Spring 2019

60 Experience the Japanese Spirit from the Heart of Sweden Yasuragi is a Japanese Spa Hotel in Sweden, located just 20 minutes away from Stockholm City. In February, the hotel was recognised in LUXlife’s 2019 Global Luxury Hotel & Spa Awards as the ‘Most Outstanding Luxury Spa Experience’ in the country. We spoke with Yasuragi’s Head of Brand, Kersti Olophsdotter, to find out more about this truly extraordinary establishment and their unique approach to luxury hospitality. With its neo-traditionalist interiors, and authentic décor, you may be forgiven for thinking that Yasuragi is located on the island which has so inspired its creation. Yet, Yasuragi is truly evocative of the country and its values, embracing the idea of quiet mindfulness and contemplation away from urban noise. This is a spa that brings spirituality and wellness back to its core elements – revolving around the guest, their mind, their body and how they interact with the world around them. As Kersti is keen to emphasise, Yasuragi is as close to authentically Japanese as it could possible be. “The building that now hosts Yasuragi was originally created by Japanese architect Yoji Kasajima and seems to rise out of the natural rock. We have Japanese onsen baths with outdoor hotsprings, and numerous treatments and relaxing activities. There are 191 rooms, all inspired by traditional Japanese aesthetics, and all with a view of the Stockholm archipelago. Equally, food is an important part of Yasuragi, with three different restaurants – vegan, à la carte and Teppanyaki. The hotel is surrounded by water and pine trees, and guests can enjoy a stroll in the Japanese Garden. Our aim, ultimately, is for the guests to relax at Yasuragi and return home rejuvenated, with new energy. We want our guests to experience the peace and harmony of Japan, right here in Sweden.” Kersti continues, giving more insight into Yasuragi’s tempting offerings. “the newly refurbished Japanese bath, by architects from DAP Stockholm, represents a modern, asymmetric version of a Japanese emperor’s courtyard, with a large swimming pool at its heart. The experience of cold and warm are constantly in focus, everything from a salt steam sauna to a carbonated bath, rain showers and alpine tub. Guests can bask in the warmth of Yasuragi’s indoor and outdoor Japanese hot spring baths, then pamper Feb19104