Day 1 – Okinawa Adventure: A Week of Wellness, Culture, and Island Life

Tea Ceremony, Qi Gong & Forest Trekking

We recently organized a group tour for an amazing group of 15 ladies from Australia for a 5 day tour of Okinawa focussed on longevity, culture and wellbeing. Months in the planning, it turned out to be an amazing experience for the group on their first time in Okinawa.

The core of our itinerary focused on balancing wellness with deep cultural experiences. Nearly every morning started with Qi Gong by the pool or garden with our bi-lingual instructor, offering a peaceful start to the day, followed by a Mindfulness Workshop on the first full day of activities.

The highlight of the first day was a private tea ceremony including kimonos & photography. In one of the only venues that can accommodate a group this size they enjoyed an English speaking instructor taking them through a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.

The Japanese tea ceremony, or Chado (“The Way of Tea”), is a choreographed ritual centered on the preparation and service of matcha in the presence of guests. Far more than just a snack break, it is a meditative practice rooted in Zen Buddhism that emphasizes four core principles: harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility.

Every movement, from the way the bamboo whisk is held to the placement of the bowl, is intentional, designed to foster a sense of mindfulness and a shared appreciation for the fleeting beauty of the present moment.

As the guests were staying at the Kariyushi Ocean Spa Hotel, we took to the outdoors in the afternoon with Kariyushi Forest Trekking, connecting with the island’s natural beauty.

Day 1 Rundown:
Qi Gong
Mindfulness Workshop
Traditional tea ceremony
Forest trekking