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The treatment menu draws on both Japanese traditions and Auriga's signature lunar philosophy. The New Moon ritual, for instance, is a full-body massage designed to harness the new moon’s rejuvenating energy, while the Full Moon treatment combines body and scalp massages with chakra balancing for the head, heart and hara — the Japanese concept that refers to both the body’s physical core and its energetic center. Located just steps from Kenninji Temple and Kyoto Ebisu-jinja Shrine, the spa offers a tranquil retreat rooted in both place and tradition.
Our Inspector's Highlights
- Designed by acclaimed Japanese architect Kengo Kuma in collaboration with Brewin Design Office, Auriga Spa offers a contemporary interpretation of a traditional Kyoto machiya. Warm blond woods, textured stone, soft lighting and shoji-inspired screens create a calming atmosphere, while a dramatic spiral staircase serves as the spa's visual centerpiece.
- Of course, no wellness retreat in Japan would be complete without an onsen. Auriga Spa’s three private onsen rooms look out onto their own quiet rock gardens and can be reserved by individuals or couples for a restorative escape before or after a treatment.
- For skincare devotees, one of Auriga Spa's biggest draws is its partnership with The Ginza, Shiseido's minimalist luxury skincare brand inspired by Tokyo's iconic retail district. The collaboration represents the first time The Ginza has created treatments specifically for a spa setting, with its products woven throughout a collection of facials and body therapies. Chief among them is the Ultimate Ritual, a 150-minute journey that layers a foot bath, reflexology, body scrub, full-body massage and facial into a deeply pampering experience.
- Before or after treatments, guests are invited to linger in the Kyoto spa’s serene relaxation lounge, where herbal tea tailored to your treatment and personal preferences, along with fresh and dried fruit, are available throughout the day.
- As a thoughtful detail, amenities in the changing rooms are presented in lacquer boxes decorated with traditional Japanese motifs — a subtle nod to the country’s rich artistic heritage.
Things to Know
- Short on time? The 45-minute Neck & Shoulder treatment delivers quick relief for travel-weary muscles. Focusing on the back, neck and scalp, it eases tension and restores energy, making it an ideal reset before a day of sightseeing or meetings.
- Following traditional Japanese onsen etiquette, shower thoroughly before entering the bath and avoid using soap or shampoo in the water. Because these onsen suites are private, however, you don't need to worry about customs related to modesty or tattoo coverage.
- Also on the spa level is a well-equipped fitness center featuring Technogym cardio and strength-training equipment. Smart technology allows the machines to adjust to individual user profiles, making it easy to pick up exactly where you left off. The hotel even rents workout gear and shoes as an added convenience.
- If a day of pampering at the luxury spa leaves you craving an equally memorable meal, make a reservation at SoNoMa by SingleThread. Created in collaboration with Sonoma County’s Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star SingleThread Farms Restaurant, the hotel’s 32-seat eatery brings a fresh approach to the omakase dining experience.
- For those who prefer to soak on their own schedule, consider booking one of the hotel’s six Onsen Suites. Spanning 764 square feet, each features a spacious king-sized bedroom and private bath overlooking a garden atrium.
Getting There
130 Komatsu-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, 605-0811
TEL81-75-606-5817
