Many of you may be wondering, why Yakushima?
Since our connection with Yakushima began in 2023, we at CIco (Chico Katsube and Shoko Kashima) have felt a mysterious power every time we visit the island. We wanted to hold a mini i-Dance Japan in such a miraculous place.
Yakushima can be considered a sacred place for retreats, and we hope to create a unique experience with everyone.
 
Lena, who we met through Contact Improvisation, will be guiding you through this.
Below is a message from Lena.
 
"LIFE" is a word that spreads far and wide, and I feel it is like the great nature of Yakushima itself.
The charm of the island cannot be summed up in a single word, but what I especially feel is that the nature, food, and people I encounter on Yakushima have deepened my inner journey.
A sense of awakening, of the original species, of something that flows endlessly.
Something subtle but overwhelming.
I imagine these four days being a time of experiencing many such vibrations.
It is said that just visiting Yakushima brings about many realizations, and this time we are collaborating with the world of contact improvisation (CI) by Chico Katsube and Shoko Kashima, who explore the philosophy of the body and have a deep love for CI.
I think it will be a deep and extremely fun retreat.
 
This year, 2025, marks the 25th anniversary of CIco, making it a truly auspicious year!
We hope that this retreat can gently add a touch of class to this commemorative milestone.

And one more thing I want to convey --
Those who are wondering "What is contact improvisation?" are also welcome!
No dance experience is required.
I myself first came across it two years ago and was captivated by how interesting it was.
In fact, I would especially encourage first-time visitors to dive into this Yakushima x CI space!
CI... Like Yakushima, it's difficult to describe its appeal in a few words, but I feel that it has a "non-verbal" effect on communication and expression, and that this enriches our lives and daily lives.
If you feel something that draws you in, then that's it.
I look forward to meeting you on Yakushima.
 
[Recommended for the following people]
- Want to explore communication and expressiveness
- Want to experience resonance with nature with your body
- Want to dance with nature, dance a formless dance
- Are attracted to Yakushima
- Are interested in contact improvisation
- Want to hang out on Yakushima with Chico & Shoko
- "I don't know why, but I'm interested" - That was the reaction from my heart
 
[Participation fee]
108,000 yen
(Included: Lunch and dinner meals, local guide fee, workshop fee)
(Additional fees: transportation to Yakushima, accommodation fee (15,000 yen), hot springs, souvenirs, etc.)
 
[Meeting/Disbanding]
Meeting: October 2nd 12:00 Yakushima Airport
Disbanding: October 5th 13:00 Yakushima Airport
 
[Food]
Members who support you through food will provide you with gentle meals, mainly using island vegetables, that will relax your mind and body.
Tasting and feeling the food is also an important part of this retreat.
 
[Accommodation]
A rental house with a panoramic view of the ocean.
Enjoy a relaxing stay surrounded by nature in a sophisticated space.
 

[Notice]
There are only a limited number of seats on flights to Yakushima.
If you are determined to participate, please reserve your ticket as early as possible.