Hey there! I’m Tabeena, your ever-curious traveler, ready to share the joy of exploring Kumamoto! Ever felt the urge for some alone time or a little secret indulgence? Well, I’m all about active trips with friends, but there’s something special about solo ventures – be it dining alone or enjoying personal moments.

For fellow solo adventurers, I have exciting news! A luxurious private sauna, perfect for some solitary relaxation, has opened in the Suizenji area, the area in Kumamoto city famous for its Japanese garden (Suizenji Park). I couldn’t resist checking this brand new “Zen”-inspired luxury sauna and am thrilled to share the experience with you.

Suizenji Luxury Sauna & Spa

Nestled on the second floor of the Matsuya Bekkan Ryokan, the “Yuya Suizen Luxury Sauna & Spa” opened its doors in Spring 2023. Amidst the pandemic, they envisioned creating a space not limited to overnight guests, by open to people to drop in and partake in a sauna and bath experience. The space provides a chance to experience both Japanese hospitality as well as learn about “Higo Hosokawa” culture, the culture associated with the Hosokawa Clan that ruled Kumamoto throughout the fuedal Edo period and remains strongly associated with the Suizenji Area to this day.

To the baths!

The facility is comprised of three areas: the communal bath (“Ooyu”), the private sauna (“Yokusu”), and a co-working space “Kaisho”. I opted for the private sauna.

The space is adorned with traditional Japanese elements. The scent of hinoki wood lingers subtly in the air, enhancing the serene ambiance.

The private sauna offers an unexpectedly spacious and welcoming experience. You’ll find a deep connection to traditional Japanese aesthetics through the use of tatami and hinoki wood in the design.

Sprinkling aroma water on lava stones from an ancient eruption of Mount Aso creates a captivating bridge to a distant, mystical past. The stones used on the sauna here are believed to have been expelled from Mount Aso around 20,000 to 30,000 years ago.

The relaxation room feels like a luxurious hotel suite, complete with high-end amenities that add an extra touch of excitement and comfort.

My Recommended Way of Enjoying the Sauna

First start with a refreshing shower, followed by a relaxing soak in the hinoki bathtub. Then, it’s sauna time! After warming up, cool down in the cold bath and take a break in the chairs. I suggest repeating this cycle 2-3 times for the best experience. Post-bath, unwind with a cup of Japanese black tea in the restful lounge.

Traveler’s Tip: The Perfect Souvenir

Take home a piece of tranquility with the “Yuya Suizen Luxury Sauna & Spa” aroma spray. This unique blend captures the essence of the sauna’s aromatic water, inspired by Kumamoto’s green tea. It’s a perfect way to recreate a Zen-like atmosphere at home.

For those seeking a tranquil escape or a luxurious moment of solitude, Suizenji Luxury Sauna & Spa is your oasis in Kumamoto. Enjoy the warmth of Japanese hospitality and the unique blend of tradition and modern comfort.

Yuya Suizen Luxury Sauna & Spa (湯屋 水禅 Luxury Sauna ＆ Spa)
Address: 2nd Floor of Matsuya Bekkan Ryokan, 5-5-1 Suizenji, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto City, Kumamoto Prefecture (熊本県熊本市中央区水前寺５丁目５−１ 松屋別館 2F) [Google Maps]
Operating Hours:
Large Communal Bathing Area: 6:00 AM – 11:00 AM / 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Private Sauna: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Co-working Space: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Official Website: https://www.matsuyahonkan.com/suizen/

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The above was translated and adapted from an article on our Japanese sister website ALT Kumamoto, titled “禅のサウナに癒される。水前寺で話題の〈湯屋 水禅 Luxury Sauna & Spa〉でプライベートサウナを体験” For the original content, visit https://akumamoto.jp/archives/219317.

Thumbnail image provided by Matsuya Bekkan.