Blend into the Yanbaru Forest and awaken your five senses.

A journey of “revitalize” scented with wild herbs

“Revitalize” in the Yanbaru Forest at Dusk

BUNAGAYA stands on the site of the former Kijoka-sho.

Within its grounds, herbs continue to thrive vigorously in the wild.

At “BUNASAUNA,” a sauna created by repurposing a former incinerator,

the owner handpicks the most fragrant seasonal plants

from among those growing wild on the grounds of Kijoka-sho

and uses them to create a special aroma for the sauna’s löyly.

Surrounded by the Yanbaru Forest,

please enjoy a moment of relaxation as you “revitalize” amidst the scents of nature.

The Power of Herbs to Awaken the Five Senses

When you pour herbal water onto the heated stones, a soft steam rises with a “sizzle.” With each deep breath, a gentle herbal scent envelops your nose.

It is a moment where the tranquil passage of time in this former schoolhouse blends with the rich vitality of nature. The fact that the scent of the herbs changes with the seasons is a testament to the unspoiled Yanbaru Forest. Please embrace nature as it truly is with all five senses.

My Own Quiet Rhythm

“BUNA SAUNA” is designed with gentle temperatures so that even first-time sauna-goers can enjoy it with peace of mind. There are no clocks here. It’s a time to simply listen to your own heartbeat and breathing, without worrying about anyone else’s gaze. The owner will carefully guide you through how to enjoy the sauna, so even first-timers will be led to a level of deep relaxation unlike anything they’ve ever experienced before.

Outdoor air bathing, Engaging with the Forest

Beyond the cold water bath lies the deep, vibrant Yanbaru Forest. After warming up in the sauna,, take a moment to simply lean back in your chair and soak in the forest. Listen to the birdsong and the rustling of the wind as you slowly let your body relax. If you’re lucky, the red-bearded bulbul and the Yanbaru rail—both designated as Natural Monuments—might even make an appearance during your quiet moment.

Melting into the Sky: A Rest on a Starry Night

After a sauna session, you make your way back to the inn, feeling pleasantly tired. As the sun sets and the sky turns a deep indigo, the night at “BUNAGAYA”—enveloped in silence—awaits. You let the night breeze cool my flushed body as You sink into a hammock on the grounds and let it sway gently. When You look up, You're greeted by an unobstructed, star-filled sky over the Yanbaru Forest. As you gaze at the twinkling stars in the stillness, you’ll be enveloped by a sensation of melting into the night forest. Please take your time to savor this sense of “revitalize”—a connection to the universe that can only be experienced in this place, far removed from the city lights—right up until the moment you drift off to sleep.

■Plan Details

・Includes “Sunset Sauna” (4:00 PM–6:00 PM)

・Private sauna use

・Swimwear required; tattoos permitted

・Check-in: 3:00 PM–4:00 PM / Check-out: by 10:00 AM

*Please check in before using the sauna.

Regarding Children’s Use: Our sauna is generally intended for elementary school students and older. If young children (such as preschoolers) use the facility, please exercise sufficient caution under the supervision of a parent or guardian.

■ Announcement

The sauna is available only on Fridays and Saturdays. Advance reservations are required.

If you contact us at least 60 days in advance, we will be happy to discuss available days and times with you. Please send inquiries to ryota_y@kijoka-sho.jp.

Due to limited availability, we may not be able to accommodate all requests. We appreciate your understanding.