North Carolina Hides A Serene Resort Best Known As 'The Japan Of The Blue Ridge Mountains'

A serene, tranquil environment blended with ancient healing rituals is just what you'd expect at a traditional spa (or onsen) in Japan. But if you're not planning a trip across the Pacific Ocean anytime soon, you can actually find an authentic Japanese spa right in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Shoji Spa & Retreat in Asheville, North Carolina, is truly a hidden gem where you will find Japanese-inspired treatments for your ultimate health and well-being. Adding to the serene ambiance is the astounding natural beauty of the mountains and trails around the spa. If you're looking for the closest airport, we recommend flying into Asheville Regional Airport –– but you can also opt for the Greensville/Spartanburg or Charlotte airports as well.

The Shoji Spa & Retreat offers a similar experience that you would have in the famous onsens of Kyoto. The spa also allows visitors to stay overnight, much like the ryokan (Japanese-style inns) in Japan do. The retreat also takes on Japanese design elements to encourage relaxation and rejuvenation such as Shoji screens, zen gardens, and natural bamboo details. The secluded, calming atmosphere makes you feel like you've been transported a million miles away from your daily life. And yet the resort is located just minutes from the bustling downtown Asheville. While you've got spas on your mind, here is a guide to hotels with the best spas in America.

Shoji offers a complete menu of rejuvenating experiences, both indoors and out, that will perfect your day at the spa. You'll start your day by donning a traditional Japanese robe called a yukata with sandals that should be worn throughout the retreat. Then, take a dip in a private hot tub in the woods to enhance your sense of well-being and harmony with nature. As Asheville's only Japanese-style spa, their therapeutic salt hot tubs let you soak in the mineral-rich waters outdoors. If you're feeling a little peckish, you can also immerse yourself in their tub-side tea service and inhale the fragrant aromas of various teas from Dobra Tea Co. Professional treatment services include hydrotherapy soaks, zen massage, deep tissue (okubukai) massage, and more. Guests can also book a "renewal ritual," which includes a 90-minute session in a private tub house. Some massages also use CBD salves for more healing benefits. 

If you're really looking for the ultimate serenity, the "Baby Buddha" package features a 1-hour soak, a special exfoliation treatment, and concludes with the spa's Savansa Retreat –– which includes heated gemstone infrared therapy as you lay on tatami mats, wrapped in the warmth of a 25-pound blanket. Frankly, there's no better way to achieve deep relaxation. The spa also offers Chea Massage pods, which employ rollers to gently massage your back with customized movements like a traditional Japanese Shiatsu massage or full-body yoga stretch. Add in some heat to enhance your experience and feel all of the stress and tension melt away.

As a four-season destination, Asheville brings you wonderful experiences as expansive as the Blue Ridge Mountains. Everything from outdoor recreation and excellent food to historic venues and cultural arts are waiting for your exploration. Naturally, since it's modeled after a traditional ryokan, you do have the option to stay at Shoji Spa & Retreat, but accommodations are somewhat limited. You can choose from two on-property accommodations and one that's only a few minutes from downtown Asheville. The House of the Wind and the House of Earth (both on site) offer peaceful stays, while the Owner's Retreat in the city is larger and can accommodate larger groups or families. 

In the downtown area, you'll find plenty of Airbnb rentals, boutique hotels, and hotel chains, as well as the iconic Inn on the Biltmore Estate –– where you'll be treated like royalty. Asheville is also a great spot for a spectacular Christmas vacation. You can even take a scenic road trip by following the Blue Ridge Parkway to see all the best of Asheville and the surrounding area. After you've achieved complete relaxation at Shoji Spa & Retreat, be sure to enjoy the sights, exquisite dining, and amazing shopping downtown.