Shinrin-yoku

森林浴
The art of forest bathing

It's a simple fact: spending time among trees makes you feel better. We might all know this on some level, but in the 1980s the Japanese coined a term for it. Shinrin-yoku literally translates as 'taking in the atmosphere of the forest'. Forest bathing in other words.

To forest bathe Japanese-style, you need to really slow down to absorb your surroundings. Pay attention to the details: the colours of the leaves, the quality of the light, the sounds you can hear, the feeling on your skin. Breathe deeply and simply observe.

67% of Japan is forested, that's some 25 million hectares. Some of our favourite spots for forest bathing are the bamboo groves of Arashiyama in Kyoto, the Nakasendo Way between Magome and Tsumago, the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trails and the Shin-Etsu trail.

When to go:

Shinrin-yoku

Available throughout Japan

Interested in this Experience? It is included in this tour:

Lace up your hiking boots for a three-day hike along the Sekida Mountain's Shin-Etsu Trail.

Shin-Etsu Trail Three-Night Module (Intermediate Hiking)

This three-day hiking module introduces you to our favourite sections of the 70km-long Shin-Etsu Trail, allowing you to enjoy hiking through majestic beech forests and along mountain ridgelines. It can be added to many Self-Guided Adventures as it's easily accessible from Tokyo and Kanazawa.

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Other Outdoors experiences

Beginner's scuba dive
Ever fancied learning to scuba dive? Ishigaki Island is a great place to start.
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White water rafting in Minakami
For Japan's best white water experience, head to the Tone River in Minakami.
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Geibikei Gorge and Yugendo Cave Exploration
Enjoy a boat trip along the serene river before exploring an ancient cave
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