iForest | International Forest School - TOKYO
NATURE INSPIRED
PROCESS BASED
CURIOSITY DRIVEN
★★★★★
“My daughter had a fantastic time and I feel it was a real confidence boost for her”
Our Preschool Program
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Our full-time Forest School offers a one-of-a-kind, nature-based learning experience that aligns with an international school calendar. Throughout the year, children embark on exciting outdoor adventures 2-3 times a week, where they explore, discover, and connect with nature in meaningful ways. The entire school year is thoughtfully designed to follow the rhythm of the changing seasons, allowing children to fully immerse themselves in the wonders of the natural world. From scavenging for insects and foraging for wild fruits to building friendships and socializing in nature’s classroom, every moment is an opportunity for growth, discovery, and joy.
WHAT OUR PARENTS ARE SAYING
Shogen
Q: What values (if any) do you think this kind of education has to offer?
A: We strongly believe that learning based on curiosity is the one we would like our son to take. We think that inquisitive learning is student-centered learning and it is very meaningful to children and it makes them love learning.
A: We strongly believe that learning based on curiosity is the one we would like our son to take. We think that inquisitive learning is student-centered learning and it is very meaningful to children and it makes them love learning.
★★★★★
Tomoko (Sogen's Mom)
Lisa
Q: Did you feel involved and well-informed about your child's experiences? What instances can you think of that were informative or needed more work?
Everything fell within my expectations. The only thing that surprised me in a positive way was that three years old started using a knife.
Everything fell within my expectations. The only thing that surprised me in a positive way was that three years old started using a knife.
★★★★★
Shoichiro (Lisa's Dad)
Callie
Q: What were your thoughts on the overall vibe and atmosphere of iForest? Did it align with what you were expecting?
A:“100%. Absolutely the most wonderful experience I could give my children. It was exactly what I had hoped for. I love that they truly go into the wilderness rather than just spending outdoor time at a playground. They have so much time and space to dig into their curiosity, and freedom to find their own path and itinerary throughout the day. What a gift.“
A:“100%. Absolutely the most wonderful experience I could give my children. It was exactly what I had hoped for. I love that they truly go into the wilderness rather than just spending outdoor time at a playground. They have so much time and space to dig into their curiosity, and freedom to find their own path and itinerary throughout the day. What a gift.“
★★★★★
Sunny (Callie’s Mom)
Eito
Q: What values (if any) do you think this kind of education has to offer?
A: There is a lot we can learn from nature which is limited when one learns only in an indoor environment. In order to preserve the delicate ecosystem, it’s crucial to start young to be respectful of nature and its surroundings. A small impact leads to ripples of aftermath, no matter how small or insignificant we think that small action may be.
A: There is a lot we can learn from nature which is limited when one learns only in an indoor environment. In order to preserve the delicate ecosystem, it’s crucial to start young to be respectful of nature and its surroundings. A small impact leads to ripples of aftermath, no matter how small or insignificant we think that small action may be.
★★★★★
Ruri (Eito's Mom)
Kei
“Spring Forest School was the best experience. Everyone enjoyed rainy and windy days. He said that he was able to climb high! He loved marshmallows and traveling by a big bus.”
★★★★★
Aya (Kei’s Mom)
Riku
“I saw him smile most when encountering something new and interesting. Also I think he was proud of himself when he could climb up and down places by himself.”
★★★★★
Garth (Riku’s Dad)
Noah
“When I asked her what she enjoyed most she simply said, “All of it.” She had a fantastic time and I feel it was a real confidence boost for her.
★★★★★
Zara (Noah’s Mom)
Our Retreat Program
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
We know how important it is for kids to connect with nature and the busy lifestyle of the concrete jungle. Let the children feel the earth beneath their feet and the wind in their hair. That’s why we’ve created a space where little ones can truly immerse themselves in the wonders of the forest. iForest principles are about fostering a deep, holistic relationship with the natural world. From muddy puddles to bird songs, every moment is an opportunity for discovery and growth. iForest retreat is based on our Preschool program, a place where children can learn, explore, and connect with nature in a meaningful way.
Program Details
- AGE
- DAYS
- DURATION
- PRICE
Requirements
- Must be potty trained
- Must be able to carry their own backpack for at least 15 mins (With lunch and water bottle)
- Able to sit in a van for an hour
- Have a party of 4-5 children
- Contact us via info@iforestschool.com at least a month in advance to check for availability before booking online
Our Retreat+ Program
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Through the Retreat+ program, participants engage in experiential learning that blends outdoor skills with personal growth. Activities may include navigation, fire-building, outdoor cooking, basic wilderness first aid and safety awareness, and team-based challenges that develop communication and leadership.
These are just some examples. Each program is adaptable based on the group, environment, and goals, with a focus on creating meaningful experiences that help children grow, take initiative, and develop a lasting connection with the natural world.
These are just some examples. Each program is adaptable based on the group, environment, and goals, with a focus on creating meaningful experiences that help children grow, take initiative, and develop a lasting connection with the natural world.
Program Details
- AGE
- DAYS
- DURATION
- PRICE
Requirements
- Able to stay active outdoors for a full day (2–4 hours of walking/hiking with breaks)
- Able to carry their own daypack (water, lunch, layers)
- Able to sit in a van for an hour
- Have a party of 4-5 children
- Contact us via info@iforestschool.com at least a month in advance to check for availability before booking online
- Any allergies, medical conditions, or medications must be shared in advance.
artForest
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
100% outdoors, rain or shine
artForest invites children to explore creativity through the changing seasons, using natural materials found around them while being surrounded and inspired by nature.
Full term bookings and once off sessions available.
*Full term bookings are already priced at a discount. Materials cost are already included
Program Details
- AGE
- DAYSSept 27, Oct 11, Oct 25, Nov 8, Nov 22, Dec 6
- HOURS
- MAX
- PRICEOnce-off ¥9,000
Three sessions ¥24,000
Full term(6 sessions) ¥43,000 - LOCATION(2 min walk from JR Sangubashi Station)
- PICK UP AND DROP OFF
Requirements
- Must be potty trained
- Must be able to follow instructions and stay with the group
- Must notify us if your child needs special assistance)
iForest Pursuits Program
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
A hands-on wilderness program for kids ready to go deeper. Students help plan the session themselves — hiking and navigation, bushcraft, campfire skills, outdoor cooking, wilderness awareness — shaped by their own interests, the weather, and the landscape. Groups of just 4–5 work directly with experienced guides, building real competence, decision-making, and confidence outdoors.
Who This Program Is For
This program is ideal for children who:
- Enjoy spending time outdoors and are curious about nature
- Are comfortable staying active for a full day, including 2–4 hours of hiking and walking with regular breaks
- Can carry their own daypack containing water, lunch, rain gear, and extra layers
- Are comfortable riding in a vehicle for up to one hour each way
- Are interested in learning practical outdoor skills such as navigation, campfire skills, camp cooking, shelter building, and wilderness awareness
- Can follow safety instructions, respect nature, and work well as part of a small team
- Are excited to challenge themselves, try new experiences, and build confidence through outdoor adventure
Program Details
- AGE
- DAYSSept 12, Oct 17, Nov 14, Dec 12
- DURATION
- PRICE-Full Term: ¥60,000 (4 sessions, ¥15,000/session)
-Half Term: ¥35,000 (2 sessions)
-Drop-in: ¥18,800/session - Pick up Location: Inside Shin-yurigaoka Station, next to the lost and found
- LocationTanzawa Area
-Sagamiko / Shiroyama / Miyagase Areas
-Okutama (potential — about a 1.5 hour drive, further than -other sites)
Requirements
Please let families know in advance to report any allergies, medical conditions, dietary restrictions, or medication needs for their child.
YOKOSUKA Program
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Our twice-weekly forest school gives children the space to explore nature, build independence, and learn through play — in English, with Japanese support.
Sessions are built around experiential learning: exploration, storytelling, and hands-on activities that grow critical thinking, creativity, and social skills. Children engage with the local flora and fauna through teamwork, and every session is designed to spark curiosity and a love for the outdoors.
Our educators create a safe, welcoming environment where each child's unique talents are celebrated. Join us and inspire a lifelong passion for learning and nature.
FAQ
Q. Can we join partway through the term?
Yes. Families joining mid-term can choose whichever tier suits them — Full Term, Half Term, or Single Day.
Q. Can we try one session first?
Yes. Single Day sessions are ¥15,000, the same as our trial rate, subject to availability.
Q. What happens in bad weather?
We run in most weather conditions. Sessions may be modified or cancelled if safety concerns arise; if a session is cancelled for weather or safety, a credit may be issued toward a future iForest program.
Q. Is my child insured?
Yes — all registered participants are covered by group accident insurance during official program hours.
Q. What if we need to cancel?
Refunds are based on the date we receive written cancellation notice:
- 45 days or more before the term: full refund
- 44–30 days before the term: 50% refund
- 29 days or fewer before the term: no refund
Missed sessions are not refundable. Full iForest Terms & Conditions: iforestschool.com/terms-and-conditions
Payment is by bank transfer and must be completed within 7 days of booking
Program Details
- AGE
- LANGUAGEEnglish (Japanese support available)
- DAYS(two sessions per week)
- HOURS
- MAX
- PRICEFull Term ¥324,000(27)
Half Term ¥182,000(13)
Single Day ¥15,000
Families can join partway through the term and choose any of the three tiers. - PICK UP AND DROP OFF
WHAT TO BRING
- Weather-appropriate outdoor clothing and rain gear
- A full set of change of clothes
- Lunch and water bottle
- Backpack the child can carry themselves
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be potty trained
- Able to carry their own backpack
- Able to follow instructions and stay with the group
- Any allergies, medical conditions, or medications shared in advance
Contact Form
* Required fields
Meet The Tribe
Kai Chang
Founder
At iForest, nature is the classroom—and the greatest teacher. We protect childhood by giving children the freedom to play, explore, take age-appropriate risks, and develop at their own pace. Through early, meaningful relationships with nature, children develop a deep sense of belonging—and grow into adults who care for and protect the world they love.
In today’s world, children are being pushed to become “school ready” before they are developmentally ready. Academics are introduced earlier and earlier, often at the cost of movement, play, and exploration. Yet early childhood is the only time in life when children are meant to simply be children.
Children learn best when they feel safe, have time, and are free to move their bodies. Running, climbing, jumping, and taking manageable risks are not distractions from learning, which are essential to healthy physical, emotional, and social development. Inside traditional classrooms, these experiences are often limited.
Nature offers what classrooms cannot. In natural environments, children move freely, test their abilities, solve real problems, and learn through direct experience. Uneven ground builds balance. Weather builds resilience. Open space invites curiosity, confidence, and creativity. Learning becomes active, meaningful, and deeply engaging.
CERTIFICATION & EXPERIENCE
- WFA (Wilderness First Aid) certified through Wilderness Medical Associates International
- Japan, JBS (Japan Bushcraft School) certified advisor
- Board member at NPO Harmony International School, Fujisawa,
- Masters in Early Childhood & Family Development from Missouri State University.
- Japan, JBS (Japan Bushcraft School) certified advisor
- Board member at NPO Harmony International School, Fujisawa,
- Masters in Early Childhood & Family Development from Missouri State University.
Hisami Muramatsu
Head Facilitator
I have worked with children for over 20 years, they have always helped me with my interpersonal growth. In my time working in Tokyo international schools, I have always been interested in education in nature, which I could not experience in an urban school life. Born and raised in the countryside of Shizuoka, I have first hand experience that there is so much to learn being surrounded by nature. The ability to notice, feel, and enjoy it is a very important part of early childhood education.
The time spent using all five senses, interacting with the earth, the sun, the sea, rivers, plants, and animals, thinking and acting for oneself, and deepening the experience will become an irreplaceable asset. The ability to act on one’s own interests and thoughts, rather than just following instructions given to them, is essential for development.
My goal is to provide an environment that allows children to develop their sensitivity, adventurous spirit, and sense of interest, which grow dramatically during their early childhood years. Not only children, but adults as well need to be thrilled and excited.
Let’s play with the earth together in our forest playground with unlimited possibilities.
CERTIFICATION & EXPERIENCE
- Sivananda Yoga Instructor
- Hoikushi License
- Aroma Kentei Level 1
- Relaxation Masseuse
- WFA (Wilderness First Aid) certified through Wilderness Medical Associates International
- Hoikushi License
- Aroma Kentei Level 1
- Relaxation Masseuse
- WFA (Wilderness First Aid) certified through Wilderness Medical Associates International
Samantha Leahy
artForest Facilitator
Hi, I'm Samantha. I am an educator and freelance artist with a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education. I have worked as an educator in both Australia and Japan, in preschool settings as well as nature education programs, including outdoor and camp-based experiences.
ArtForest combines nature education and outdoor exploration with open-ended art projects. This course focuses on creating opportunities for children to freely explore materials, respond to their natural surroundings, and approach art in an open and flexible way. Using natural and found materials encourages creativity and experimentation, while also allowing children to learn about nature through the process of making and creating.
Alongside my work as an educator, I studied picture book art at Vantan Design Institute in Japan and continue to work as an illustrator and artist. I create artwork in a variety of mediums, including watercolour, pastel, and digital illustration. I work as a freelance artist in Japan and also sell my work through international companies, such as poster and T-shirt companies. If you're interested in seeing some of my projects, feel free to click the link below.
BonsaiGirl
CERTIFICATION & EXPERIENCE
- Illustration & Picture Book Artist Course (イラストと絵本作家コース), Vantan Design Institute, Japan
- Bachelor of Early Childhood Education, University of South Australia
- Lead Teacher, Hyde Park Nursery School, Australia
- Educator, Nature Education and Summer Camp Programs, Nagano, Japan
- After-School Program Lead, St. Maur International School, Japan
- Freelance illustrator and artist, Japan.
- Bachelor of Early Childhood Education, University of South Australia
- Lead Teacher, Hyde Park Nursery School, Australia
- Educator, Nature Education and Summer Camp Programs, Nagano, Japan
- After-School Program Lead, St. Maur International School, Japan
- Freelance illustrator and artist, Japan.
Aaron Cronkright
Facilitator
"Hi, I'm Aaron, originally from a small town in Michigan, I have called Japan home since 2008, where I’ve spent years exploring its mountains and natural landscapes. As an avid hiker, rock climber, and snowboarder, my passion for the outdoors has shaped both my personal and professional paths.
I am the founder of Peak Pursuits Japan, where I design and lead outdoor experiences that inspire people to connect with nature, challenge themselves, and build confidence. I believe the outdoors offers powerful opportunities for growth and strive to help individuals become their best, healthiest selves through meaningful, engaging experiences. Alongside my work in the outdoors, I am a certified K-12 educator specializing in ESOL. My background allows me to create structured, supportive environments where children develop curiosity, resilience, and responsibility through hands-on learning in nature. Through leading summer camps and outdoor programs, I enjoy blending education with adventure to create memorable, impactful learning experiences.
I believe children gain far more than just outdoor skills through nature-based education. They
build confidence, independence, and a deeper awareness of themselves and their environment.
Time outdoors naturally encourages curiosity, problem-solving, and teamwork in ways that are
difficult to replicate in a traditional classroom.
CERTIFICATION & EXPERIENCE
- Wilderness First Responder (WFR)
- Wildlife Advanced First Aid (WAFA)
- Avalanche Safety Training 1 (AST1)"
- Certified K-12 professional educator specializing in ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages)"
- Wildlife Advanced First Aid (WAFA)
- Avalanche Safety Training 1 (AST1)"
- Certified K-12 professional educator specializing in ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages)"
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