Two Ways to Experience Japan:
April 1-10, 2028
This journey has been designed with flexibility in mind. You may choose to join us for the full cultural immersion through Tokyo and Kyoto before settling into the mountains, or meet us directly in Bessho Onsen for the core retreat experience.
Option One: The Cultural Pilgrimage + Mountain Immersion
April 1-4
Begin in Tokyo, where we gather as a group and ease into Japan together. After one night in the city, we board the iconic bullet train to Kyoto.
In Kyoto, we spend two nights exploring temple-lined pathways, quiet gardens, and the refined beauty of Japan’s former imperial capital. This portion of the journey allows for cultural orientation, shared meals, and time to witness the elegance of spring in one of the most historic cities in the world.
From Kyoto, we travel together into the mountains to Bessho Onsen, where the retreat deepens into stillness, daily practice, onsen bathing, forest walks, and time along the historic Nakasendo Trail.
This option offers the full arc, city, culture, and mountain immersion, woven into one seamless journey.
Option Two The Mountain Immersion Retreat (Bessho Onsen Only)
April 4-10
For those who prefer a simpler itinerary or wish to join at a lower price point, you may meet us directly in Bessho Onsen for the core six-night retreat.
Here, in one of Japan’s oldest hot spring villages, our days are grounded in rhythm:
Morning practice.
Temple visits
Forest paths
Mineral baths
Shared meals
Quiet evenings under lantern light
This option is ideal for those who wish to immerse fully in the retreat container without additional city travel or premium prices of peak cherry blossom season.
Which Is Right for You?
Choose the full pilgrimage if you want:
The bullet train experience
Time in Kyoto during cherry blossom season
A gradual cultural transition before entering retreat space
Choose the mountain immersion if you want:
A quieter arrival
A shorter travel window
A more focused retreat experience
A lower price point
Both options include the same depth of teaching, the same devotion to practice, and the same time together in Bessho Onsen.
You are welcome to choose the rhythm that best supports your season of life.
Tokyo + Kyoto Cultural Experience pricing:
$2200 single room | $1600 Double Room
This three-night cultural immersion is designed as a seamless beginning to the Mountain Retreat. Every detail has been thoughtfully arranged so you can arrive, exhale, and experience Japan with ease. Lodging will be in boutique Japanese heritage ryokans.
This extension includes:
1 night accommodation in Tokyo
2 nights accommodation in Kyoto during cherry blossom season
Brunch and Dinner (one night in Kyoto not included for free time)
Reserved seats on Japan’s iconic bullet train (Tokyo to Kyoto)
Train transportation from Kyoto to Ueda (gateway to Bessho Onsen)
Curated cultural walks through Kyoto’s historic districts
Visits to ancient temples and shrine-lined pathways
The Mountain Immersion Retreat (Bessho Onsen Only)
SOLD OUT Traditional Single room $3950 (your own room)
ONE LEFT Twin room with two twin beds $3250
TWO LEFT Japanese style rooms on tatami beds for 3 people $3000 for 2 people $3250
ONE LEFT Japanese style rooms on tatami beds for 4-5 people $2750 for 3 $3000
Rooms with Private Onsens:
SOLD OUT Twin room with in-room onsen bath (2 twin beds private onsen) $3800
SOLD OUT Japanese style room with in-room onsen bath on tatami beds 3 people $3550
What Is Included
6 nights accommodation in a traditional Japanese ryokan
Daily brunch and dinner, thoughtfully prepared in seasonal Japanese style
Daily yoga intensives, pranayama, and meditation
Access to onsen (natural hot spring baths) throughout your stay
Visits to ancient temples and sacred sites
A day along the historic Nakasendo Trail in the Kiso Valley
Cultural workshop experience (such as calligraphy or traditional craft)
Group coordination and support throughout the retreat
All activities are optional. You are welcome to participate fully or take time for solitude and rest.