Summary
This comprehensive wellness tourism program for international visitors to Hiroshima combines the prefecture’s unique historical context with natural healing environments, traditional Japanese wellness practices, and local culture. The program is designed to offer transformative experiences that address physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing while respecting the region’s historical significance.
Description
1. Peace & Renewal Experiences
Guided Meditative Visit to Peace Memorial Park – Early morning guided silent meditation walks through the Peace Memorial Park before public hours, followed by reflection sessions
Resilience Workshops – Sessions with descendants of survivors and peace educators on resilience, renewal, and mindful living
Healing Through Art – Creative expression workshops addressing themes of peace, renewal, and healing
2. Natural Healing Environments
Forest Therapy in Sandankyo Gorge – Guided shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) experiences with certified nature therapy guides
Miyajima Island Wellness Retreat – Multi-day program including meditation near Itsukushima Shrine, beach yoga at sunrise, and mindful hiking on Mt. Misen
Hot Spring Healing – Curated experiences at Hiroshima’s onsen towns of Yuki, Togouchi, and Miyahama, including private sessions on onsen etiquette and traditions
3. Traditional Wellness Practices
Zen Meditation Retreats – Short-stay programs at temples like Mitaki-dera and Buttsuji Temple with authentic Zen meditation (zazen) instruction
Traditional Medicine Experiences – Workshops on kampo (Japanese herbal medicine), showcasing local medicinal plants and preparation techniques
Japanese Mindful Movement – Sessions in local martial arts like aikido and traditional movement practices like nagata yoga
4. Culinary Wellness
Hiroshima Peace Cuisine – Mindful cooking and eating experiences focusing on Hiroshima’s food renaissance after WWII
Sea-to-Table Experiences – Sustainable seafood tours with local fishermen in the Seto Inland Sea, followed by preparation of traditional dishes
Detox Cuisine Program – Plant-based shojin ryori (Buddhist temple cuisine) experiences, featuring local Hiroshima produce
Program
Day 1: Arrival & Introduction
Morning: Arrival and welcome ceremony at traditional ryokan
Afternoon: Gentle introduction to Hiroshima through peaceful gardens visit
Evening: Mindful welcome dinner featuring local plant-based cuisine and program orientation
Day 2: Peace & Resilience
Early morning: Silent meditation walk in Peace Memorial Park
Mid-morning: Tea ceremony and reflection session
Afternoon: Resilience workshop with local peace educators
Evening: Healing sound bath experience with traditional Japanese instruments
Day 3: Nature Connection
Full day: Guided forest therapy experience in Sandankyo Gorge
Evening: Onsen experience with private instruction on traditional bathing practices
Day 4: Island Sanctuary
Morning: Ferry to Miyajima Island
Day: Beach yoga, mindful hiking on Mt. Misen, meditation near sacred sites
Evening: Sunset tea meditation overlooking the famous torii gate
Day 5: Integration & Departure
Morning: Final reflection session and intention-setting workshop
Midday: Farewell lunch featuring local specialties
Afternoon: Departure with wellness continuation resources and connection platform
