Shoji Spa & Retreat

Shoji Spa & Retreat sits on a mountainside a short drive from downtown Asheville, built around traditional Japanese-style bathing rather than a typical spa-day format. Guests change into a cotton yukata and sandals, then head to their own private outdoor salt tub overlooking the National Forest — no shared pools or communal soaking here. The property pairs that private hydrotherapy with spa-style showers, a nature setting meant to be heard as much as seen, and locally sourced products including CBD salves.

Three treatments make up the current menu, including the new signature Ashi service — a sweet orange foot soak followed by a head-to-toe massage. Couples treatments are offered alongside solo visits, and lodging options exist for those who want to extend the stay overnight rather than just dropping in for the day. A day pass is available for those who want the salt tub experience without booking a full massage package.

Booking runs through phone, email or text rather than an online system, and that's also how massage packages and gift certificates get scheduled. Hours shift through the week: shorter midday-to-evening hours Tuesday and Wednesday, later closes on weekends and Fridays, and a straightforward 10-to-8 schedule Monday, Thursday and Sunday. The setup favors reservation-based, unhurried visits over walk-in crowds — this is a place built for one couple or one person to have the tub, the quiet, and the mountainside to themselves for a while.