This year, our annual in-person Open Retreat will expand beyond Japan to become a global event, held as a one-day international symposium in Tokyo.
Yukikazu Sakurazawa, known internationally as George Ohsawa, shared the philosophy of macrobiotics and Japanese culture not only in Japan but around the world. Along with his disciples, such as Michio Kushi and Tomio Kikuchi, his teachings continue to be recognized globally, having spread throughout North America, Latin America, Europe, India, Africa, and Vietnam.
In today’s world, faced with environmental issues, global peace challenges, food crises, pandemics, and health concerns, there is renewed interest in the macrobiotic philosophy and way of life. More and more people around the world are eager to learn not only the principles of macrobiotics but also the traditional cultural foundations that support it—such as Japanese washoku (traditional cuisine), fermentation, Zen, ikebana (flower arrangement), tea ceremony, and martial arts.
The dietary teachings shared by Sakurazawa and Kushi must now be adapted to the changing environment, social conditions, climate shifts, and modern eating habits. It is perhaps time to once again reflect on the principle of “shindo fuji” (oneness of person and environment) and the value of traditional food cultures unique to each country.
This international exchange gathering will bring together macrobiotic practitioners and enthusiasts from around the world. With a broad perspective, we aim to create an opportunity to reflect on our current and future ways of living, individual missions, and how we can carry the macrobiotic philosophy into the future.
The event will begin with an opening address by Chuya Hashimoto, representative of the Macrobiotic Wa-no-Kai. Following this, Tomoo Takakuwa will give a presentation on the evolution of food and the spiritual culture of Japan.
Next, Chiaki Hashimoto—a long-time member of Wa-no-Kai who has practiced macrobiotics for 43 years—will speak. Together with her husband, Chuya Hashimoto, she has guided nearly 10,000 people through fasting programs worldwide. Drawing from her experience of raising five children through natural childbirth, natural parenting, and natural education, she supports women and young families. She will share insights into how women, in this era said to be “the age of women,” can use macrobiotic wisdom to support their households and protect their families’ health, as well as the important roles they play in passing on these values to future generations.
In the group session, participants will divide into small tables based on the morning panel themes. The session will be interactive, providing a space for everyone to freely share their opinions and insights, fostering both dialogue and connection.
We will then welcome Zen master Issho Fujita—a Soto Zen monk and leading expert in zazen meditation. With 17 years of teaching experience in the U.S., he is also active in research and writing. He will talk about self-understanding through Zen, enlightenment, and the discovery of inner power. A hands-on zazen meditation experience will also be included.
After the talk by Issho Fujita, we will hold a Q&A session with the panelists before concluding the symposium.
We hope this gathering becomes a catalyst for harmonizing with the world through the concepts of Oneness and a One Peaceful World, recognizing that we live within the visible and invisible interconnections of nature.
【Recommended For】
◇Those who wish to deeply explore the connection between traditional Japanese culture (Zen, washoku, tea ceremony, etc.) and macrobiotics
◇Individuals seeking to connect with macrobiotic practitioners from around the world and broaden their perspective
◇People concerned with environmental issues, world peace, and health, and who want to consider what they can personally contribute
◇Anyone interested in reevaluating their diet, lifestyle, and way of living to create a more natural and harmonious existence
◇Those who want to deepen their self-understanding and inner peace through the wisdom and practice of Zen and Zazen
◇Women seeking to apply macrobiotic wisdom in family life, child-rearing, and self-care
◇Those who want to reflect on their own culture’s relationship with macrobiotics and connect with their local and global community
◇People who aim to apply the philosophies of thinkers like Michio Kushi and George Ohsawa in modern life
◇Participants looking for two-way, participatory learning and dialogue, rather than one-way lectures
◇Individuals who resonate with the philosophy of “One Peaceful World” and wish to take concrete action or build connections
Theme
International “Wa-no” Exchange Gathering (Tentative)
Date & Time
Saturday, October 25, 2025 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Japan Time)
Venue
Hamamatsuchō, Tokyo（Details will be provided after registration.）
Capacity & Registration Deadline
150 participants
Registration closes on September 30, or when capacity is reached.
Overview
The event will feature a welcome address by Mr. Chuya Hashimoto, representative of the Macrobiotic Wa-no-Kai; an introduction to The Evolution of Food and Japanese Spiritual Culture by Mr. Tomoo Takakuwa; a keynote lecture by Zen monk Issho Fujita; and interactive workshops to foster exchange among participants.
Program Schedule
10:00–10:20 Introduction: 50 Years of Life with Macrobiotics (tentative title) — Chûhachi Hashimoto
10:25–11:25 The Evolution of Food and Japanese Spiritual Culture — Tomoo Takakuwa
11:30–13:00 The Power of Women for the Future: Nurturing Families and Life through Macrobiotics (tentative title) — Chiaki Hashimoto
13:00–14:00 Lunch
14:00–15:00 Group Session
15:00–16:00 Presentation: Title to be Announced Soon — Zen Monk Isshō Fujita
16:00–16:55 Q&A with Panelists
16:55–17:00 Closing Remarks — Munaka Nagai
Please note: The program is subject to change.
Expected Wa-no-Kai Members in Attendance
Minaka Nagai, Chiharu Yoshido, Marie Yamaguchi, Chuya&Chiaki, Deco Nakajima, Shugo Nanabayashi, Tomoko Murai, Masahiro & Yukari Isogai, Tomoo Takakuwa, Tamaki Sakurazawa, Kimie Motegi, Tusnenori Fujimaki, Akiko Kogo, Yuko Sakurai, Miyumi Chiba, Masahiro Wada, and others.
Participation Fee
Donation-based (Proceeds will be used to support macrobiotic social contribution activities)
Lunch Bento Box is available for an additional fee (approx. 1,500 JPY – details to be announced).
How to Register
If you wish to attend, please fill out the required information at the link below to register.
If you have any questions, you may include them in the registration form.
