The beautiful conch-shaped private sauna pods were designed by Taichi Kuma of Kengo Kuma & Associates

On the west coast of Naoshima art island, there’s a small glamping site that opened in the summer of 2019. With an ocean view and futuristic dome-shaped tents, Sana Mane was an easy option for those who love the outdoors as much as they enjoy art. 

Now, Sana Mane is about to get a whole lot cooler – or hotter, depending on how you look at it – with these new conch-shaped sauna pods. The private saunas are designed by Kengo Kuma’s son Taichi Kuma, which explains why the pods look as good as they do. 

The seashell-inspired design fits in well with the coastal setting of the glamping site, but the interior of the pods look even better than their sandy exteriors. ​​The curved seating area is softly lit, with a small round opening at the top to let in natural light and air, and white step lights that illuminate the floor of the sauna. There’s a cool water bath outside, just big enough for you to lie in after a sweaty session inside the sauna.   

As for accommodation, the facility features dome-like tents with transparent walls looking out at the ocean. Don’t worry, these are fitted with curtains for when you want a little privacy, so it doesn’t feel like you’re sleeping in a fish bowl.   

The peaceful sauna pods are reserved for the guests of Sana Mane , so if you want in, you’ll need to book a tent (rates start around  ¥41,800 per tent per night). 

The pods won’t be functioning until the weather gets cooler in October, but you’ll be able to make your reservations from late September.   

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