Koyasan Retreat
April 8-10
June 19-21
October 30-31
November 29-31
2-nights, 3-days 2泊3日
maximum 6 participants 6定員
Relax in the fresh air, forest scents and 1200+ years of history
in an exclusive group of 3-6 participants
Yoga, meditation, traditional Buddhist mindful experiences on Koyasan
UNESCO World Heritage monastery village
founded in 816AD by Kukai below the lotus-like 8 peaks of the Ryujin Quasi-national Park
For me, Koyasan is a sanctuary—a place to pause, breathe deeply, and embrace the cooler forest air while focusing on my well-being for a few precious days.
Here, you can step into the Japanese concept of ma (間)—the serene, intentional space between objects, actions, and breaths. It’s a place where time seems to stretch, offering the stillness and introspection that are often missing with modern life’s busy pace.
While Koyasan draws visitors, its atmosphere is refreshingly respectful and unhurried compared to other destinations. There’s an unspoken understanding to move quietly, speak softly, and allow the sacred surroundings to guide us inward.
Take time for yourself—whether enjoying moments of solitude or connecting with others during free time. The thoughtfully designed buildings, including our exquisite lodgings, exude a timeless charm that inspires calm and delight.
Meals here are unhurried, encouraging mindful savoring of every bite, a practice that deepens appreciation for the nourishing ingredients and the care with which they’re prepared. Koyasan invites us to slow down and truly be present.
Embrace the freedom to let your creativity flow as your mind resets and reboots, nurtured by the peaceful rhythm of Koyasan.
Ground yourself daily with mindful activities, nourishing temple meals, and restorative free time to recharge mind, body and soul. Each evening, immerse yourself in the calm of meditation, carrying this quiet reflection through until breakfast to process and embrace the day’s experiences.
Celebrate and support the heart of the community by engaging with Koyasan’s locally-owned businesses. From our lodgings and restaurants to transport, every element of your journey connects you with the people who make this sacred mountain their home.
Find stillness
in the traditional mindful practices of Kukai’s Buddhism & yoga
and still have time to see the local sights
Practice
Yoga & Meditation
Rediscover your inner balance and rejuvenate your spirit with a harmonious blend of movement and stillness. Embrace the serenity of practicing yoga and meditation in the tranquil embrace of Koyasan, a revered ‘Power Spot’ cherished by locals and visitors alike for its profound calm and energy.
Ground through our practice in the crisp morning air between sacred temple buildings, or within the timeless beauty of traditional interiors, each space imbued with a sense of history peace and calm.
Whether you are beginning your journey or seeking to deepen your practice, our tailored approach ensures a nurturing self-connection for all levels, leaving you refreshed and renewed.
Shinrinyoku 森林浴
Sacred trees, natural space
Immerse yourself in the healing embrace of nature with a tranquil forest bathing experience in a secluded part of the mountain. Far from roads and development, you'll be surrounded by the gentle sounds of birdsong, the whisper of the breeze through the trees, and the soothing melody of a mountain stream. Breathe deeply, reconnect with the natural world and yourself. Allow the crisp, fresh mountain air and profound stillness to revitalise your body and mind.
Dress warm to allow you to fully savour the forest’s rejuvenating energy. Take your time to soak in the serenity, the purity of the air, and the grounding calm of being among ancient trees.
Our journey to lunch takes us through the sacred Oku-no-in Temple complex, home to Japan’s largest cemetery with a blend of historical and modern gravestones. Following this reflective walk, enjoy free time to explore, unwind, or simply be until the afternoon yoga session.
Experience
Koyasan by night
Step into the rich history and tranquil beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage village on an intimate and atmospheric tour. Guided by a knowledgeable local monk, you’ll explore the area surrounding the temple lodgings, delving into its fascinating history, architecture, and profound cultural heritage.
This serene experience offers the perfect opportunity to deepen your understanding of this sacred place. Take time to immerse yourself in the unique ambiance, ask questions, and connect with the stories and traditions that make this village so extraordinary.
Focus
Mindful Tracing
In the temple lodgings we will take part in traditional mindful tracing of Buddhist images or the Heart Sutra. Allowing the flow of the calligraphy pen to be our meditation.
Choose the Heart Sutra, Buddha, Kannon or other deity image you would like to trace. Concentrate enough to leave aside your other worries, relax into the movement of the pen tip, then offer the resulting image for the altar at the service the following morning or take it home as a protective charm.
Cleanse your mind, body & soul
Water meditation
At the heart of Kukai’s Koyasan, Oku-no-in, take part in this mindful practice, under the falling water of the stream flowing through the temple complex.
Allow the cool water to take your mind from the everyday, helping with focus and breath control as you chant with the water flowing over your head and shoulders.
Q&A time with a monk
Experience an intimate and thought-provoking Q&A session with a local monk, immersed in the peaceful ambiance of Koyasan. This unique opportunity allows you to explore the spiritual essence, timeless traditions, and daily rhythms of monastic life. Through thoughtful answers and captivating stories, the monk will offer insights into the profound heritage of this sacred mountain. Allow the tranquil setting to spark meaningful dialogue and foster a deeper connection to the spiritual heart of Koyasan.
Stay
Temple lodgings 宿坊
Our lodgings are within a 900-year-old temple, steeped in history and conveniently located near Koyasan’s most treasured sites. Passed down through 49 generations of monks, the last 5 of the same family, this sacred space offers not just a place to rest, but an immersion in tradition. where we’ll participate in the morning service, explore traditional Buddhist mindful practices, and enjoy yoga, soothing sound baths & meditation.
Check-in begins at 3 pm on the first day, with the option to store your bags earlier if you’d like to explore before we start.
Accommodations are simple yet serene, featuring Japanese-style tatami mats that promote calm and lower blood pressure. The earthy tones and textures of the space enhance its restful ambiance, and the futons here are literally the most comfortable I’ve ever experienced.
Shared toilet and bathroom facilities include a spacious communal bath, separated for men and women, offering the perfect opportunity to unwind and embrace bathing as a mindful, restorative ritual at the end of each day.
Nourish yourself - breakfast & dinner included
Shōjin ryōri 精進料理
Savour the flavours of Shojin tradition with delicious vegan dishes lovingly prepared. Enjoy seasonal vegetables, tofu, fu (wheat gluten), and Koyasan’s unique specialties, including creamy sesame tofu (gomadofu) and delicate freeze-dried tofu (Koyadofu), each dish a reflection of the region’s culinary & Buddhist heritage.
Lunches will be served at select local restaurants, offering the chance to experience the area’s hospitality and different cooking styles.
Gluten-free meals are available with advance notice—please let us know when reserving your spot so we can accommodate your needs.
Gluten-free temple fare
Reserve your spot
2 nights & 3 days of peace & calm, including:
intimate group - maximum 6 people
traditional Japanese lodging in 900yo working temple
scheduled mindful activities (and transport between)
2 dinners, 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches
interactions with working monks including Q&A time
free time to sightsee in the afternoons
Option to meet at Namba station to be guided to the lodgings. Or meet us at the lodgings later in the day
Twin and 3-4 person rooms only open to groups traveling together
All rooms have shared toilet and communal bath facilities, separated for men and women
This is a stay in a working temple. Service is friendly and simple.
Hotel pick up available from limited hotels at Namba station with guide to lodgings.
or meet us at Namba station, or the accommodation later in the day
Not Included in price:
transport to/from the retreat & during free time
entrance fees during free time
personal purchases such as souvenirs, snacks, etc
travel insurance
Testimonials
“Koya-san is such a special place and it is a real treat to be able to experience a yoga retreat in this magical location. It feels like stepping into a different world.
Sam clearly put a lot of thought into the choice of accommodation and activities. The temple we stayed at had the most comfortable futons I have ever slept in and the morning service was lead by kind and approachable monks. The food was particularly delicious and healthy.
We had the privilege of doing morning yoga outside surrounded by the temples amidst the serenity of birdsong and chanting in the distance.
I was nervous about the water meditation, but it ended up being the absolute highlight of the trip for me. It was exhilarating and calming all at the same time.
All of this is with Sam’s attentiveness and personal touch. She meets you exactly where you are and truly just wants you to be enjoying the experience.
Cannot recommend highly enough. Would definitely be interested in joining future retreats.”
“Early morning yoga at Koyasan Danjo Garan was truly a wonderful experience. The sound of woodpeckers pecking at the trees, the chirping of the Japanese bush warbler, and the voices of the monks’ morning prayers that seemed to well up from the depths of the forest to the heavens, all surrounded by the pure and solemn air of nature and faith, allowed me to regulate my body and mind with a relaxing yoga practice. Yoga in the historic Japanese-style room of the lodge was also very relaxing.
While doing the morning service, I felt the importance of putting myself in a space of pure prayer, away from daily life. I encountered rare lovely plants on Nyonin-michi walk, and on the Night Tour, was impressed by the beauty of the architecture reflected in the shadows. It was also a good opportunity to learn about Japanese Buddhism and Kukai once again.
I felt healed, restored, and energized in body and mind in a way I had never felt before. Koyasan Yoga retreat has universal healing benefits regardless of religion or race.
Thank you, Sami, for this wonderful event!”
Yoga instructor & retreat facilitator
Sam Seghers
I love Koyasan so much, and get a sense of ‘home’ whenever I return. I feel so fortunate to be able to share this calm, peaceful, sacred place with you.. Just being able to be there and breathe the fresh air is a privilege.
I love teaching yoga to meet the needs of the individual within the class. I’ll be teaching gentle, strengthening hatha, revitalising, restorative yoga, meditation and sound baths so you can get the most out of your time on Koyasan. All classes are suitable for beginners with variations offered for more experienced practitioners.
If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact me. I’d love to hear from you, and see you later in the year.
Cancellation Terms and Conditions
In the case of refunds being provided, any fees involved in payments and refunding payments will be paid by the client.
From Payment until 30days before the retreat, cancellation fees are 0%
Until 21 days beforehand , cancellation fees are 30%
Until 10 days beforehand, cancellation fees are 50%
2-9 days beforehand cancellation fees are 80%
Cancellation the day before or on the day of the retreat, during the retreat, or no shows will incur a 100% cancellation charge
In the case of typhoon, or other natural disaster, that leads to a national or local area stay at home order and therefore cancellation of the retreat, all funds will be returned minus any fees incurred in the payment of, or required to return those funds.