Wellbeing begins with
a single breath.
Two retreats in Nagano, Japan this year. Led by Yuki Shiina.
Limited spots available.
Step away.
Breathe deeply.
Return changed.
Modern life has disconnected us from our breath, our body, and nature. In Zen tradition, these were never separate.
This year, Yuki Shiina returns to Bessho Onsen, Nagano for two immersive programmes: the Zen Agri Retreat and the Zen Agri Teacher’s Course. Both are set in one of Japan’s oldest hot spring villages, 90 minutes from Tokyo by Shinkansen.
Each programme is shaped around Zen Breathing practice with Yuki, traditional Zen cuisine, farming experiences rooted in the spirit of samu, and the restorative stillness of Bessho Onsen’s natural hot springs.
You’ll leave with a practice you can carry home.
What to expect
*Some activities are optional. Some may carry an additional fee.
Retreat Details & Pathways
Zen Agri Retreat
An immersive 5-day retreat with 2 hours of daily Zen Kokyū practice. For those who wish to deepen their personal practice, improve their health and wellbeing, or simply experience authentic Zen life in rural Japan and a temple environment. No prior experience is necessary; this retreat is open to all.
$2,100 USD
$1,900 USD
Early Bird Deal: Save $200, until April 15
June 22–26, 2026 (5 days, 4 nights)
Earthworks Gallery, Bessho Onsen, Nagano
Ueda Station (90 min from Tokyo via Shinkansen)
8 participants only
Shared rooms (2 per room)
Includes:
Accommodation, daily Zen Kokyū sessions, two organic vegan meals per day, cultural experiences, onsen access, and ground transportation.
Zen Agri Teacher's Course
Everything in the Retreat, with 3–7 hours of daily Zen Kokyū training. For instructors, bodyworkers, therapists, and those with a background in working with or guiding others. Participants sit a final assessment; those who pass receive certification, with an online retest available for those who need more time.
$3,500 USD
$3,200 USD
Early Bird Deal: Save $300, until April 15
July 6–10, 2026 (5 days, 4 nights)
Earthworks Gallery, Bessho Onsen, Nagano
Ueda Station (90 min from Tokyo via Shinkansen)
4 participants only
Private single rooms
Includes:
Everything in the Retreat, plus an official Zen Kokyū textbook, certification test on the final day, and listing as a certified advisor upon passing.
Early bird pricing ends April 15. Regular prices apply after this date.
A 5% foreign exchange settlement fee will be applied at checkout for international purchases.
Yuki Shiina is the founder of Zen Kokyū,
an author, and a breathing techniques expert with global recognition.
Inspired by the effect breathwork had on her own life, she combined Hakuin Ekaku's original 18th-century writings with her personal experience to create a method that is both ancient and entirely approachable. She teaches from her studio in Tokyo and at locations across Japan, and occasionally, the world.
