WELLNESS EXPERIENCES

Discover tranquility at our Zen-inspired haven, nestled in Japan's picturesque snow country. Embrace relaxation in its purest form with our custom-tailored massages, designed to harmonize body and mind. In our private spaces, find a peaceful retreat away from the busy hash of life, where silence speaks volumes. Surrounded by the gentle hush of snow country landscapes and the subtle elegance of Japanese culture, our retreat offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with yourself.

The large public bath can be found in a building that was once a rice store. The single storey wooden framed storehouse was dismantled and rebuilt in its present site. The spring water type is a sodium chloride hot spring (hypotonic, slightly alkaline high temperature spring water) that is said to be particularly effective for recovering from fatigue. In 1964 the town of Muikamachi was designated as a National Hot Spring Health Resort and the waters were highly regarded for being good for the skin and also for not causing dizziness if bathed in for a long time. Both the female baths and male baths are equipped with a sauna.

A full course dinner of creative cuisine at its best that incorporates many unique aspects of Yukiguni cuisine; plants and mushrooms foraged from the mountain slopes, fermented ingredients, vegetables stored under snow to bring out their flavors are just some of the local specialities. Cooking around the coals of an open hearth is a traditional technique that has been passed down through the generations at ryugon and it is used to perfectly grill the meat and fish. Each dish reveals something about the history or culture of Yukiguni and the wisdom it has taken to survive the long winters. Another source of pride of the area is the delicious local sake. These and locally produced wine are the perfect accompaniment to this feast.

Awaken your senses with a Zen-inspired yoga class at ryugon, set against the tranquil backdrop of Japan's picturesque landscapes.



Begin your mornings with us, embracing the serenity of dawn in Japan. These classes incorporate gentle yoga practices with the principles of Zen, creating an experience that nurtures both body and mind. As part of this journey, you'll also have the opportunity to engage in Zazen, or seated meditation, a fundamental aspect of Zen Buddhism.



Our Zen-inspired yoga classes are more than just exercise; they are a celebration of wellness, rooted in the rich heritage of Japanese culture. Each session guides you through relaxing movements and mindful meditation.

Under the gentle supervision of a local lady who has been brought up in the food culture of the region you will help prepare a meal of traditional rural dishes that are household favorites in Yukiguni. Prepare a fire and cook the rice over the flames in the traditional kamado pot which produces wonderfully moist rice. Your hostess will share her knowledge with you as you work together, and you will learn about different aspects of the food in the region where having enough food to last through half a year of winter was vital. The different ways of preserving and fermenting food are now staples in the cuisine of the area.

Discover the tranquil art of forest bathing at ryugon, nestled in Japan's serene snowscapes. This wellness practice, deeply rooted in Japanese culture, offers a profound connection with nature, rejuvenating mind and body amidst lush woodlands. Nearby, Mount Sakado presents an easy trek for beginners, leading to panoramic views over Minami Uonuma in a 1.5-hour climb, adorned with seasonal flora.



For the adventurous, Mount Hakkai, a short drive away, offers varied trails, including spiritual paths and a ropeway-assisted route, revealing the breathtaking beauty and cultural depth of Japan's revered mountains. Whether it's the peaceful embrace of the forest or the thrill of the summit, ryugon is your gateway to the essence of Japanese nature and tradition.

Delight in the 'Ichiju Sansai' dinner at ryugon, a culinary jewel amidst Japan's snowy vistas. This meal, translating to 'one soup, three sides,' is not just a feast for the senses but also Japan's secret to health and longevity. Savor the deep, warming flavors of the soup, accompanied by dishes crafted from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients from the snow country. This dining experience embodies the Japanese philosophy of balanced and mindful eating, enhancing wellness through nature's bounty. Each 'Ichiju Sansai' at ryugon is a celebration of the seasons, offering a taste of Japan's culinary heritage and a connection to the serene beauty of its snow-clad landscapes.

Immerse yourself in the serene world of the Japanese tea ceremony at ryugon, a practice deeply rooted in the culture and wellness traditions of Japan. Tea ceremony is more than just drinking tea; it's a luxurious, meditative ritual that symbolizes harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility - key tenets of Japanese philosophy.



You'll engage in every step of the process, from the graceful preparation of the tea to the mindful sipping, each action reflecting a deep respect for the present moment. This experience is a quintessential expression of Japanese wellness culture, where the simple act of enjoying tea becomes a profound practice of mindfulness and inner peace.

Discover tranquility at our Zen-inspired haven, nestled in Japan's picturesque snow country. Embrace relaxation in its purest form with our custom-tailored massages, designed to harmonize body and mind. In our private spaces, find a peaceful retreat away from the busy hash of life, where silence speaks volumes. Surrounded by the gentle hush of snow country landscapes and the subtle elegance of Japanese culture, our retreat offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with yourself.