Forest Therapy in Kyoto by the Sea

Forest Therapy is a research-based public health practice drawing on the Japanese concept of shinrinyoku, or forest bathing. Led by a licensed guide, participants engage in a slow, immersive experience designed to awaken the five senses. This practice is globally recognized for its health benefits, with research highlighting nature's vital role in human well-being. The experience is uniquely situated in a rare alpine beech forest on the Tango Peninsula, a location chosen for its biodiversity, trail layout, and calming environment. The journey takes participants to the site of a former village, Uchiyama, now reclaimed by nature, where stone foundations are still visible beneath moss-covered trees and terraced rice fields. Sessions are customized to participants' needs, allowing for adjustments in difficulty, duration (from 90 minutes to 3-4 hours), and specific activities. Guests will learn about forest therapy techniques, its health advantages, how to integrate the practice into their daily lives, and the rich history of the Uchiyama village.