Japanese Hideaway

Beverly Hills is home to a new holistic Japanese hideaway. Tomoko Spa is a discreet and tranquil luxury spa experience from Tomoko Kurono, who opened her namesake spa on Beverly Drive last November. Kurono went on a mission in 1999 to create the perfect Japanese retreat, so she searched every corner of the world for the perfect treatment, such as a massage that could truly remove negative energy from her body as well as renew her spirit. Since she’s the daughter of a village healer from Osaka, Japan, she would definitely know when she found it. Yet she never did. So, she decided to create a new massage therapy that alleviated pain and promoted relaxation more effectively than a purely physical treatment. And that’s when Tomoko Spa was born in Beverly Hills last fall.

The minimalist, Japanese- specific design was created by Thea Home. Once inside and you’ve traded your shoes for slippers, you’re sent to a waiting room for welcome tea and chocolate in front of a fire. All guests have the option of adding on the Japanese Ofuro bath, a meditative soak ritual used by the Japanese people for centuries to expel toxins and ease physical and mental maladies. Then there’s the 120-minute zenshin massage, which promotes a holistic balance by addressing the energy of your median tissues, combining Swedish techniques with Japanese and other traditions including a warm stone treatment as well as a Japanese sake treatment. Expect Beverly Hills prices as this service will set you back around $440. But you’ll be so zen’d out, it won’t matter. To maintain the Japanese vibe, Sugarfish is just steps away when you leave the hideaway.  www.tomokospa.com