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Shinrin-yoku
森林浴
The art of forest bathing
It's a simple fact: spending time among trees makes you feel better. We might all know this on some level, but in the 1980s the Japanese coined a term for it. Shinrin-yoku literally translates as 'taking in the atmosphere of the forest'. Forest bathing in other words.
To forest bathe Japanese-style, you need to really slow down to absorb your surroundings. Pay attention to the details: the colours of the leaves, the quality of the light, the sounds you can hear, the feeling on your skin. Breathe deeply and simply observe.
67% of Japan is forested, that's some 25 million hectares. Some of our favourite spots for forest bathing are the bamboo groves of Arashiyama in Kyoto, the Nakasendo Way between Magome and Tsumago, the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trails and the Shin-Etsu trail.
When to go:
For more information email us: [email protected] or call: + 44 117 244 3380
A quick note about our experiences: Our experiences are designed to be part of a complete, tailor-made travel package and are not available to book individually. This allows us to ensure every detail – from accommodation to transport – is perfectly coordinated for you. If you're interested in one of these experiences, we'd love to help you build a full itinerary around it!
Shinrin-yoku
Available throughout Japan
Interested in this Experience? It is included in this tour:
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This walking module presents a taster of what the Kumano Kodo has to offer at a gentle pace designed to make this amazing region accessible to all.
Kumano Kodo Three-Night Module (Gentle Walking)
This short walking module introduces the Kumano Kodo network of pilgrimage routes with a series of gentle hikes punctuated by stays in traditionl countryside inns and visits to some of the area's famous shrines. This module is designed to be incorporated into a longer Self-Guided Adventure.
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