Join me on an Immersive Creative Retreat
Take a trip to Japan without even leaving Victoria on this incredible immersive Japanese weekend. Step into serenity focusing on mindfulness and self-inquiry through creative and artistic mindfulness practices or the meditative art of SAORI weaving on these amazing Retreats.
Stay at the stunning Shizuka Ryokan & Wellness Retreat, a traditional Japanese accommodation at the heart of Victoria’s Spa Country in Hepburn Springs, while you discover and immerse in meditative creativity designed to deepen your senses and self-reflection or the relaxing, creative art of Japanese SAORI weaving.
Indulge in the beautiful Japanese culture, food and tradition on this nourishing Retreat, as you relax in the gorgeous surroundings of your exquisite traditional Japanese accommodation. All guest rooms have a private garden and adjoining bathroom with a deep Japanese bath.
Give yourself this incredible opportunity of time and space for solace and self-care and to leave your stress behind on this unique, truly transformational experience. Places fill fast, so don’t miss out on this opportunity of a Lifetime.
Retreat Dates in 2026
Don’t miss out on this amazing experience – places are filling fast!
24th – 27th April 2026
11th – 14th September 2026
15th – 19th May 2026
13th – 17th November 2026
20th – 23rd February 2026
9th – 12th October 2026
There are only a couple of rooms left for 2026! Did you miss out on getting a spot?
Head to the booking page and add yourself to the waitlist in case a spot becomes available.
Retreat Details & Inclusions
SAORI WEAVING RETREATS
Join passionate, globally accredited SAORI artist and teacher, Prue Simmons, as she guides you through a variety of techniques to produce a beautiful woven cloth on the SAORI loom. Enjoy this creative weaving meditation, learn SAORI clothing design techniques and ideas and make an amazing woven piece to wear or cherish.
This is an exclusive retreat focusing on SAORI weaving, self-care and serenity, an opportunity to learn and explore this Japanese weaving art form amidst gorgeous Japanese-inspired surroundings with a small group of like-minded creative souls. This unique accommodation is exclusively available for our small group over this extended weekend.
Who should attend: The SAORI Retreat is suitable for anyone wanting to delve into the wonderful creative world of SAORI weaving or to step out of the busy hubbub of day-to-day life and immerse themselves in mindful, meditative craft through the art of SAORI weaving. No weaving experience is necessary. The Retreat is suitable for complete beginners to discover and delve into SAORI and seasoned SAORI weavers to hone and deepen their SAORI weaving practice and skills.
Prue Simmons is a fully accredited, passionate and patient SAORI teacher, who will gently guide you in your weaving and help you explore and dedicate time at the loom for self awareness and creative exploration.
Cost: The all-inclusive cost for the 4 day program is $4,000 and 5-day program is $5,000.
If you would like to share the experience with a friend, limited twin share options may also be available.
Inclusions: Your investment includes 3-night’s accommodation (or 4-nights for the 5 day experience) in traditional Japanese-style rooms at the exquisite Shizuka Japanese Ryokan & Wellness Retreat, all delicious chef-prepared Japanese meals for the duration of the Retreat as listed in the itinerary, all alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, afternoon teas and refreshments, a luxurious day spa treatment, guided tuition in SAORI weaving and all weaving and workshop materials used. SAORI looms and all materials are provided for the weekend, threaded up and ready to go! You are also welcome to bring along any yarns or materials that you would like to weave with.
If you have a SAORI loom, you are welcome to bring it along to weave on and a complimentary loom maintenance will be carried out on your loom.
Whether you are a complete beginner to SAORI weaving or a seasoned SAORI creative, this Retreat is for you!
CREATIVITY & MINDFULNESS RETREAT: IKIGAI, NOGOMI & CALM THROUGH CREATIVITY
Step away from the noise of everyday life and into stillness within a sanctuary of serenity, creativity, and renewal on this 4-day immersive retreat. Nestled at the tranquil Shizuka Japanese Ryokan & Wellness Retreat, you’ll explore mindfulness through gentle creativity, Japanese wisdom, and restorative experiences. Here, mindfulness is cultivated not only through stillness, but also through creativity, cultural immersion, and a return to nature.
Guided by Creative Mindfulness teacher and Japanese crafts and culture afficionado, Prue Simmons, you’ll be gently led through artistic practices designed to open the door to calm, clarity, and presence. Explore Japanese shibori and eco-dyeing, watercolour painting, mandala creation, and mindful creative play, each practice becoming a pathway to deeper self-reflection and ease.
Alongside creative sessions, you’ll be introduced to the Japanese concepts of ikigai – discovering joy and meaning in daily life – and nogomi – finding balance, harmony, and fulfilment within yourself and your world. These teachings will support you in exploring what truly nourishes you, helping you to align with a more centred and purposeful way of living.
Between creative and reflective practices, you’ll be nurtured with restorative experiences to replenish body, mind, and spirit:
- A spa massage to release tension and restore energetic balance
- A soothing sound healing session to deepen relaxation
- A guided forest immersion (Shinrin-yoku) experience in the surrounding gardens and bushland
- Daily mindfulness and meditation practices for stillness and self-inquiry
- Gentle movement and breathwork to encourage balance and flow
- Exclusive access to the private outdoor Japanese onsen, to soak in the healing magnesium-rich waters
Each meal is a celebration of Japanese tradition, lovingly prepared by our resident Japanese chef. Dishes are both nourishing and exquisite, offering a culinary journey that supports your wellbeing and delight throughout the retreat.
This experience is for anyone longing to de-stress, find inner peace, and embrace stillness – or those wishing to journey deeper into mindfulness, balance, and purpose. Whether you arrive seeking clarity, inspiration, or simply a pause from the busyness of life, you will leave feeling renewed, grounded, and uplifted.
No artistic experience is required. This is not about perfection, but about creative play, gentle experimentation, and self-discovery, guided with warmth and care. All that is needed is an open heart and willingness to step into stillness.
This exclusive retreat offers a rare opportunity to rest, reflect, and realign in exquisite Japanese-inspired surroundings with a small, intimate group of like-minded souls.
Cost: The all-inclusive cost for the 4 day program is $3,700.
If you would like to share the experience with a friend, limited twin share options may also be available.
Inclusions: Your investment includes 3-night’s accommodation in a traditional Japanese-style room at the exquisite Shizuka Japanese Ryokan & Wellness Retreat, all delicious chef-prepared Japanese meals for the duration of the Retreat as listed in the itinerary, all alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, afternoon teas and refreshments, a luxurious day spa treatment, guided artistic practices, guided mindfulness activities and all workshop materials used.
IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS WHEN BOOKING
Please note: There are NO western style beds at Shizuka Ryokan. The bedding is a thick futon on the tatami floor. If you cannot sleep on traditional style Japanese futon bedding, please advise in writing at time of booking as alternative accommodation nearby may be able to be arranged for your stay. You will sleep in a western style bed at this alternative accommodation but enjoy all meals and all other activities at the Retreat.
Booking and cancellation policy:
Please check out our full cancellation and refund policy here.
Pamper yourself with a massage, enjoy delicious traditional Japanese cuisine and explore creativity, self-expression and Soul inquiry in a relaxed, tranquil environment…
“I’ve found so much stillness immersing in SAORI weaving and other meditative crafts and philosophies in the heart of Japan, inspired by the beautiful surroundings, amazing food and aesthetic of Japanese culture. I want to share that immersive Japanese experience with you on these magical 4 and 5-day Retreats, without the added stress of overseas travel. Join me for these incredible creativity and mindfulness experiences that are designed to revitalise, re-energise and restore your Body, Mind and Soul.”
Prue Simmons
Founder of CALM Creativity & Dyeing To Weave Studio
Here’s what a few of our previous Retreat participants have to say about their experience
This Retreat is so highly recommended that words are insufficient. All of the adjectives apply. Definitely do it. You deserve to treat yourself. It is definitely nourishment for Mind, Body & Soul.
Val
Imagine leaving your life…being transported to Japan and experiencing the serenity of a Japanese Ryokan.
Prue has created such a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a weaving retreat, wellness retreat, and healing retreat with massages, onsen and amazing, nourishing food.
Run to book. Don’t walk.
You’re welcome.
Jo
It is not just a weaving experience – it is a virtual Japanese immersion, with the most delicious, nutritious meals, and a choice of spa treatments – all experienced in a very genuine Ryokan.
Prue is a most enveloping, caring, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly and amazing host and leader!
I found my Zen at the loom.
Sue
Prue’s SAORI weaving Retreat is an amazing creative retreat located at the exquisite Shizuka Ryokan, where one is cared for and nourished. An experience not to be missed.
Janelle
The weekend was pure JOY. Prue’s energy was infectious and her skills and generosity of knowledge is massive. The food, the massage, the onsen, the mindfulness experiences all ensured that I am leaving relaxed, refreshed and rejuvenated.
Lynda
This Retreat is for novice and experienced weavers alike – it’s a beautiful blend of time for self, time with others, creative exploration and pushing your own boundaries in a way that builds skills & confidence. The accommodation transports you to another world that is both welcoming and different from daily life, freeing you from your own expectations of yourself.
This Retreat is for anyone who wants time to listen to their inner voice and nurture their creativity. Top this with nourishing and truly inspiring meals and you can’t ask for more.
Alison
Wow.
This is heaven.
My Happy Place.
Every aspect of the Retreat tapped into my creative needs
I walk away inspired, full of energy but at the same time relaxed and balanced.
Location – Superb
Staff – Very attentive
Food – Extraordinary
Prue – my mentor – love you to the moon and back!
I really appreciated the extra activities eg. onsen, forest walk, meditation
Penny
DON’T MISS OUT – BOOK YOUR SPOT TODAY!
24th – 27th April 2026
11th – 14th September 2026
15th – 19th May 2026
13th – 17th November 2026
20th – 23rd February 2026
9th – 12th October 2026
