miracles await…

I’m looking forward to welcoming you in Japan and helping you immerse yourself in this very special creative writing retreat

the dining space at Matogata House

generosity

From your first cup of green tea on arrival until our goodbye breakfast on the last day, everything is included.
You will be served delicious home-cooked vegetarian fare at our horigotatsu, apart from a couple of meals out at a local restaurant or izakaya. If you need anything else, there are two convenience stores a short stroll from the house.

the main living space at Matogata House

spaciousness

The house is big, so there are many different places you can choose to write and meditate. Some have a view of the temple, some have a view of the mountain or look into the garden. When we come together to share our work or for workshops, depending on the weather we will gather in the kitchen, the outside dining space or in the main living room.

a bedroom at Matogata House

comfort

Whether it’s in an upstairs or downstairs room, your bed will be a thick cotton futon, laid on the tatami-matted floor. The rooms have either a fan or an a/c unit but are not en suite, rather we take turns to soak in the Japanese hot tub each evening, which has to be one of the most relaxing ways to wind down before bed.

Colorful collection of pink, white, and red flower petals arranged in a circular pattern on a stone surface.

Early bird price
£1600

until midnight
on 24 Dec 2025

Apply now

P.S.

If you would like us to take care of all your travel arrangements too, including flights, transfers and hotels before and after the retreat, we work in partnership with Jazventures, a registered UK Travel Agent who is ABTA and ATOL protected.