Whether for better or worse, the sauna boom of the last few years has had incredible momentum. There was a time when I was cynical about it, thinking, "I’m not doing that just because it’s a trend!" but now, I’ve shed that hesitation. I've decided to just enjoy what I like, regardless of trends, with the philosophy that "if you like it, you like it."
My introduction to saunas was through "BIKE2SAUNA," which I also posted as a ride report on the RAL website.
Bikepacking, hitting a sauna, eating curry, camping, and then having a sauna again in the morning.
Even looking back, it was such an intense experience, so please give it a read.
ARE.SAUNA
Currently, they’ve moved on from their "tent sauna party" roots and are operating under the name ARE.SAUNA. I assume the party phase is over and they’ve entered a new chapter, but I haven't asked for details. As long as it's fun, that’s all that matters.
ARE.SAUNA has traveled to various events—from Bikelore and Yamamichisai to Hashinoshita, Ridin’ Birds, and the Morimichi Market—providing spaces for connection and harmony that go beyond just saunas.
Actually, beyond these pop-up saunas, they also hold regular sauna events in locations and styles that align with their own ideals. The spot for this is the private beach at Ryokan Omatsukan, located on the west shore of Lake Biwa in Omi-Maiko. I’ve always seen those peaceful, beautiful scenes on Instagram and have wanted to attend for a long time. My schedule finally lined up, and I was able to join.
The sauna runs for three days straight. With all kinds of people coming and going—from locals to visitors from afar, adults and children alike—there’s always about 15–20 people around. As time passes, chatting about this and that, drinking natural wine, and enjoying food that someone has prepared, the scenery changes, and you find yourself back in the sauna or the lake. Many people stay overnight at Omatsukan, but camping is also an option.
Cycling the West Shore of Lake Biwa
I stepped away for a bit to ride along the west shore of Lake Biwa, a place I hadn't been very familiar with. Although the Hira mountain range was covered in clouds and invisible, the west shore, with its clearer water compared to the east, offered a constant stream of beautiful scenery, from stunning beaches and old townscapes to large, elegant villas. Even the white, cloudy landscape felt mystical and beautiful.
I heard the next one is in March, so I plan to align my schedule and ride out there. Make sure to follow ARE.SAUNA on Instagram.