JAPAN MOXA TOUR
31 October – 10 November (with 2 optional extra day/night tours)
Edit: the 2026 Moxa Tour is now full as of 11 April! (All EOIs from now will be placed on the Waitlist)
Calling all Japanese Acupuncture & Moxa Enthusiasts!
Along the way, you will see how mugwort leaves are transformed into the refined, fluffy moxa used in clinical practice, and hike to the summit of Mt Ibuki — long regarded as the spiritual home of moxa. You will meet the craftspeople responsible for producing the moxa we use every day, and study with three of Japan’s leading moxibustionists. We will immerse ourselves in cultural and culinary experiences that you’ll only be able to experience with someone with a deep understanding of Japan and its people, and we will stay in accommodations that have been hand-picked to enhance the vibe of the Tour.
This is a focused and immersive study tour, with full days, frequent travel, and plenty of walking. Participants should be comfortable with a busy schedule and the natural pace of moving through Japan.
For those wishing to deepen their experience, there is an optional day trip prior to the official start of the tour to the island of Enoshima. Here, we visit the place where Waichi Sugiyama, regarded as the godfather of Japanese acupuncture, had his moment of insight that led to the invention of the shinkan guide tube, and we will also visit his grave.
At the conclusion of the tour, there is another option to remain an additional night on the sacred island of Miyajima, off the coast of Hiroshima. Famous for its torii gates that appear to rise from the sea at high tide, staying overnight allows us to experience the island early in the morning and in the evening, when it is at its most atmospheric.
Edit: the 2026 Moxa Tour is now full as of 11 April! (All EOIs from now will be placed on the Waitlist)
Tour Highlights
Study with three of Japan’s leading moxibustion teachers in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima, each representing a distinct lineage and clinical approach.
Travel through the historic moxa-producing region of Nagahama & Shiga Prefecture, a place rarely included on study tours, and visit sites central to the production of Japanese moxa
Hike to the summit of Mt Ibuki, long regarded as the spiritual home of moxa, with expansive views across central Japan and enjoy the early autumn colours that Japan is famous for.
Experience Japan beyond the surface — through food, accommodation, and cultural encounters that are only possible when guided by someone deeply experienced and connected to Japan.
Plus 2 optional extra trips to Enoshima and Miyajima, two islands of deep spiritual significance
(NB: The costs for these 2 optional trips are separate from the Tour fees, & will be invoiced closer to the Tour dates.)
Tour Experiences & Training Highlights
Tokyo — Training with Edward Obaidey-sensei
A favourite among participants from previous Tours, this full day of hands-on training with Edward Obaidey-sensei will explore contemporary clinical applications grounded in traditional Japanese moxibustion. Participants will learn directly from his years of experience, guided by his deep understanding of both technique and Japanese culture.
Afterwards, enjoy some time exploring the iconic Shibuya area of Tokyo.
Nagahama & Mt Ibuki — Moxa Production & the Spiritual Home of Moxa
Witness the transformation of mugwort into refined, clinical-grade moxa, and observe the care and precision behind each stage of production by master craftsmen whose work is used in clinics around the world. The journey culminates in a hike to the summit of Mt Ibuki, long regarded as the spiritual home of moxa and a deeply meaningful experience for moxa practitioners – a highlight from the 2025 Tour & not to be missed!
Kyoto — Training with Tomoko Sasaki-sensei & Cultural Immersion
Study with Sasaki-sensei in the historic city of Kyoto, learning from her distinctive approach to moxibustion in a 150-year-old traditional restaurant. Rooted in a lineage that employs moxa in a direct, practical, and highly effective way, Sasaki-sensei brings clarity, warmth, and an embodied sensitivity to her teaching style. Outside of training sessions, there will be time to explore Kyoto’s temples, quiet streets, and gardens.
Hiroshima — Training with Yasunori Noine-sensei & Historical Exploration
Engage in advanced moxibustion study with Noine-sensei, including observation and hands-on practice of specialised techniques. Noine-sensei completed an eight-year clinical residency with Grand Master Masakazu Ikeda-sensei and has been appointed his official successor for international seminars. Time in Hiroshima also allows for optional visits to historically significant sites such as the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, as well as the famous Shukkeien Garden.
Optional Pre-Tour Day Trip Experience — Enoshima
Prior to the official start of the Tour, participants may join an optional day trip to Enoshima, where Waichi Sugiyama — regarded as the godfather of Japanese acupuncture — experienced the insight that led to the invention of the shinkan guide tube. The visit includes Enoshima Shrine and Sugiyama’s grave.
Optional Post-Tour 1-Night Stay — Miyajima
Extend your stay for an extra day and add a night on the sacred island of Miyajima, famous for its torii gates that appear to rise from the sea at high tide. Staying overnight offers the rare opportunity to experience the island early in the morning and in the evening, when it is at its most atmospheric.
Accommodations hand-picked to enhance your Japanese Experience
Enjoy accommodations that have been carefully selected to support the rhythm of the tour, with a preference for traditional Japanese inns and well-located hotels that allow easy access to training and daily travel.
Notes:
- The schedule for some days may be switched and details from the itinerary are subject to change
- Preference will be given to people with a proven interest and practice in Traditional Japanese Medicine and Moxibustion – so please include details of any previous training in the EOI to enhance your application
- The final price may vary slightly due to currency conversion and payment processing
- The hike to the summit of Mt Ibuki is about 40mins and is suitable for participants with a moderate level of fitness
- Although we will do our best to accommodate mild dietary preferences and restrictions, we do not have the capacity to accept participants with dietary needs such as strict vegetarians/vegans or coeliacs
What’s included:
- Administrative fees
- Tour hosting / interpreting (NB: I am not a professional tour guide or interpreter but I will do my best not to get us too lost and to get the general idea across!)
- Accommodation for 10 nights from Saturday 31 Nov to Tuesday 10 Nov inclusive in a range of mostly 3* hotels including 2 Japanese Inn-style hotels, all with public onsen-style baths (NB: if opting into the 2 optional tours, 2 extra nights will be invoiced separately at a later date)
- Breakfast for 7 mornings (Wed 4 Nov to Tues 10 Nov inclusive)
- All major transport for Tour Itinerary (bullet train from Tokyo-Nagahama, express train Nagahama-Kyoto, bullet train Kyoto-Hiroshima)
- Chartered Mini bus to top carpark of Mt Ibuki
- Training with Edward Obaidey-sensei, Tokyo (1-day)
- Training with Tomoko Sasaki-sensei, Kyoto (1.5-days)
- Training with Yasunori Noine-sensei, Hiroshima (1-day)
- Observation at Noine-sensei’s clinic (1-day, divided into small groups)
- 1 group dinner
- 1 lunch at traditional Japanese Restaurant with Sasaki-sensei
- Gifts for Edward-sensei, Sasaki-sensei, Noine-sensei and other places we visit
- Shrine offering from the group to Ejime Sugiyama Shrine, Tokyo
- and other surprises!
What’s not included:
- Airfare to/from Japan (NB: Tour begins in Tokyo/ finishes in Hiroshima)
- Visa for Entry to Japan (if required for your country)
- Personal Travel Insurance (essential) – including medical expenses – we will do our best to assist in any way with medical or other matters, but cannot be held responsible – see Tour Agreement for details*
- Meals other than 1 group dinner, 7x breakfasts, 1x lunch. For all other meals, very reasonable options are available at local eateries eg; breakfasts $A10, lunches $A10-15, dinners $A20-30) Total estimated $A500-600 (or more if you want to indulge more!)
- Transfers to/from Airports (NB: detailed instructions will be given to guide you to/from the airports – or you’re welcome to meet me at Narita Airport around 5pm on Thur 29 Oct – & stay an extra 2 nights in Tokyo)
- Local Transport within the Tour & any transport outside of the Tour itinerary
- Luggage Porterage – for sending large luggage ahead (& only taking a small bag with you on trains)
- Laundry
- Any optional extras, souvenirs, etc
- 2 optional Tours to Enoshima & Miyajima (these will be invoiced separately closer to travel dates)
Edit: the 2026 Moxa Tour is now full as of 11 April! (All EOIs from now will be placed on the Waitlist)
Reflections from Past Participants
“Catherine curated an experience that was far more than a trip — it was a soulful pilgrimage into the heart of Japanese healing, beauty, and tradition. Each temple, clinic, and quiet moment felt intentional, weaving a deeper understanding of moxibustion and the culture that holds it with such reverence. Catherine’s deep relationships in Japan opened doors we could never have accessed on our own. I returned with rare insights into moxa, steadier hands in my practice, and a sense of reverence that continues to shape my work.”
“Catherine was an amazing host and tour guide, able to communicate with locals and navigate public transport with ease. I didn’t know much about moxa or Japanese-style acupuncture, yet I learned so much and could apply it in my practice. The tour balanced learning with teachers and cultural immersion — being immersed in Japan (and not as a tourist) was unforgettable. Staying in traditional inns and connecting with a diverse group of practitioners made it even more special.”
“The 2025 Japan Moxa Tour was a unique personal, professional, and dare I say, spiritual experience. It feels like a gift that keeps on giving. I am still exploring how the tour has enriched and improved my clinical practice. I highly recommend this tour as a gift on many levels to yourself.”
“This was my second time joining the Japan Moxa Tour, and it was just as inspiring as the first. Catherine’s special connection with the teachers in Japan and her fluent Japanese brought authenticity and depth that’s hard to find. I returned inspired, nourished, and grateful once again.”
“With her extensive knowledge of Japanese culture and long-standing connections with the teachers, Catherine created an experience that allowed us to deeply immerse ourselves in the local culture while learning more about moxa. Studying with the teachers — who are part of a long lineage of Japanese Acupuncture — was a rare privilege, and I came back more inspired than ever to use moxa in my practice. I highly recommend travelling and studying with Catherine for an educational, magical, and action-packed experience.”
Investment (including Payment Plans):
NB: For the majority of the Tour, you will all have the choice between a Single room or shared Twin Share rooms. Please note that Japanese hotel rooms tend to be much smaller than hotels in the West, especially in Tokyo – so it is only recommended that you choose Twin Share accommodation if you will be travelling with someone that you know that you will be able to easily share a small space with!
| Option 1 – Single Room Early Bird (Up-front Payment) | |
|---|---|
| Total Price | $A6,000 + GST |
| Deposit | $A1,000 (immediately) |
| Remaining Payment | $A5,000 + GST (by 1/6/26) (Australian residents only: $A5160.00) |
| Total Price | $A6,000 (Australian residents only + GST $A160 : Total $A6160) |
| Option 2 – Single Room Payment Plan | |
|---|---|
| Total Price | $A6,250 + GST |
| Deposit | $A1,000 (immediately) |
| Installments | 6 x $A875 + GST (Australian residents only: 6 x $A901.6667) |
| Due Dates | 1/5, 1/6, 1/7, 1/8, 1/9, 1/10 |
| Total Price | $A6,250 (Australian residents only + GST $A160.00 : Total $A6410) |
| Option 3 – Twin Share Early Bird (Up-front Payment) | |
|---|---|
| Total Price | $A5,500 + GST |
| Deposit | $A1,000 (immediately) |
| Remaining Payment | $A4,500 + GST (by 1/6/26) (Australian residents only: $A4660) |
| Total Price | $A5,500 (Australian residents only + GST $A160: Total $A5660) |
| Option 4 – Twin Share Payment Plan | |
|---|---|
| Total Price | $A5,800 + GST |
| Deposit | $A1,000 (immediately) |
| Installments | 6 x $800 + GST (Australian residents only: 6 x $A826.6667) |
| Due Dates | 1/5, 1/6, 1/7, 1/8, 1/9, 1/10 |
| Total Price | $5,800 (Australian residents only + GST $160: Total $A5960) |
Please see the Tour Agreement here for the Cancellation Policy & other Terms & Conditions.
Any questions, please email me at [email protected] or call me on 0413 325 747.
Edit: the 2026 Moxa Tour is now full as of 11 April! (All EOIs from now will be placed on the Waitlist)
About Catherine Kato, your Host/Guide/Interpreter
Catherine has been practicing as an acupuncturist/moxibustionist for the past 24 years in Melbourne, Australia. Prior to that she studied Japanese for many years, including living and working in Japan for a total of five years. Her love for Japan and moxa led her to start the House of Moxa with her Japanese husband over 20 years ago. She is passionate about spreading the magic of moxa by providing high quality moxa and moxa-related products, teaching moxa workshops throughout Australia, and recently taking two groups of practitioners to Japan to study about Moxa in its truest forms.
Message from Catherine: Please note that I am not a professional tour guide nor interpreter and have never visited some of the places on the itinerary! However, I will use my semi-fluent Japanese and knowledge of Japan and its customs to guide you on this moxa journey. My hope is that even if we get lost along the way, for it to be a fun and enriching experience for all participants!
