# Hokkaido: Volcanoes, Forests & Onsens

> Explore Japan's wild north on a small-group yoga retreat through East Hokkaido, with volcanoes, forests, onsens, wildlife and guided walks.

- URL: https://reclaimyourself.co.uk/our-holidays/japan-yoga-retreat/
- Published: 2025-10-23
- Updated: 2026-09-05
- Author: Jools Sampson

---

**Wild Hokkaido**

Our journey begins with a night in Tokyo before flying north to Hokkaido, where we spend the following week travelling through the island's wild eastern region. Rather than staying in one location, we'll move between three carefully chosen bases, each offering a completely different perspective on this remarkable landscape, from tranquil wetlands and volcanic lakes to remote wilderness and dramatic coastlines.

**Lakes, Wetlands and Wildlife**

Our first base is a peaceful lakeside hotel with a wonderful natural onsen overlooking the water. Over the next two days, we'll explore Kushiro Shitsugen National Park, Japan's largest wetland, walking with expert local guides through marshes, forests and quiet trails in search of the island's remarkable wildlife. We'll also visit the beautiful volcanic waters of Lake Onneto, where changing light transforms the lake through striking shades of blue and green.

After each day outdoors, we'll return to the comfort of our lakeside hotel to soak in the hot springs and enjoy the slower pace of life that makes this part of Hokkaido so special.

**Volcanoes and Forests**

Our journey then takes us deeper into Hokkaido's volcanic heart, where we'll spend two nights in a welcoming local guesthouse near Akan-Mashu National Park.

One day is dedicated to exploring the region's remarkable geothermal landscapes, walking through forests to steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud pools and the dramatic slopes of Atosa-Nupuri volcano. Another day offers a gentler pace, giving you time to enjoy the surrounding nature, relax in the onsen or simply appreciate the quiet atmosphere of rural Hokkaido before continuing the adventure.

**The Shiretoko Peninsula**

For the final part of our journey, we stay at a beautiful nature resort on the UNESCO-listed Shiretoko Peninsula, one of Japan's last great wildernesses.

Over two days, we'll explore forest trails, visit the famous Shiretoko Five Lakes and walk along dramatic coastal paths overlooking the Sea of Okhotsk. Guided by local experts, we'll discover the peninsula's unique wildlife, landscapes and conservation story while experiencing one of the most remote corners of Japan.

**A Different Side of Japan**

This retreat reveals a side of Japan that relatively few international visitors experience. From volcanic landscapes and ancient forests to peaceful onsens, vast wetlands and dramatic coastlines, Hokkaido offers an ever-changing landscape shaped by nature and deeply rooted traditions.

Through daily yoga with Felicity Wood, guided walks, time spent in traditional onsens and days immersed in Japan's wild northern landscapes, you'll experience a slower, quieter side of the country that few travellers ever discover.

---

Site index for agents: https://reclaimyourself.co.uk/llms.txt