The Musashi Experience: Where Ancient Wisdom Meets Modern Master: Journey beyond the ordinary with a transformative 10-day retreat in the heart of Japan. During the enchanting 'Shinryoku' (New Green) season, immerse yourself in a carefully crafted experience that weaves together elite Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training, revolutionary breathwork practices, and deep cultural immersion. Limited to just 16 participants, this intimate odyssey promises to reshape your understanding of martial arts, wellness, and self-discovery.
The Art of Jiu-Jitsu [柔術]: Train under the guidance of Nicholas Gregoriades, 4th-degree black belt and Roger Gracie's first black belt, as you explore both modern and traditional aspects of martial arts. Your journey will take you to the legendary Tri-Force Academy, the historic Kōdōkan (the birthplace of Judo), and numerous local dojos across Japan. Experience the rare privilege of training with a Judo red belt and exchanging techniques with local practitioners, creating a rich tapestry of martial arts knowledge that spans generations.
The Power of Breath [呼吸法]: Under the expert guidance of neurobiologist Max Whittle, discover the transformative power of breathwork in some of Japan's most inspiring locations. From morning sessions in ancient temples to meditation by pristine lakes and mountain tops, you'll learn scientific techniques for optimizing both your physical and mental performance. These intimate sessions, conducted in small groups, provide personalized instruction that will revolutionize your approach to breathing and movement.
The Heart of Japan [日本]: This is Japan as few foreigners ever experience it. Stay in traditional ryokans, soak in natural hot springs (onsen), and traverse hidden mountain trails leading to sacred temples. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene lakes of Nagano and the ancient alleyways of Kyoto, each location has been carefully chosen to provide the perfect backdrop for your personal growth and cultural exploration. Experience Japan during the magical 'Shinryoku' season, when the country blooms in fresh green and temperatures are ideal for both training and exploration. This carefully chosen timing provides the perfect environment for transformation and growth, as nature itself mirrors your journey of renewal.
Begin in Tokyo, where modern energy meets traditional spirit. Train at elite dojos, experience the reverence of the Kōdōkan, and savor authentic Edo-mae sushi. Then journey to the Nagano region, where Lake Suwa provides a stunning backdrop for training and reflection. Here, mountain temples and outdoor onsen offer spaces for deep contemplation and physical renewal. The journey culminates in Kyoto, the heart of traditional Japan. Train in historic dojos, explore ancient monks' training grounds, and experience the profound spirituality of thousand-year-old temples. Each day brings new discoveries, from hidden mountain trails to sublime cultural experiences, building toward a transformative conclusion marked by a memorable kaiseki farewell dinner.
Whether you're a seasoned martial artist or just beginning your journey, this retreat offers a unique opportunity to deepen your practice while experiencing the profound beauty of Japanese culture. Every detail has been considered to create an experience that will transform not just your technique, but your entire approach to martial arts and life itself.
The Musashi Experience: Where Ancient Wisdom Meets Modern Master: Journey beyond the ordinary with a transformative 10-day retreat in the heart of Japan. During the enchanting 'Shinryoku' (New Green) season, immerse yourself in a carefully crafted experience that weaves together elite Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training, revolutionary breathwork practices, and deep cultural immersion. Limited to just 16 participants, this intimate odyssey promises to reshape your understanding of martial arts, wellness, and self-discovery.
The Art of Jiu-Jitsu [柔術]: Train under the guidance of Nicholas Gregoriades, 4th-degree black belt and Roger Gracie's first black belt, as you explore both modern and traditional aspects of martial arts. Your journey will take you to the legendary Tri-Force Academy, the historic Kōdōkan (the birthplace of Judo), and numerous local dojos across Japan. Experience the rare privilege of training with a Judo red belt and exchanging techniques with local practitioners, creating a rich tapestry of martial arts knowledge that spans generations.
The Power of Breath [呼吸法]: Under the expert guidance of neurobiologist Max Whittle, discover the transformative power of breathwork in some of Japan's most inspiring locations. From morning sessions in ancient temples to meditation by pristine lakes and mountain tops, you'll learn scientific techniques for optimizing both your physical and mental performance. These intimate sessions, conducted in small groups, provide personalized instruction that will revolutionize your approach to breathing and movement.
The Heart of Japan [日本]: This is Japan as few foreigners ever experience it. Stay in traditional ryokans, soak in natural hot springs (onsen), and traverse hidden mountain trails leading to sacred temples. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene lakes of Nagano and the ancient alleyways of Kyoto, each location has been carefully chosen to provide the perfect backdrop for your personal growth and cultural exploration. Experience Japan during the magical 'Shinryoku' season, when the country blooms in fresh green and temperatures are ideal for both training and exploration. This carefully chosen timing provides the perfect environment for transformation and growth, as nature itself mirrors your journey of renewal.
Begin in Tokyo, where modern energy meets traditional spirit. Train at elite dojos, experience the reverence of the Kōdōkan, and savor authentic Edo-mae sushi. Then journey to the Nagano region, where Lake Suwa provides a stunning backdrop for training and reflection. Here, mountain temples and outdoor onsen offer spaces for deep contemplation and physical renewal. The journey culminates in Kyoto, the heart of traditional Japan. Train in historic dojos, explore ancient monks' training grounds, and experience the profound spirituality of thousand-year-old temples. Each day brings new discoveries, from hidden mountain trails to sublime cultural experiences, building toward a transformative conclusion marked by a memorable kaiseki farewell dinner.
Whether you're a seasoned martial artist or just beginning your journey, this retreat offers a unique opportunity to deepen your practice while experiencing the profound beauty of Japanese culture. Every detail has been considered to create an experience that will transform not just your technique, but your entire approach to martial arts and life itself.
Nicholas Gregoriades
4TH DEGREE JIU-JITSU BLACK BELT & AUTHOR
Nicolas Gregoriades is a renowned jiu-jitsu master with over 25 years of experience in the art. Born in South Africa and later based in the United Kingdom, he holds the distinction of being the first practitioner promoted to black belt by Roger Gracie, widely regarded as the greatest grappler of all time. An accomplished competitor, Gregoriades has claimed national championships in both South Africa and England. His expertise extends beyond the mat, as he is the author of two highly respected books on jiu-jitsu: "The Black Belt Blueprint" and "Beyond the Black Belt." His instructional videos are also highly regarded within the jiu-jitsu community. Gregoriades is known for his holistic, concept-focused teaching approach, which emphasizes the philosophical and spiritual aspects of jiu-jitsu alongside its physical techniques. This unique perspective is showcased in his "Spirit of Jiu-Jitsu" and "Soul of Jiu-Jitsu" short films, which have garnered significant attention in martial arts circles. Throughout his career, Gregoriades has taught jiu-jitsu to thousands of students worldwide, earning a reputation as one of the best instructors in the field. His teaching philosophy goes beyond mere technique, aiming to help students develop a deeper connection to the art and its principles. In addition to his jiu-jitsu expertise, Gregoriades is known for his interest in personal development and holistic health practices. He has explored and incorporated various spiritual and philosophical concepts into his teaching, including meditation and breathing techniques. Training with Nicolas Gregoriades offers more than just physical instruction; it provides an opportunity to gain an elevated understanding of jiu-jitsu's broader applications to life and personal growth. His approach aims to foster not only technical proficiency but also mental resilience and spiritual awareness in his students.
Max Whittle
BREATHWORK EXPERT & NEUROBIOLOGIST
Max, born in the UK in 1976, is a renowned expert in breathwork and meditation with over three decades of experience. His journey began at age 15 when he started meditating regularly, accumulating more than 30,000 hours of practice under various teachers across different cultures and traditions. Having lived in Japan for over two decades and achieving fluency in Japanese, Max offers unique cultural insights that go far beyond surface-level observations. He guides visitors through hidden treasures and local experiences, providing an authentic insider's view of "secret" Japan that transforms mere sightseeing into genuine cultural immersion. Driven by a personal quest to overcome anxiety and depression, Max pursued a multifaceted educational path. He studied Biological Sciences with a focus on neurobiology at Oxford University, providing him with a strong scientific foundation. This academic background was complemented by immersive experiences learning Zen mindfulness techniques in Japan and practicing meditation in India, before ultimately discovering his passion for breathwork. Through years of research and practical application, Max developed the innovative Enactivate approach. This method distills breathwork to its essence, focusing on practical, scientifically-backed techniques to create balance in mind and body. Max is known for his ability to teach both the theory and application of breathing exercises, making complex concepts accessible to a wide range of students. The Enactivate program has gained widespread recognition and acclaim. Graduates of Max's training now teach and apply his methods in diverse settings across Japan, including schools, birthing centers, and corporate environments. This broad application demonstrates the versatility and effectiveness of his approach. Max's teaching style combines scientific rigor with practical wisdom, offering students not just techniques, but a comprehensive understanding of how breathwork can enhance overall well-being. His courses provide a transformative experience, helping participants achieve greater mental clarity, emotional balance, and physical vitality.
Which airport should I fly into?
Tokyo has two large international airports, Haneda and Narita, and both are fine. We generally find it a little easier to get to the center of Tokyo from Haneda. What will I need to bring? After you register for one of our events you’ll receive a welcome packet that includes a pack list.
Can I bring my 'significant other' (wife/husband, girlfriend/boyfriend)?
Yes of course. Everyone accompanying you will need to register as a participant at full price, even if they are not doing the jiu-jitsu and breathwork activities. During some of the jiu-jitsu training sessions, Max often takes spouses and other non-training members of the trip on supplemental mini-tours. Please note that these are not officially part of the itinerary and are subject to Max’s discretion.
What will accommodations be like? Will I need to share a room?
In oder to access charming and unique lodges and Ryokan (traditional Japanese inn), our trips are based on two people sharing a room. In one Nagano mountain lodge there may be more depending on the room. Couples and good friends will be allocated to the same room.
What are meals like? Will all my meals be taken care of?
Breakfast, Lunch and dinner will be provided. We’ll explore a wide variety of Japanese cuisine, from ramen to multi course gourmet Kaiseki. Fully vegetarian options will not be available at every meal, as this is logistically very difficult to provide in Japan — in other words, you’ll need to be flexible. We cannot provide a vegan option. In most cases, a free drink is also included (table water and Japanese tea are always included). Alcoholic and additional soft drinks can be purchased as extras during the meals.
I'm older and have injuries -- should I be worried about attending?
Absolutely! Our retreat is designed to be inclusive and accommodating for participants of all ages and fitness levels. While some of our training sessions and hikes are of moderate intensity, this is not a hardcore boot camp. We strive to create a supportive environment where everyone can participate comfortably and safely.
Do you offer financing options?
Our payment processor does offer financing options. To see the options available, add the retreat to your cart and then click ‘Checkout’. Then select ‘More payment options’. You can then choose ‘Klarna' as the option, and it will show you what financing packages are available.
What is your cancellation/refund policy?
Our cancellation and refund policy is as follows: We are unable to offer refunds for customer cancellations, except in one specific circumstance. If we can find another participant to fill your vacant spot before the camp starts, we will provide a full refund. This policy is in place due to the specialized nature of our retreat and the limited number of spots available. We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment in case unforeseen circumstances prevent you from attending the retreat. If you need to cancel, please notify us as soon as possible. While we cannot guarantee a replacement, early notification increases the chances of filling your spot and thus the possibility of a refund. In the event that we have to cancel the retreat for any reason, all participants will receive a full refund.
How much training experience do I need to participate?
We welcome jiu-jitsu practitioners of all levels, with the exception of complete beginners. This is not for those who have never set foot on the mats before. As long as you’ve done at least a few classes, you’ll be fine. You do not need any breathwork experience.
What's the daily schedule like? Do I need to participate in everything?
The schedule is different each day but generally includes some combination of hiking, jiu-jitsu training, breathwork sessions and cultural experiences. While we don't have strict attendance policies, we strongly encourage participation in all activities. Remember, every element of the retreat is special and has been carefully selected to contribute to your overall experience. While you're not obligated to attend everything, we urge you not to miss out on these extraordinary opportunities. Having said that, we understand the importance of personal time for reflection, rest, or individual exploration. Our itinerary includes designated free periods throughout the retreat, allowing you to recharge or pursue personal interests. What sets The Musashi Experience apart from other jiu-jitsu retreats and vacations? There truly is nothing else like this. The combination of the three components — jiu-jitsu, breathwork and Japan — creates something greater than the sum of its parts. And your guides Nic and Max bring unique perspectives that you cannot find anywhere else. This is not a jiu-jitsu training camp — it’s much more than that. It’s an adventure that’s been tailor-made to give you a deeper connection to both the art of jiu-jitsu and yourself.
Day 1: Begin your journey in the heart of Tokyo with a guided walking tour of some of the city's most unique neighborhoods. We'll spend time in a beautiful park for our first breathwork orientation session, then head out to train jiu-jitsu at the legendary Tri-Force Academy.
Day 2: We start with an early morning breathwork session in a nearby park, followed by a pilgrimage to the Kōdōkan—the home of Judo. We'll have a lesson with a Judo red belt and enjoy lunch at a local ramen shop. Afterward, we'll explore the Judo museum and watch high-level judoka train. In the evening, we'll dine at an authentic Edo-mae sushi restaurant and take a nighttime walk around the breathtaking Imperial Palace.
Day 3: Japan is a fusion of tech and tradition. Today we'll visit the Samurai Museum in Shinjuku and experience the futuristic, mind-blowing teamLab exhibition. In the evening, we'll do a breathwork session and take a guided tour to experience the vibrant energy of Tokyo's nightlife.
Day 4: We leave Tokyo for Suwa, a beautiful lake district in Nagano Prefecture. We'll explore the area and visit secluded shrines. In the evening, we'll enjoy premier Japanese hospitality at our ryokan overlooking Lake Suwa. Refresh in the mineral-rich natural hot springs before a full-course kaiseki dinner.
Day 5: Our day begins with a lakeside walk and breathwork session. Then we'll head to Nagano City to train at a grassroots jiu-jitsu dojo. The day ends with dinner and downtime at our hotel.
Day 6: This morning features a breathwork session at one of Japan's most famous temples, Zenkō-ji. In the afternoon, we'll train at the Nagano dojo before taking a short train ride deeper into the mountains. We'll bathe in a stunning outdoor onsen and stay at a cozy family-run mountain lodge.
Day 7: We start early with a breathwork session, then hike along a hidden trail to a mountain summit where a surprise awaits. After lunch, we'll revitalize ourselves at another outdoor onsen before returning to the lodge for an evening breathwork lesson and dinner.
Day 8: Time to visit the heart of Old Japan—Kyoto! We'll travel via one of the fastest bullet trains—the Hokuriku Shinkansen. A guided evening walk will unveil the authentic Kyoto away from the overcrowded tourist trails.
Day 9: Our first stop is the 'Temple of a Thousand Buddhas'—a jaw-dropping experience that offers deep insight into Japan's Buddhist culture. After lunch, we'll train jiu-jitsu at a Kyoto academy before visiting the Budokan—Japan's 'home of martial arts.' Day 10: On our final day, we begin with an early morning breathwork session. Then we'll take a cable car into the mountains surrounding Kyoto to visit an ancient monks' training ground, home to lesser-known temples and stunning woodland pathways. This area, still used for Buddhist monk training, holds profound depth and authenticity. We'll refresh with a hot bath before our farewell dinner.
Note — this is a basic outline and does not include all the events and activities we’ll be doing. Some activities might be subject to change due to weather or unforeseen circumstances. You will receive a more detailed itinerary, including accommodation and travel info when you book your place.
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