U.S. travelers tend to stay in Japan longer than visitors from other countries and regions, and an increasing number are seeking opportunities to slow down and recharge between Shinkansen journeys and sightseeing activities.
HOGUGU Technologies Inc., operator of Japan’s on-demand mobile relaxation platform “HOGUGU,” has launched partnerships with several companies operating private retreat accommodations renovated from traditional Japanese houses across Japan. Guests staying at these facilities can now enjoy professional relaxation services from therapists through the “HOGUGU” service.
HOGUGU Official Site: https://booking.hogugu.com/?utm_source=tourist_info&utm_medium=offline_qr&utm_campaign=usapressrelease
Demand for Long-Term Stays and Retreat-Style Accommodations In 2025, the number of U.S. visitors to Japan reached a record high of 3,306,823 (*1). Furthermore, data from the Japan Tourism Agency indicates that U.S. travelers stayed an average of 10.5 nights (*2), compared with an average stay of 8.3 nights among all international visitors during the fourth quarter of 2025.
Given these relatively long stays, how travelers spend their time at their accommodations has become an increasingly important factor in enhancing their overall travel experience.
In addition, a survey of 1,040 U.S. travelers conducted by BookRetreats.com found that 64% of respondents plan to stay at a retreat-style accommodation in 2026 or within the following 12 months (*3). The survey identified “rest and relaxation” as a primary motivation for choosing such accommodations, highlighting growing interest in wellness-focused travel experiences.
Across Japan, private retreats utilizing traditional Japanese homes and natural surroundings are emerging, offering integrated experiences combining saunas, hot baths, and overnight stays. “HOGUGU” expands this accommodation-centered style of travel by providing relaxation services that guests can enjoy without having to leave their accommodation.
(*1) Source: Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), “Foreign Visitors to Japan” (2025) Number of U.S. visitors to Japan: 3,306,823 (up 21.4% year-on-year; record high)
(*2) Source: Japan Tourism Agency, “Survey on Consumption Trends of Foreign Visitors to Japan,” October–December 2025 (Final Report) Average length of stay (all nationalities/regions): 8.3 nights Average length of stay (U.S.): 10.5 nights
(*3) Source: BookRetreats.com, “The State of Retreats 2026 Report” (2026) Survey respondents: 1,040 U.S. travelers 64% responded that they are planning a retreat in 2026 or within the following 12 months.
Spotlight Retreat Accommodations Here are two notable facilities partnered with “HOGUGU.”
JIKON SAUNA -TOKYO- (Ome City, Tokyo) A private, whole-house rental created by renovating a traditional Japanese home that is over 150 years old. The property features an eco-friendly “Earthbag Sauna” made with natural materials and offers a stay designed for deep relaxation and high-quality sleep. https://jikonsauna.com
sauna9 Osaka Higashi-Shinsaibashi A private rental property created through the renovation of a 60-year-old traditional Japanese home. It offers a unique nature-immersed stay combining a private sauna, a cold plunge bath crafted from traditional Shigaraki ceramic, a historic Japanese craft, an outdoor relaxation area, and an open-air bath. https://www.sauna9.com/saun9ne-higashishinsaibashi
Transforming Guest Accommodations into Relaxing Sanctuaries “HOGUGU” allows guests to enjoy professional relaxation services directly at their accommodation, whether they are winding down after a day of sightseeing or long-distance travel, or relaxing after enjoying a sauna or hot bath.
Multilingual support: Search, booking, and in-service chat functions are available in English, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, and Korean. Additionally, a real-time voice translation feature supports smooth communication between guests and therapists during sessions.
Nationwide network: Available in all 47 prefectures across Japan.
Choice of therapist: Guests can select from 5,800 therapists after reviewing profiles, reviews, availability, and location.
Cost: From 5,400 yen per 60 minutes (tax included; transportation fees included. Prices vary depending on the therapist.)
Cashless payment options: Visa, Mastercard, JCB, American Express, Diners Club, UnionPay. “HOGUGU” Official Site https://booking.hogugu.com/?utm_source=tourist_info&utm_medium=offline_qr&utm_campaign=usapressrelease
About HOGUGU “HOGUGU” is an on-demand relaxation platform that allows users to invite professional relaxation therapists to their preferred locations, such as their homes or hotel rooms, and is Japan’s No.1 mobile relaxation platform by number of users.*
* Survey period: January 1, 2024 – December 31, 2025 Survey agency: Wedia Inc. Survey subjects: 8 companies providing outcall relaxation services for individuals (excluding services based on physical store registration)
Official Instagram @hogugu.japan
For Media Inquiries HOGUGU Technologies Inc. Public Relations: Yuki Nakatani Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture Email: info@hogugu.com
About HOGUGU Technologies Inc. Representative: CEO Kenichi Hanaoka
Home Page: https://info.hogugu.com/information/
Headquarters: Toa Building 9F, 4-5-7 Minamihonmachi, Chuo-ku, Osaka
Business Description: Planning, development, and operation of the mobile relaxation service “HOGUGU”
Contact: info@hogugu.com
