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A 2-night, 3-day experience to hone skills in traditional Okinawan wooden boat rowing “Sabani” and Ryukyu ancient martial arts stick fighting
From March 1st to June 30th, 2024, the pinnacle of Okinawan luxury, “Hoshinoya Okinawa,” known for having Japan’s finest pool, is hosting a “Beach Training Retreat” to harmonize body and mind in the tranquil spring of Okinawa.
This 2-night, 3-day program allows you to engage in physical activities like rowing the traditional wooden boat “Sabani,” used in the ancient festival “Haari” held on the 4th day of the 5th month according to the lunar calendar, and practicing Ryukyu ancient martial arts stick fighting (Bojutsu).
After an invigorating workout, soothe your weary muscles with acupuncture and acupressure treatments. Relish meals prepared with seasonal spring bonito and “Tebichi” (a local Okinawan dish of tender stewed pork feet), celebrated delicacies in Okinawa.
Why not find your rhythm of tension and relaxation, repeating like the waves in Okinawa’s spring, where pollen and temperature fluctuations are minimal, to achieve a perfect balance in body and mind?
Embracing ‘Urizun,’ the Comfortable Season
Springtime can often bring fatigue from new beginnings, as well as physical discomfort from temperature fluctuations and pollen. Known as ‘Urizun,’ this pleasant period in Okinawan spring is characterized by soft sunlight and refreshing breezes, with minimal influence from cedar and cypress pollen, making it an ideal time to enjoy the outdoors.
Spanning in front of Hoshinoya Okinawa lies a rare natural coastline in the region, where the traditional “Haari” festival takes place on the 4th day of the 5th lunar month, featuring the rowing of Okinawa’s traditional wooden boat “Sabani.”
This program seems to be crafted with the intent of realigning one’s physical and mental balance through immersive experiences like Sabani rowing, practicing Ryukyu ancient martial arts stick fighting, and nourishing the body with acupuncture, acupressure treatments, and carefully prepared meals. For those looking to find their natural rhythm of tension and relaxation, mirroring the ebb and flow of the sea, this is an experience to consider.
Refresh and Energize in the Gentle Spring of Okinawa
On the first day, guests ease the stiffness from their journey by rowing the wooden boat ‘Sabani,’ which glides gracefully over the sea. The following day ups the ante with more challenging maneuvers using the ‘Sabani,’ engaging the whole body and providing an excellent core workout.
The retreat culminates on the final day with Bojutsu practice on the beach, employing the Sabani’s oars. This ancient martial art, which dates back to the Ryukyu Kingdom era, adapts traditional Karate techniques for combat, offering participants a chance to refresh and activate muscles usually left dormant.
Soothe the Good Tired: Unwind in Utmost Relaxation
After a fulfilling session of physical activity, certified therapists tailor acupuncture and acupressure treatments to your body’s needs, easing tight muscles into a state of blissful refreshment. In the evening, the beach becomes a sanctuary for deep breathing exercises, a practice to dispel the day’s stress and travel fatigue.
The rhythmic sound of the waves guides a meditative breathing, leading to profound relaxation. Before sleep, indulge in a cup of Kumejima Kumesen tea, also known as ‘Nirai Kanai’ or ‘sleeping grass’ in Okinawa, prepared in your room, inviting a tranquil transition to sleep.
Nourishment for Recovery: The Healing Cuisine
The dining experience during your stay includes smoothies made with fruits and island tofu, mozuku soba, hot pots featuring seasonal spring bonito, and the much-loved local delicacy ‘Tebichi.’ Rooted in Okinawa’s history is the concept of ‘Yakuzen,’ derived from trade with China during the Ryukyu Kingdom era, which embodies the belief that medicine and food share the same source—both essential for nurturing life and maintaining health.
Especially after physical activity, a meal that supports recovery is indispensable. Okinawa’s warm climate yields vibrant vegetables rich in quality vitamins, while Okinawan cuisine’s staple, pork, is packed with proteins and a wealth of B vitamins. A balanced meal here isn’t just food; it’s medicine—’Kusuimun’—healing the tired and fortifying for the days ahead.
Sample Itinerary: A Guided Retreat Experience
Day 1
- 15:00 Check-in
- 16:00 Set sail on the ‘Nanpu Sabani’ into the ocean
- 18:00 Dinner at the dining area *Additional charges apply
- 21:00 Nighttime attuning deep breathing on the beach
- 22:30 A moment of tranquility before bed with Kumejima Kumesen tea
Day 2
- 07:00 Morning conditioning deep breathing *Optional
- 07:30 Wake-up smoothie and breakfast in your room
- 09:00 Morning Sabani training session
- 12:00 Special lunch
- 14:30 Acupuncture and acupressure session
- 17:30 Special dinner
- 21:00 Nighttime attuning deep breathing *Optional
- 23:00 A moment of tranquility before bed with Kumejima Kumesen tea
Day 3
- 07:00 Morning Bojutsu on the beach
- 08:00 Breakfast at the dining area *Additional charges apply
- 12:00 Check-out
“Beachside Training Retreat” Overview
- Duration: March 1 to June 30, 2024
- Price: 130,000 yen per person (including tax and service charges, accommodation fees not included) Includes: Two Sabani boat experiences, one session of ancient martial arts training, one night of rhythmic deep breathing exercises on the beach, one acupuncture and shiatsu session, one dinner, one breakfast, one lunch, and Kuwansou tea.
- Capacity: Groups of 1 to 2 people
- Reservation: Bookings accepted via the official website until two weeks prior
- Eligibility: Guests staying at the accommodation
- Note: The activities may be subject to change depending on the guests’ health and weather conditions. Additionally, meal contents and ingredients may vary based on availability and scheduling.
For the latest information, please check our official page.
Hoshinoya Okinawa
Live in harmony with the sea in a “Gusuku Residence,” an elevation of Ryukyu culture. Inspired by Okinawa’s historical sites, the “Gusuku Wall” surrounds a property embraced by natural coastline, vibrant fields, and gardens. The resort, featuring guest rooms with ocean views and a dojo for experiencing Okinawan culture, lines a luxurious Okinawan coastline.
- Location: 474 Yomitan, Nakagami District, Okinawa Prefecture 904-0327
- Phone: 050-3134-8091 (Hoshinoya Reservations)
- Number of Rooms: 100 rooms – Check-in: 15:00 / Check-out: 12:00
- Price: From 136,000 yen per night (per room, including tax and service charges, meals not included)
- Access: About 1 hour by car from Naha Airport (airport limousine bus available for a fee)
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