Taking a walk in nature is one of the healthiest ways to deal with these stressful and isolating times. Until further notice, however, Forest Bathing Hawaiʻi is suspending all guided walks and instead encourages you to practice "physical distancing" outdoors! Until we can gather again, if you are feeling well, please continue to spend time in the fresh air with those in your household and at a safe distance from others.

On this unique forest bathing experience, you'll be guided on a gentle, mindful stroll through gardens designed and created by the late Hawai‘i artist Hiroshi Tagami. The grounds of the Kahalu‘u Gallery and Gardens are an ideal setting to leave behind the stresses of the world and get in touch with the healing powers of the natural world. As we move through the garden and follow the paved switchback which descends into the forested gully at the back of the property, your certified forest therapy guide will offer a series of “invitations” to help you re-connect with nature and with yourself through your senses. Recommended by Lonely Planet as one of the ways to respectfully visit our islands.

"Forest Bathing" (translated from "shinrin-yoku," an established public health practice in Japan) is a growing global wellness movement backed by 30 years of scientific research on the physical and psychological benefits of immersing yourself in nature. See more, including recent national media coverage on forest bathing at www.forestbathinghi.com. Forest Bathing Hawai'i was recently recommended by The NY Times, and listed as one of the "incredible once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences" by Forbes.

Please bring water, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, a casual backpack to hold your stuff (including a rain jacket), and walking sticks if you need them. For your safety and comfort, it's recommended that you wear close-toed shoes w/ good traction; light-weight long-sleeved shirt & long pants.

Includes tea and snack, mats to sit on, and free entrance into the art galleries after the walk. You'll find in those galleries paintings and giclees by Hiroshi Tagami and Michael Powell, ceramics, sculpture, photography, and jewelry.

Gratuities not included.

All Hawai'i residents qualify for a discount. Please request promo code by email.

FAQs

** For a 3-hour forest bathing experience in Honolulu, check out Forest Bathing in a Rain Forest. **

** Give the gift of a forest bathing walk with a gift card. **

Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter the event?

Minimum age: 16 years old.

What are my transportation/parking options for getting to and from the event?

The Kahalu‘u Gallery and Gardens is located in a residential neighborhood on the windward side of O‘ahu, an approximately 40-minute drive from Waikīkī. Take the more scenic H-3 freeway, if time allows, to experience the stunning Ko'olau mountains up close.

If coming from Kaneohe, take the left immediately after Sunshine Art Gallery on Kamehameha Hwy. Continue to Lamaula Road, and look for a large property on the left side of the street surrounded by a white fence. The Gallery is the NEXT property up the street.

You'll find plenty of free parking along Lamaula Road (park on the grassy shoulder).

How can I contact the organizer with any questions?

Feel free to email forestbathinghi@gmail.com.