Barrel Sauna Villa Stay in Kitakaruizawa & Tsumagoi | Complete Guide

THE FOREST SAUNA is a private sauna villa in the forests of Tsumagoi Village, Kitakaruizawa area, Gunma Prefecture. About 30 minutes by car from central Karuizawa, at roughly 1,000m elevation. The 59㎡ villa accommodates up to 5 guests in complete privacy—no shared spaces with other guests.

Rated 4.88★ with 41 reviews on Airbnb.

The sauna is a Finnish HARVIA barrel sauna with a warm wood interior and open window for forest views. The water bath on the wooden deck uses natural spring water from the mountains—softer and more refreshing.

Enjoy the sauna→cold bath→outdoor rest cycle at your own pace, as many times as you like. The infinity chairs amid the forest make for an unforgettable outdoor resting experience. See our "Barrel Sauna Guide" for detailed tips.

Kitakaruizawa and Tsumagoi offer distinct experiences each season.

Spring (Mar-May): Cherry blossoms and fresh greenery. Cool air makes outdoor resting refreshing. Summer (Jun-Aug): 5°C cooler than Tokyo. The natural water bath is at its best. Autumn (Sep-Nov): Stunning fall foliage surrounds the sauna. Winter (Dec-Feb): Snow sauna experience—outdoor cooling in the snow is unforgettable.

See our seasonal guides for detailed tips on each season.

Whole-villa rental with living/dining/kitchen + bedroom. Up to 5 guests.

Key facilities: HARVIA barrel sauna / Natural water bath (deck) / Infinity chairs / 80-inch projector / Full kitchen (IH, fridge, microwave, rice cooker) / Washer / Wi-Fi / Heating / BBQ grill with charcoal (free)

Amenities: Bath & face towels / Toothbrush / Shampoo, conditioner, body soap / Hair dryer

Bring: Cooking oil & seasonings / Laundry detergent / Coffee (dripper available) / Insect repellent (summer)

About 2.5 hours by car from Tokyo. Take the Joshinetsu Expressway to Usui-Karuizawa IC, then Route 146 for about 60 minutes. Free parking for 2 cars at the villa.

Studless tires are mandatory in winter (Nov-Apr). See our "Access Guide" for detailed directions and seasonal road conditions.

Book through Airbnb. Rates vary by season and number of guests. Check availability and pricing on Airbnb.

Check-in: 3:00 PM / Check-out: 10:00 AM. Self check-in with instructions sent after booking confirmation.

Cancellation policy follows Airbnb terms. See the listing page for details.

Q. How many people can use the sauna at once? A. The barrel sauna fits up to 4 adults.

Q. Are pets allowed? A. Sorry, pets are not permitted.

Q. Can children use the facility? A. Yes, children are welcome. Sauna and water bath use requires parental supervision.

Q. Is the water bath available in winter? A. The deck water bath is closed Nov-Apr due to freezing. Use the indoor bath as a cold bath instead.

For more questions, see our FAQ page.