Okinawa in Japan, a rare Blue Zone where people live long, has launched a new wellness trip that focuses on holistic health and lifestyle practices.

If you are looking for a wellness trip, the Yambaru Blue Zones Premium tour might be a good choice. The tour, launched by Okinawa Adventures takes visitors on an exploration of the longevity secrets in northern Okinawa over a 4-day period.

According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare’s 2020 census, Okinawan males lived an average of 80.27 years and Okinawan females 87.44.

Yambaru Miracle Forest Blue Zones Tour: Okinawa’s longevity secrets

The tour takes place in the UNESCO listed Yambaru Forest and immerses guests into nine key aspects of Okinawan long life. These include plant-based eating, strong community bonds, and medicinal gardening – all of which contribute to the island’s long life expectancy.

The experience begins at the Naha Airport where guests are transported to Shioya Village, to learn more about community. After dinner, guests are treated to seasonal food from a local forest restaurant.

Embracing ‘ikigai’

The second day participants will meet with a local craftsman who has a passion for his craft. ikigai It is my purpose in life to continue the Sabani tradition. The guests can sail these handcrafted Sabani boats through Okinawa’s crystal clear waters. They then visit Ogimi (the “village longevity”), where they sample freshly-picked vegetables. yushi-tofuThis dish is a traditional soy-based dish.

The third day is more adventurous, offering kayaking and hiking in the Yambaru Forest. Visitors can also learn about Okinawa’s sustainable farming and how it contributes to a healthy lifestyle by visiting a small-scale farmer. The day ends with an overnight stay in Ada Garden Hotel. This secluded forest retreat is a perfect place to unwind.

The final day takes guests to a local Utaki – a sacred spiritual site – where they learn about Okinawa’s deeply rooted traditions. The tour concludes with a farewell meal featuring herbs foraged from the wild before returning to Naha Airport.

The tour is priced at ¥328,000 (€2,099) per person.

Okinawa’s longevity tour provides a unique insight for travellers and expats interested in healthy Japanese living.

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