Winter Solstice Edition
Rest Into Stillness
Our 9-day flagship winter healing journey. Experience snow-covered temples, mountain onsen, winter illuminations, and culminate with Japan's sacred winter solstice ceremony—the turning point when darkness transforms to light.
December 14–22, 2026 | Tokyo · Snow Country · Kyoto
Limited to 10–12 participants · Return home December 23 for Christmas with family
This 9-day journey culminates on the actual winter solstice (December 22)—the turning point when darkness transforms to light. We've intentionally designed this as an intensive rather than extended experience, honoring both the depth of rest you deserve and the reality that you have lives, families, and responsibilities waiting.
Every day builds toward solstice ceremony. No filler. Just medicine.
December 22 is Tōji—Japan's winter solstice, when the sun reaches its lowest point and begins its return. You'll participate in traditional yuzu baths (citrus-infused hot springs), eat kabocha pumpkin for good fortune, and receive Ichiyo Raifuku charms symbolizing "turning darkness to light." After the solstice ceremony, you depart Japan on December 23, arriving home the same day to be with family for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
The Experience
Honor the winter solstice—the longest night and return of the light—by embracing stillness, reflection, and the promise of renewal.
Snow Onsen
Soak in outdoor hot springs surrounded by pristine snow, experiencing the magical contrast of heat and cold.
Solstice Ceremony
Celebrate the return of the light with a special winter solstice ritual honoring rest, darkness, and renewal.
Snow Country
Experience the landscapes that inspired Kawabata's Nobel Prize-winning novel in Japan's legendary snow country.
Yuzu Bath Ritual
Traditional winter solstice bathing with citrus, believed to prevent colds and bring good fortune.
Deep Reflection
Use winter's natural stillness for profound inner work and intention-setting for the year ahead.
Ryokan Luxury
Stay in historic ryokans known for exceptional hospitality, cuisine, and private hot spring baths.
Your Winter Healing Journey
Nine intentional days building toward the winter solstice—the moment when light returns.
Tokyo Arrival & Recovery
December 14
Land, rest, let go. Private transfer to boutique hotel. Gentle welcome dinner. Sleep deeply.
Tokyo Intention Setting
December 15
Morning orientation and rest philosophy workshop. Afternoon exploring Tokyo's winter neighborhoods. Evening onsen experience.
Snow Country Deep Rest
December 16-18
Three nights in Nagano mountain onsen town. Daily hot spring rituals. Forest walks in snow. Silence. Stillness. The core of the retreat.
Snow Monkeys & Transition
December 19
Visit Jigokudani snow monkeys bathing in natural hot springs. Afternoon travel to Kyoto. Evening arrival and temple visit.
Kyoto Winter Temples
December 20
Snow-dusted gardens. Temple meditation. Traditional tea ceremony. Winter kaiseki with seasonal ingredients.
Winter Illuminations
December 21
Morning at Fushimi Inari shrine. Afternoon preparation for solstice. Evening winter light displays. Integration circle.
Tōji Ceremony & Completion
December 22 - Winter Solstice
The turning point. Yuzu bath ritual. Traditional solstice foods. Receive Ichiyo Raifuku charm. Closing ceremony celebrating the return of light.
Journey Home
December 23
Morning departure to airport. Arrive US same day (crossing International Date Line). Home for Christmas Eve with family.
Investment
Winter Solstice Intensive
9 days · December 14-22, 2026
Shared occupancy · Single room +$2,000
- 8 nights premium accommodations
- All gourmet meals
- Private & shared onsen access
- All excursions & activities
- Wellness sessions
- Winter solstice ceremony
- Snow monkey visit
- All ground transportation
Payment Plans Available
- Pay in Full: Save $500 (Total: $15,000)
- Two-Payment Plan: $8,000 deposit + $7,500 final payment
- Three-Payment Plan: $5,500 deposit + two payments of $5,000
Important Dates: Booking Opens August 1, 2026 · Final Payment Due November 1, 2026