Appreciate the Stillness in the Zao’s Winter Wonderland!
Duration: 4 Days
Area: Miyagi
4 Day Luxury Japan Tohoku Snow Retreat: Appreciate the Stillnes
This 4-day luxury retreat is perfect for those who are seeking a mountain getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and appreciate the stillness in the snowy mountains of Tohoku.
Take time to focus on yourself and appreciate the stillness through various activities such as Zazen (Zen meditation), snowshoeing, sound therapy, tea ceremony, while staying in a luxury Ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) with stunning outdoor hot springs.
If you wish to experience this tour as a private tour with the date you have set, please feel free to contact us. We also offer tailor-made tour services upon request.
Tour Highlights
- Sound Therapy in a traditional house
- Snowshoeing & Tea Ceremony
- Zazen (Zen meditation) & Buddhist Cuisine
- Visit Nikka Whisky Miyagikyo Distillery
Itinerary
Day 1: Reset your energy with sound therapy
09:30 AM
Tokyo Station
A Tranquwell representative will meet you at Tokyo Station. Then, take a Shinkansen (bullet train) ride in a comfortable GranClass (first class) seat to Shiraishi-Zao Station.
12:00 PM
Lunch (Regional Cuisine)
Savor authentic regional cuisine featuring local noodles in a century-old building.
02:00 PM
Shiroishi Town Walk
Stroll through the historic district with samurai houses.
05:00 PM
Check in to Chikusenso
Located at the foot of Mt. Zao, the hotel is based on the concept of modern Japanese, which blends traditional Japanese culture, technology, and natural materials.
06:30 PM
Dinner (Japanese Cuisine)
Using the freshest produce and seafood in the region, the restaurant serves a Japanese course with a creative interpretation.
Day 2: Embrace the peaceful solitude of a snow-kissed mountain
07:00 AM
Morning Wellness
Awaken your body and mind with a gentle yoga flow, boosting your metabolism and setting a serene tone for the day.
11:30 AM
Snowshoeing
Embark on a snowshoeing adventure, escaping the digital world for the serene beauty of a snow-covered mountain. We will take a break for a picnic on a snow table.
03:30 PM
Tea Ceremony
Experience the tranquility of a Japanese tea ceremony, a timeless ritual that celebrates simplicity and mindfulness.
06:30 PM
Dinner (Japanese Cuisine)
Using the freshest produce and seafood in the region, the restaurant serves a Japanese course with a creative interpretation.
Day 3: Embark on a journey of self-discovery through Zen practice
10:00 AM
Start Your Day with Matcha
Buddhist monks have long engaged in the traditional ritual of drinking matcha prior to practicing Zazen in order to enhance concentration. Before our late morning session of Zazen, we will first enjoy a bowl of matcha at Kanrantei Tea House.
11:00 AM
Zuiganji Temple
Zuiganji Temple is one of Tohoku’s most famous Zen temples. An English-speaking monk will show you around the temple first. He will even let us enter special rooms which are not open to the public. Learn interesting history facts which are not in your travel guide book.
12:00 PM
Zazen (Zen meditation)
We will have a Zazen (Zen meditation) session with the monk. Learn Zen breathing techniques and meditate in the serene environment of the temple.
12:50 PM
Lunch (Buddhist Cuisine)
Indulge in a traditional Shojin Ryori (Buddhist cuisine)-based lunch at Entsu-in Temple, savoring the delicate and colorful Buddhist cuisine served in a historic Japanese building.
02:30 PM
Japanese Garden at Entsuin Temple
Entsuin Temple, nestled in Matsushima’s waterfront, honors Mitsumune Date, a promising samurai heir who tragically passed away at 19. It features beautiful moss gardens as well as a rock garden which represents the islands of Matsushima Bay.
03:15 PM
Matsushima Sightseeing
Matsushima is one of the three most scenic spots in Japan, where poets, warlords, and other historical figures fell in love with its scenery.
06:10 PM
Dinner (French)
An authentic local gastronomic experience with a French twist. With a strong focus on local ingredients in collaboration with producers, the restaurant is known for its contribution to promoting Tohoku’s ingredients and culinary culture.
Day 4: Revive your senses to uncover new you
07:00 AM
Morning Meditation
Meditate at the hotel while watching the snow gently fall.
10:30 AM
Nikka Whisky Miyagikyo Distillery
In a lush canyon blessed with two clear streams, we will learn the process of making premium Japanese whiskey.
12:45 PM
Lunch (Modern Japanese Cuisine)
Lunch at an elegant modern Japanese restaurant awarded with a Michelin star.
03:25 PM
Shinkansen (Bullet Train) Ride to Tokyo
Take a Shinkansen (bullet train) ride to .Tokyo. Reflect on your wellness journey in a comfortable GranClass (first class) seat.
05:30 PM
Tokyo Station
Your Tranquwell tour has come to an end. Return home with a renewed sense of self.
Accomodation
Chikusenso, Mt. Zao Onsen Resort ＆ Spa
A harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, where the elegance of a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) meets contemporary comfort. Unwind in a tranquil outdoor bath, enveloped by a gentle snowfall and treat yourself to delicious yet healthy Japanese cuisine.
