YogaSix, the largest franchised yoga brand in the United States, has expanded into Japan, opening its first studio on January 7.

Located in the Shinagawa neighborhood of Tokyo, the studio offers an inclusive yoga experience to the local community, including YogaSix’s signature heated yoga class, Y6 Hot.

Behind the Japanese expansion is Sunpark Co., Ltd. of Osaka, a multi-brand operator and global franchisor of restaurants, entertainment concepts and fitness centers with over 100 locations in Japan, Singapore, Thailand, and the U.S. The company is also the Master Franchisee for Xponential brands StretchLab and Pure Barre, which have both launched in Japan.

YogaSix joins other Xponential fitness brands that have entered Japan, including Club Pilates, Rumble, CycleBar, Pure Barre, and StretchLab.

“We are thrilled for YogaSix to make its debut in Japan with Sunpark Wellness,” said Bob Kaufman, president of International for Xponential Fitness. “Our boutique health and wellness concepts have resonated well with the Japanese fitness market and we are confident that YogaSix will thrive, with its modern and accessible approach to yoga.”

“YogaSix has great potential for growth in Japan, with its fresh take on the ancient practice, focus on community and countless benefits for the body and mind,” said Ken Takagi, founder and CEO of Sunpark. “The Shinagawa opening is only the beginning, and we are excited to keep expanding the concept throughout the country alongside local business owners who are passionate about health and wellness and making yoga accessible to all.”

International expansion has become a key part of YogaSix’s growth strategy, as the brand recently opened its first European location in Germany. In the United States, the franchise has an established presence with nearly 200 open studios and several in development.

Founded in 2012, YogaSix is backed by Xponential Fitness, the largest fitness franchise group of boutique fitness brands across verticals, including Pilates, Barre, stretching, boxing, strength training, stretching, and metabolic health.

Image courtesy YogaSix