Here’s an update after a long time! My apologies to all the sauna enthusiasts who have been waiting patiently!
This time, I’m introducing “ume, sauna,” located in Nara Prefecture! It’s a spot that many sauna lovers rave about as one of the finest. What kind of place could
What kind of image comes to mind when you think of Nara Prefecture? While it might be less well-known compared to Kyoto, Nara is also a popular tourist destination with many famous shrines and temples. It’s conveniently located just about 45 minutes by train from Kyoto, making it easy to visit both areas. Personally, I find that while Kyoto’s attractions are often bustling with people, Nara’s sights tend to offer a more peaceful, relaxed atmosphere.
↑↑Pictured above is Tōdai-ji, Nara’s most popular tourist destination. With nearly 1,500 years of history, it’s also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Additionally, while not pictured here, the massive Great Buddha statue housed within is equally famous. If you have the chance, be sure to see it in person and experience its impressive presence firsthand!
Besides temples and shrines, Nara has other spots well worth visiting! ↑↑The photo above shows the Naramachi, an area that preserves its traditional streetscape and is filled with unique small shops. It’s a place where you can enjoy both the historic atmosphere and a bit of shopping. Whenever I’m in Nara, I always make a point to visit here. Every turn down a narrow alley reveals more interesting shops, making for a delightful and varied experience!
Now, let’s get back to introducing the sauna! Today, I’ll be highlighting ume, sauna, located in Yamazoe Village in Nara Prefecture. This village sits on a highland area at the northeastern edge of Nara. The elevation ranges from 120 to 620 meters, giving it some variation in height, though the slopes are generally gentle. With about 80% of the village covered in forest, it’s a beautiful setting where small communities and farmland are scattered along rivers and winding roads.
his sauna is located within the ume, yamazoe lodging facility in Yamazoe Village. Ume, yamazoe is an intimate hotel with a limit of only three guest groups per day. Originally, it was the village chief’s residence at the top of the settlement, which has now been beautifully renovated into a unique and welcoming hotel.
There are rooms available for up to two guests and for up to eight guests, each one an impressive, beautifully renovated traditional house. The space in each room is exceptional, with a warm, authentic charm. And given its location at the top of the village, the views are simply stunning! You’ll find plenty of gorgeous photos on the ume, yamazoe website, so be sure to check it out.
And here it is—the ume, sauna! This sauna is a separate building from the main accommodation, with an exterior covered in charred cedar, giving it a modern yet harmonious look within the natural landscape. The cold plunge bath is right out front.
For sauna enthusiasts, ume, sauna has become synonymous with “sauna” in Nara Prefecture. This acclaimed sauna was produced by Noda Crackson-Bebee, the producer behind The Sauna, which I introduced before and is arguably one of Japan’s finest saunas. Noda’s saunas truly never disappoint!
To create a meditative experience, the sauna intentionally lacks windows at eye level, allowing you to turn inward in the slightly dim atmosphere. In this space, you can fully focus on connecting with yourself. For the löyly (steam), they use Yamato tea, a specialty of Yamazoe Village.
The wood-burning stove that warms the sauna has a striking and impressive design! Despite its large form, the temperature is set to a gentle 80°C, providing a more relaxing experience. The aim was to create a sauna where you can stay for an extended period, taking your time and enjoying the relaxation.
After the hot sauna, you can enjoy a refreshing cold plunge while taking in the beautiful views of Yamazoe Village. The water bath can accommodate two to three people, offering a spacious and relaxing experience. The water temperature changes with the seasons, and the changing seasons themselves add to the charm of this sauna.
For outdoor relaxation, head up to the space above the sauna. The usual sounds—such as the water flowing into the bath, people coming and going, and conversations—are replaced by the soothing natural sounds around you. The gentle babbling of a nearby stream, the rustling of leaves in the wind, and the whispers of birds from the mountains create a serene atmosphere. It’s a sauna experience that lets you escape from the noise of human-made environments and truly immerse yourself in tranquility.
The name “ume,” in Japanese, means “to be born” and “to awaken.” The sauna itself has been designed with the concept of “awakening through the life (fire) that came from the wood.” It’s a place where you can experience a renewal, much like being reborn. Why not come and experience a transformation at “ume,sauna”?
See you at the next sauna!
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