From Odawara: Forest Bathing and Hot Springs With Healing Power

Nestled in the lush forests of Odawara, this immersive tour promises to revitalize the senses and soothe the soul. Guided by a certified mountain expert, guests embark on a journey through a serene cedar forest, discovering the restorative powers of nature. The experience culminates in a rejuvenating soak at a traditional Japanese hot spring, where the healing waters work their magic. With a small group size and thoughtful inclusions, this tour offers a chance to truly disconnect and reconnect with the natural world. The opportunity to unwind and recharge awaits, leaving travelers…

Key Points

• A 6-hour guided tour from Odawara Station that immerses participants in the restorative power of a 500-year-old cedar forest and a traditional Japanese hot spring.
• Small group size (max 6 participants) provides a personalized and intimate experience with a nationally certified mountain guide.
• Includes a forest walk, visit to a historic temple, and relaxation in a therapeutic hot spring with optional massage services.
• Convenient meeting point at Odawara Station and seamless transportation between sites, making it an accessible and hassle-free experience for train travelers.
• The tour offers a value-packed package with inclusions like guide, snacks, and transportation, starting from €92.62 per person.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Duration and Group Size

The tour has a duration of 6 hours and is limited to a group size of 6 participants. This ensures an intimate and personalized experience for each guest.

The small group size allows the guide to provide more attention and interaction with the participants throughout the day. Plus, the compact group makes it easier to navigate the forest trails and explore the temple sites without feeling crowded or rushed.

Meeting and Ending Points

The tour begins at Becks Coffee, located on the 3rd floor of Odawara Station, where you will meet their nationally certified mountain guide. This convenient meeting point provides easy access for those arriving by train.

After the forest walk, temple visit, and hot spring experience, the tour concludes back at Odawara Station, allowing participants to seamlessly continue their journey. The ending point at the station ensures a smooth transition for travelers, whether they plan to explore further or head home.

With the meeting and ending points situated at this well-connected transportation hub, the tour offers a hassle-free experience from start to finish.

Inclusions and Activities

Among the tour’s inclusions is a nationally certified mountain guide with wilderness advanced first aid training, who’ll lead participants throughout the experience. The tour also provides snacks and drinks while in the mountain, as well as transportation between the various sites by train and bus.

Guests will enjoy a forest walk among 500-year-old cedar trees, providing a serene and rejuvenating experience. They’ll also visit a temple with 600 years of history, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.

To complete the day, participants can relax in the healing power of an onsen, or traditional Japanese hot spring.

The activities on this tour promise to be truly immersive.

Costs and Pricing

Pricing for the Forest Bathing and Hot Springs tour starts from €92.62 per person, with additional costs for lunch (around €20) and the onsen (hot spring) fee (around €20).

An optional massage is also available.

The total costs you can expect for this immersive experience include:

1. Tour price: From €92.62 per person
2. Lunch: Around €20
3. Onsen fee: Around €20
4. Optional massage

While the tour price may seem a bit steep, the inclusions such as a nationally certified mountain guide, snacks, and transportation make it a well-rounded and value-packed offering.

Visitors can look forward to a rejuvenating day in nature and the healing power of the hot springs.

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Cancellation and Payment Policies

When it comes to the cancellation and payment policies for the Forest Bathing and Hot Springs tour, visitors can take advantage of free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

Plus, the tour offers a ‘reserve now, pay later’ option, allowing for more flexibility in planning and booking. This ensures that guests can secure their spots without needing to pay immediately, making it easier to coordinate schedules and commitments.

The tour also has a strict policy regarding visible tattoos, which aren’t permitted.

Onsen (Hot Spring) Experience

One of the highlights of the Forest Bathing and Hot Springs tour is the opportunity to relax in the rejuvenating onsen (hot spring) after the forest walk.

The onsen is known for its healing power, as the mineral-rich waters are believed to have therapeutic benefits. Participants can enjoy the soothing warmth and experience the natural beauty of the surroundings.

The onsen experience includes:

1. Soaking in the hot spring, allowing the body to unwind and detoxify.
2. Appreciating the tranquil atmosphere and scenic views of the mountains.
3. Indulging in the post-soak ritual of cooling off and refreshing the skin.
4. Optional massage services to further enhance the relaxation and rejuvenation.

The onsen visit is a perfect way to cap off the Forest Bathing and Hot Springs adventure.

Certified Mountain Guide and Safety

A Nationally Certified Mountain Guide with wilderness advanced first aid training leads the Forest Bathing and Hot Springs tour to ensure participants’ safety and enrich their experience throughout the excursion.

This highly trained professional is knowledgeable about the local terrain, weather conditions, and emergency procedures.

They’ll navigate the group through the ancient cedar forest, sharing insights about the natural environment and guiding visitors to the historic temple.

Should any unexpected situations arise, the guide is equipped with the necessary skills and equipment to provide immediate care and assistance.

Participants can feel confident in the guide’s expertise, allowing them to fully enjoy the restorative power of the forest and hot springs.

Exploring 500-year-old Cedar Forest

As the group sets out on the forest walk, they’re immediately enveloped by the towering presence of the 500-year-old cedar trees that dominate the landscape. These ancient giants, with their thick, gnarled trunks and lush, verdant canopies, have stood witness to centuries of change, creating a serene and mystical atmosphere that captivates the senses.

The guide points out several notable features of the forest, including:

1. The unique microclimate created by the cedar trees, which helps regulate temperature and humidity.
2. The vibrant undergrowth teeming with diverse plant and animal life.

The cultural significance of these ancient trees, which have been revered by local communities for generations, is also discussed.

Plus, the guide explains the therapeutic benefits of ‘forest bathing,’ the practice of immersing oneself in the natural environment to reduce stress and improve well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Dog on the Tour?

Unfortunately, this tour does not allow participants to bring pets. The group size is limited to 6 people, and the tour includes activities where dogs would not be permitted, such as visiting the temple and relaxing in the onsen.

Is the Tour Accessible for Wheelchair Users?

The tour is not fully accessible for wheelchair users. Some activities, such as the forest walk, may have limited accessibility. However, the hot spring and transportation between sites are generally wheelchair-friendly. It’s best to check with the tour operator for specific accessibility details.

Can I Take Photos During the Temple Visit?

Yes, participants can take photos during the temple visit. The tour guide encourages capturing the beauty and history of the 600-year-old temple, as long as it doesn’t disrupt the tour or other visitors.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

Yes, the tour offers discounted prices for children and seniors. Children under 12 receive a 50% discount, while seniors over 65 get a 20% discount off the standard tour price.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Participants can extend the tour duration, but this is subject to availability and an additional fee. The base tour lasts 6 hours, and extensions can be arranged directly with the tour provider.

Recap

This intimate forest bathing and hot springs tour from Odawara offers an immersive experience to reconnect with nature.

Guests can enjoy a guided walk among 500-year-old cedars, visit a historic temple, and soak in a traditional Japanese onsen, all while indulging in snacks, drinks, and transportation.

With a small group size and a certified mountain guide, this tour provides a value-packed opportunity to fully take in the restorative power of the Japanese countryside.

You can check if your dates are available here: