“Set against a landscape of mystical mountains, Sasayuri Ann is Japan’s hidden paradise; an exclusive and authentic rural retreat overseen by a shegundo monk”
For the ultimate escape from city life, Sasayuri Ann is a renovated Edo period farmhouse surrounded by rice paddies and expansive mountain slopes blanketed with sasayuri lilies and soaring trees. Nestled at the base of the Kii Peninsula in the Kansai region of Japan, it serves as a luxurious private villa for up to 10 people seeking a serene and authentic hideaway. Overseen by a shegundo monk, this lodge is a genuine haven of spirituality and mindfulness.
The traditional thatched roof mountain house is 200 years old and retains its authentic Japanese spirit whilst also offering guests every modern comfort you’d expect from a luxury escape. The décor reflects Japanese simplicity and mimics the shegundo spiritual style.
Set in the birthplace of the Japanese ninja, Sasayuri Ann offers guests rich history and fascinating cultural experiences within the lodge and its surrounding areas. Highlights include:
- Take to the skies in a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter pilgrimage to World Heritage Sites from Sasayuri Ann’s excusive heliport
- See a ninja demonstration in full costume and other traditional musical performances
- Be wowed by live Japanese food presentations by a Michelin star chef
- Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims and hike to nearby waterfalls (bare feet optional!)
- Try your hand at a ikebana flower arranging with a private instructor, or learn about the art of the Japanese tea ceremony
- Learn and practice Zazen—a Japanese form of meditation—to completely relax in the supremely peaceful surroundings
- Enjoy a guided hike to local waterfalls and witness (or even participate in) Shegundo water rituals
