Join me on an Immersive Creative Retreat in 2027
Take a little trip to Japan without leaving Victoria, and give yourself the gift of time, space and a truly meaningful pause from everyday life.
As an experienced Creative Mindfulness teacher and accredited SAORI weaving teacher, I offer three distinct immersive retreat experiences at the exquisite Shizuka Japanese Ryokan & Wellness Retreat in Hepburn Springs, at the heart of Victoria’s beautiful Spa Country:
- SAORI Weaving Retreats – discover the meditative art of creative weaving.
- Creativity & Mindfulness Retreats – explore creative expression as a pathway to calm, clarity and self-discovery.
- Japanese Wisdom & Wellness Retreats – reconnect with yourself through Japanese-inspired creativity, philosophy and restorative practices.
Each retreat offers a unique opportunity to step away from the demands of daily life, slow down and reconnect with what truly matters. Surrounded by the tranquillity of traditional Japanese accommodation, beautiful gardens, nourishing Japanese cuisine and thoughtful experiences, you’ll have the freedom to pause, reset and make space for new perspectives.
These intimate, highly sought-after retreats have limited places and offer far more than a getaway. They are an invitation to nurture your wellbeing, rediscover your creativity and return home with renewed inspiration, meaningful insights and practices that can enrich your everyday life.
Whether you’re seeking a restorative pause, a fresh perspective or a transformative experience that stays with you long after you leave, discover the retreat that speaks to you.
Retreat Dates in 2027
View all of my Retreat offerings via the WeTravel website here, or click book now buttons below to read more about each Retreat experience and to secure your spot in 2027.
February 19th – 22nd 2027 – 4 Day Retreat
May 14th-17th 2027 – 4 Day Retreat
April 16th – 20th 2027 – 5 Day Retreat
October 15th – 19th 2027 – 5 Day Retreat
November 12th – 16th 2027 – 5 Day Retreat
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Many of my Retreat places for 2027 are booking out fast, or already fully booked. Did you miss out on getting a spot?
Head to the booking page via this link 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, Nagomi & Calm through Creativity
Step away from the noise of everyday life and into stillness within a sanctuary of serenity, creativity and renewal on this four-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 creative expression, cultural immersion and a return to nature.
Guided by Creative Mindfulness teacher and Japanese crafts and culture aficionado, Prue Simmons, you’ll be gently led through artistic practices designed to invite calm, clarity and presence. Explore Japanese Bengala eco-dyeing and shibori, watercolour painting and other guided creative activities, allowing curiosity and experimentation to become pathways to self-expression and self-discovery.
Alongside creative sessions, you’ll explore Japanese concepts including Yutori – creating spaciousness in our lives; Ikigai – discovering joy and meaning in everyday life; and Nagomi – finding harmony, balance and fulfilment within yourself and your world. Through these teachings, you’ll be invited to consider what truly nourishes you and how to bring greater calm, connection and purpose into everyday living.
Between creative and reflective practices, you’ll be nurtured with restorative experiences to replenish body, mind and spirit:
- – A spa massage — your choice of an aromatherapy massage or Shiatsu treatment
- – A restorative Yoga Nidra and sound healing session to encourage deep relaxation
- – A guided forest bathing (Shinrin-yoku) experience to reconnect with nature and awaken your senses
- – Daily mindfulness and meditation practices for stillness and self-inquiry
- – Gentle movement and breathwork to encourage balance and flow
- – Unlimited after-hours access to the private outdoor Japanese onsen, for a soothing soak beneath the sky
Each meal is a celebration of Japanese tradition, lovingly prepared by our resident Japanese chef. With exquisite seasonal dishes, thoughtful hospitality and time to rest and reflect, you’ll be encouraged to slow down and savour the simple pleasures of being present.
This retreat is for anyone longing to step away from everyday demands, ease stress and reconnect with themselves, or explore mindfulness more deeply. 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 a willingness to step into stillness and self-inquiry.
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 four-day program is $3,800, with an $800 deposit to secure your place.
Inclusions: Your investment includes three nights’ accommodation in a traditional Japanese-style tatami room overlooking your private Japanese garden, with a futon bed and private ensuite featuring a deep Japanese bath; all delicious chef-prepared Japanese meals for the duration of the Retreat as listed in the itinerary; alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages served with dinner; tea, coffee, Japanese and herbal teas, and freshly baked afternoon refreshments; your choice of an aromatherapy massage or Shiatsu treatment; unlimited after-hours access to Shizuka’s private outdoor Japanese onsen; a guided Shinrin-yoku forest bathing experience; a Yoga Nidra and sound healing session; guided creative workshops, mindfulness and meditation practices, and all workshop materials used.
Japanese Wisdom & Wellness Retreat
Creativity, Culture & the art of living well
Step away from the demands of everyday life and into five days of creativity, connection and the gentle art of living well. Nestled at the tranquil Shizuka Japanese Ryokan & Wellness Retreat, this immersive experience invites you to slow down, awaken your senses and reconnect with yourself through Japanese crafts, mindful practices and nourishing rituals.
Guided by Creative Mindfulness teacher and Japanese crafts and culture aficionado, Prue Simmons, you’ll explore the captivating art of indigo dyeing and shibori, discovering the beauty of folding, binding and dipping cloth to create uniquely yours patterns of blue and white. Alongside your indigo explorations, enjoy other Japanese-inspired creative practices, including slow stitching, kokedama and furoshiki cloth wrapping.
Throughout the retreat, you’ll be introduced to Japanese concepts including Yutori – creating spaciousness in everyday life; Nagomi – finding harmony and balance; Ikigai – discovering meaning and purpose; and Ichigo ichie – appreciating the uniqueness of each moment. Through guided reflection, meditation, gentle movement, breath awareness and meaningful conversation, you’ll explore how these philosophies can enrich your everyday life.
Between creative and reflective practices, you’ll have time to rest, wander the peaceful gardens, enjoy a restorative spa treatment and soak in Shizuka’s private outdoor Japanese onsen. A guided Shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) experience will invite you to reconnect with nature and your senses, while a session with Shizuka’s chef introduces simple, delicious Japanese preparations to enjoy at home.
Each meal is a celebration of Japanese tradition, lovingly prepared by our resident Japanese chef. With nourishing seasonal dishes, Japanese teas and thoughtful rituals throughout your stay, you’ll be encouraged to savour a gentler pace and discover the pleasure of being fully present.
This retreat is for anyone seeking a meaningful pause from everyday life, a deeper connection with their creativity or fresh inspiration for living well. No previous craft or meditation experience is needed. Come with curiosity and a willingness to give yourself this time.
Leave with beautiful handmade treasures, meaningful memories and simple creative and mindfulness practices to carry into everyday life, along with a renewed appreciation for the things that nourish you.
Cost: The all-inclusive cost for the 5-day program is $4,800, with a $1,000 deposit to secure your place.
Inclusions: Your investment includes 4 nights’ 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, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages served with dinner, afternoon teas and refreshments, your choice of an aromatherapy massage or Shiatsu treatment, private access to Shizuka’s outdoor Japanese onsen, a guided Shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) experience, guided creative workshops and all materials used, including indigo dyeing and shibori, Japanese-inspired craft experiences, mindfulness activities, meditation and reflective practices.
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
I’m so pleased that I decided to join Prue on her Creative Mindfulness Retreat 🌸
The atmosphere at Shizuka is the closest thing to a slice of Japan, short of the real deal. The room was very well appointed and comfortable, with a gorgeous and private little garden; my deep bathtub looked out on this view. The outdoor onsen is a must: day or night, it was pure bliss to soak in the hot bath and admire the garden setting. The food was fresh, seasonal and beautifully presented, with enough throughout the day that you were satisfied (and let’s not mention the drinks! 🍶😉). The staff were polite, attentive and very accommodating to my needs.
The activities Prue organised were fun, engaging, and challenging in a creative way. There was lots of colour play with painting, drawing and dyeing. We had an energising morning meditation and mindful journaling before breakfast each day, and the yoga and sound healing session was wonderful, I was so relaxed I fell asleep! 😅 After dinner there was time to discuss Japanese wellness concepts, their meaning, and how we could incorporate them into our own lives.
Overall, I believe this was the best thing you can treat your mind, body and wellbeing to. I look forward to a similar experience soon 😊💖
Julie B
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
Many of my Retreat places for 2027 are booking out fast, or fully booked. Did you miss out on getting a spot?
Head to the booking page via this link and add yourself to the waitlist in case a spot becomes available.