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Experience a true retreat away from your habitual routines, city chaos, and hoards of tourists. Immerse yourself in a serene Japan where history has been carefully preserved, mythology breathes in the clear mountain air, carried on the sea breeze. This is the Japan of my childhood; before I ever ventured to Kyoto or Tokyo in adulthood, this quiet magic was my yearly experience of Japan - a sanctuary I am privileged to share with you now.Yamaguchi, meaning ‘mouth of the mountain,’ is the city and prefecture that holds the rural town of my family. I have chosen a neighboring town, Tsuwano(AKA Little Kyoto) as our first home base to explore surrounding areas. This will include partaking in a local autumn festival, hiking through a breathtaking gorge, standing atop castle ruins, walking the passage of 1000 Torii shrine gates, feeding koi fish that line the sidewalks, and so much more that you can read in our itinerary.We will get to experience the seaside Hagi Castle Town, home to one of my favorite temples, on our way back to central Yamaguchi.Our second home base is more centralized in the city of Yamaguchi in an area called Yuda Onsen. It is hot spring central with open foot baths scattered across the city. Here we will experience why Yamaguchi is known as Kyoto of the West with the newly renovated Rurikoji pagoda nestled in rich foliage.This cultural immersion weaves in mindful movement, local crafts/activities, delicious food, all while embracing the coziness of autumn at luxurious hot spring hotels.

Yamaguchi, Japan

You are required to arrive in Yamaguchi, Hiroshima, or Fukuoka by 10/31 to ensure a smooth start to the retreat on 11/1. I will offer suggestions on which location to choose based on your itinerary.

Accommodation on 10/31

Slim margins require full participation. If you are unable to participate you are welcome to find someone to take your place, and I am happy to assist, and have had success with this in the past.

Refunds

Plane/train tickets to arrive and depart from Shin Yamaguchi Station are your financial responsibility, but I will offer lots of guidance on how to get there and fun itinerary options before&/after 

Travel Before/After

Dashi(Fish Stock)is widely used as the base seasoning for most Japanese food. I cannot guarantee there will be an option at all restaurants that does not have dashi. Please contact me for more details

Strict Vegetarian Meals

Strict vegan, gluten free, and other dietary restrictions are not supported in rural Japan. If you have a restriction please check with me before booking to see if it can be accommodated.

Dietary Restrictions

Main meals are provided, but any additional drinks, snacks, or desserts you may wish to purchase are your financial responsibility. When dining together you are welcome to pay in yen/Venmo me 

Elective Drinks/Snacks

3 Nights in Tsuwano  - each room comes with 2 beds, tatami space, and your own semi open air bath with hot spring water. Perfect for those with tattoos who otherwise cannot experience onsens.

Accommodations Pt 1

2 Nights in Yuda - a luxurious hot spring hotel with various public hot baths, a personal bath can be rented for those with tattoos depending on availability. 

Accommodations Pt 2

We will have our own private bus on our longer stretches into less accessible areas of the country. All transportation within the retreat to and from shin yamaguchi station is included

Private Bus + Trains

Beginning with Lunch on 11/1 and ending with breakfast on 11/6 with 3 square delicious meals each day in between 

Meals - 14 Total 

Atop castle ruins, under momiji trees - outdoor practices in wondrous landscapes highlight our travels. Indoor practices will wind down our days with quiet introspection. Daily hikes/walks!

Mindful Movement

Everyone will be allotted a time for a 20min foot massage during the early parts of our trip

Massage 

All entry and activity fees we partake in as a group are included. Historic sites, local crafts, and food experiences serve to deepen connection to the culture

Cultural Experiences

Yoga mats will be provided for use during the retreat, unless you prefer to bring your own. Practices will be adapted so props are not necessary, but you’re welcome to bring anything you like

Yoga Mats

I am at your service from the morning of 11/1 to the morning of 11/6 for a fully curated experience of rural Japan. You will receive step by step advice for smooth arrival, and itineraries for after

Guidance and Translation

<ul><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">10:15 Meet at Shin-Yamaguchi Station</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">11 walk the trail of autumn leaves to and thru Longevity Village</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">12 local washi paper making actvities</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">1 local specialty soba lunch</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">2 movement practice</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">4 Grandma’s house</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">settle in Tsuwano hotel equipped with personal onsen bath</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">5:30 evening wellness rituals</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">7 local dinner</li></ul>

Welcome to Longevity Village

Day 1

A day grounded in the mystical town of Tsuwano<ul><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">7:30 Breakfast at Hotel</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">9 Hike to Tsuwano Castle Ruins - movement practice at the top!</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">11 chair lift down the mountain + Taikodani shrine through the 1,000 Torii gates</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">12:30 lunch</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">2 Tsuwano’s specialty confectionery workshop</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">3 traditional sake distillery tour</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">4 free time (shop local goods, art museum, cat cafe, etc.)</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">5:30 evening wellness rituals</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">7 dinner</li></ul>

‘Little Kyoto’

Day 2

<ul><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">7:30 Hotel Breakfast</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">9 Taxi to Chomonkyo</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">9:30 taiko drum opening ceremony</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">10 enjoy festival+hike Chomonkyo gorge</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">1:00 lunch , local goods browsing at 'roadside station'</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">3:30 free time in tsuwano(massage, temple, hot springs etc)</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">5:30 evening wellness rituals</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">7 dinner</li></ul>

Autumn 'Momiji' Festival

Day 3

<ul><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">7:30 Breakfast at hotel</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">9 goodbye tsuwano - bus to the coast</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">10 practice at Hagi Castle Ruins</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">12 lunch, strolling historic streets and shops</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">2 towering monoliths of Tokoji Temple</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">3 Ocean views, soaring birds, hidden shrines</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">4 head to yamaguchi hotel</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">6 yin/gentle practice</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">7:30 dinner</li></ul>

Along the Sea

Day 4 

<ul><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">7:30/8 Breakfast at hotel</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">9 leave hotel for morning practice</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">10:30 Yamaguchi’s specialty confectionery workshop </li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">12:00 Rurikoji pagoda and surrounding surprises</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">1:30 ‘Roof tile’ soba</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">2:30 local craft experience(Japanese House Dolls)</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">3:30-5:30 free time (shopping, cafes, museums, hot springs, etc.)</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">6 closing practice</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">7:30 dinner</li></ul>

‘Kyoto of the West’

Day 5

<ul><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Buffet Breakfast at hotel and check out by 9:45am</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">10 Yuda Onsen station</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">10:30 Shin Yamaguchi station - goodbyes, next adventures</li></ul>

Next Adventures

Day 6

<ol><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Awareness - Refunds are not available, so please read through all details regarding this trip to ensure this is the right fit for you. I will send emails leading up to the retreat with essential info to prepare you for your trip.</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Timeliness - Prompt readiness for arrival and departure to and from Shin Yamaguchi is essential for the experience of all. This is why it is required to stay nearby on 10/31, as it is difficult to get into the rural town on your own if you are late. During the retreat, timing will be more flexible, but we will have reservations for some activities/food/practice rooms, so please be respectful of everyone’s experience. You are always welcome to opt out of anything to pursue your own interests.</li><li class="ui-30d40835-py-17 ui-30d40835-bg-gray-400 ui-30d40835-border-gray-400">Cultural Respect - It is a privilege to experience an area of Japan that doesn’t see tourists as often. Please be mindful that rural areas are more conservative in general, specifically in regards to tattoos. The time of year lends itself to covered clothing, so this shouldn’t be an issue. Please do not take direct pictures of townsfolk without consent.</li></ol>

Participant Responsibility 

Shin Yamaguchi Station is the start and end point for our retreat. We will meet here the morning of 11/1, and I will guide you back here the morning of 11/6.1 nights stay in Shin Yamaguchi, Hiroshima, or Fukuoka on 10/31 is required so that our journey has a smooth start on 11/1. I will give more specifics on best options for your itinerary upon registration.

Location 

Prices listed reflect $200 off early bird pricing thru April 30th.The specialized nature of this retreat lends itself to higher expenses, so other discounts/scholarships are not available at this time.

Early Bird Pricing thru April 30th

~ “It has been my good fortune to attend two of Anika’s retreats. &nbsp;Her knowledge of and affection for Japanese culture filled every day with fun and inspiring visits and activities. Opportunities to create unique crafts and try delicious food and drink were priorities. There was also time for contemplation and companionship thanks to Anika’s thoughtful plans for lovely accommodations, organized transportation and scenic walks. &nbsp;Anika’s retreats are an ideal way to learn and grow through travel.&nbsp;”~ “The Yoga and Cultural Immersion&nbsp;retreat&nbsp;with Anika was such a joy! I felt I experienced Japan in a way that I never would have been able to do alone. The group container was safe and supportive, and the yoga was a welcome compliment to the active walking and exploration we were able to do each day. I definitely recommend this&nbsp;retreat&nbsp;to any yoga lovers who want to be able to fully experience Japan's culture and sights.”~ “I’ve always been curious about Japan, but wanted to go with a local who knew the area. When I heard about Anika’s cultural immersion retreat, which also included yoga, I knew I had to go. The yoga sessions were a welcome compliment to all the walking we did and were a perfect way to unwind after an epic day of sight-seeing. Overall, it was one of the best trips I've ever taken. I made forever memories, and can’t wait to go back.”

Hear From Past Retreat Participants

• Our morning movement practices will be energizing without fatiguing, evening practices gentle and soothing. • We will walk a good amount daily with our exploration of different towns, and nature hikes. Depending on the day, this may range from 2-6miles, though not all at once. Conscious stops for seated/relaxed activities are embedded throughout our days. • the itinerary is subject to change based on availability, weather, and the needs of the group.

Activity Level

Retreat to Rural Japan

For those who would like to share a private room for two throughout the retreat save $500 per person when you share a room at early bird pricing!To reserve this room, you will need to book with the person you wish to share this with - $2800/person2 beds available in each hotel room. Private shower and toilet in room. 1st hotel has semi open air hot spring bath. Both hotels have access to public hot springs for those without tattoos.Regular price: $28001 sold, 0 left

Retreat for Two 

Enjoy community by day with the quiet of your own space during down times.Private shower and toilet in room. 1st hotel has semi open air hot spring bath. Both hotels have access to public hot springs for those without tattoos.Scroll down for the gallery to see room pictures.Regular Price: $31003 sold, 1 left

Retreat for 1 

Enjoy spacious rooms in both hotels for your extra luggage and lounging freedom.Private shower and toilet in room. 1st hotel has semi open air hot spring bath. Both hotels have access to public hot springs for those without tattoos.Scroll down for the gallery to see room pictures.Regular Price: $32003 sold, 0 left

Spacious for 1 

Anika has been traveling to Japan almost every year of her life. She is excited to share her culture with you, along with the nourishing movement practices that will ease your travels and adventures.

Anika De Vore

Adventure through the major sights of Kyoto immersed in cherry blossoms, and experience unique cultural activities while soothing the aches of travel with daily rejuvenating and restorative movement practices. Scroll to the bottom to see pictures of room options, and visuals of the itinerary. Descriptions of both below!

Kyoto, Japan

Your transportation to the retreat and after the retreat are your responsibility. Everything planned during the retreat is paid by your IC card.

Plane/Train Ticket

Anything outside of your meals is up to you to purchase

Snacks, Desserts, Drinks

Please bring your favorite massage/tennis/lacrosse ball for our practices of restoration.

Massage Ball

This intimate retreat is dependent on full participation. You are responsible for payment unless you or I can find someone to take your place. 50% refund available through 2024.

Full Refund after 8/31

5-6 nights(arrive 4/6 or 4/7) of stay at a 150 yr old traditional Japanese home. *Look through the photo gallery at the bottom of this page to see picture of the rooms available*

Accommodations 

Indoor and Outdoor - Yin yoga, Myofascial Release, Gentle Vinyasa, meditation, and Japanese modalities

9 Movement Practices

Home cooked Japanese meals+Variety of Restaurants Dinner 4/7, 3 meals/day 4/8-4/11, Breakfast 4/12 Vegetarian/Vegan Options Available Gluten Free Not Available 

14 Meals

An IC card makes travel so much smoother with simple tap and go for buses, trains, and subway. You will receive a charged card upon arrival.

IC Travel Card

Your first day begins with restoration as you nourish your feet in a bubbly, aromatic soak, followed up by a foot massage tailored to your needs

Complementary Foot Spa

Specialty meal experiences, temple calligraphy book carving, Japanese sweets making, pottery, sushi making, Sakura festival, and more await you!

Cultural Activities

Your entrance fees are covered for the sights listed on the itinerary, although itinerary is subject to change depending on the group

Attractions

Our outdoor practices will not need a mat, while you will be provided with a mat for our studio practices. 

Yoga Mat

I will give you all the information you need for the smoothest travel to Japan, and our Retreat Location. I can also help you with itineraries for travel in Japan after the retreat.  

Travel Guidance

In order for you to have flexibility on flights, we have a large window of time that you may arrive. This is anywhere between Sunday 5pm - Monday 3pm.

Arrival on Sunday Evening or Monday

Day 1 

This day is all about settling in, and resting for the adventures ahead. ***complementary foot spas are available between 10am-12pm, and 2pm-4pm at 1/2hr intervals. Suggested activities and dining will be offered to those who want it, before we officially begin. Our journey officially starts at 5pm with our first practice, followed by a welcome dinner to set the tone for the week ahead together.&nbsp; After dinner you will have the option to go to our next door neighbor, Yasaka shrine(2min walk away!), and see the nighttime illumination of cherry blossoms!

Featured Trips

Past Trips