September 27 - October 3, 2025
video of what you can expect on the retreat
Immerse yourself on an extraordinary journey with me in the heart of Japan, where an unforgettable transformation awaits at "The Way of Five Elements" Retreat. This isn't just an invitation; it's a passport to a captivating experience that transcends the ordinary. Picture yourself surrounded by the allure of Japan's landscapes and cultural richness, where the ancient wisdom of the Five Elements converges to create a symphony of self-discovery and rejuvenation.
Engage yourself in the sacred teachings that have endured through the ages, allowing the essence of Zen wisdom to guide you on a path of inner harmony. Join me on this rare opportunity to step into a realm where each moment is crafted for your personal growth and well-being. Your presence will add a unique brushstroke to the canvas of this unforgettable retreat. Don't miss the chance to make memories that resonate long after the journey concludes.
ENHANCED VITALITY
CALM A BUSY MIND
PERSONAL GROWTH
NEW POSITIVE HABITS
STRESS RELIEF & BETTER SLEEP
CONNECTION WITH SELF AND OTHERS
LIKE-MINDED COMMUNITY SUPPORT
ON-GOING POST RETREAT INTEGRATION
LIFELONG FRIENDSHIPS
Nozawa Onsen, Nagano Prefecture
Nozawa Onsen has been a much-loved retreat for more than 200 years.
The village is a working mountain community of 3,400 residents -- a home to both farmers and international athletes who are deeply committed to maintaining its lifestyle and traditions, both out of respect for its ancestors and to provide a sustainable path to the future. To local residents, onsen means much more than just a bathing place, but an area of relaxation, serenity and nature.
Nozawa Onsen is a true onsen village with natural restorative hot springs direct from the source. Over the last decade it has garnered a reputation as an international vacation retreat destination, and now offers not only depth of tradition and the experience of a mountain village, but also the comforts that you expect - good coffee, a great choice of restaurants, supremely comfortable accommodations and world-class service. You can also experience the village with an easy walk from one end of the village to the other, passing through traditional laneways, residential homes, restaurants, shops, and onsens.
Our indoor practices and workshops, unless otherwise stated, will be held at Ryokan Sakaya, a 400-year old family-run property spanning 18 generations. Ryokan Sakaya is the most luxurious property in the whole of Nozawa Onsen village.
Start with the foundations of Qigong practice, which is steeped in 5000 years of lifelong health benefits. Qigong can be best described as a mind-body-spirit practice that has the limitless potential to improve one's mental and physical health by integrating posture, movement, breathing technique, self-massage, sound, and focused intent.
We will begin by introducing 5 Elements Qigong and its history, practice guidelines, correct stances, the opening and closing forms.
Experience the practice incorporated with essential oils that correspond to each element and organs to enhance the energetic effects and support the natural healing processes of your body. You will be guided through a sensory journey, where you will breathe in the aromas and feel the effects on your body and mind.
We'll be integrating the healing sounds and color that correspond with each movement and element, deepening the healing potential of the practice.
Qigong at a shrine
Qigong by the lake
Qigong in a beech forest
Qigong on a rooftop
Qigong indoor
Qigong outdoor
Gain invaluable insights and practical tools through our interactive workshops and activities. These transformative experiences will empower you to create lasting positive changes for personal growth, resilience, and balance in your everyday lives.
A symphony of fire and tea; a portal to a world where time seems to slow, and every sip becomes a communion with centuries of tradition. The ritual is a sensory journey, a narrative of taste, aroma, and warmth, all personally curated by the guide of a tea ceremony master.
Delve deep into the core of holistic well-being with a distinct emphasis on the rich tapestry of Japanese culture and its profound way of life. Unravel the secrets of optimal health and longevity rooted in the wisdom of centuries.
Let the tranquility of Zazen guide you to a profound state of stillness, under the gentle guidance of a monk whose lineage carries the essence of spiritual mastery. This meditation practice will be held at one of the top 100 ancient temples in Japan.
Dive into the palate-pleasing realm of Shojinyori, where every dish becomes a masterpiece of flavor, texture, and visual poetry. This is more than a feast; it's an indulgence in the alchemy of monk food, where every bite becomes a step toward rejuvenation and holistic nourishment.
Explore therapeutic clinical aromatherapy, where the profound wonders of natural scents intertwine with the tapestry of health and wellness. Unveil an infinite expanse of holistic well-being as you delve into the art and science of aromatic essences, where you will create your own bespoke ZEN blend.
Let the melodic resonance of ancient vibrations of Himalayan singing bowls wash over you, fostering deep relaxation, stress reduction, and a harmonious balance of mind and body. Experience the therapeutic benefits as the soothing tones guide you to a profound state of well-being.
Experience the mindful art of Japanese sutra copying, a meditative practice rooted in tradition. Engage in this serene activity to calm the mind, focus your thoughts, and connect with ancient wisdom. Each brushstroke becomes a pathway to inner peace, creating a meaningful connection to Japan's spiritual heritage.
Dive into the art of crafting these delicate Japanese noodles, made of buckwheat, from scratch, guided by expert chefs. Afterwards, savor the fruits of your labor as you indulge in a delicious soba dinner - a truly authentic and satisfying experience.
Enhance your nature retreat with an exhilarating add-on activity: canoeing on a serene lake at a certified Forest Therapy site. Immerse yourself in the therapeutic embrace of the lush surroundings while gliding on tranquil waters.
Step into the heritage and ancient cultural artistry of Nozawa with a hands-on vine weaving activity — a centuries-old local tradition. Channel your creativity as you learn the intricate techniques, to craft your own masterpiece.
Take a breathtaking gondola ride with spectacular views of the Hokushin Five Peaks mountain range. Ascend to a beech forest paradise and discover a canvas of activities at Uenotaira Kogen highland: from serene walks to invigorating adventures.
Shinrin-yoku
Immerse yourself in the splendor of a certified Forest Therapy site for an authentic 'Shinrin-yoku' experience. This is a proven practice that involves spending time in nature to alleviate stress, boost mood, and enhance overall well-being through scientifically validated benefits.
Unveil the magic that lies within the lush green canopies of nature's sanctuary, where each breath becomes a celebration of life and each step a dance with the ancient rhythms of the forest. Witness a timeless gift from the forest's embrace.
Nozawa Onsen's natural hot springs have been soothing visitors' tired muscles and souls for over 200 years, long before the village became a winter playground. There are numerous natural sources in the village, all with different mineral properties and therapeutic effects.
Soaking in onsen helps relieve emotional stress and physical tiredness. Apart from its soothing benefits, you may also find your skin appearing slightly red after soaking, which is perfectly normal because the onsen water helps boost blood circulation as well. Ladies love onsen particularly for its skin-nourishing benefits.
Onsen time is a time for relaxation, and quite often for socialising with the locals or fellow bathers too. After the initial stage of getting used to the warmer water (about 40-44 degrees Celsius), you will find soaking in the bath so enjoyable and relaxing, that you just want to keep coming back for a soak while you are in the village.
There are over 30 onsens in Nozawa Onsen village - many run through the hotels or ryokans for guests to use. You will have free access to 13 of the public baths dotted around the village. They are open from 5am to 11pm.
Nozawa Onsen offers a diverse culinary tapestry that enchants food enthusiasts. Breakfasts, all dinners including authentic Soba dinner, and a Shojin-ryori feast will be included.
Beyond the curated dining experiences, participants are encouraged to explore the village's culinary richness. With over 50 different eating establishments, each offering a unique gastronomic adventure, savor local specialties like Nozawana pickles, oyaki dumplings, and locally sourced soba noodles. Immerse yourself in the cozy ambiance of izakayas, tasting regional delicacies. Let the culinary journey unfold, revealing Nozawa Onsen's unique flavors and traditions.
I'm here to answer any queries you may have about the retreat program.
The historic resort village of Nozawa Onsen is home to over 200 accommodation facilities. To provide participants with maximum flexibility on accommodation (choice duration, price range, number of people), the retreat package does not include accommodation. You may also like to extend your trip before or after the retreat.
I have managed to secure special rates for the following accommodations below including properties in the 'more options' link (use the code "A GRACIOUS LIFE"). However, you are free to find your own on AirBnB, Agoda, Booking.com, etc
$$$$ - starting from ¥21,500/night (single occupancy)
The most luxurious accommodation in the village, spanning 18 generations. Choose from traditional Japanese or Western-style rooms (compact, standard, deluxe).
These comfortable 45-54㎡ spaces include Japanese-style suites with Tatami mat main rooms, antechambers and sunken kotatsu, as well as Japanese-Western suites with Tatami mat main rooms and twin beds in sub-room.
$$$ - starting from ¥16,120/pax/night (double occupancy)
7 international quality apart-hotel (studios, 1-2-4 bedrooms), and a unique penthouse, designed to hold their beauty and value over the years. Each apartment offers unmatched views of the mountain or the valley below. Kawamotoya also provides luxury facilities including a gym, theatre room, “kashikiri” private soaking baths and a rooftop deck.
$$ - starting from ¥15,360/pax/night (double occupancy)
View Hotel Shimataya is aptly named: many of its rooms have stunning views of Mount Kenashi above the village, and the Chikuma Valley below. This spacious, airy property offers very comfortable western and Japanese accommodation, all a short walk from the moving walkway and thence the slopes.
There are various ways of getting to Nozawa Onsen. You can either fly into Tokyo (Haneda or Narita Airport) or the closest airport is Nagano (Matsumoto Airport). From there you can take the train to Iiyama Station. Then either a taxi or bus to Nozawa Onsen.
There is also a direct shuttle bus from both Haneda and Narita airports.
If you plan to take the Shinkansen (bullet train), it is highly advisable to order your JR Rail Pass at least 2 weeks before you leave your country of departure to give time for postage as you need to present the physical "Exchange Order" to activate your pass.
This map is the best way for you to find your way around town!
The price is inclusive of:
√ All breakfasts, Shojin-Ryori lunch, all dinners
√ Ground transportation on excursions
√ Opening & closing circle
√ Qigong classes
√ 5 Elements workshop
√ Clinical Aromatherapy workshop
√ Lifestyle Medicine workshop
√ Acupressure & Healing workshop
√ Forest Therapy
√ Return gondola ride
√ Tea ceremony
√ Zazen meditation
√ Soba Making class
√ Akebi vine weaving class
√ Sutra copying class
√ Meditation & Singing Bowls session
√ 7 customized audio neuro-soundscape tracks
√ 2 Vivoo wellness tests
√ Workbook & personalized journal
√ Welcome gifts
√ Contribution to Roots Institute Centre
The price is exclusive of:
X Return airfares
X Transport to Nozawa Onsen village
X Accommodation
X Meals not specified above
X Visa on arrival
X Travel & health insurance
X Laundry services
X Individual expenses (additional massages, gifts, extra food & drinks)
Your Guide
"If you had asked me before arriving what the biggest highlight would be for me, I would have guessed forest bathing. Now I see that the entire retreat IS THE biggest highlight for me. Being in Nozawaonsen, learning about important lifestyle practices, participating in cultural activities, and most importantly meeting so many supportive and incredible individuals made a profound impact on me and helped to shape a new perspective on life. The retreat was an awakening of my senses, mind, body, and soul; allowing me to see and experience beauty in the world and all who live in it again. Thank you Stephanie and everyone for being a part of a very precious and life changing event for me!"
"For a first time “retreater” and complete newbie to Qi Gong (or any of the wellness practices offered) my cup was 100% filled by this experience. The mindful practice of Qi Gong and the many associated sessions was expertly instructed and coordinated by Stephanie, and the people participating made the retreat a truly treasured experience. For anyone stumbling across this opportunity by Googling (like me) and worried about taking a leap of faith… rest assured… Stephanie’s engagement quickly allayed any concerns. Come with an open heart, as everyone did. We all left nourished by the experience. For those looking for a week of mindful and nourishing experiences… just do it. Go with an open heart and be willing to share and receive. There was so much good energy it was palpable."
"The Way of 5 Elements is much more than a retreat—it’s truly transformational! A safe space to connect with strangers who will become lifelong friends from all over the world, while offering a true sense of community and a feeling of belonging. You will have many healing experiences that help you connect with your true essence and empower you to learn invaluable skills that make life easier. Replenish your energy with amazing local food from the region, immerse yourself in personal growth, and enjoy so much more—all of this while supporting the local community and all delicately guided by Stephanie with daily Qigong practice in the most beautiful of settings. It’s a week-long escape—or a sense of coming home—where all of your senses are awakened, leaving you feeling renewed, inspired, and deeply connected: to nature, to others, and, most importantly, to yourself."
"This retreat clearly exceeded my expectations. I came to mainly learn more about QiGong and to spend some energizing time with like-minded people, but I got so much more. The whole retreat was so well-crafted with a broad variety of experiences, yet still deep learnings in each of them. Stephanie is an amazing and knowledgeable teacher and guides in such a loving and charming way. I could clearly feel that her whole heart is in there."
"The Way of the Five Elements Retreat provides an immersion into the culture and the countryside of Japan. Daily Qigong sessions create a wonderful blending of movement, integration, and spiritual experience … designed for those without prior experience and for any age. Stephanie merges lifestyle teachings and wellness guidance with creative activities and nature hikes … giving way to a memorable, life-enhancing retreat experience … I highly recommend and am so very glad I said YES!"
"This retreat combines both practical elements for our daily lives together with working emotionally on healing within. It was an absolutely beautiful retreat meeting people who came together to care and support, learning new things and experiencing the most beautiful healing nature I have ever seen. The energy carries after it's over back into our lives and I cannot be more grateful for the self worth, confidence, courage and flow I am watching now unfold after the retreat. Steph is a beautiful, caring soul who has been through so much, learning from her experiences are so enriching and I just feel so blessed to have been able to make it to this retreat!"
The retreat was just perfect for really tuning inwards. Since then I’m feeling much more balanced, more present and more conscious. Qigong has definitely changed my life and I see a very clear steady improvement since I’m doing my little five element exercises every morning. I started to implement some little things we talked about and it really improved my quality of life and well-being. I’m super grateful to Stephanie due to all this. One way or another Stephanie’s retreat will deeply impact your life and touch your heart. I’m sure it will put you on the right track by giving you the tools you need. Maybe it will not happen immediately but eventually you’ll incorporate all the knowledge and wisdom she is sharing in such an amazing and loving way and it will for sure change your life to a better!
"It was very easy experience, everything was planned for us. You don't need to have prior experience to come on this retreat. I learned a lot for my body, mind, and spirit. Biggest takeaway is to have strength and the power to go for what you want to improve in your life. If you are trying a purpose in your life and you don't know what that is, or if you're going through any uncertainties in your life or stuck, join this retreat and you'll be surprised with the outcome - the people you'll meet, the things you'll learn, and what the Universe presents to you."
"Biggest takeaway I've learned that everybody is on a different journey and path to improving yourself. You have to discover what works for you and now we have the tools to do that. I'm excited to take that on and implement some of those things in my life, and take my own journey to self improvement and self discovery. Just do it! If you're thinking about it and you want to try something different, definitely try this retreat. It is one of the easiest decision you'll make. Come with an open mind and heart. You'll be surprised at the things you'll go away with."
"The retreat was not like any other. It is a selfless sharing and imparting of knowledge. It is a safe space where lifelong friendships were forged. Stephanie’s sincerity and passion really shows through the program and one could tell that she puts in her genuine thoughts and love for each and everyone of us at the retreat. Thank you so much for this once in a lifetime experience."
"The retreat was absolutely amazing, uplifting, eye-opening, peaceful and calm. I met loads of new people. I was really happy as I learned so much about myself, and Stephanie taught us so much. I'm feeling very empowered. I benefitted so much from the retreat and I know my friends would benefit from it too."
"Magical and Wondrous. A profound journey of inward and outward landscape discovery. I’m learning that nature has a lot to give, and I am here and ready to receive it. And it was the people around me that made it the best. You have everything you need to feel healthy and happy on the retreat, and you have the perfect guide."
Dazza Wong-Sjarif
I absolutely loved "The Way of Five Elements Retreat". I would recommend anyone with the means, the time, and the desire to take it. It was a life changing experience and I wouldn’t trade it for the world. All I can say is the retreat brought me back into alignment, and made me realise what life I could invite into being. It helped take me from a “life is happening to me” to a “I create the life I want” state.
Carolyn Kan
I feel full of energy, the vitality, and the liveliness. The most powerful take away are all the amazing tools that Stephanie has intentionally given us that we can use day to day. So it's not just for 5 days to feel fantastic, but everyday afterwards. I would 100% recommend this to everybody. And for anyone who's not sure, what have you got to lose? Not only will you learn tools that will help you for a wonderful and healthy life, but it's so much fun!
Marianna Aly Shun
Received everything I expected and more - learning, expansion, guidance, new experiences, thoughtful daily gifts, interacting with wonderful likeminded souls, great food, warmth and such a homey feeling despite being in a foreign country and above all getting to meet such a beautiful and giving soul that is Stephanie.. even if we never meet again on this journey (though I’m sure we will) I will remain forever grateful and not just for inspiring me to believe that I could become such a person myself (eventually)..thank you thank you and such deep love xoxo
Are you interested in joining us for The Way of Five Elements Retreat and have questions about the program or booking your spot? Book a clarity call with me to chat and learn more about this transformational journey. I’m here to answer any questions you may have and help guide you towards an unforgettable experience.
Essentially yes if it's at Sakaya Ryokan. I did not include accommodation costs with the retreat because there are so many different options for people to choose in Nozawa Onsen village. Some Japanese Ryokans offer cheaper rates if you're sharing the room with 3/4/5 people. Email me at stephanie@agraciouslife.com if you would like me to bundle the retreat with accommodation.
There are several ways to get to Nozawa Onsen.
1. Fly to Tokyo Airport (Haneda/Narita). Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Iiyama Station. Then either a taxi or a bus from Iiyama Station to Nozawa Onsen (20 mins).
2. Fly to Matsumoto Airport in Nagano. Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Iiyama Station. Then either a taxi or a bus from Iiyama Station to Nozawa Onsen (20 mins).
3. Direct Shuttle Bus from Tokyo airports to Nozawa Onsen
https://www.nozawaholidays.com/getting-to-nozawa-onsen/
[Note: If you are taking the Shinkansen (bullet train), purchase your pass online prior to arriving so you can collect the exchange order ticket. Alternatively you can purchase the pass at relevant travel agencies in your home country]
https://www.japanrailpass-reservation.net
The flexibility of everyone choosing their accommodation allows partners or family members to come along on the trip but do not have to join the retreat program. This allows you to spend time with them during the free time, and extend your trip in Japan with each other.
This retreat is suitable for beginners and fitness of all levels, even if you have never tried Qigong or been on a retreat before. Your exciting journey awaits!
Yes absolutely! If you want to share a room with someone, we can pair you up with another solo traveler. There will be plenty of moments for social interactions to forge new friendships and community bonding.
Once you book the retreat, there will be an info pack sent to you with a helpful packing list and other essentials for the retreat.
Japan has taken measures on the visa exemption arrangements for 70 countries/regions. View the chart here:
https://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/short/novisa.html#notice01