Halekulani Okinawa, the only Double Five-Star luxury resort in Okinawa, today announces the return of the Blue Zones™ Retreat, now in its third year. Scheduled for Oct. 18-24, 2026, the immersive well‑being program invites guests to experience the traditions and heritage of Okinawa – one of the world’s original and most storied blue zones, renowned for its culture of longevity. Designed as a transformative journey for the senses, the retreat explores the centuries‑old customs that have shaped Okinawan life and contributed to the region’s remarkable vitality.
This year’s retreat centers on the theme “The Wisdom of Living Heritage.” The expanded program introduces newly curated, immersive experiences, including a private visit to Shuri Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nearing completion of its restoration, and an intimate exploration of the Kakuman Shikki lacquerware studio, marking more than 120 years of craftsmanship. By engaging with traditions that bridge history, guests will discover how time-honored practices continue to shape daily life and well-being in Okinawa. The program includes specialized sessions led once again by certified Blue Zones facilitator Celine Vadam, which introduce the foundational principles observed in the world’s longest-lived populations and offer practical ways to apply these insights beyond the retreat setting.
While the retreat provides an immersive introduction to these practices, its purpose is to help guests better understand how everyday environments and routines can support long-term well-being – and how elements of these conditions might be applied to their own lives.
“Each year, we aim to deepen the connection between our guests and Okinawa’s cultural heritage,” said Kenji Fukunaga, General Manager of Halekulani Okinawa. “This retreat offers a meaningful way to experience traditions that continue to shape the Okinawan way of life and inspire well-being.”
Retreat Highlights: Arts & Culture
Kakuman Shikki Workshop and Studio Visit: A visit to a historic lacquerware maker, celebrating more than 120 years of heritage. Guests will experience a mindful moment of creative immersion through “tsuikun,” a raised-relief technique that reflects Okinawa’s craftsmanship traditions.
Salt Amulet (Maasu) Workshop: Participants learn about the custom of carrying “maasu” (salt) for protection and well-being. Guests will weave “adan” (screwpine) leaves to encase the salt, creating a personal amulet while connecting with a cultural practice rooted in intention and tradition.
Karate Experience: In the birthplace of karate, guests will practice fundamental forms (kata) and traditional breathing techniques to harmonize body and mind while gaining practical insights for daily health.
The Restoration of Shuri Castle, UNESCO World Heritage Site: A guided visit to the final stages of the castle's reconstruction. Participants will explore the resilient spirit of "chimugukuru" (the spirit of the heart) and awaken inner resilience.
Retreat Highlights: Culinary & Beverage
Awamori Distillery Visit: Guests will discover the spirit recognized as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage and learn about the role of black koji in subtropical climates and fermentation traditions.
Onigiri Bento Workshop: Through the art of arranging ingredients in a bento style, visitors will rediscover a mindful, nourishing approach to eating that reflects everyday Okinawa habits.
Mocktail Workshop: Participants will enjoy spirit-free drinks crafted by Halekulani Okinawa’s mixologist using local plants and ingredients, learning about their natural properties while savoring refreshing, balanced flavors.
Retreat Highlights: Blue Zones Workshops: Visitors will experience sessions on the Power 9® principles – nine lifestyle habits shared by the world’s longest-lived populations – and learn how these principles can be applied to guests’ own environments and routines. (Conducted in English)
Available exclusively to guests of Halekulani Okinawa, rates for the six-night, seven-day retreat start at 825,400 Japanese Yen per person (approximately $5,194 depending on exchange rates; includes tax and service charges). The rate includes accommodations, roundtrip airport transfers, all retreat programming, food and beverage credit of 78,000 Japanese Yen (approximately $491 depending on exchange rates; includes tax and service charges), as well as two arranged lunches and dinners.
For the full itinerary and booking information, visit https://www.okinawa.halekulani.com/en/events/bluezones/.
