "Cassiopeia" for approximately one month from April to May 2026, using it as his atelier. He engaged in creative activities while deeply immersing himself in the Kitakaruizawa environment.
Scenes from Kohrogi's stay
While Kohrogi is usually known for his impressive style featuring human figures as motifs, for this program, he directly sublimated the overwhelming natural environment surrounding the facility into his subject matter.
■ Ideas Gathered in the Majestic Nature of Kitakaruizawa Sublimated into Kohrogi's Unique Art
During his stay, Kohrogi extensively explored the surrounding areas. While conducting research on foot, he personally collected "stones" that became important compositional elements of his work. He also stated that he focused on the act of simply "gazing" at the rich landscape of Kitakaruizawa to expand his imagination.
Photo: Yugo Kohrogi
In the dense natural environment, where wild animals appear close to the villas, Kohrogi was immersed in his creation. Real-life experiences during his stay, the surrounding scenery, and the animals he encountered were shared in real-time through his social media.
■ Oil Painting Workshop Held to Connect the Region and Art
In addition to Kohrogi's residency creation, this Artist-in-Residence program also included initiatives to bring art closer to accommodation guests and local residents.
During his stay, an oil painting workshop led by Kohrogi was held as part of the event "Kitakaruizawa Mini Fiesta." Participants received direct advice from the artist while experiencing the unique expressions and joy of oil painting. Through interaction with an artist, with whom they rarely have the opportunity to engage, it was a moment for them to feel art in close proximity within the rich nature of Kitakaruizawa.
Artist's Message
It was an environment of deep nature where I encountered some kind of animal every day. During my stay, I was so completely absorbed in creation and research that I felt like I was meeting humans for the first time in a while at the exhibition venue; I spent my time purely facing nature. During my stay, I made it a daily routine to gaze at the morning and evening sun, and I feel that the sense of color within me has connected more deeply with this world.
It seems that around 10,000 to 20,000 years ago, the area around Mt. Asama was a vast lake, but I believe that what is constantly changing gently is the earth and this world. I would be happy if I could share the beauty of the twilight that someone felt in ancient times and the emotion I felt during this stay with someone else through this work.
▪️ Regarding the Residency Work "Λ 01"
As a result of this program, the installation work "Λ (Lambda) 01," which combines one canvas work and a group of works made from stones collected on-site, has been unveiled. The canvas, featuring beautiful gradations reminiscent of the shifting light and twilight of the Mt. Asama foothills, resonates with the stones that hold the memory of the local earth, creating a unique work that embodies the environment of Kitakaruizawa itself.
This work will be housed in the facility's collection as an important art piece commemorating Asama Kuzanbo's first initiative and will be carefully preserved within the facility in the future.
■ "Artist-in-Residence Program 2027" Applications to Begin This Autumn
"Asama Kuzanbo" plans to continue implementing this Artist-in-Residence program in the years to come. We will continue to invite artists from diverse genres, both domestic and international, to create a space where Kitakaruizawa's nature and art merge.
■ Selected Artist Profile
Yugo Kohrogi
Painter Born in Kumamoto in 1982
Completed Graduate School of Tokyo University of the Arts, Fine Arts
His work primarily depicts the subtle beauty hidden in everyday life and nature, confronting the fluctuations of light, the transitions of color, and the act of "seeing" itself. He has held numerous solo and group exhibitions in Japan. His latest solo exhibitions include "Longing for the Ephemeral" at the Kiyoriki Museum of Art (Fukuoka) and "Fluctus" at the Tsutaya Gallery in Kyoto in 2025. He also received the Fukuoka Art Award Excellence Prize in 2025, demonstrating his energetic activities.
Web: https://www.oguy.jp/ Instagram: @yugokohrogi
【"Asama Kuzanbo" Overview】
"Asama Kuzanbo," created under the supervision of world-renowned designer Junko Koshino, is a one-building rental villa resort nestled in the great nature of Kitakaruizawa. The vast site of over 60,000 square meters luxuriously accommodates 16 accommodation villas, the restaurant "Tenku Dining," the hot spring facility "Tenku Spa," a lounge, and a dog run. All villas offer a superb "Mt. Asama view" panorama, allowing guests to enjoy an extraordinary experience with their beloved dogs in a space that blends into nature, akin to glamping. Please enjoy a private time as if visiting a second home.
Location: 2032-2577 Kitakaruizawa, Naganohara-machi, Agatsuma-gun, Gunma Prefecture
Site Area: Approx. 62,000 square meters
HP: https://www.kuzanbo.jp/
INSTAGRAM: @asamakuzanbo_official
■ Regarding Asama Kuzanbo's 5th Anniversary Project
Asama Kuzanbo will celebrate its 5th anniversary on April 26, 2026 (Sunday). The concept for this anniversary year is "Asama where sky, mountains, and the five senses breathe, and beyond." Throughout the year, we will deliver experiences that allow guests to enjoy the nature and seasons of Kitakaruizawa with all five senses. Please look forward to it.
【Company Profile】
Company Name: Kuzanbo Club LLC
Representative: Genko Otachi
Address: 2032-2577 Kitakaruizawa, Naganohara-machi, Agatsuma-gun, Gunma Prefecture, 377-1412
Established: January 2020
Business Activities: Development, management, and operation of resort hotels
FAQ
What is the Artist-in-Residence Program at "Asama Kuzanbo"?
It is a program where artists engage in creative activities set against the backdrop of Kitakaruizawa's rich nature, with their works subsequently unveiled. It aims to foster a new relationship between the region and art.
What are the characteristics of painter Yugo Kohrogi's work?
His work focuses on the ambiguity of light and visual perception, characterized by a style where figuration and abstraction resonate. For this program, he created works inspired by Kitakaruizawa's nature and stones.
Will this program continue in the future?
Yes, it is planned to continue beyond 2026. We will continue to create a space where art and nature merge by inviting diverse artists from Japan and abroad.
What kind of facility is "Asama Kuzanbo"?
It is a one-building rental villa resort themed around coexistence with the global environment, offering views of the magnificent Mt. Asama. The facility is supervised by designer Junko Koshino and allows guests to bring their dogs.
Besides the art program, what other experiences are available?
Guests can enjoy extraordinary and private time, including stays amidst grand nature, dining at the restaurant, spa treatments, and activities with their dogs.