Relaxing Japan
Whether you’re meditating in a Buddhist temple, experiencing a tea ceremony in a Japanese garden, or forgetting your troubles on a white sandy beach, Japan offers a variety of unique and calming ways to relax and unwind. Experience these and other unique forms of relaxation from forest bathing to onsen hot springs with a variety of relaxation traditions you’ll find only in Japan.
Onsen
Onsen
Onsen, or hot springs, are natural geothermal pools often surrounded by luxurious resorts. A soak in these relaxing, warm waters is like taking a dip into traditional Japanese culture itself. Head into the mountains of central Japan, or down south to the island of Kyushu and relax in rocky baths overlooking the ocean or in high-class mountain retreats. Ask our travel agency about some of our favorite hot springs resorts for special considerations on how to visit and reserve them.
Shukubo
Shukubo Stays
To really immerse yourself in Japanese culture, stay overnight in a Buddhist temple — an experience known as "shukubo." Traditionally, these temples served as lodging for monks traveling great distances. Today, many allow visitors to join their practices and experience life as a Buddhist monk, rising for early morning devotions known as “gongyo,” participating in peaceful zen meditation sessions and enjoying traditional included meals called “Shojin ryori.”
Botanical garden experience
Botanical Gardens
Japan is known for its immaculate botanical gardens and outdoor spaces especially curated to elicit feelings of peace and tranquility. From Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden in the heart of Tokyo to Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden on the slopes of Mount Rokko, Kenroku-en in Kanazawa and countless others, Japan offers some of the world’s most impressive gardens just waiting to be explored.