ReLabo: Japan’s Wellness Pioneer

By Daniel de Bomford

Japan is a land where ancient customs, from temple rituals to hot springs, are being rediscovered as powerful pathways to modern well-being. As the world searches for balance, these timeless practices offer travelers a blend of spiritual grounding and physical renewal. At the center of this revival stands ReLabo, Japan’s first wellness hotel, guiding guests toward a more holistic rejuvenation.

“Japan has a longstanding cultural foundation rooted in wellness, including shrines, rich natural environments, hot springs and unique traditions,” says Tomohiro Tanno, president of ReLabo. “These have persisted for over 2,000 years.” What has changed is not Japan itself, but the recognition of wellness. This shift inspired Tanno’s concept of the “Re-Edit of Wellness,” a philosophy that reconnects ancient Japanese wisdom with modern science, hospitality and tourism.

Located in Aomori, which is emerging as an escape for travelers seeking tranquility over crowds, ReLabo has quickly become a magnet for global wellness seekers. Despite charging a modest premium over its regional competitors, the hotel boasts an occupancy rate of over 85 percent and holds a 9.7/10 rating on Trip.com. As Tanno says, “For these travelers, ‘wellness’ is a powerful keyword.”

Its leadership position was confirmed when ReLabo became the first hotel in Japan—and the world—to receive the Wellness Platinum Award. This achievement, Tanno says, was a major boost in raising awareness. But behind the acclaim is a methodically designed experience shaped by post-pandemic traveler values.

ReLabo also integrates medical wellness, offering one-week and multiweek programs that combine rehabilitation, spa therapy, yoga and nutrition. In one case, a Tokyo guest recovering from knee issues improved his walking speed fivefold after three weeks. “This case demonstrates the significant potential of combining medical rehabilitation with wellness tourism,” he says.

ReLabo’s partnership with JR East is transforming wellness tourism by linking Tokyo and Aomori through an integrated travel-and-health system. JR East President Kise sees railways as a “platform for wellbeing,” envisioning guests getting checkups in Tokyo, traveling north for wellness programs, and returning for follow-up care.

What truly distinguishes ReLabo is not only its programs, but its people. Despite regional population decline and labor shortages, the hotel has built a fully staffed, multigenerational, motivated team of 90 employees—all directly hired. Young talent is drawn to its mission, with 25 percent of staff aged 22 or younger, while seniors, accounting for 20 percent, contribute exceptional care and precision. This human diversity has become one of ReLabo’s greatest strengths, showing how wellness can help rejuvenate an entire community.

Tanno sees wellness as a catalyst for regional revitalization. By attracting long-stay visitors and partnering with local farmers and businesses, and creating meaningful employment for locals, ReLabo is a blueprint for how wellness can transform a region. “My focus isn’t on expanding to Tokyo or overseas,” he says. “My top priority is my people and my region.”