Summary
This program is a journey for busy modern people to restore harmony to body and soul through traditional Japanese hot spring culture and the changing seasons.The story begins with a traveler’s encounter with the “water” around the seven hot springs of Kinosaki Onsen. Initially greeted with traditional Japanese hospitality, the traveler dons a yukata and geta and blends into the elegant streets of the hot spring town.Through a tour of the out-spa baths, they take the first step in their journey by experiencing the culture of “Touji” (therapeutic bathing), which the Japanese people have cherished since ancient times. Next, through zazen meditation and forest bathing, participants will experience the concept of “ki” and learn to harmonize with Japanese nature.Through interactions with local farmers and artisans, you will feel a connection with the “earth,” and finally, you will have time for reflection, allowing the insights gained through the trip to take root in your mind. Against the backdrop of the seasonal change from summer to autumn, travelers will experience a special “time” away from their daily routine by spending time with the rhythm of nature, from cool to warm, from outside activities to internal reflection.
Description
Emphasis on a sense of the seasons:
In autumn, enjoy the combination of autumn leaves, autumn delicacies, and hot springs to fully appreciate the Japanese autumn season
Fusion of Japanese culture and wellness:
Combination of Onsen therapy and meditation
Practice forest bathing (shinrin-yoku)
Traditional diet (vegetarian cuisine and fermented foods)
Connection with the local community:
Harvest experience at a local farmhouse
Experiencing traditional crafts
Exploration of the local natural environment (Genbudo and Hiyori Mountain)
Comprehensive care of mind and body:
Mind care through Zen meditation and meditation
Physical relaxation through hot springs and traditional body care
Sensory experience of Japan’s four seasons
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
Program
Day 1: “Encounter with Hot Springs
Arrival and traditional hospitality
Yukata and geta dressing experience
Welcome with Japanese tea and local Japanese sweets
Introduction to touring the outside hot springs in the evening
Explanation of the history and benefits of the seven Kinosaki hot springs
Lecture on onsen bathing etiquette
Evening vegetarian dinner
Yakuzen-style kaiseki cuisine using local seasonal ingredients
Small sake tasting (on request)
Day 2: “Awakening the body and mind
Early morning zazen meditation
Meditation experience at a local temple (with multilingual interpretation)
Morning forest bathing walk
Guided walk in a nearby mountain forest
Shinrin-yoku” practice in a Japanese forest
Onsen therapy during the day
Onsen therapy lectures by experts
Onsen utilization methods tailored to individual constitution
Evening yoga sessions
Evening yoga in the Japanese garden
Pre- and post-onsen stretching instruction
Day 3: “Connecting with the Community
Harvest experience at a local farmhouse
Harvesting seasonal vegetables and fruits
Learning about Japanese farming methods
Cooking workshop
Making fermented foods using harvested ingredients
Learn about Japanese preserved food culture
Afternoon creative time
Tajima bamboo craft or hemp weaving experience
Learn about the spirituality behind Japanese crafts
Starry sky hot spring at night
Star gazing in a private outdoor hot spring
Day 4: “In Harmony with Nature
Explore Genbudo Park
Tour of geologically valuable basalt columnar joints
Meditation on earth energy
Hike up Mt. Hiyori
Light hiking with views overlooking the Sea of Japan
Light breathing workshop at the summit
Taste the bounty of the sea
Explanation of local seafood
Dialogue about sustainable fishing
Evening music therapy
Healing concert with traditional instruments such as koto and shakuhachi
Day 5: “Inner Harmony
Morning hot spring meditation
Guided meditation in a dedicated hot spring
Trip reflection workshop
Recording of the journey of self-discovery
Advice on how to incorporate into daily life
Farewell ceremony
Presentation of local good luck charms
Farewell on the way back home
