A Unesco World Heritage Site, the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trails in Wakayama prefecture have long captivated discerning travellers with their attractive blend of history, nature and spirituality. Now, there’s a new addition to further enrich your journey as you walk this sacred path.
The 1,200-year-old Daitaiji Temple, located in Nachikatsuura near the Ota River, is a popular stop along the Kumano Kodo trails. Set within tranquil grounds amidst a lush forest and known for its authentic shukubo (temple stay), the temple offers comfortable Japanese-style rooms equipped with modern amenities. It also provides a variety of traditional temple experiences, including zazen (seated) meditation, sutra copying, rice porridge breakfasts and guided tours of the Buddha statues in the precincts.
Earlier this month, Daitaiji unveiled its latest undertaking: a Finnish-style wood-fired sauna set within one of the temple buildings. The sauna’s design is inspired by Finnish sauna customs, but incorporates local wood and other distinctive materials that reflect Wakayama’s abundant nature. Adding to the atmosphere is an art piece inside the sauna, inspired by the cave where Bodhidharma, the founder of Zen Buddhism, is said to have attained enlightenment.
Called ‘Zen x Sauna’, the steamy new facility is hot enough to promote health benefits yet not so intense that it discourages social interaction. In keeping with Finnish tradition, the sauna serves as both a wellness ritual and a communal experience. Most importantly, it’s also envisioned as a form of zazen meditation, as the head priest recognises the spiritual parallels between the two practices.
Zen x Sauna is open to both day-trippers and overnight guests. Day visitors can use the facility between 11.30am and 2.30pm for ¥8,000 per person. Guests staying at the temple have access to the sauna in the evening from 5pm, as well as in the morning after their meditation session.
The sauna also features a cold plunge and an outdoor relaxation area with views of the surrounding greenery. As it’s a mixed-gender facility, you should bring your swimwear along. Hand and bath towels are provided. Check the temple’s website for reservations.
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