The Way of Shinrin-yoku
Hiroshima
Forest Bathing Experience on Mt. Futaba – Just 10 Minutes from Hiroshima Station
Mt. Futaba is a peaceful green oasis located just a 10-minute walk from Hiroshima Station.
Though nestled within the city, the mountain offers a rare harmony of urban life and untouched nature.
Here, you can enjoy a forest bathing experience that goes beyond a simple walk — one that gently tunes your body and mind.
The journey begins with a visit to A-bombed trees, living symbols of Hiroshima’s history and resilience.
You then pass through sacred Shinto shrines and into the forested trails of the mountain.
This experience emphasizes quiet time to open your five senses and connect deeply with the forest.
A certified forest therapy facilitator will guide the session with care, ensuring participants feel safe and supported as they reconnect with nature.
Whether you’re looking to step away from a busy life, reflect in peace, or explore a side of Hiroshima beyond typical tourist routes,
Mt. Futaba offers a truly unique and meaningful nature experience.n harmony.
This experience is perfect for those who:
- wish to reflect on peace through nature
- are tired of the hustle and bustle of city life
- nterested in ecotourism
- have experienced conventional travel and are seeking a new style
| Location (Prefecture / City) | Hiroshima-ken, Hiroshima-city |
| Forest Name | Futaba Mountain |
| Forest Type | Satoyama |
Guide’s name
Kota Kawaguchi
Born in Kagoshima and raised in the United States, I’m a passionate traveler who has visited all 47 prefectures of Japan and over 70 countries around the world.
Drawn to the serene beauty of the Setouchi region, I’ve been living in Hiroshima for about seven years.
Among all my travels, the most memorable scenes are the slow, flowing moments along the Ganges River in India and in Laos.
Having spent many years enjoying ocean sports like surfing and diving, I began to spend more time in the forest after becoming certified as a Forest Bathing Facilitator in 2021.
In 2023 alone, I visited Yakushima 11 times, deepening my appreciation for the interconnectedness of the mountains, countryside, and sea.
In addition to forest bathing activities, I also conduct workshops where participants become foster caretakers of saplings by planting them in moss balls (kokedama), nurturing them before eventually replanting them in the mountains.
I am committed to creating a future where nature and humanity exist in harmony.
Program Details
| Sample Itinerary | 9:00 – Meet at Hiroshima Station, self-introductions, and program introduction 9:30 – Begin forest bathing while hiking up Mt. Futaba 11:30 – End of program / Dismiss at Hiroshima Station |
| Hours Available | Morning Start Time 9:00 Afternoon Start Time 15:00 (13:00 in winter season) |
| Duration | 2.5 hours |
| Participant Capacity (Minimum / Maximum) | For 1–6 people; group inquiries for 7 or more are welcome. |
| Participation Requirements | Age: 10 and above Physical Requirements : Open to anyone who can manage light hiking Languages: Jaoanese, English |
| Meeting Point | Approximate Location: JR Hiroshima Station |
| Access (by Public Transportation) | Access to the Meeting Point: JR, bullet train, Hiroshima Station |
| Location | A mountain located 10 minutes on foot from Hiroshima Station |
Price
| 1 person | 20,000 JPY |
| 2 person | 40,000 JPY |
| 3 person | 60,000 JPY |
| 4 person | 65,000JPN |
| 5 person | 70,000JPN |
| 6 person | 85,000JPN |
* Tax included, Insurance is not included.