Breathe the Sea Air. Find Your Stillness. Setouchi Summer Retreat.
Duration: 4 Days
Area: Hiroshima, Ehime
Setouchi Zen Wellness Retreat: A summer cultural journey along the coast
Immerse yourself in Setouchi’s unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, which includes everything from scenic island vistas and modern art installations to sumptuous local cuisine.This journey blends moments of deep Zen-inspired self-reflection together with active exploration of the region’s landscapes and traditions.
Tour Highlights
- Authentic Zen Experience Over Three Days
- Ryokan Stay and Culinary Delights
- Discover the Beauty and Tranquility of Summer in Setouchi
- Daily Morning Wellness Activities
Itinerary
Day 1: Find Inner Harmony Through Zen
10:00 AM
Fukuyama Station
Your retreat starts at Fukuyama Station.
11:00 PM
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.
12:30 PM
Lunch (Udon)
Try the thick yudame udon eaten by Zen monks. The dish is served in the style of a monastery meal.
04:30 PM
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.
06:00 PM
Check in to Accommodation
06:30 PM
Dinner (Japanese Kaiseki)
Enjoy a traditional Japanese Kaiseki course at the hotel.
Day 2: Access Your Inner Self Through Zen
09:00 AM
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.
11:00 PM
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.
03:30 PM
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.
Day 3: Express Yourself Through Zen
09:00 PM
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.
11:00 AM
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.
12:00 PM
Lunch at a Winery
Enjoy lunch at a local winery restaurant with stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea, featuring seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
02:10 PM
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.
Day 4: Align Your Energy
09:45 AM
Beachfront Earthing
Walk barefoot on the sands of Shimanami Beach while feeling the earth, sea, and wind align your body’s energy.
11:30 PM
Singing Bowl Meditation
After earthing, enhance your meditation with the clear tones of crystal singing bowls, creating a final opportunity for deep introspection.
01:00 PM
Lunch (Japanese Fermentation Cuisine)
Conclude with a lunch of exquisite, locally sourced fermented delicacies, a true celebration of Setouchi flavors.
04:30 PM
Arrive at Fukuyama Station
Your retreat has come to an end. Return home with a renewed sense of self.
Accomodation
Onomichi Hansei
Nestled in the heart of a historic harbor town, this ryokan (traditional Japanese inn), a former traditional Japanese restaurant, carries on a legacy of over 250 years. Enjoy an exquisite multi-course kaiseki dinner prepared with meticulous care.
