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AT THE MIYAKO HYBRID HOTEL  in Torrance, California

Bedrock baths made with ore mined from the mountains of Kyushu, Japan provide the basis for this unique energy treatment

 Spa goers can get a taste of Japan when spaRelaken at the Miyako Hybrid Hotel opens June 27, 2010.

The spa company’s first United States location, it is also the first spa in the U.S. to feature the SGE ganban-yoku (or “bedrock bath”) treatment—a specialty of Japanese bathing culture that involves lying on a large bed comprised of ore mined from the mountains of Kyushu, Japan, known as “Super Growth Energy” stone.

Guests recline on one of the spa’s eight stone beds, which are placed low to the ground and located in a sauna-like steam room. When heated, the stones emit infrared rays as well as negative ions, which help heat the body, as well as restoring cells and encouraging beneficial detoxification through perspiration.

The overall effect is one of refreshment and relaxation, as well as improved circulation and metabolism—a sense of healing from the inside out.

Modeled after traditional Japanese spas and encompassing nearly 5,000 square feet adjacent to the lobby of the Miyako Hybrid Hotel, spaRelaken is open to hotel guests as well as day visitors.

The spa features four treatment rooms, including one for couples’ treatments; separate areas for men and women to enjoy the dry sauna and deep Jacuzzi baths; and offers customized body treatments that are designed by the staff after consulting about the needs of guests on the day of their visit. Spa entry for use of the whirlpool bath, dry sauna, and ganban-yoku is $45. Bath and sauna only is $35.

THE EXPERIENCE

spaRelaken features Japanese-inspired spa therapies, including signature Shiatsu massage services, reflexology, aroma body treatments, facials, and more.

Treatments at the spa begin with a personal consultation so that the staff can help customize the guest’s experience to meet her or his needs that day. spaRelaken’s “omotenashi hospitality” concept encompasses the recovery of mental and physical health by multisensory relaxation—from the sound of flowing water to the smell and taste of herbal teas.

The Japanese believe that the spa experience benefits the whole body and all five senses.

Upon entering spaRelaken, guests remove their shoes and are offered a hot towel to refresh themselves.

After a consultation to discuss their treatment(s) for the day, guests can then visit the sauna or whirlpool bath before entering the ganban-yoku room.

Throughout their experience, a separate healing room is available for guests to rest and rejuvenate as often as they please.

The spa also offers guests its own product line of shampoo, body soap, and herbal balls. Every detail, from the naturals oils to the use of organic towels and sheets are meticulously tailored to provide healing for the mind and body.

Among the treatments and amenities spaRelaken offers are:

• Swedish and Deep Tissue Massage, Japanese Shiatsu Massage and Reflexology

• Aromatherapy, including Natural, Balinese Aroma, and Herbal Ball treatments

• Reiki

• Facials

• Spa Club, allowing discounted entry for guests to enjoy spa amenities if they are not also booking a body treatment

• Use of saunas and deep whirlpool baths

DESIGN

ASC Group established by Akemi Yamamoto, designed spaRelaken as an inviting, elegant space that conveys the feeling of serenity and brings elements of the natural world indoors. Wood floors are complemented by muted earth tones of browns, beiges, and oranges to further promote a sense of calm and healing.

In addition to its work on spaRelaken, ASC designed over 40 relaxation facilities including SGE ganban-yoku in Japan.

SPA PACKAGES

The following introductory packages are available beginning June 27, 2010:

Experience Japan Package

Accommodation for one night in a deluxe room
Three-course dinner prepared by the chef at Gonpachi
Sake tasting
East-West Breakfast Buffet (featuring over 40 Japanese and American breakfast items and made-to-order dishes)
Spa entry, which includes whirlpool bath, sauna, and ganban-yoku experience
$160 plus tax per person based on double occupancy (single rate is $219 plus tax) Must be booked in advance. Based on availability.

Spa Package

Accommodation for one night a deluxe room
East-West Breakfast buffet (featuring over 40 Japanese and American breakfast items and made-to-order dishes)
Spa Entry, which includes whirlpool bath, sauna, and ganban-yoku experience
$179.00 plus tax for single or $209 plus tax for two
Must be booked in advance. Based on availability.

LOCATION AND HOURS OF OPERATION

spaRelaken is located at the Miyako Hybrid Hotel at 21381 S. Western Ave. in Torrance, CA, approximately three miles from the Pacific Ocean, 15 minutes south of LAX, and 25 minutes from downtown L.A. The spa is open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. To schedule an appointment, please call 310.212.6408.

For more information on spaRelaken and the Miyako Hybrid Hotel, please visit www.rirakuen.com  or www.miyakohybridhotel.com