Hasseludden designed by Japanese architect

In 1970 LO (the Swedish national workers union) acquired the grounds at Hasseludden and commissioned the Japanese architect Yoji Kasajima to design the site. The result was a remarkable building that appears to have slipped gently between the trees and to follow the organic outlines of the landscape in all its dimensions.

With nearly 20.000 square meters of building space, there is plenty of room inside. During its first 20 years, the building functioned as a trade union school. During the 90's the need for centralised education lessened, and the school was shut down. Hasseludden became a regular conference centre and during the next ten years, a more business-oriented policy would dominate.

When Lena Tryggstad came to Hasseludden, she faced a big challenge. Fresh ideas were needed to renew the operations. And only a completely new concept would do! The lifestyle of the Japanese was something that fascinated her. The hard working Japanese had found ways of regaining strength by using ancient methods. As the building was designed by a Japanese architect, this was something to be further explored.

Throughout the years there have been numerous research trips to Japan. But the very first journey included a visit to a Feng shui master. The master examined the drawings of the building and recommended certain changes. An essential advice was to move the entrance to the right, because only then would money start coming in!

During the spring of 1997 the doors of the new Yasuragi Hasseludden were opened, with a Japanese bath and an ambition to create a complete Japan-inspired experience for private guests as well as for business clients.

Since 2006 Yasuragi Hasseludden has been owned and run by Choice Hotel Scandinavia. Development has been integral to the spirit of Yasuragi, and the new owners are making constant investments to further enhance the Yasuragi concept.