Forest Bathing in an Artist's Garden

A Private WCC Experience in the Secret Gardens of Kāneʻohe

Saturday, January 24, 2026
Meet at Waikiki Community Center by 7:45 AM
Departure: 8:00 AM | Walk begins promptly at 9:00 AM

Step into an extraordinary morning of deep rest, sensory connection, and quiet wonder inside the private gardens of the Kahaluʻu Gallery & Gardens—a rarely accessed sanctuary created by the late Hawai‘i artist Hiroshi Tagami. With only 13 guest spots, this is a special, intimate WCC experience.

Guided by Phyllis Look, Hawai‘i’s first and most experienced certified forest therapy guide, you’ll move slowly through curated pathways, lush gardens, and a forested gully—immersed in a series of gentle “invitations” designed to help you reconnect with nature, your senses, and yourself.

This internationally recognized experience has been:
• Recommended by The New York Times
• Named by Forbes as an “incredible once-in-a-lifetime travel experience”
• Highlighted by Lonely Planet as a meaningful way to respectfully engage with Hawai‘i’s natural spaces

Forest bathing (shinrin-yoku) is a 40-year research-backed wellness practice known to support relaxation, mental clarity, and overall well-being.

• Following the walk, you'll get exclusive access to the art gallery, where you'll find paintings and prints by Tagami and Powell, as well as the work of nature photographer Nate Yuen, plus sculpture, ceramics, and jewelry by other local artists. (The gallery and gardens are usually open by appointment only.)

$50 per person
No refunds.
This special experience also includes round-trip transportation from Waikiki Community Center to Kahaluʻu and back.

All participants must complete the waiver 48 hours before the event:
👉 https://forms.gle/h9hK8fXTQe1oQCbg9
Please share with your guest if you are registering for someone else.

For comfort and protection from sun and insects, please wear:
• A lightweight long-sleeved shirt and long pants
• Over-the-ankle crew socks
• A hat and sunglasses
• Covered shoes with good traction (required)

Bring and apply sunscreen and fragrance-free mosquito repellent.
NOTE: The only proven effective repellents are DEET or picaridin (the guide’s favorite).

Pack a small backpack with:
• A towel or mat to sit on (ground may be damp)
• Water
• A poncho or rain jacket (highly recommended)

Wearable rain gear and a backpack are preferred over umbrellas—so your hands are free to connect with the forest.

Although not a hike, participants must be able to:
✔ Sit on the ground
✔ Raise and lower themselves without assistance
✔ Stand comfortably for up to 15 minutes

Minimum age: 18 years.

The walk continues rain or shine using covered outdoor spaces.
Bring rain gear—forest bathing in gentle rain can be magical.
Guide will notify us if hazardous weather requires rescheduling.

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Host or Publisher Waikiki Community Center