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Japan Retreat
March 25 - 30, 2027
HERB FOLK: JaPan
APPLICATIONS NOW OPENThis is
Japan
beyond
the
checklist
A retreat in Japan for folks seeking depth, rest, and cultural connection. And experiences away from the crowds.
Designed for those who want to feel a place, not just visit it.
Rooted in tea, food, art, and healing waters.Day 1
Kyoto Arrival & Kaiseki Dinner at
Michelin-Starred Restaurant
Day 2
Uji Day Trip & Wazuka Tea Farm
Experience
Day 3
Kyoto Exploration &
Travel to Kinosaki Onsen
Day 4
Explore the Seven Onsen of Kinosaki
Day 5
Waterfall Meditation at Hokkeji Temple &
Free Time
Day 6
Return to Kyoto & Departure
See the full
schedule here
Retreat Itinerary
APPLY HEREOnsen Hot Springs
that allow tattoos
Transformative Experiences
Tea Farm Visit,
Tea Tasting & Lunch
Time and Space
to Explore
Seasonal,
Kaiseki Dinner
Sand Drawing
Meditation
Handmade Crafts
including incense
making, flower arranging
Waterfall Meditation &
hike to Hokkeji Temple
Massage,
Aromatherapy,
ReflexologyWe’ll connect before we
go through two virtual
pre-trip meetings—
walking through the
itinerary, what to pack
(including luggage
considerations), what our
days will actually feel like,
and getting to know who
you’re traveling with—so
you arrive feeling
prepared, informed, and
confident.
Will I feel prepared
before the trip?
You’re not doing this
alone. We’re traveling
with a Japanese national
fluent in both English and
Japanese, guiding
everything—from trains
to check-ins—so the
experience feels smooth,
easeful, and fully taken
care of, whether it’s your
first time in Japan or not.
How will I be supported
while traveling in Japan?
We’ll have your core in-
Japan travel handled—
flight arrival, trains,
major transitions, and the
logistics that can feel
overwhelming.
We’ll also walk you
through how things
actually work, from yen
and card payments to
navigating transit, so you
feel confident doing it on
your own beyond the
retreat too.
Will I know how to get
around and handle
logistics?
Real talk - the language
barrier can be
challenging, especially in
more rural areas.
We’ll prep you with key
phrases, cultural norms,
and how to move through
spaces respectfully, so
you feel confident (not
awkward or unsure) as
you go.
Will I feel comfortable
with the language and
culture?
Thoughtful Travel Support, Every Step of the WayInvestment
$5600
Includes travel within Japan once we arrive in
Kyoto, 5 nights of accommodations (shared room at
a four-star hotel and a ryokan inn), a bilingual
guide, 1-2 curated meals daily, immersive cultural
experiences, onsen access, and virtual pre-trip
gatherings.
International airfare and travel to Kyoto are not included.
Private hotel rooms are available for an additional cost.
APPLY HERE
Flexible payment options are outlined in the application.
If you have any questions or want to talk it through, feel
free to reach out—we’re here to support you.Let’s Travel Together
Mei Seymour
Born in California and raised in Japan, Mei
brings a bicultural, bilingual perspective and a
deep passion for travel and cross-cultural
connection, enriching the experience with
insight and ease across worlds.
Erin Masako Wilkins
A Japanese American herbalist, founder of Herb Folk and the Asian American Herbalism School, Erin guides this retreat with the intention of helping folks reconnect with themselves, culture, and the natural world.
Clare Hatlo
A queer clinical herbalist, art maker, and creative producer, Clare supports the retreat’s structure and flow while holding compassionate, inclusive space for those ready to engage deeply in their travels.
Fun Fact: Mei and Erin are cousinsAPPLY NOW TO TRAVEL WITH US TO JAPAN
HERB FOLK: JAPAN
