Tai chi in Tokyo: A feast for body and soul, November 2025

Can you imagine a series of tantalising experiences in Tokyo that nourish both your body and soul? Absolutely! I’ve not only imagined it but planned every detail to bring it to life for you.

Come with me to Tokyo from 16 – 22 November 2025 for five fabulous food filled days with tranquil tai chi to satisfy your soul.

I have explored Japan over 10 times in the last 22 years. For a long time, I’ve dreamed of sharing my love for Japan with you all, especially its divine and delectable food and its Zen-inspired way of life. I’ve transformed my dream into reality and would love for you to join me.

If you are tempted to immerse yourself in the spirit of Japan and to explore how tai chi and qigong intertwine with profound Zen philosophies, then this trip is for you.

Tai chi beginners through to seasoned practitioners will all be very welcome.

Spaces are strictly limited to just SIX people, so don’t hesitate—reach out today to secure your potential spot, or to ask for more details. You can email, text or phone me (Jocelyn) on 027 493 9851 or use the Contact Form on the Kia Ora Tai Chi website.

Imagine this…

1. The food – a culinary heaven

Japanese cuisine is a masterpiece of flavours and artistry. You’ll taste ‘heaven on earth’ and sample a selection of sensational and seasonal tasty treats, guided by an expert tour operator that curates in culinary adventures and magnificent meals. Mmmmm, Oishi!! (Yummy)

2. Fabulous foodie experiences

• Be awed by the art of a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, paired with a delicate seasonal sweet.
• Create your own authentic Japanese dishes in a hands-on cooking class.
• Wander through a dazzling department store food hall, overflowing with culinary treasures.
• Discover top-quality Japanese cooking knives and kitchenware that will transform your home kitchen.

3. Food for your soul

This amazing adventure isn’t just about the sensational food you’ll eat—it’s also about the sensation of balance, harmony, and connection with your mind. In Tokyo, you’ll say, “Kia Ora and Konnichiwa” to these inspiring experiences with me:

• Tranquil tai chi and qigong sessions in peaceful parks.
• A fascinating Japanese Reiki energy healing experience in a real Japanese tea house, that has been restored from the days of Tokugawa Shogunate. You’ll explore Reiki’s harmony with Chinese Qigong (the skill of getting more energy, breath, life-force).
• Awesome, ancient shrines and temples.
• The way of the warrior: Strut your stuff like a Samurai, not just cos-play, but also learning the art of wearing and wielding a sword, and testing your skills with Ninja stars.

4. Beautiful beds for ‘beddy-byes’

You’ll be able to relax completely in a modern hotel, in your own room with an ensuite bathroom. No futons on the floor—just comfortable beds and restful nights to recharge for each day’s adventures.

5. Small group size

The tour group is limited to just SIX participants (plus me and my two guides, of course), which will ensure a personal and intimate experience.

6. Yes, for ‘shopaholics’ there’ll be time for shopping (or exploring if you’re not into shopping)

Essential Details

• Tour dates: 16 – 22 November 2025
• Adults only: Participants must be aged 18 or over
• Fitness Level: You need to have a moderate level of fitness. This includes, but is not limited to, being able to walk unassisted for 2 to 3 hours or 5 to 8 kilometres daily; stand without support for up to 30 minutes; ascend and descend several flights of stairs; walk over cobbled streets or uneven surfaces; stand on the Tokyo metro train for up to 30 minutes; handle your own luggage.
• Dietary Notes: Unfortunately, due to the specialised nature of this tour, the providers of the food and culinary experiences are unable to cater for special diets.

Pricing

• $NZ 7,095 per person – double or twin occupancy (Not including international airfares. Please ask me for the full Terms & Conditions for all inclusions and exclusions)
• $NZ 7,295 per person – single occupancy (Not including international airfares. Please ask me for the full Terms & Conditions for all inclusions and exclusions.)
• Reserve a place with a deposit of just $150 per person, which is fully refundable until 10th February 2025.  At that point, you can request a refund of the $150 or put it towards the full deposit of $1,500 per person (non-refundable) and complete the booking process.
• A non-refundable full deposit of $NZ 1,500 per person is required by 28 February 2025.
• Note: Guaranteed tour departure is subject to a minimum of six people.

Spaces are strictly limited to just SIX people, so don’t hesitate—reach out today to secure your potential spot, or to ask for more details. Please email, text or phone me (Jocelyn) on 027 493 9851 or use the Contact Form on the Kia Ora Tai Chi website to request:

• A detailed itinerary
• The full terms and conditions
• The booking form

If you yen for a genuine, authentic and tantalising trip to Tokyo, please join me for this fabulous feast of the senses.

ABOUT YOUR HOSTS

Kia Ora Tai Chi

Jocelyn Watkin, based in Auckland, is the founder and director of Kia Ora Tai Chi. She is a qualified qigong and tai chi instructor and has enjoyed the health benefits of these ancient Chinese arts for over 20 years.

She is also qualified in the Japanese practice of reiki (which has similarities to qigong) and has achieved brown belt in the Japanese martial art of karate.

Jocelyn has explored Japan over 10 times and has visited China three times. She loves researching the traditional philosophy and the concept of Zen of both countries.

She has organised and taught several tai chi and qigong, workshops and retreats in person and also online, from 2012 to 2024, including three international tours and workshops.

She is registered as a group exercise provider (with own choreography) with the New Zealand Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs).

With Jocelyn, you’ll ‘feed your soul’ with the Zen of tai chi, qigong and reiki in the soothing serenity of Tokyo’s tranquil parks and gardens.

Eating Adventures

Wellington-based Sue Dempsey (on the left) and Janice Kirkwood are the founders of “Eating Adventures”.

Their idea for Eating Adventures started back in 2007, when they began annual food forays to explore the Tokyo food scene, while running their own hospitality ventures in New Zealand. In 2017, they led their first guests on the inaugural “Eating Tokyo” tour.

Their carefully curated “Eating Tokyo” has evolved into a truly unique and authentic culinary experience, which is perfect for anyone interested in getting to the heart of the Tokyo food scene.

They will take you on a culinary adventure to unlock some of Tokyo’s hidden gems. From the back streets of Roppongi to Tsukiji market, the heart of Shinjuku to the laneways of Asakusa, they will introduce you to some of their favourite finds.