Shinrin-Yoku: Embrace the Tranquility of Forest Bathing in Japan Discover Spring's Natural Beauty Through Forest Therapy

Season
Spring
Trip type
Solo, Couple
What to wear
Long Sleeves, Hat
Featured Image: Person standing outdoors with arms outstretched, surrounded by greenery.

What is Shinrin-Yoku?

Leave distractions behind with the timeless Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku (forest bathing). This rejuvenating tradition involves immersing yourself in nature’s fresh air to achieve spiritual peace. Journey through pristine woodlands where a gentle breeze, fragrant trees, and harmonious birdsong awaken each of your senses.
Explore beginner-friendly hiking trails as you take in Hokkaido's breathtaking landscapes, glide by canoe in Towada-Hachimantai National Park (straddling Aomori, Iwate, and Akita) or soak in the therapeutic hot springs of Kagoshima's majestic Kirishima Mountains.
Each experience offers a unique way to enjoy a forest bath. So why not restore your spirit in the embrace of Japan’s natural beauty?

Featured Image: Group of people walking on a forest trail surrounded by tall trees.
© Nopporo Forest Park Visitors' Center

Trails and Wildlife in Nopporo Forest Park

Easily accessible from the airport by train or car, the trails of Nopporo Forest Park are ideal for a spring forest bath. Listen for the birdsong and keep an eye out for spring flowers as Shinrin-Yoku washes away the fatigue of everyday life.

  • Approximately 1 hour by car from Sapporo (New Chitose) Airport.
Featured Image: Panoramic view of a coastal city with mountains and sea in the background.

Leisurely Hiking with Hakodate Views

Enjoy lush hiking trails just steps from the city. This casual one-hour trek on Mount Hakodate soothes your soul with spring wildflowers and birdsong, culminating in panoramic views of Hakodate city. Treat yourself to soft serve ice cream as a reward at the summit.

  • Approximately 30 minutes by car from Hakodate Airport.
Featured Image: Three monkeys relaxing at the edge of a hot spring in a natural setting.

Spring Colors at Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden

After a refreshing hike, unwind among vibrant spring blooms and seasonal wildlife in Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden. Through early May you can watch snow monkeys enjoy a soak in Saruyama Onsen's hot springs. This unique spectacle is not to be missed.

  • Approximately 10 minutes by car from Hakodate Airport.

The area introduced this time

Spot name
Nopporo Forest Park Visitors' Center
Address
685-1, Nishinopporo, Ebetsu-shi, Hokkaido

Enjoy Sapporo (New Chitose) to the fullest!

Discover the charms of Hokkaido

Map of Japan. Hokkaido located north of Tokyo (Haneda)
Hokkaido

Discover Hokkaido's natural and historic treasures. Marvel at Goryokaku, Hakodate's star-shaped fortress that transforms into a sea of pink when a thousand cherry trees bloom each spring. Journey to tranquil Lake Shikotsu and canoe, kayak, or cruise across the crystal-clear caldera waters of Japan's second-deepest lake. Complete your adventure in Sapporo's Odori Park, a 1.5-kilometer green oasis through the city center, where cherry blossom festivals are held each spring, offering outdoor cafes and nighttime illuminations.

ANA brings Japan close to you

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  • Haneda to Sapporo (New Chitose)
    Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes

    Efficient use of your travel time

  • Explore with ANA and fly to over 50 airports in Japan

    Convenient access to various parts of Japan

Fly with ease to Hokkaido

  • Tokyo
    (Haneda)
    To Sapporo
    (New Chitose)
  • Tokyo
    (Haneda)
    To Hakodate
  • Osaka
    (Itami)
    To Hakodate

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Featured Image: Backpacker looking up at tall forest trees under a dense green canopy.

Forest Bathing in the Shirakami Sanchi

The pristine air found in the untouched nature of Shirakami Sanchi makes it an ideal place for forest bathing. Preserved in its natural state, this World Heritage area spanning Akita and Aomori offers scenic forest bathing among spring flowers.

  • Trail opening dates vary throughout Shirakami Sanchi. Please check the official website for details.
Featured Image: Waterfall cascading into a pool, surrounded by lush green vegetation.

Natural Serenity at Garo Falls

Discover Garo Falls nestled deep in the forest at the foot of Shirakami-Sanchi. Relax beneath filtered sunlight, breathe crystal-clear air, and let the serene hum of the waterfall wash over you as you experience true forest bathing in this tranquil woodland sanctuary.

Featured Image: People enjoying paddleboarding on a calm lake surrounded by nature.

Outdoor Adventures in Towada-Hachimantai National Park

Straddling Aomori, Iwate, and Akita, Towada-Hachimantai National Park is famed for its spring beauty. Paddle across bright blue Lake Towada, behold the magnificent Hachimantai Snow Corridor from mid-April to early May.

The area introduced this time

Enjoy Odate Noshiro to the fullest!

Discover the charms of Akita

Map of Japan. Akita located north of Tokyo (Haneda)
Akita

Discover Akita's hidden treasures where history, nature, and relaxation come together. Spring is ideal for exploring Kakunodate's immaculately preserved samurai district, when cascading cherry blossoms frame the street of this 400-year-old historic town. Nearby Dakigaeri Gorge boasts mystical turquoise streams winding through dramatic cliffs. View this natural masterpiece from Kami-no-iwahashi, Akita’s oldest suspension bridge. Wind down in Nyuto Onsen, a secluded mountain hot spring village, where 7 traditional inns offer unique mineral-rich waters, perfect for your forest bathing journey.

Attractions in Akita

ANA brings Japan close to you

  • Fly on weekdays
    for greater savings!

    Great value with
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    Book early for the best deals!

    Great value with
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  • Haneda to Odate Noshiro
    Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes

    Efficient use of your travel time

  • Explore with ANA and fly to over 50 airports in Japan

    Convenient access to various parts of Japan

Fly with ease to Akita

  • Tokyo
    (Haneda)
    To Odate Noshiro
  • Tokyo
    (Haneda)
    To Akita
  • Osaka
    (Itami)
    To Akita

How to get Special Discounted Fares

ANA Discover JAPAN Fare is a special discounted fare that is available for tourists visiting from outside of Japan.
If available, discounted fares will be displayed on screen that is entered from the “Search” buttons.

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How to get Special Discounted Fares

If available, discounted fares will be displayed on screen that is entered from the “Search” buttons.

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Featured Image: Scenic mountain view from a wooden observation deck under a partly cloudy sky.

Forest Bathing in Kagoshima Prefectural Citizens' Forest

Kagoshima Prefectural Forest offers a selection of forest bathing courses. The expansive park boasts observation decks with views of Sakurajima, family-oriented athletic facilities, and camping, as well as educational exhibits on medicinal herbs and trees.

  • Approximately 30 minutes by car from Kagoshima Airport.
Featured Image: Person with hat and backpack enjoying a sunny walk in a green forest.

Certified Forest Therapy in Kirishima City

Recognized as Kagoshima's first certified forest therapy base, Kirishima City’s relaxing effects heal with pristine air, natural scents, and scenic beauty. Choose from 4 therapy roads with fragrant red pines, wild cherry blossoms, waterfalls, and more.

  • Approximately 40 minutes by car or bus from Kagoshima Airport.
Featured Image: Outdoor hot spring surrounded by lush green vegetation in a peaceful setting.

Scenic Onsen at Kirishima Hot Spring Village

Not far from Therapy Road, Kirishima Hot Spring Village features 9 hot springs amid scenic waterfalls and natural rock formations. Combine forest bathing with healing thermal waters to relax your mind and body for the ultimate escape in the Kirishima Mountains.

  • Approximately 40 minutes by car or bus from Kagoshima Airport.

The area introduced this time

Enjoy Kagoshima to the fullest!

Discover the charms of Kagoshima

Map of Japan. Kagoshima located southwest of Tokyo (Haneda)
Kagoshima

Experience Kagoshima's dynamic contrasts, where ancient spirituality meets urban energy and natural power. Start in Tenmonkan, filled with restaurants, bars, and boutiques under a covered arcade. Just over an hour away, the sacred Kirishima-jingu Shrine's bright vermillion facade boldly contrasts the lush foliage of Mount Kirishima. Then venture to Sakurajima, one of Japan's most active volcanoes. From the safety of the observation deck, behold dramatic ash plumes and spectacular lava fields, then soak in volcanic hot springs with unparalleled views of this iconic Kagoshima attraction.

ANA brings Japan close to you

  • Fly on weekdays
    for greater savings!

    Great value with
    ANA Discover JAPAN Fare

    Book early for the best deals!

    Great value with
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  • Haneda to Kagoshima
    Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes

    Efficient use of your travel time

  • Explore with ANA and fly to over 50 airports in Japan

    Convenient access to various parts of Japan

Fly with ease to Kagoshima

  • Tokyo
    (Haneda)
    To Kagoshima
  • Osaka
    (Itami)
    To Kagoshima

How to get Special Discounted Fares

ANA Discover JAPAN Fare is a special discounted fare that is available for tourists visiting from outside of Japan.
If available, discounted fares will be displayed on screen that is entered from the “Search” buttons.

Learn More (In Chinese) Learn More (In Korean) Learn More (In German) Learn More (In German) Learn More (In French) Learn More

How to get Special Discounted Fares

If available, discounted fares will be displayed on screen that is entered from the “Search” buttons.

Learn More

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