About the Venue
The venue is Megamiyama Life Center (Nagano, Japan)
Inspired by the Esalen Institute on the west coast of the United States, it is dedicated to cultivating a natural environment and a state of physical and mental well-being.
The center supports those who gather here in sharing peace, comfort, and presence. Through this space and its seminars, Megamiyama Life Center aims to nurture love and tranquility, becoming a force that supports healthier people and a healthier planet.
Accommodation Information
What to Bring for Your Stay
Toiletries (toothbrush)
Small bath towel
Sleepwear
Flashlight
Writing materials
Personal items as needed
*Bath towels are provided.
Directions & Access by Train
From Tokyo
Nagano Shinkansen “Asama” (JR, bound for Nagano)
Tokyo → Ueda: approx. 1 hour 30 minutes
Ueda Kotsu Bessho Line
Ueda → Bessho Onsen (final stop): approx. 30 minutes
From Nagoya
Wide View Shinano (JR, bound for Nagano)
Nagoya → Shinonoi: approx. 2 hours 40 minutes
Shinano Railway (bound for Komoro)
Shinonoi → Ueda: approx. 30 minutes
Ueda Kotsu Bessho Line
Ueda → Bessho Onsen (terminal): approx. 30 minutes
Transfer tools such as Jorudan, station guides, and timetables are available.
Route maps can be found from major stations nationwide to Bessho Onsen Station.
By Car
Approx. 45 minutes from Ueda–Sugadaira Interchange on the Joshinetsu Expressway
Approx. 15 minutes from Bessho Onsen Station
Parking spaces are limited. Please contact us in advance if you plan to use parking.
Environment
This area has been the subject of countless stories passed down since ancient times, reaching back to the myths of Izanagi and Izanami. Known as the “Kamakura of Shinshu” due to its many historic temples, it is also a rich hot spring region, with thermal waters emerging throughout the valleys.
The area is a productive rice-growing region, and this abundance seems to have shaped the gentle and calm nature of the local people.
About ten minutes by car from Bessho Onsen Station, along the winding Iroha Road, lies the village of Nokura. The road follows the mountain ridge, offering expansive views and revealing a peaceful, pastoral mountain settlement reminiscent of Kenji Miyazawa’s Ihatov.
The quiet surroundings make this an ideal place for meditation, walking, and outdoor activities.
Contact Information
84-2 Nokura, Ueda City
Nagano Prefecture 386-1437
Japan
Phone: 0268-38-9639 / 0268-38-0777 or 050-1131-9952
(Inquiries accepted from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM Japanese time)
Fax: 0268-38-6099 - Email: megamiyama21@yahoo.co.jp
Registration
Registration Payment Options
All tuition prices are listed in USD. (Accommodation and meals at Megamiyama will be paid separately in Japanese Yen.)
*Different payment methods have different processing costs, reflected in the rates below.
Early Bird Discount: (Register AND Pay by February 20, 2026)
Option 1: Cash Payment - $1,600 USD (248,100 ¥, includes bank fees)
* Contact Namiko Yoneda at st9nancy@gmail.com to arrange payment.
* Then fill out and submit the registration form she will provide.
Option 2: Credit Card - $1,690 USD (includes processing fees)
Click the registration button in the right-hand column at the top of this page. You will receive an email confirmation upon successful payment.
Option 3: Wire Transfer - $1,650 USD
You will receive an email confirmation once your wire transfer is received.
International Wire Instructions:
Account Name: Evocative Worlds
Account Number: 156403386006
SWIFT Code: USBKUS44IMT
Bank Name: US Bank
Bank Address: 800 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55402
Regular Registration (February 21, 2026 onward)
Option 1: Cash Payment - $1,750 USD (271,350 ¥, includes bank fees)
* Contact Namiko Yoneda at st9nancy@gmail.com to arrange payment.
* Then fill out and submit the registration form she will provide.
Option 2: Credit Card - $1,845 USD (includes processing fees)
Click the registration button in the right-hand column at the top of this page. You will receive an email confirmation upon successful payment.
Option 3: Wire Transfer - $1,800 USD
You will receive an email confirmation once your wire transfer is received.
International Wire Instructions:
Account Name: Evocative Worlds
Account Number: 156403386006
SWIFT Code: USBKUS44IMT
Bank Name: US Bank
Bank Address: 800 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55402
Accommodation and Meals
Accommodation and meal costs are not included in the training fee and must be paid directly to the Megamiyama Retreat Center upon arrival.
Total cost: 60,720 ¥ (tax included)
14,850 ¥ × 4 nights
1,320 ¥ (additional charge)
Cancellation & Refund Policy
For cancellations up to and including March 4th, 2026, you will be refunded 50% of all fees paid. For cancellations after March 4th, 2026, you will be refunded 25% of all fees paid. You may also transfer your registration to another person at no charge.
Miscellaneous information
For the 5-day event: Please wear comfortable clothing, bring your journal, and something to write with. For further questions - email: evocative.mastery@gmail.com
