Setouchi – Summer 2025

Fukuyama Station

Your retreat starts at Fukuyama Station.

Zen Meditation

A Zazen session will be held at Shinshoji Temple. Here you will be guided to connect with your inner self, and to begin experiencing a sense of tranquility that you will continue to cultivate over the coming days.

Lunch (Udon)

Try the thick yudame udon eaten by Zen monks. The dish is served in the style of a monastery meal.

Tomonoura Walk

Explore a charming and historic harbor town before arriving at Fukuzenji Temple. From its tatami room, enjoy breathtaking views of the serene Seto Inland Sea dotted with picturesque islands.

Dinner (Japanese Kaiseki)

Enjoy a traditional Japanese Kaiseki course at the hotel.

Morning Zen Meditation

Continue your journey of mindfulness and inner peace with our morning zazen session at Shinshoji Temple, which will begin with a “still“ Zen practice. This will be followed by a “dynamic“ Zen practice, wherein we will be guided to return our body and mind to reality with a renewed sense of energy and clarity.

Japanese Calligraphy and Naming Ceremony

You will be given an original Japanese name using Kanji characters, which have meanings derived from Buddhism. You will have the opportunity to write your given name in Kanji characters with an ink brush.

Island Hopping by Bike

Cycle across the bridge and be mesmerized by the breathtaking panorama of the Seto Inland Sea, dotted with countless islands. Feel the invigorating sea breeze on your face as you awaken your senses.

Morning Zen Meditation

In your final zazen session at Shinshoji Temple, you will delve deeper into the practice by focusing on posture and breath. Experience the balance of stillness and movement by practicing both sitting and walking meditation.

Enso Experience

The "Enso" experience at Shinshoji Temple involves drawing a circle in one or two brushstrokes, symbolizing enlightenment, strength, and the universe. This meditative practice focuses on the beauty of imperfection and the present moment.

Lunch at a Winery

Enjoy lunch at a local winery restaurant with stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea, featuring seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.

Setouchi Winery Tour

A guided tour by the winery's artisans will unveil the secrets of their craft, from equipment and methods to the careful selection of their ingredients.

Beachfront Earthing

Walk barefoot on the sands of Shimanami Beach while feeling the earth, sea, and wind align your body's energy.

Singing Bowl Meditation

After earthing, enhance your meditation with the clear tones of crystal singing bowls, creating a final opportunity for deep introspection.

Lunch (Japanese Fermentation Cuisine)

Conclude with a lunch of exquisite, locally sourced fermented delicacies, a true celebration of Setouchi flavors.

Fukuyama Station

Your retreat has come to an end. Return home with a renewed sense of self.