FALL 2025 RETREAT - Tokyo | Nagano | Kyoto - October 20-30th 2025 [10 nights]
Your Transformative 10-Day Journey Through Japan's Martial Arts Culture
[Retreat starts at 10am on 20th and finishes 9am after breakfast on the 30th]
REGISTRATION CLOSES ON AUGUST 28TH 2025 or WHENEVER PLACES SELL OUT
This Fall Musashi Experience offers a unique blend of Jiu-Jitsu training, breathwork instruction, and deep cultural experiences that will refresh your body, calm your mind, and inspire your spirit.
From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene mountains of Nagano, and the historic temples of Kyoto, you'll journey through a land of contrasts.
Train in traditional dojos, find peace in ancient Zen gardens, and soak in the healing waters of natural hot springs. Each location has been carefully chosen to provide a perfect backdrop for your personal growth and cultural exploration.
RETREAT OUTLINE
(Note — this is a basic outline and does not include all the events and activities we’ll be doing. Some activities might be subject to change due to weather or unforeseen circumstances. You will receive a more detailed itinerary, including accommodation and travel info when you book your place.)
Tokyo: Urban Energy Meets Traditional Training (Days 1-2)
Day 1: Begin your journey in the heart of Tokyo with a guided walking tour of some of the city's most unique neighborhoods. We'll spend time in a beautiful park for our first breathwork orientation session, then head out to train jiu-jitsu at the legendary Tri-Force Academy.
Day 2: We start with an early morning breathwork session in a nearby park, followed by a pilgrimage to the Kōdōkan—the home of Judo. We'll have a lesson with a Judo red belt and enjoy lunch at a local ramen shop. Afterward, we'll explore the Judo museum and watch high-level judoka train. In the evening, we'll dine at a sushi restaurant and take a nighttime walk around the breathtaking Imperial Palace.
Nagano: Mountain Temples and Lakeside Reflection (Days 3-8)
Day 3: We leave Tokyo for rural Japan, we’ll stay in one of Japans most exclusive Ryokan (Japanese style hotel) with personal hot spring (onsen) tubs in every room. We'll explore the area and do a breathwork sitting on the grass overlooking a beautiful lake. Refresh in the mineral-rich natural hot springs before a full-course kaiseki dinner and relaxing in the luxury of the Ryokan.
Day 5: Our day begins with a lakeside walk and breathwork session. Then we'll head to Nagano City to train at a grassroots jiu-jitsu dojo. The day ends with dinner and downtime at our hotel.
Day 5: This morning features a mountain hike followed by a breathwork session at a secluded mountain shrine. In the afternoon, we'll receive a teaching and train at a traditional Nagano dojo. We'll bathe in a stunning outdoor onsen before returning to our family-run mountain lodge, for beer, sake and a hearty home cooked meal.
Day 6: We relocate to a rural seaside town overlooking the sea of Japan. We’ll enjoy breathworks surrounded by stunning sea and mountain views, before we partake of some of Japans freshest and finest sushi. We’ll finish the day with a sauna and a dip in the sea.
Day 7: We start early with a breathwork session on the beach, then we’ll walk around the seaside town and experience the feel of life in a rural seaside village. We’ll explore more world class sushi before returning to the lodge for a moonlit breathwork lesson followed by some drinks and unwinding in the lodge.
Day 8: We’ll stay at a secluded Pure Land temple hidden deep in the mountains. A guided evening walk will unveil the quiet magic of its ancient grounds. After an early temple breakfast, we’ll follow forest paths once tended by mountain monks for over a thousand years, practicing breathwork in the stillness and clarity of the mountain air.
Kyoto: Ancient Wisdom in Japan's Cultural Heart (Days 9-10)
Day 8: Time to visit the heart of Old Japan—Kyoto! We'll travel via one of the fastest bullet trains—the Hokuriku Shinkansen. A guided evening walk will unveil the authentic Kyoto away from the overcrowded tourist trails.
Day 9: In the morning we’ll train at one of Kyotos premier ju-jitsu dojos. We’ll spend the afternoon relaxing at our 5-star hotel and have some free time for gift shopping in the Sanjo area (a short walk). Evening takes us for a traditional meal overlooking the river in Kyoto’s bustling night spot, ‘Pontocho’.
Day 10: On our final day, we’ll begin with a trip to one of Kyoto’s lesser known Shinto shrines and have our last breathwork session within its beautiful gardens. In the afternoon we'll refresh in our hotel before our farewell dinner.
Japan in Its Most Vibrant Season
Timed perfectly to coincide with the start of one of Japan's most spectacular seasons, 'Kōyō' 紅葉 ('Autumn Foliage'), our October retreat allows you to witness the country in radiant transformation.
Fall in Japan is a breathtaking time when temperatures are crisp and refreshing, and landscapes begin to blaze with crimson, gold, and amber hues. It's the ideal backdrop for both focused training and contemplative reflection.
An Intimate Journey
We believe that true transformation happens in small, dedicated groups. That's why we've limited this retreat to only 12 participants.
This creates an intimate environment that allows each person to receive personalized attention from our expert guides. This smaller group also leads to great camaraderie and life-long friendships among attendees.
World-Class Jiu-Jitsu & Breathwork
Led by experts Nicholas Gregoriades, a 4th-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and Max Whittle, a neurobiologist and breathwork master, this experience will help you go beyond your previous limitations both on and off the mats.
Regardless of your level of jiu-jitsu or breath work experience, you'll leave with vastly improved ability in each of these practices.
Beyond the Tourist Trail
This isn't your typical Japan tour. As part of our group, you'll gain access to experiences that most tourists never see.
Our deep connections in Japan allow us to take you off the beaten path, whether it's a hidden mountain trail, a family-run artisan workshop, or a secluded onsen known only to locals.
You'll engage with Japan on a level that goes far beyond surface-level tourism, gaining insights into the country's martial arts traditions, spiritual practices, and daily life that few foreigners ever experience.
Ditch the Tech and Renew Your Mind
Break free from your routine and invigorate your mind by immersing yourself in Japan's unique fusion of tradition and innovation, sparking creativity and expanding your worldview with fresh perspectives and inspirations.
Highlights of Your Journey:
Elite Jiu-Jitsu Training: Hone your skills under expert guidance in some of Japan's most respected dojos.
Transformative Breath Work: Learn powerful techniques to enhance your physical performance and mental clarity.
Cultural Immersion: Experience authentic ryokan stays, visit sacred shrines, and wander through historic neighborhoods.
Natural Wonders: Hike to mountain temples, breathe in the fresh air of one of the country’s most scenic lakes, and find stillness in Kyoto's zen gardens.
Amazing Food: Savor a broad range of Japanese cuisine. From Tokyo's world-class sushi, mom-and-pop ramen and traditional 'Kaiseki ryori' - multi-course gourmet experiences.
What's included:
All jiu-jitsu training
Breathwork classes
Cultural excursions and guided tours
Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner each day)
Accommodation
Travel within Japan
Entry to all attractions
Please note: Flights to and from Japan are not included.
You will be emailed a detailed itinerary and pack list after purchase.
You can see what previous attendees have to say on our testimonials page.
Payment plans are available upon request - please contact us.
If you would like to receive a $200 discount on retreat cost, please contact us to pay via bank transfer.
If you have any additional questions please see our FAQ page or feel free to contact us.
Your Transformative 10-Day Journey Through Japan's Martial Arts Culture
[Retreat starts at 10am on 20th and finishes 9am after breakfast on the 30th]
REGISTRATION CLOSES ON AUGUST 28TH 2025 or WHENEVER PLACES SELL OUT
This Fall Musashi Experience offers a unique blend of Jiu-Jitsu training, breathwork instruction, and deep cultural experiences that will refresh your body, calm your mind, and inspire your spirit.
From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene mountains of Nagano, and the historic temples of Kyoto, you'll journey through a land of contrasts.
Train in traditional dojos, find peace in ancient Zen gardens, and soak in the healing waters of natural hot springs. Each location has been carefully chosen to provide a perfect backdrop for your personal growth and cultural exploration.
RETREAT OUTLINE
(Note — this is a basic outline and does not include all the events and activities we’ll be doing. Some activities might be subject to change due to weather or unforeseen circumstances. You will receive a more detailed itinerary, including accommodation and travel info when you book your place.)
Tokyo: Urban Energy Meets Traditional Training (Days 1-2)
Day 1: Begin your journey in the heart of Tokyo with a guided walking tour of some of the city's most unique neighborhoods. We'll spend time in a beautiful park for our first breathwork orientation session, then head out to train jiu-jitsu at the legendary Tri-Force Academy.
Day 2: We start with an early morning breathwork session in a nearby park, followed by a pilgrimage to the Kōdōkan—the home of Judo. We'll have a lesson with a Judo red belt and enjoy lunch at a local ramen shop. Afterward, we'll explore the Judo museum and watch high-level judoka train. In the evening, we'll dine at a sushi restaurant and take a nighttime walk around the breathtaking Imperial Palace.
Nagano: Mountain Temples and Lakeside Reflection (Days 3-8)
Day 3: We leave Tokyo for rural Japan, we’ll stay in one of Japans most exclusive Ryokan (Japanese style hotel) with personal hot spring (onsen) tubs in every room. We'll explore the area and do a breathwork sitting on the grass overlooking a beautiful lake. Refresh in the mineral-rich natural hot springs before a full-course kaiseki dinner and relaxing in the luxury of the Ryokan.
Day 5: Our day begins with a lakeside walk and breathwork session. Then we'll head to Nagano City to train at a grassroots jiu-jitsu dojo. The day ends with dinner and downtime at our hotel.
Day 5: This morning features a mountain hike followed by a breathwork session at a secluded mountain shrine. In the afternoon, we'll receive a teaching and train at a traditional Nagano dojo. We'll bathe in a stunning outdoor onsen before returning to our family-run mountain lodge, for beer, sake and a hearty home cooked meal.
Day 6: We relocate to a rural seaside town overlooking the sea of Japan. We’ll enjoy breathworks surrounded by stunning sea and mountain views, before we partake of some of Japans freshest and finest sushi. We’ll finish the day with a sauna and a dip in the sea.
Day 7: We start early with a breathwork session on the beach, then we’ll walk around the seaside town and experience the feel of life in a rural seaside village. We’ll explore more world class sushi before returning to the lodge for a moonlit breathwork lesson followed by some drinks and unwinding in the lodge.
Day 8: We’ll stay at a secluded Pure Land temple hidden deep in the mountains. A guided evening walk will unveil the quiet magic of its ancient grounds. After an early temple breakfast, we’ll follow forest paths once tended by mountain monks for over a thousand years, practicing breathwork in the stillness and clarity of the mountain air.
Kyoto: Ancient Wisdom in Japan's Cultural Heart (Days 9-10)
Day 8: Time to visit the heart of Old Japan—Kyoto! We'll travel via one of the fastest bullet trains—the Hokuriku Shinkansen. A guided evening walk will unveil the authentic Kyoto away from the overcrowded tourist trails.
Day 9: In the morning we’ll train at one of Kyotos premier ju-jitsu dojos. We’ll spend the afternoon relaxing at our 5-star hotel and have some free time for gift shopping in the Sanjo area (a short walk). Evening takes us for a traditional meal overlooking the river in Kyoto’s bustling night spot, ‘Pontocho’.
Day 10: On our final day, we’ll begin with a trip to one of Kyoto’s lesser known Shinto shrines and have our last breathwork session within its beautiful gardens. In the afternoon we'll refresh in our hotel before our farewell dinner.
Japan in Its Most Vibrant Season
Timed perfectly to coincide with the start of one of Japan's most spectacular seasons, 'Kōyō' 紅葉 ('Autumn Foliage'), our October retreat allows you to witness the country in radiant transformation.
Fall in Japan is a breathtaking time when temperatures are crisp and refreshing, and landscapes begin to blaze with crimson, gold, and amber hues. It's the ideal backdrop for both focused training and contemplative reflection.
An Intimate Journey
We believe that true transformation happens in small, dedicated groups. That's why we've limited this retreat to only 12 participants.
This creates an intimate environment that allows each person to receive personalized attention from our expert guides. This smaller group also leads to great camaraderie and life-long friendships among attendees.
World-Class Jiu-Jitsu & Breathwork
Led by experts Nicholas Gregoriades, a 4th-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and Max Whittle, a neurobiologist and breathwork master, this experience will help you go beyond your previous limitations both on and off the mats.
Regardless of your level of jiu-jitsu or breath work experience, you'll leave with vastly improved ability in each of these practices.
Beyond the Tourist Trail
This isn't your typical Japan tour. As part of our group, you'll gain access to experiences that most tourists never see.
Our deep connections in Japan allow us to take you off the beaten path, whether it's a hidden mountain trail, a family-run artisan workshop, or a secluded onsen known only to locals.
You'll engage with Japan on a level that goes far beyond surface-level tourism, gaining insights into the country's martial arts traditions, spiritual practices, and daily life that few foreigners ever experience.
Ditch the Tech and Renew Your Mind
Break free from your routine and invigorate your mind by immersing yourself in Japan's unique fusion of tradition and innovation, sparking creativity and expanding your worldview with fresh perspectives and inspirations.
Highlights of Your Journey:
Elite Jiu-Jitsu Training: Hone your skills under expert guidance in some of Japan's most respected dojos.
Transformative Breath Work: Learn powerful techniques to enhance your physical performance and mental clarity.
Cultural Immersion: Experience authentic ryokan stays, visit sacred shrines, and wander through historic neighborhoods.
Natural Wonders: Hike to mountain temples, breathe in the fresh air of one of the country’s most scenic lakes, and find stillness in Kyoto's zen gardens.
Amazing Food: Savor a broad range of Japanese cuisine. From Tokyo's world-class sushi, mom-and-pop ramen and traditional 'Kaiseki ryori' - multi-course gourmet experiences.
What's included:
All jiu-jitsu training
Breathwork classes
Cultural excursions and guided tours
Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner each day)
Accommodation
Travel within Japan
Entry to all attractions
Please note: Flights to and from Japan are not included.
You will be emailed a detailed itinerary and pack list after purchase.
You can see what previous attendees have to say on our testimonials page.
Payment plans are available upon request - please contact us.
If you would like to receive a $200 discount on retreat cost, please contact us to pay via bank transfer.
If you have any additional questions please see our FAQ page or feel free to contact us.