Discover the New Northern European Barrel Sauna Experience at FERN Yatsugatake

Experience Tranquility with Northern European Barrel Saunas at FERN Yatsugatake

On August 17, 2023, SANU officially opened the FERN Yatsugatake, a remarkable wellness destination located in the pristine nature of Nagano, Japan. This location features the innovative barrel saunas by totonö Japan—a startup that imports and sells traditional sauna products from Northern Europe. This partnership highlights the synergy between two companies devoted to enhancing well-being experiences through unique accommodation offerings.

A Rustic Yet Luxurious Escape

Located at over 1,000 meters above sea level in the tranquil area of Hara Village, FERN Yatsugatake offers guests the chance to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying the luxuries of modern architecture and design. The striking feature of this property is the barrel sauna, designed to blend seamlessly into its surroundings. Visitors can enjoy serene mornings and starry nights while taking a break from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

The architectural excellence of FERN Yatsugatake is brought to life by the SANU ARCHITECTS team, who carefully curated every aspect of this getaway. Their attention to detail turned the existing structure, formerly a residential building, into an eco-conscious second home. The redesign accents sustainability and showcases modern aesthetics—without losing its historical essence.

Thoughtfully Curated Spaces

Inside, visitors will find an array of Nordic furniture and artisan lighting from Japan, purposefully placed to enhance the overall comfort and atmosphere. The space is adorned with art and carefully chosen decorative elements that provide warmth and personality. Each aspect of the design promotes a sense of harmony with nature, encouraging guests to unwind and recharge during their stay.

The totonö barrel sauna is strategically positioned in the garden, allowing guests to view lush fern plants that inspired the property's name. This integration with the landscape enhances the overall relaxation experience.

Adding to the tranquility of Hara Village is the rich sound environment, filled with native bird songs, creating the perfect backdrop for guests as they savor their sauna experience. The site also includes a cozy fire pit area, where visitors can disconnect from city life while soaking in the natural sounds that surround them.

A Sauna That Exemplifies Design and Functionality

The FERN Yatsugatake features a 3.0-meter model of totonö’s barrel sauna, which can comfortably accommodate 4-6 people. The minimalist design, characterized by the harmonious combination of glass and wood, is typical of Northern European aesthetics. Made of specially treated A-grade wooden material, the sauna invites users to experience its natural warmth and delightful aroma.

Constructed with heat-resistant tempered glass, the sauna retains heat efficiently, marrying both functionality and style. The sauna can reach a maximum temperature of 110 degrees Celsius, allowing guests to fully enjoy the traditional Finnish löyly, where steam descends naturally across the vapor-shaped ceiling mound.

The installation of this sauna was executed by RUSH, a team recognized for their expertise in sauna construction, responsible for several renowned facilities in Japan. Their comprehensive approach ensures that every sauna experience remains top-quality from installation to maintenance.