OUR RETREATS
Learn with masters, refresh, and revitalize in Kumano's sacred spaces
Taiko Retreat Series
Created by renowned Taiko artist and teacher Carrie Alita Carter and produced by Kumano Adventures. Each retreat pairs multiple days of taiko workshop instruction with guided time on the Kumano Kodo, one of only two UNESCO World Heritage pilgrimage routes in the world. Participants train directly under Carrie or a guest instructor she has studied with personally, then walk a portion of the ancient trail through the Kii Peninsula's mountains and forests — visiting shrines, waterfalls, and communities along the route. Retreats vary in focus and instructor, but each is built around the same pairing: rigorous practice and time on foot in the landscape that shaped it.
Learn more about each of our taiko retreats:
Taiko Retreat: Godai (Carrie Alita Carter)
Taiko Retreat: "The Kumano Kodo" (Ryo Shimamoto)
More Retreats Coming Soon
The Taiko Retreat Series is the first of several. We're developing new retreats built around the same pairing that defines everything we do: days of rooted practice, followed by guided time on foot through the Kii Peninsula's mountains, shrines, and communities. We're finalizing instructors and dates now — if one calls to you, tell us. Early interest helps us decide which to bring to life first.
Culinary Retreat
Cook and eat your way through the Kii Peninsula — its mountain vegetables, coastal catch, and centuries-old foodways — alongside the people who still make food the traditional way.
Health & Wellness Retreat
Restore in one of Japan's most contemplative landscapes: hot springs, ancient forest, and meditation practice woven through days on the pilgrimage trail.
Writing Retreat
Find your voice where the road has drawn pilgrims and poets for a thousand years — dedicated writing time paired with walking the Kumano Kodo.
Interested? Register your interest:
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