Forest Bathing

Nature isn’t only the best muse; it’s also proven to be the best therapy. Hence the popularity of shinrin-yoku—a Japanese practice that literally translates to “forest bathing.” Experience it in style at Satoyama Jujo in Niigata, a 12-room hotel ensconced in the forest, whose design is a tribute to traditional building methods and the beauty of wood, with interiors crafted from Zelkova, pine and cedar wood. For a deeper encounter with nature, Walk Japan’s brand-new itinerary, Shio-no-Michi: The Salt Road, takes travellers from the alpine scenery of northern Nagano to the wild Sea of Japan coast in Niigata. Launching in October, this historic trail was established in the 16th century and was formerly used to transport supplies. Apart from traversing wide valleys and mountain paths, travellers will also cross sleepy villages to spend the night at traditional ryokans with onsen. satoyama-jujo.com; walkjapan.com

Clockwise, from top left: See Japan’s rustic side with Walk Japan; The minimalist Satoyama Jujo in Niigata; The hotel’s main area is a 150-yearold house; Walk Japan’s guided tours are limited to small groups