History and Philosophy

Ten Thousand Waves is dedicated to providing a Japanese sense of serenity and relaxation. Everything we do from the gardens to the woodwork, from the therapies to the therapists has been constantly and thoughtfully refined over the last twenty-seven years. We pride ourselves on being "real". We offer a unique 'Japanese-adobe' esthetic, combining the traditional with state-of-the-art technology.

Our humble beginning was a small bathhouse, eight outdoor hot tubs, and one massage room back in 1981. The emphasis then, as it is now, was on the salutary effects of hot water in the Japanese tradition. Historically Americans have always treated spas as a place to get something done, be it to lose weight, stop smoking, or cure TB. Europeans have a Kur tradition spas are places to go if you're sick; you often need a prescription. The Scandinavians have used spa as a place to get warm.

The Japanese, however, go to their traditional spas--onsen and sento--to have a good time (often in a beautiful place), and that's what we relate to at Ten Thousand Waves. Certainly, the Japanese use hot water to achieve all the goals above, but bathing is mostly about winding down from the day, meeting friends, taking time off with the family, and relaxing. The other health benefits are bonuses.

Ten Thousand Waves is much more than just bathing, but all our massages, spa treatments, and skin care regimens are designed to compliment that amazing feeling of release that occurs when we take off our armor and settle into a big pool of hot water.

Hours

Directions

From out-of-state, most of our guests drive or fly into the Albuquerque airport, about an hour-and-a-half drive to Ten Thousand Waves. Most people find a car convenient to get around Santa Fe, notorious for its lack of public transportation and dependence on a single taxi company. For directions and map, see the link below. ALL INTERNET & GPS MAPPINGS ARE INCORRECT, EXCEPT FOR MAPQUEST AND GOOGLE MAPS.

View the Directions & Map

Map of Property

See a map of our entire spa and lodging property or download a pdf (1.07 mb).

Parking

There is plenty of parking at street level, and limited additional parking at the spa level, approximately 60 vertical feet higher. Those with physical limitations should consider the upper lot. The walk from the lower lot, however, is very pleasant and provides a good transition from your busy day to the tranquility of Ten Thousand Waves. Passengers may be dropped off at the spa entrance. There are two handicap spots very close to the front door.

Lodging guests will follow the signs to the lodging office at street level and be directed to parking adjacent to their rooms.