Ikigai meaning “reason for being or your life’s purpose” (‘Iki’ in Japanese means ‘life,’ and ‘gai’ describes value or worth). Well, we’re not promising that you’ll find your life’s purpose on this resort but if your dream is to experience the Japanese culture but just don’t have the luxury to go abroad then this place is for you! Japan in Pampanga. No airfare or visa needed, Ikigai Onsen + Villas is within reach, located at San Francisco, Magalang, Pampanga. Here are reasons why you’ll surely adore this resort:
Unique Kayabuki Villas
Enjoy the view of Ikigai’s beautiful Torii Garden through the comfort of their cozy Kayabuki Villas. From the outside, the most noticeable feature of the villas are it’s thatched roof and unique shape which is exactly the practice it was inspired from and named after, which is Kayabuki. According to them, they were inspired from Miyama (美山) Japan which is a remote, rural area in the mountains 30 kilometers north of central Kyoto. The area is famous for its traditional, thatched roof (kayabuki) farmhouses of which over 200 can be seen dotting the countryside.
The interiors of the villas, however, is designed in a more modern fashion, with neutral and earth colors as their most prominent theme. These villas are very cozy and relaxing, with air-conditioning, and an included toilet and bath in each villa.
The Kayabuki Villa rates are as follows:
Enjoy a Onsen Hot Spring Bath
Onsen in Japan, or hot springs, are known for their relaxing hot waters which has become steeped in Japanese tradition. Japanese people have loved onsen since ancient times for the comfort they bring to mind and body. Ikigai offers just that to its visitors, so be ready for relaxation like no other! They have two pools for their guests, the big pool is 4ft deep while the dip pool dedicated for the onsen bath is only 2ft deep.
Delicious Wabi Sabi Ramen
On top of the wonderful resort, they also offer a Ramen Bar provided by Wabi Sabi Ramen Bar. This restaurant offers classic and authentic ramen, maki, and other Japanese meals with the Ikigai Onsen Resort as their backdrop. Their goal is to offer a one-stop place for its visitors to experience Japan, without the plane ticket of course.
There’s more to come!
The resort has only recently opened and is expecting to expand its services to further immerse their visitors to the Japan experience. Done through the addition of a Kimono Rental wherein visitors may take pictures wearing and appreciating the national dress of Japan, or a functional hall and souvenir corner designed in traditional Japanese style as well, or even a Sushi Bar to go with the their Wabi Sabi Ramen Bar.
Before you start packing your bags and enjoying what the Ikigai Onsen Resort has to offer, here are a few more things to keep in mind
Additional Information:
- They are located at Urban 1, San Francisco, Magalang, Pampanga (near Blessed Ville and Lord’s Epiphany Church) You may find them at google maps here.
- Pets are allowed!
- No smoking in the premises
- Cooking isn’t allowed in the resort area
- Eating isn’t allowed inside the villas
- No parties and loud music.
- Free wifi isn’t offered yet
For more information, you may message them on their Facebook Page, contact them at 0917 571 7404, or email them at ikigai.onsen@gmail.com
