Reflections on the Japan Forest Bathing Retreat 2026

The Japan Forest Bathing Retreat 2026 was successfully completed in May and I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined me on this special journey.

Over ten memorable days, we explored the peaceful and beautiful forests of Nagano Prefecture, experiencing the many faces of nature and the rich cultural traditions that make Japan such a special destination.

We began the retreat with a few misty and rainy days, which brought the ancient moss forests to life and revealed a depth of beauty that can only be experienced in the rain. The vibrant greens seemed to glow, the scent of the forest became richer and the gentle sound of raindrops created an atmosphere of calm and wonder.

As the journey unfolded, the sunshine joined us, allowing us to spend many peaceful hours immersed in nature. We walked among magnificent ancient moss forests and fragrant Hinoki forests, breathing with the trees, slowing down and reconnecting with the rhythm of the natural world. In these quiet moments, the forest offered a gentle reminder of something many of us forget in our busy lives - the importance of simply being present.

Forest Bathing or Shinrin-yoku, is not about reaching a destination. It is about opening our senses, deepening our connection with nature and allowing ourselves to receive the gifts that the forest has to offer. Throughout the retreat, participants experienced firsthand how time spent in nature can calm the mind, restore the body and create space for reflection.

Beyond the forest experiences, we also enjoyed meaningful cultural encounters along the way. We visited sacred Shinto shrines nestled among ancient cypress trees, explored a traditional Kyogi factory and learned about this beautiful craft, experienced Zen meditation at a temple in the Kiso region, and spent time at Akasawa Forest - the birthplace of Shinrin-yoku for two days with Forest Train ride and Forest Sauna !

These cultural experiences added another layer of depth to the journey, helping us better understand Japan's long-standing relationship with nature and the traditions that continue to honor it today.

This retreat offered much more than a holiday. It was an opportunity to slow down, reconnect with nature, connect with one another and experience Japan in a deeper and more meaningful way.

Along the way, we enjoyed authentic Japanese cuisine, stayed in unique and traditional accommodations, visited places of cultural significance, shared countless conversations, laughs and moments of quiet reflection. What began as a group of travellers soon became a community, connected through a shared appreciation for nature and a willingness to embrace the present moment.

Looking back on the journey, I feel deeply grateful - not only to the forests that welcomed us, but also to every participant who brought their curiosity, openness and kindness to the experience.

Thank you once again for walking this path with me.

The journey and the memories, connections and lessons from the forest will continue to travel with us.

I look forward to welcoming future participants to Japan's forests in the years ahead.