The New York Times has recommended Forest Bathing in a Rain Forest in their itinerary for top things to do in Honolulu. Forbes also named Forest Bathing Hawaiʻi's walks in the top 5 INTERNATIONAL "incredible once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences that should be on every intrepid traveler's bucket list." Treehugger named us one of 2021's best green travel experiences in the world. And, according to United Airlines' Hemispheres Magazine (December 2020), the first stop for your perfect stay on Oʻahu should be a forest bathing walk at Lyon Arboretum!
On your 2.5-hour forest bathing walk, you'll be guided on a gentle, mindful stroll on the verdant grounds of the Lyon Arboretum. You'll leave behind the stresses of the world and get in touch with the healing powers of the forest. As we move through about a mile of easy trail, your certified forest therapy guide will offer a series of sensory-opening “invitations” to help you find your own personal connection with the natural world. A highly interactive and respectful experience, you'll have opportunities to sit quietly in contemplation, as well as share with others in the small group, all at a safe physical distance outdoors.
"Forest Bathing" (translated from "shinrin-yoku," an established public health practice in Japan) is a growing global wellness movement backed by more than 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.
Please bring sunscreen, mosquito repellent,hat, sunglasses, water, a casual backpack to hold your stuff (including a rain jacket), and walking sticks if you need them. For your safety and comfort, we recommend wearing close-toed shoes w/ good traction; light-weight long-sleeved shirt, long pants, and socks above the ankles.
Masks are optional; social distancing encouraged.
FAQs - please read COVID-19 guidelines and waiver of liability you will be asked to sign on booking.
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?
Free parking at Lyon Arboretum. Follow Manoa Road, pass Paradise Park and the parking for Manoa Falls. Continue up the road until it ends and you will see a sign for the Manoa Falls trailhead. To your left will be the gate for the Arboretum. Enter (when gate is open) and continue up the winding drive to the free parking lot. I'll meet you at the VISITOR CENTER (at the far end of the lot), where you'll need to sign in and pick up your parking pass.
Carpooling is encouraged; spaces can sometimes be at a premium. Or go green and take TheBus - #5 Manoa route. Get off at the end of the line at Kumuone St. (tell the driver you're going to the Arboretum or Manoa Falls) and walk for about .5 miles into the valley to the Arboretum. Stay on the sidewalk until the sidewalk ends, then walk on far RIGHT side of road. Once you turn into the Arboretum, follow trail signs to Visitor Center.
Included in the fee is admission to Lyon Arboretum.
REFUND POLICY: 50% if cancelled 48 hours in advance.
For those seeking a somewhat more vigorous physical challenge and one that includes a Hawaiian cultural practitioner's stories of the land, see our new offering in West Oʻahu Forest Bathing, Hike, & Moʻolelo.
Private walks (e.g. for special occasions, corporate groups, families with children under 16 years old) may be requested at forestbathinghi@gmail.com.
How can I contact the organizer with any questions?
Feel free to email forestbathinghi@gmail.com.
