It makes you realize you need very little. The illage, located 15 miles from Hilo, has only about 12 families. Akiko is the first person to buy there in 35 years. She says she wants guests to feel comfortable and at peace, and it's hard to imagine anyone feeling otherwise. The atmosphere is casual and friendly.
Soft breezes are everywhere.
Rooms are surrounded by forest and fruit trees and rock gardens. Guest rooms with futons surround a sparsely-furnished meditation room with a temple bell in the corner. It's optional, and meditation instruction is offered if desired. And a separate retreat studio with a small kitchen rents by the month. One woman from Vancouver regularly stays in the studio for a month at a time.