Aulani has many attractions, but one that you can't miss is the Laniwai Disney Spa. As the name "Laniwai" means "freshwater heaven," it truly is a paradise on earth. I'd like to dive right in.

As you enter the spa's spacious lobby, you'll be greeted by friendly staff dressed in relaxed Hawaiian uniforms. First, you'll be presented with a bowl filled with palm-sized stones. Close your eyes and pick up one that catches your eye. Each stone is inscribed with a word, such as "harmony" or "balance," in both English and Hawaiian. It's said to reflect your current aspirations and state of mind. Incidentally, I drew "Dream" both times. The exact aspirations I hold are a secret.

Further walking, you'll come across a fountain illuminated by pale purple light. Ripple-shaped light is projected onto the walls, creating a mystical atmosphere that will have you gasping in surprise. After gently lowering the stone into the spring, I leave reality behind for a moment and immerse myself in this dreamlike space.

There's still an hour until my treatment, but it's not that I'm particularly impatient; this is all part of the spa experience. After donning a comfortable, fluffy robe, my relaxation time begins. I can relax in the outdoor jacuzzi or lie back in a chaise lounge. It's a truly paradise-like experience, with magazines, drinks, chocolates, and other sweets available. I can lose track of time and just relax; a staff member will come to call me when my treatment is about to begin.

Laid-back Hawaiian music plays in the background, playing a mellow melody. I can even choose my own background music, from waves to rainforests, depending on my tastes. We recommend starting with the "Signature Lomi Lomi" (50 minutes/$165, 80 minutes/$225), a treatment that uses traditional Hawaiian lomilomi massage techniques. Using wooden sticks called lomilomi sticks and heated river stones, the massage rhythmically releases tension. It's as if pent-up fatigue is melting away, leaving your body feeling warm and comfortable. Other treatments incorporate a tropical flair, including the "Natural Therapy Niu" (80 minutes/$215), which exfoliates with a coconut scrub, gently massages with milk, and moisturizes with ti leaves. The "Kilikili" (80 minutes/$225) features a lomilomi massage under a misty shower of warm water. Facials, hair, nails, and waxing are also available. Have you ever rushed to get changed after a treatment and wished you had more time to relax? That's no longer a worry. You can relax as long as you like in the relaxation room and sauna mentioned earlier. If you have time, you could even spend the whole day there... This is a space where women, as well as businessmen who travel the world, can relax and unwind.

It's a place where you can fully pamper your body and mind, tired from city life, and recharge your batteries for the next day. Why not treat yourself to a super-busy day at Laniwai and indulge in some quality time?


As to Disney, photos, logos, properties: (c) Disney
"Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, Ko Olina, Hawaii"
Address: 92-1185 Ali'inui Drive, Kapolei, HI 96707
Tel: +1-808-674-6200
URL: aulani.jp
Cooperation: Disney Destinations International