Maki Kobayashi

Konnichiwa, I’m Maki. Born and raised in Japan, I now guide immersive retreats that reconnect people with the living spirit of Japanese culture — not as spectators, but as participants. My path began far from the wellness world. I previously worked in management consulting, international manufacturing, and startup leadership, supporting people in high-pressure environments. Eventually, I realized what many modern lives are missing: stillness, rhythm, community, and a deeper connection to nature. Today, I blend Japanese traditions with mindful practices such as meditation, gentle yoga, breathwork, and Taiko drumming. As a professional Taiko leader and founder of cultural communities in Europe, I believe rhythm and ritual awaken something primal and human that modern wellness alone cannot reach. This retreat is not something I “teach.” It’s something I invite you to live. Together, we step into local festivals, carry shrines, drum with the land, soak in hot springs, and share everyday life with the community, experiencing Japan from the inside. If you’re looking for something deeper than a typical yoga retreat, I’ll be honored to guide you.