7 Day in-Person

Yakushima is a subtropical island, a part of Kagoshima Prefecture in Japan. It is covered by an extensive cedar forest that contains some of Japan’s oldest living trees, famously called Yakusugi, which are more than 1000 years old and some of which may be over 7000 years old. The lives, culture, and traditions of the people of Yakushima have been nurtured through their deep connection with nature.

With over 70 species of endemic plants, other flora and shores teeming with sea life, villagers on Yakushima enjoy a plentiful bounty of seafood and edible plants. But the water cycle also plays another important role in their everyday life. Most of Yakushima’s electricity is hydroelectric, making it an ideal island for eco-friendly stays.

Yakushima’s wet climate gives life to dramatic ravines, flowing rivers, and stunning green coats of moss, simply ideal for a forest therapy program! Also, wild, mysterious, and untouched ancient cedar forests are well protected by both the gods of folklore and a UNESCO World Heritage designation. This woodland kingdom served as the inspiration for the magical backgrounds of Studio Ghibli’s “Princess Mononoke”.

While the otherworldly cedar forests are Yakushima’s famous scene with various well-marked hiking trails, ranging from 1 to 12 hours in durations, the bountiful rainfall creates impressive waterfalls, one of which can be approached by kayak. Furthermore, the island is home to several simple and wild onsen (hot spring spots) such as the sea baths offering natural rock pools right on the edge of the ocean.

Prices are in Japanese Yen. The equivalent that is provided in USD is an estimate only and based on current conversion rates at the time of publishing. Visit www.xe.com for the latest conversion rates.

The Accommodation Fee is per person for the entire training. It includes 6 room nights + 6 breakfasts + 6 dinners, and is in addition to the tuition paid to ANFT.

Depending on the room type, the accommodation fees will range from 62,000 Yen – 114,000 Yen ($400 – $720).

Room types include:

Japanese rooms with tatami
Western rooms with beds
Cottage rooms with futons
Bungalows with futons
Important notes:

1. Most rooms are on a sharing basis.

2. There are very limited single/private rooms.

3. All participants must stay on site.

4. Due to capacity issues, we are not able to accommodate your spouse, partner and family.

Once you register for this training, you will receive more information about the different room types and room booking process.

Accommodation Fee is paid directly to Shikino Yado on the day of your check-in.

All meals are included in this immersion. We start with dinner on 17 May 2027 and end with breakfast on 23 May 2027.

Breakfasts and dinners are prepared by Shikino Yado.

For lunches, the training team will organise 5 pack lunches for everyone across 18 – 22 May 2027.

Important note:

Unfortunately, we are not able to cater for any special dietary requirements. No vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free or other options are available.

The fee for packed lunches is not included in the Accommodation Fee. You will need to pay a separate Miscellaneous Fee (please see below).

Getting to Yakushima

Option 1. Domestic flights from Kagoshima, Fukuoka or Osaka Itami.
Option 2. High-speed jetfoil boat from Kagoshima Port.
Getting to Shikino Yado

Shikino Yado is situated at the southern part of Yakushima.
By car, it is a 30 min drive from the Yakushima airport, 50 min from the Miyanoura port and 20 min from the Anbo port.
Public buses run at low frequency from the airport and ports. From the Nakano bus stop, it is a 5 minute walk to Shikino Yado.
The training team will share detailed information with trainees who have officially enrolled.

Getting around during the training

We will be heading out to a different venues on certain days of the training. To/fro transportation will be arranged for the group. This is not included in the Accommodation Fee. You will need to pay a separate Miscellaneous Fee (please see below).

ARRIVAL
May 17, 2027
Registration & Check-in: Monday, 17 May 2027, 1 pm – 4 pm

Welcome Circle: Monday, 17 May 2027, 4 pm onwards

DEPARTURE
May 23, 2027
Close & Check-out: Sunday, 23 May 2027, by 12:30 pm

MISCEALLANEOUS FEES

The Miscellaneous Fee covers 5 packed lunches, to/fro transportation to venue(s) during our 7-day immersion programme, cultural exchanges and professional talks etc.

The Miscellaneous Fee is expected to cost between 36,000 Yen – 60,000 Yen per person, depending on the final enrolment number. Nearer to the immersion, the Training Team will update everyone on the final amount for the Miscellaneous Fee. The Miscellaneous Fee will be collected in cash only (in Yen) by the training team on the day of check-in.

Connectivity

Wifi is available at the resort.

VENUE Cancellation Policy

8 – 21 days before the immersion, 30% of the accommodation fee will be charged.
2 – 7 days before the immersion, 50% of the accommodation fee will be charged.
Cancellations made 1 day before or on the day of the immersion will have the accommodation fee charged in full.
Exception: No cancellation fee will be charged if you are unable to travel to Yakushima due to flight or ferry cancellations caused by weather or other transportation disruptions.
Venue Policies

No smoking.

No pets allowed.

No fire allowed.