MISOMA The Sacred Forest at First Light　

Dr. Qing Li, M.D., Ph.D. Clinical Professor, Nippon Medical School Hospital President, Japanese Society of Forest Medicine President, International Society of Nature and Forest Medicine

Akasawa Natural Recreational Forest has long been cherished for its serene atmosphere, beautiful scenery, gentle climate, clean air, and distinctive fragrance. The concept of "Shinrin-yoku" (forest bathing) was introduced by the Forestry Agency of Japan in 1982, and Akasawa was named the birthplace of forest bathing.

In 2006, I was the first to discover that a three-day, two-night forest bathing trip in Akasawa Natural Recreational Forest increased human natural killer (NK) cell activity, the number of NK cells, and the levels of intracellular anti-cancer proteins—effects that lasted for a full month. I published these findings in an international academic journal. The research made a significant impact both in Japan and abroad, and Akasawa Natural Recreational Forest became known throughout the world. Furthermore, since I introduced "Akasawa—with its refreshing cypress fragrance and free of mosquitoes" in my 2018 English book Shinrin-Yoku, it has been revered as a sacred place of forest bathing and welcomed by many visitors from overseas.

I sincerely hope that you, too, will come and enjoy a truly restful forest bathing experience here.

Zazen at Rinsen-ji Temple

In a place where time stands still.

Rinsen-ji is an ancient temple tied to the legend of Urashima Taro. Here, overlooking Nezame-no-toko, you sit quietly and let your breath settle. This quiet practice marks the beginning of your journey—a ritual of returning to yourself and to the present moment.

Forest Therapy in the Misoma Woods.

The sacred forest, birthplace of forest bathing.

Guided by a forest therapist who knows this sacred woodland intimately, you enter a time that belongs to you alone. More than a walk, it is a return inward—through early-morning forest bathing.

Seasonal Hako-zen.

The blessings of the land, in the flavors of home.

A traditional Japanese meal served in a Hako-zen, featuring seasonal ingredients from Agematsu. More than a meal: a moment to savor the blessings of the land and the warmth of its people, with all five senses.

Forest Aroma Blending

The scent of the forest, in your own bottle.

Sweet, dignified, and quietly powerful—the distinctive scent of Kiso cypress. Create your own forest-inspired aroma blend and seal it in a small bottle. Back home, one breath of its fragrance can bring you back to the sacred forest.