Hoshinoya Kyoto, a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) in Arashiyama, Kyoto, is hosting "Adults' Independent Study," a lodging program designed to cultivate sensibilities while learning about Kyoto's traditional culture, until August 24th, 2026 (Monday). Guests can enjoy cultural experiences that satisfy adult intellectual curiosity, such as lectures that delve into seasonal customs that have continued since the Heian period and the essence of tradition.
From August 15th (Saturday) to 19th (Wednesday), a "Tanabata Experience" will be held where participants can write their wishes on mulberry leaves. Following the custom of Heian-era aristocrats who wrote their wishes on mulberry leaves, participants will use mulberry leaves instead of strips of paper. The experience of writing down your thoughts and floating them down the river is sure to be an opportunity to reflect on yourself amidst your busy daily life.
The "Dawn Lecture in Oku-Arashiyama" will be held in the "Oku-no-niwa" (inner garden) where the early morning sun shines in.
In August, following the example of the "Gyoten Lectures" held at temples in the early morning, the "Gyoten Lectures of Oku-Arashiyama" will be held, featuring lecturers such as a master of ikebana (flower arrangement), an expert on incense wood, and a gardener. This will be an opportunity to deepen one's knowledge by learning about the history and aesthetic sensibilities behind the traditions.
The year-round "Ikebana Lessons from a Kyoto Grand Master" is taught by Takafumi Sasaoka, the headmaster of the Misho-ryu school. The price is ¥145,200 for 2 people, ¥174,240 for 3 people, and ¥203,280 for 4 people (tax and 10% service charge included).*Some dates may be excluded.
The year-round "Morning Service" can be experienced at Zuihoin Temple in Daitoku-ji. 15,427 yen per person (tax and 10% service charge included) *Some blackout dates may apply.
In addition, Hoshinoya Kyoto offers year-round traditional culture experience programs. These programs, such as "incense appreciation," "flower arrangement lessons from a Kyoto school master," and "morning services at Zuihoin Temple in Daitoku-ji," provide guests with enriching learning experiences that are difficult to obtain in everyday life.
A journey to experience Kyoto's culture and aesthetic sensibilities in a way you wouldn't encounter by simply visiting tourist spots. Enjoy a sophisticated learning experience in a tranquil "private residence by the water."
【event date】
"Tanabata Experience" July 4th-7th, 2026, August 15th-19th
"Dawn Lectures in Oku-Arashiyama" August 3rd, 10th, 17th, and 24th, 2026
[Fee] Free
[Reservations] Some events require advance reservations via the official website.
*Outdoor events may be subject to change or cancellation depending on the weather.
[Dawn Lecture Schedule]
August 3rd: Yohei Yamada, President of Yamada Matsukohki Store, presents "Japanese Fragrances, History, and Spirit - Connecting to the Present."
August 10th, Mr. Tomonori Kato, President of Ueyama Kato Landscape Architecture: "Summer in Kyoto and Cooling Off in the Garden"
August 17th: Mr. Takafumi Sasaoka, headmaster of the Misho-ryu Sasaoka school, presents "Ikebana and Yin-Yang and the Five Elements."
August 24th: Yoshikazu and Yuiko Yoshimura, Presidents of Kameya Yoshinaga, present "Cooling off with summer sweets."
*The event details may be subject to change.
