Five Close-to-Home Japanese-Inspired Getaways

Japan is consistently at or near the top of AWG clients’ bucket lists, but with borders currently closed, we are highlighting our favorite Japanese-inspired retreats you can escape to — without the jetlag.

Shou Sugi Ban House

Watermill, NY

In Japan, shou sugi ban refers to a custom of preserving wood by scorching it with flames and finishing the charred wood with oil. Shou sugi ban is really about the practice of destroying something in order to build strength and resistance. It’s a concept that also applies in the growing spiritual self-care space, which is in part why owner Amy Cherry-Abitbol named her newish wellness retreat Shou Sugi Ban House.

The 13 stand-alone cedar studios, white-washed main house, hydrotherapy spa, and wellness barn are all connected through a web of pebbled pathways across the resort’s three acres. This place is zen — a retreat that weaves together a holistic approach to wellness through ancient healing practices, access to nature, and exceptional food (Noma co-founder Mads Refslund consulted), all under two hours from NYC.

Sensei Lanaʻi | A Four Seasons Resort

Lanaʻi, HI

With a Japanese-inspired architectural aesthetic, this intimate oasis set in Lanai’s sleepy upcountry is the brainchild of owner Larry Ellison.

Sensei Lana’i breaks with the standard wellness-resort format by having no (or at least few) rules. There is no guilt trip if you skip the sunrise hike, no judgment if you check your email (as long as it’s not during meditation). The resort’s all-inclusive model means the champagne is bottomless and, if you want to indulge in the five-course omakase at the Sensei by Nobu restaurant every night, nobody is going to stop you. 

Nobu Ryokan

Malibu, CA

The world’s first Nobu Ryokan — based off a traditional Japanese-style inn — is an ultra-exclusive hideaway with a cult following amongst CEOs, jetsetters, and celebrities.

Located in the heart of Malibu on Carbon Beach, it’s a place not to be seen. With 16 rooms tucked away from the outside world, it’s an oceanside escape dedicated to the art of unwinding. Luxurious yet minimalist touches in the all-teak rooms include 800-count linen sheets by Anichini, Japanese art and fresh ikebana floral arrangements. With a three-to-one staff-to-guest ratio, the hotel grants guests’ every wish.

All food and drink — available through 24-hour room service — is provided by acclaimed Nobu Malibu.

Golden Door

San Marcos, CA

Not only did Golden Door, California’s most renowned spa retreat, help kick-start start the wellness industry, it also offers much more than the momentary bliss found in most spa retreats. Instead, guests at the intimate haven focus on inner reflection and self-discovery through mindfulness, healthy eating, spa treatments, fitness, and meditation.

CEOs, celebs, and tastemakers can drop into kimono-clad anonymity and visit the zen enclave to re-evaluate their life, de-stress, and expand their horizons.

Because of its exclusivity, Golden Door has been listed as one of the top 1,000 places to see before you die by The New York Times. No wonder Oprah is a fan.

Gaige House + Ryokan

Glen Ellen, CA

Gaige House + Ryokan combines California vibes with Japanese design to create a peaceful retreat in vineyard-laden Sonoma Valley.

Opt for a zen-inspired Ryokan Suite, inspired by traditional Japanese inns and featuring cast-iron tea sets, granite soaking tubs with hinoki-wood ladles, and yukata robes to slip into afterwards. Outside, the Calabazas Creek rambles past karesansui rock gardens; by the pool and yoga-ready meditation room, a combination of bamboo, oak and maple trees provides a canopy above.