Arrival & Introductions As participants trickle into Tokyo, Benjamin and Beth will be ready to help everyone navigate to the hotel and settle in. Soak in the hot spring bath at the hotel to relax, and after some rest, join us for a light dinner, unwind and engage in casual conversation.
Embark on an Enriching Journey of Mindfulness and Discovery in Japan
Arrival in Japan
18
February
2024
Departure
02
March
2024
Participants
Spots Left
14 days |
$7,300 $10,600
Early Bird Pricing Until Nov 20, 2023
Who This Retreat Is For
Are you a purpose-driven professional seeking to define a new direction in life? Are you ready to embark on a profound journey of self-discovery, mindfulness, and cultural immersion with like-minded people?
The Ikigai Retreat is designed for individuals who are seeking to choose a new path, define their passion, and experience Japan's unique culture. This retreat is tailor-made for people who recognize the value of self-work, taking the time and space to focus on their thoughts, appreciate the unique culture of Japan, and authentically show up.
Overview
We will spend 14 days together in Japan on a mindfulness journey to understand what makes your life worth living, or your Ikigai. Imagine stepping off the plane in the buzz of Tokyo, stimulated by new sights and sounds the first few days. Traversing the city by subways, trains, and by foot, the first few days in Tokyo will be a whirlwind shake up before stepping aboard a bullet train to travel back in time.
Now picture yourself in the historic capital of Japan, Kyoto, the perfect setting where we begin our mindfulness journey. Each morning, you awaken in your cozy room, ready to embrace the day's adventures. As you step outside the hotel and make your way to our traditional Machiya (Kyoto House) meeting space, you're greeted by Benjamin & Beth along with your newfound tribe, sitting on tatami mats, sharing conversations over soothing green tea—a tranquil beginning to our shared journey. Following a morning of introspective self-discovery facilitated by Beth, we venture into Kyoto's vibrant streets, led by Benjamin's expert guidance.
Our exploration leads us to a hidden gem—a local Tempura shop. With Benjamin's proficiency in Japanese, he warmly engages the group and effortlessly bridges the gap between you and the restaurant's owners. Through his translations, you gain an intimate glimpse into the lives and stories of the proprietors, creating lasting connections that extend beyond the meal.
On another day, after a soul searching exercise, you decide to walk to the Philosopher's Path alone, to think more deeply on what was uncovered. The leaves turning to a beautiful red, some falling to the earth beneath your feet as you breathe in the fresh air and reflect upon your new discovery of yourself. You wander back to the meeting house to join everyone for a wonderful meal as everyone shares their thoughts of the day.
These cherished moments are the essence of The Ikigai Retreat in Japan, promising a collection of memories that will forever remain etched in your heart. We are genuinely excited to embark on this remarkable journey with you, as together, we delve into the beauty and depth of Japanese culture, self-discovery, and transformation. You'll walk away with a new understanding of yourself, your direction in life, and an appreciation of your defined Ikigai.
Day 1
Arrival and Welcome to Tokyo
Day 2 - 3
Vibrant Tokyo Exploration
Tokyo Exploration Today, we'll get up and enjoy a 'convenient' breakfast and meet your fellow participants as you embark on The Ikigai Retreat. Beth will conduct engaging ice breakers that foster connections and create a supportive community. We'll walk to Tokyo Station, an iconic railway hub in Japan, boasting a rich history dating back to 1914. Its elegant, European-inspired architecture and central location have made it a symbol of Tokyo's modernization and a gateway for travelers exploring the country's diverse landscapes and cultures. Here we will get our first glimpse as to the vibrant energy of Tokyo.
After a visit to one of Benjamin's favorite Tonkatsu restaurants for lunch overlooking the station, we will visit some of Tokyo's iconic sights, including the Imperial Palace and Ginza, where we will visit Tokyo's largest stationery store to buy a unique journal for your journey ahead. After an afternoon exploring, we'll go back to the hotel to rest before joining for an optional dinner together for those who have the energy!
The next day we will visit Shibuya, Harajuku, Omotesando and other sights before breaking for a lunch. After lunch, Benjamin will guide us to Meiji Jingu Shrine nestled in the heart of Tokyo, standing as a serene oasis of Japanese tradition and spirituality. Constructed in 1920, this sacred site is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, revered figures who oversaw Japan's transformation into a modern nation during the late 19th century. Together, we will use traditional 'Ema' boards to set our intentions for our journey together.
After our visit to the shrine, we will journey by train to Shinjuku, a district of Tokyo whose train station sees over 2M visitors a day! Benjamin will bring us to his favorite gyoza shop in Shinjuku before seeing the night lights of Tokyo's famous Kabuki-cho district at night.
Day 4
Travel to Kyoto
Kamakura & Kyoto Arrival In the morning, Benjamin will arrange a luggage forwarding service to have our bags delivered to Kyoto ahead of us. We'll board a train to head to Kamakura, a coastal city just south of Tokyo, a living testament to Japan's rich history and culture. It served as the political center of medieval Japan during the Kamakura Period (1185-1333), marked by the rise of the samurai class and the influence of Zen Buddhism.
Kamakura's tranquil temples, the iconic Great Buddha, and its charming streets still echo with the legacy of this bygone era, inviting us to step back in time and explore Japan's fascinating past. We will learn about the Bushido Code in Kamakura, and Beth will lead us through an exercise of applying these codes to our own lives. We will have lunch together before boarding a train back to a transfer point to board the famous Shinkansen (Bullet Train) that will whisk us away to Kyoto. We will check into our hotel, and meet back for an optional dinner together.
Day 5
Kyoto
The Ikigai Journey Begins In the morning, the group will join at the old traditional Machiya (Kyoto House) to begin our journey together. Beth will guide us through a 'Kaleidoscope of Priorities' and 'Echos of Impact' exercises in the morning before walking together to the Heian Shrine, a stunning architectural homage to Japan's Heian Period (794-1185). Built in 1895 to commemorate the 1,100th anniversary of Kyoto's foundation, it replicates the design of the original Heian Palace from that era. This sacred site, with its vibrant torii gate and serene gardens, offers a captivating glimpse into Japan's historical and cultural heritage.
After visiting the shrine, Benjamin will guide us to a lunch spot while we reflect upon the exercises of the morning.
After lunch, Benjamin will explain about the Japanese art of Haiku, a traditional form of Japanese poetry renowned for its concise yet profound nature. Together, he will lead us to the starting point of the Philosopher's Path, a picturesque walking trail that follows the peaceful canal-side route of philosopher and Kyoto University professor Nishida Kitaro. Lined with hundreds of cherry trees that burst into a sea of pink blossoms during spring, this path offers a contemplative journey through the city's rich history and serene natural beauty, with stops at notable temples and shrines along the way. We will use this time to further reflect on the discoveries of the earlier exercises, and you will walk your own journey along the path, stopping when inspiration strikes to create Haiku of your own.
We will regroup at the end of the trail to share our Haiku's with one another before heading back to do a final 'Quest for Clarity' exercise with Beth at the Machiya. In the evening, we will enjoy a traditional Kyoto style dinner together.
Day 6
Kyoto (Optional Tour of Nara)
Day of Reflection & Optional Nara Tour Yesterday's exercises have likely unpacked a lot for everyone, taking inventory and analyzing our past, and why we are where we are at the present. Some participants may wish to stay in Kyoto and explore on their own, or continue with journal prompts provided by Beth to continue reflecting upon our discoveries from yesterday.
Benjamin will lead an excursion to Nara, Japan's first permanent capital, which has a rich history dating back to the 8th century. Renowned for its cultural heritage and ancient temples, Nara is home to iconic sites like Todai-ji, housing the Great Buddha, and Kasuga Taisha Shrine, famous for its lantern-lined paths and freely-roaming deer.
Day 7
Kyoto
The Ikigai Journey Continues In the morning, the group will reconvene at the Machiya for an exercise called 'Authenticity Revealed'. This exercise lead by Beth will focus on our core values, identifying our inherent value system. After the exercise, we will journey together to a Calligraphy studio, where we each will learn how to write calligraphy of the Japanese characters of each core value. The workshop will be an unforgettable cultural experience, delving into a meaningful ancient art of Japan.
After the Calligraphy Workshop, we will continue to a lunch together at a nearby restaurant. In the afternoon, Beth will continue her guidance through 'Tomorrow Envisioned' and Storytelling exercises together before an optional dinner and Karaoke evening.
Day 8
Kyoto (Optional Group Hike to Fushimi Inari Shrine)
Reflection & Mindfulness Continuing along your Ikigai journey, you will deepen your mindfulness practice today reflecting upon the exercises Beth has guided you through. Today is an optional day for self reflection, 1:1 Coaching with Beth, personal time to wander around Kyoto. Benjamin will also be leading a walk through some of Kyoto's infamous temples, including Kinkakuji, the Golden Pavillion. In the afternoon, participants interested in a hike will join him to Fushimi Inari, the path with 10,000 torii gates, creating a sight of deep reflection.
Day 9
Kyoto
Power of Letter Writing In the morning, Benjamin and Beth will lead an introduction to the power of letter writing. Beth will guide the 'Pathway to Tomorrow' and 'Release & Renewal' exercises, focusing on envisioning your future and releasing your past. These exercises are tailored to help bring us to another milestone in your Ikigai journey before spending the afternoon exploring more of Kyoto's temples and parks, or enjoying optional coaching sessions with Beth. Before dinner, we will participate in a final letter writing activity conducted by Beth called 'Heartfelt Appreciation'.
Day 10
Hiroshima
Hiroshima Peace Park Today's excursion is lead by Benjamin as we take a Shinkansen from Kyoto down to Hiroshima for the day. Upon arrival in Hiroshima, participants wishing to visit the Museum will be able to enter and visit the Atomic Bomb Museum. This tragedy in Japanese history is deeply felt by the citizens, and viewing the museum is a stark reminder of the destructive power of war. The museum offers us a reminder to our exercises from yesterday, and our renewed sense of gratitude will be palpable. We will enjoy a lunch together at a local Okonomiyaki shop, showcasing Hiroshima's unique take on this dish of Japan.
After lunch, Benjamin will continue to lead us through the city of Hiroshima as we explore one of Japan's unique cities.
Day 11
Kyoto
Wabi Sabi In the morning, you will meet at the Machiya and Beth will lead us in the 'Unlock the Unseen', 'Navigating Self Compassion' and 'Shifting Your Perspective' exercises. These exercises will help you identify blockers and your 'shadow selves' while embracing imperfection. During lunch, Benjamin will share the cultural concept of 'Wabi Sabi', the beauty of imperfection, and in the afternoon you will participate in a cultural experience together as a group.
Day 12
Kyoto
Your Ikigai You have now spent the entire journey discovering your past, present and took a peek into your future. Today is the day you have worked toward. In the morning, you will meet at the Machiya together with Benjamin and Beth, and they will lead you through the Ikigai Framework. After a full morning of Ikigai, you will break for lunch and we will regroup as a collective for a traditional tea ceremony at a nearby tea house.
In the evening, a final sayonara dinner is enjoyed as a group.
Day 13
Kyoto (Shinrinyoku at Arashiyama Bamboo Forest)
Reflections & Shinrinyoku On our last day together, we celebrate the profound transformations and connections we've experienced. This day is dedicated to reflecting on our journey, embracing our newfound sense of purpose, and cherishing the fulfilling experiences we've shared together. Beth will lead us through connecting the dots of each other's Ikigai and afterward, Benjamin will lead us to Tenryuji, a temple near the Bamboo Forest. After a peek at the temple, we continue onward to the Bamboo Forest for 'Shinrinyoku', a Japanese practice that involves immersing oneself in nature, particularly lush forests, to promote physical and mental well-being. This is a perfect way to 'wash away the old, and usher in the new'. After our time at the bamboo forest, we will econtinue to the Moss Temple nearby. Today's sessions are a bid farewell with gratitude, carrying the lasting impact of The Ikigai Retreat with you as you start your journey home, with new found clarity and direction.
Day 14
Departures
Departure Day Depending on everyone's plans for departure, there may be a group going back to Tokyo, Osaka or remaining behind in Kyoto.
Included
- Internal Train Transportation Trains, Subways, and bullet trains.
- Some Meals Welcome dinner, Sayonara dinner, all breakfasts while in Kyoto, 3 group lunches and 4 dinners will be conducted throughout.
- Lodging Hotel, individual Occupancy, ensuite bath.
- Unique Cultural Experiences You will enjoy various cultural activities throughout the stay.
- 1:1 Executive Coaching Free initial consultation with Beth Lenherr, PCC with optional 6-session executive coaching add-on exclusively for participants.
- Entrance Fees Fees to various temples, parks, and museums included in guided days.
Not Included
- Travel To Japan We will meet in Tokyo, easily accessible from either Tokyo Airport, Haneda or Narita (HND or NRT)
- Alcohol Participants may drink alcohol at own expense.
- Some Meals Snacks, some lunches and dinners on free days
Locations
Accomodation
For the first days in Tokyo, we will have accomodations that are single occupancy with ensuite bathrooms. Hotels in Japan are nice and clean, however space is not what they're known for. However, this hotel is conveniently located so that if you arrive via Narita or Haneda, it will be easily accessible. There is a hot spring bath inside the hotel as well, to help you relax after your long journey.
In Kyoto, we have individual rooms set up similar to Tokyo, near a station, and also near the Kyoto Meet Up House, where we will be conducting our in-person group sessions.
Kyoto Meeting Space
We also have rented an old Machiya Kyoto traditional house, complete with tatami mat floors as our workspace for exercises and coaching sessions.
Your Facilitators
Benjamin and Beth invite you to join a curated and intimate group of like-minded individuals from around the world. Together, you will embark on a transformative experience where mindfulness, cultural immersion, and the powerful Ikigai framework converge.
Through their combined knowledge, warmth, and guidance, Benjamin and Beth are dedicated to creating an environment that fosters personal growth, connection, and lasting transformation.
Get ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery, ignite your inner purpose, and forge lifelong connections with Benjamin, Beth, and your fellow retreat participants. The path to a life filled with meaning and fulfillment starts here.
Read More About Benjamin & BethMoney
This is a life-time experience of Japan which offers an incredible value for the price. All transportation, rail passes, lodging, entrance fees, cultural experiences, many meals, executive coaching & facilitation, with access to a translator full-time. All this while enjoying an intimate, private journey alongside 6-8 other amazing, like-minded individuals.
If you are accepted to join the trip, there will be a one-time, non-refundable deposit to secure your spot of $1,000. We conduct interviews to ensure group cohesion, like-mindedness so that we can all grow and share authentically with one another. This special curation of participants means that we need a confirmation of your placement ASAP. The balance of the trip will be due no later than 60 days prior to departure.
Each retreat begins a pre-sale period which will be the most economical price. As we get closer to departure, the prices will increase based on fees incurred with changing logistics required and potential overbookings.
Accepted payment methods include cash, check, money order, ACH, PayPal, Apple Pay, Venmo, or Wise Transfer. An address can be provided for check/money order upon request.
How much money should I bring?
Check with your bank to make sure your ATM can work overseas, preferably without large withdrawal fees. Cash is still widely used in Japan, but there is no need to change money at the airport. We will make bank pitstops if participants need. On days where food is not arranged (count on seven dinners and seven lunches), be prepared to spend around $10-$15 for a good lunch, and $20-$30 for a nice dinner. Now is one of the best times to enjoy Japan while its currency is currently weak against many others. Outside of your airport transfer, meals for 7 days, the only money you'll need is for any souvenirs, alcohol, and entrance to a cat or owl cafe if you so desire :)
Weather
February weather in Tokyo is perfect for sightseers. February has an average temperature of about 6ºC (43°F), low levels of precipitation, and a balance of sunny and cloudy days. While it's still a bit cold, snow falls only rarely. The average temperature in Kyoto in February for a typical day ranges from a high of 45°F (7°C) to a low of 31°F (-0°C). Some would describe it as cold with a gentle breeze. While in Kyoto, we will hope for snow, to experience the beauty of Kyoto covered in a white dust--its temples and nature take on a new, beautiful look. Warm coats, sweaters, comfortable walking shoes or boots are recommended.
Disclaimer
Please be aware that travel entails unpredictability, and unforeseen circumstances may arise during the trip. While we will make every effort to assist you in case of any issues or illness, we must clarify that I am not legally responsible for your well-being throughout the duration of the retreat. By joining this trip, you acknowledge this fact.
Medical expenses for routine visits and prescriptions in Japan are generally affordable, but it's advisable to consider purchasing travel medical insurance to safeguard against any potential major medical emergencies.
Regarding the itinerary, while we have a well-planned schedule and have already booked hotels, it's essential to understand that external factors like weather, natural disasters, or unexpected opportunities may influence the plans. In such cases, we may need to make adjustments to ensure the best experience for the group.
Reviews
I've had the pleasure of taking many people throughout Japan over the years. The following are reviews from people who have gone on tour with me in Japan!
Benjamin's tour took us on an enchanting journey through Asakusa's historic streets, where we felt the pulse of old Tokyo. But what truly blew us away was the visit to TeamLab Planets. It was a surreal blend of art and technology, a testament to Benjamin's knack for curating unique experiences. This tour was a captivating fusion of tradition and innovation.
My trip to Japan under Benjamin's guidance is one of the best memories I created in my life. Benjamin is a remarkable person, deeply knowledgeable, kind, caring, and accommodating; he fixed any issues before they even arose.
I always had a deep fascination with Japanese culture, but going there without speaking the language made me uncomfortable. With Benjamin, everything was a breeze. From Tokyo to Kyoto and Hiroshima, he showed me the best parks, shrines, museums, and other points of interest. I enjoyed the tea ceremony, unique cuisine Japan had to offer, meaningful conversations, and connecting with nature.
My two-week trip changed me in so many ways by opening my mind, reenergizing, and inspiring me that I named my daughter after one of the Japanese spirits. Treat yourself to the Retreat with Benjamin and create your own unforgettable memories!
Benjamin's talent for discovering hidden gems in Japan is unparalleled. From serene forest paths to charming local eateries, he led us to places I could have never found on my own. It's these unique experiences that made our trip truly exceptional. Can't wait for the next adventure!
Benjamin's meticulous trip planning left me in awe. Every detail, from accommodations to daily itineraries, was thoughtfully curated. His expertise ensured we had a smooth and unforgettable adventure. I can't wait to join another one of his retreats!
Benjamin's personalized itinerary was an eye-opener to the heart of Japan. He meticulously planned every detail, ensuring we experienced the country's rich culture and breathtaking landscapes like never before. This trip was a masterclass in immersion, all thanks to Benjamin's expertise and dedication. We became great friends afterwards and have ended up traveling together again!