Leaving the west exit of Kamakura Station, we walk through Onari Street and into a quiet residential area. The smell of bread, old signs, and noren curtains swaying in the breeze greet us. As the town's atmosphere softens, we come across a building that blends nostalgia with a sharp, modern look. Onari Sauna -- a quiet device that helps the town and its people "regain their senses."

Courtesy of GREENING


A local circulation sauna created by Kayac, a "local company"
The project was undertaken by Kayac, a fun-loving corporation headquartered in Kamakura. Guided by their unique philosophy of "making the entire town one company," they have implemented "Kamakura capitalism," which views local culture and human connections as capital. Onari Souna is a project that visualizes this philosophy as a "space for experience." Located in a quiet residential area slightly off Onari Street, it was designed to be an "open space" where locals and visitors can naturally interact. With a large entrance opening up to the town and a reception desk styled like a ticket counter, the flow of traffic and textures have been carefully edited to bridge the gap between the everyday life of a "working town" and the time of a "healing town."

photo by ©FASHION HEADLINE

A "breathing architecture" by SUPPOSE DESIGN OFFICE
The design was handled by SUPPOSE DESIGN OFFICE, architects Makoto Tanijiri and Ai Yoshida. The simple, modern design blends in with the Kamakura landscape, and the lighting creates soft shadows inside the room. The natural light streaming in through the windows mixes with the steam, making the entire space seem as if it is "breathing." As is typical of spaces designed by SUPPOSE, it has been completed as a modern retreat while retaining memories of Showa-era public bath culture.

Courtesy of GREENING

photo by ©FASHION HEADLINE

The aesthetics of “relaxation” led by madsaunist
The sauna was supervised by madsaunist, who promotes sauna culture both domestically and internationally. The uniquely developed steam system, "madENGINE," envelops the body in soft, high-humidity heat. Furthermore, the "human loyly," devised by madsaunist, creates an experience of repeated heating and cooling, creating a rhythmic musical sensation. Stepping out into the open-air bathing space, the Kamakura breeze caresses your skin, calming all five senses.

Courtesy of GREENING
photo by ©FASHION HEADLINE
Courtesy of GREENING

Discover the "taste of Kamakura" after the sauna
The sauna isn't the only thing to enjoy at Onari Souna. The attached drinks corner offers original herb water created by GARDEN HOUSE, craft beer from Passific Brewing, natural wines selected by Suzukiya Liquor Store, and herbal gin from Sauna Gin. The town's unique character is directly reflected in the flavor... This is why this place is a symbol of "Kamakura capitalism."

photo by ©FASHION HEADLINE

The idea of "tidying the town"
Onari Souna aims for a cycle where "when people are tidy, the town is tidy." In tune with the breath of the land called Kamakura, visitors become "blank." Within this rhythm lies the tranquility and freedom that the city of Kamakura possesses. This is perhaps the ultimate luxury that this place produces.

photo by ©FASHION HEADLINE