Shinrinyoku (Forest Bathing) in a Nagano Forest

Take time to unwind with forest bathing in Agematsu

No swimsuit needed for this kind of bathing; the Japanese practice of shinrinyoku or “forest bathing" invites the weary traveler to purify their body and soul by taking in the healing air, sights, and sounds of living, breathing woods. 

The Akasawa Natural Recreational Forest in southern Nagano includes 300-year-old hinoki cypress trees and is known as one of the most beautiful forests in Japan. The forest has been protected here since the early 1600s.

The area is easily and enjoyably accessible by seven scenic trails. Here, you can enjoy shinrinyoku and a forest train, experiences available from late April through November. A shinrinyoku guide and English-speaking interpreter are available by reservation. 
Travelers are encouraged to spend the night in a minkan rural home dating back to the late 1800s and partake in local fare like soba noodles, a Nagano favorite. 
Access: From Nagoya Station, take the Shinano Limited Express to Agematsu Station (about one hour 20 minutes).

Akasawa Natural Recreation Forest