Are flights included?
International and domestic flights are not included in the retreat price.
You will need to arrange your international flights to Tokyo, along with your domestic flight from Tokyo to Kushiro and your return flight from Memanbetsu to Tokyo. We provide recommended flight options on the travel page and are happy to advise before you book.
What’s the group size and what kind of people are going?
This retreat is limited to 12 guests, creating a small and friendly group experience.
Our retreats attract a mix of solo travellers, friends and couples, typically aged between 40 and 60, although we also welcome guests in their 30s and 70s. They’re solo-friendly by design and attract people who enjoy nature, wellbeing, exploring lesser-known places and travelling in a relaxed, supportive group.
Do I need a visa?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Please check the latest entry requirements before travelling.
UK travellers can find the latest information here:
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/japan/entry-requirements
Do I need any vaccinations?
We recommend checking the latest health and vaccination advice well before you travel.
UK travellers can find the latest recommendations here:
https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/country/114/japan
Can I book on my own?
Absolutely. Many of our guests travel solo, and Hokkaido is a wonderful destination to experience as part of a small group. Travelling together makes it easy to explore remote areas that are difficult to access independently, while sharing the experience with like-minded people.
Is this a hiking retreat?
No. Most days include a guided walk lasting around two to three hours at a relaxed pace. The emphasis is on exploring Hokkaido’s extraordinary landscapes rather than covering long distances or reaching summits. You’ll walk through forests, wetlands, volcanic landscapes and along coastal trails, with plenty of opportunities to stop and learn from our local guides.
Why do we stay in different hotels?
This retreat has been designed as a journey through East Hokkaido. Rather than staying in one place, we’ll move between three carefully chosen bases, each offering a different perspective on the region. From peaceful lakes and traditional onsen towns to volcanic landscapes and the remote Shiretoko Peninsula, each stay is an important part of the overall experience.
Is it safe to explore Hokkaido’s wilderness?
Yes. Throughout the retreat you’ll be accompanied by experienced local guides who know these landscapes extremely well. During some walks, guides carry bear spray and follow established safety procedures, which are standard practice in Hokkaido’s national parks. You’ll also notice bear warning signs in some areas. Sightings are extremely rare, but these precautions allow us to explore safely and responsibly.
Can you cater for my dietary requirements?
Japanese cuisine is a wonderful part of this retreat, but it can be challenging to cater for some dietary requirements, particularly in the more remote parts of Hokkaido.
Vegetarian diets can usually be accommodated with advance notice. Vegan diets are more difficult, and while our local partners will do their best, options may be limited at times.
Unfortunately, we do not recommend this retreat for guests with coeliac disease or those who require a strict gluten-free diet, as avoiding cross-contamination in rural Japan is extremely difficult and we cannot guarantee suitable meals.
If you have any questions about your dietary requirements, please contact us before booking and we’ll be happy to advise.
Who is hosting this trip?
Your yoga teacher is Felicity Wood, whose warm and inclusive teaching style provides the perfect complement to days spent exploring Hokkaido’s wild landscapes.
Your retreat will be hosted by a Reclaim Yourself retreat leader, who looks after the group throughout the journey. We’ll also be accompanied by an experienced local guide throughout our time in Hokkaido.
This retreat has been carefully designed with our long-term partners in Japan, whose deep local knowledge and trusted relationships allow us to explore East Hokkaido in a thoughtful, well-supported way.