Are you looking for your next travel destination? We previously talked about Aomori Prefecture as the hot spot for wellness tourism in Japan. There are other places full of attractions throughout the country, although most of them are not yet recognized globally.
Here’s another recommended destination for your wellness tourism: Shodoshima Island in Kagawa Prefecture.
What is on Shodoshima Island?
Shodoshima Island is located in western Japan, between the main island of Honshu and Shikoku, the smallest of Japan’s four main islands. This area, known as the Seto Inland Sea, has a mild climate and numerous small islands. As someone who was born and raised in the area, I can tell you that you will feel calm and relaxed while looking out over the peaceful blue ocean dotted with islands.
Thanks to its warm and dry climate, similar to that of the Mediterranean Sea, Shodoshima Island is well-known for its olive production. This island is rich in natural beauty, offering spectacular views of the olive groves and other scenic spots.
A peaceful stay in the middle of olive groves
This spring, a new wellness retreat, “Millennium Olive Terrace for your wellness,” opened in the middle of beautiful olive groves. The founder has been developing and distributing olive-derived products locally with their own olive grove extending over 6.82 hectares.
(Video: YouTube)
The first place you head to upon arrival is the lounge. The building, decorated with locally-sourced wood, has a relaxing atmosphere that puts your mind at ease. There is also a workshop where visitors can experience the rich flavor of extra virgin olive oil and explore olive oil-based skincare (prior reservation required and extra charge applies).
(Image: PR Times)
The guest rooms are surrounded by olive trees and provide an ocean view. Each room features a private terrace, perfect for meditation or yoga in the sea breeze, or for relaxing under the starry sky.
Additionally, various wellness experiences are available. For example, you can relax with olive wine, enjoy a soothing bath with olive aroma salt, or nourish your skin with olive oil skincare products.
![A room "Mission" of “Millennium Olive Terrace for your wellness”](https://i0.wp.com/zenbird.media/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/sub9.jpg?resize=716%2C478&ssl=1)
(Image: PR Times)
![A room "Lucca" of “Millennium Olive Terrace for your wellness”](https://i0.wp.com/zenbird.media/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/sub10.jpg?resize=716%2C539&ssl=1)
(Image: PR Times)
![A room "Manzanillo" of “Millennium Olive Terrace for your wellness”](https://i0.wp.com/zenbird.media/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/sub11.jpg?resize=716%2C478&ssl=1)
(Image: PR Times)
The on-site spa offers a holistic approach to both the mind and body, starting with meditation in a small room overlooking the ocean, followed by an olive oil treatment to tone and condition the body.
![Meditation room](https://i0.wp.com/zenbird.media/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/sub13.jpg?resize=716%2C478&ssl=1)
(Image: PR Times)
A workshop to teach you how to co-exist with the ecosystem
This hotel is dedicated to preserving and coexisting with the natural environment. As part of a new accommodation plan launched this summer, guests can also take part in this workshop.
The workshop is centered on regenerative agriculture, a practice focused on restoring environments damaged by human activities. Spending time in nature and learning how to coexist with and preserve ecosystems through hands-on activities can also help clear your mind. This workshop is available twice a month for three months, from July to September this year.
![A scene of a workshop held in June](https://i0.wp.com/zenbird.media/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/sub2.jpg?resize=716%2C478&ssl=1)
(Image: PR Times)
In today’s fast-paced society, many people may find it difficult to escape the urban hustle and bustle. A peaceful remote area of Shodoshima Island provides a unique opportunity to enhance your well-being during your next vacation.
[Website] Millennium Olive Terrace for your wellnessMore articles about wellness in Japan
- 2024-08-23: Exploring SANU’s cabin “MOSS” in the lush forest of North Karuizawa
- 2024-07-25: Explore a wellness hotel amid Shodoshima's olive groves
- 2024-07-22: Stay warm, stay healthy: summer wellness tips
- 2024-07-16: Escaping noise: My Zen retreat in Kyoto suburbs
- 2024-07-11: Wellness tourism: discover Aomori's nature trails, hot springs and new retreat