The Yama Yoga Studio at Ryugugake Cottages
Yama Yoga believes in creating body awareness through yoga practice in a natural environment. Based in the hidden Iya Valley of western Tokushima Prefecture, it is a place that allows one to connect with the roots of real Japan.
A variety of yoga styles are offered at several levels: Hatha Yoga, Restorative Yoga, Relaxation Yoga, Senior Yoga, Outdoor Power Yoga, as well as Dance Fitness classes. Either reserve your own customized experience, sign up for a special event, or just simply show up at one of the drop-in classes offered at the studio.
The main studio at Ryugugake
The main Yama Yoga Studio is located within the secluded Ryugugake Cottage compound. Perched on a quiet hillside overlooking Manpu Gorge, it is a place to spread out and enjoy your practice in a beautiful lush setting. The studio itself has over 120 square meters of unobstructed space with hardwood floors and a view looking out to the gorge. Accommodations in separate cabins are also available here (but you do not need to stay at the cabins to take a class), and all Ryugugake Cottage guests receive a discount with any studio yoga class.
And for those looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, other unique locations for practicing yoga are also offered throughout the Iya Valley within its breathtaking scenery, including traditional mountain farmhouses, secluded forest retreats, and high altitude viewpoints.
And to make sure your visit to Iya is as satisfying as possible, Yama Yoga also offers travel assistance and extended day trips for exploring the valley. Please check the Classes page for more details about what is available.
And for those looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, other unique locations for practicing yoga are also offered throughout the Iya Valley within its breathtaking scenery, including traditional mountain farmhouses, secluded forest retreats, and high altitude viewpoints.
And to make sure your visit to Iya is as satisfying as possible, Yama Yoga also offers travel assistance and extended day trips for exploring the valley. Please check the Classes page for more details about what is available.
Your Teacher: Aki
Originally studying Hatha Yoga under Dr. Kaptan Singh at the India Culture Center in Tokyo, Aki received teacher training in 2011 and went on to be a yoga and body fitness instructor for several years at the renowned NAS Sports Club in Tokyo's Minato-ku. She is a certified Gravity Yoga Instructor, has studied Shivananda Yoga in Kerela, India, and also holds qualifications in personal stretching, body awareness, and fitness counseling. Aki is also a licensed ZUMBA instructor.
Originally studying Hatha Yoga under Dr. Kaptan Singh at the India Culture Center in Tokyo, Aki received teacher training in 2011 and went on to be a yoga and body fitness instructor for several years at the renowned NAS Sports Club in Tokyo's Minato-ku. She is a certified Gravity Yoga Instructor, has studied Shivananda Yoga in Kerela, India, and also holds qualifications in personal stretching, body awareness, and fitness counseling. Aki is also a licensed ZUMBA instructor.
Avidly interested in the outdoors, she has lived in and traveled across the world over. Whether trekking across Pakistan's Hindu Kush or bush-whacking through Honduran jungles, she believes having fun while connecting with nature is an important part of life.
