Featured Events in Kyoto in January, 2025 (May Updated)

The first large-scale exhibition outside China since the site was designated a World Heritage Site 44 first-class cultural relics and approximately 200 other pieces from 27 museums in China will be on display The Silk Road, which connects the East and the West, is an important trade route that crosses the Eurasian continent. Since ancient times, many people and goods have traveled along it, and diverse cultures have flourished at its key points. This exhibition will introduce Silk Road treasures discovered in Luoyang, Xi'an, Lanzhou, Dunhuang, and Xinjiang regions of China. Enjoy its eternal history through approximately 200 pieces, some of which will be on display in Japan for the first time.

The first large-scale exhibition outside China since the country was designated a World Heritage Site Including 44 first-class cultural relics, approximately 200 pieces from 27 museums in China will be on display. The Silk Road, which connects the East and the West, is an important trade route that crosses the Eurasian continent. Since ancient times, many people and goods have traveled along it, and diverse cultures have flourished at its key points. This exhibition will introduce Silk Road treasures discovered in Luoyang, Xi'an, Lanzhou, Dunhuang, and Xinjiang regions of China. Enjoy its eternal history through approximately 200 pieces, some of which will be on display in Japan for the first time.

Kuroda Tatsuaki, who was active in Kyoto, is one of Japan's leading wood lacquer craftsmen, and in 1970 he was the first person in the field of woodworking to be designated a holder of an Important Intangible Cultural Property (Living National Treasure). Questioning the division of labor that was common at the time, Kuroda created his works in a consistent manner, from designing and creating the base to decorating them, and opened up a unique creative world by integrating practicality, decorativeness, and the characteristics of the materials. This exhibition is being held to commemorate the 120th anniversary of Kuroda's birth, and will introduce the life of this artist who left a clear mark on the history of Japanese crafts through his representative works from his early period to his later years.

"Golden Demon" 1932 Shochiku Kamata production (silent, black and white, 119 minutes) / Director: Nomura Yoshitei / Cast: Hayashi Chojiro, Tanaka Kinuyo, Yakumo Emiko

The museum currently houses approximately 4,200 works of modern and contemporary Kyoto art (Japanese paintings, Western paintings, sculptures, prints, crafts, and calligraphy). In addition to the masterpieces of Japanese and Western paintings that were famous throughout the country during the Meiji to Showa periods (late 19th and early 20th centuries), there are also new collections that have recently been added to the collection, including the ZERO collection, which includes works by world-renowned printmakers, and award-winning works from the VOCA exhibition, which has witnessed the transformation of contemporary art in two-dimensional forms over the past 30 years. In the collection room, in addition to introducing works by popular Kyoto masters such as Takeuchi Seiho, Uemura Shōen, and Kijima Sakuratani, visitors can also experience the charm of modern and contemporary art based on Kyoto through special themed exhibitions.

Born in 1997, Morikai Sakamoto is a contemporary artist who works primarily in ceramics. Wherever he goes, Sakamoto digs the soil, learns about the local history and geological formations, and fires his works in an earthen kiln he built himself. By doing all the processes himself, Sakamoto can play with the contingency of the fired objects. Sakamoto is interested in dialogue with clay, the uncontrollable performance of the firing process, and exploring the essential relationship between objects and the world by holding the fired objects in his hands or putting them to his mouth to communicate. During the exhibition, in addition to an exhibition consisting of videos, photos, and pottery, participatory workshops and performances using clay and pottery will be held, aiming to create opportunities for viewers to think deeply about the environment and themselves.

Japanese Instrument Koto class @ the heart of Kyoto Come join us for a unique experience in the beautiful city of Kyoto! Our koto class will take place at the charming Gojo Paradiso 五条パラディソ, where you'll learn how to play Japanese instrument koto from a skilled instructor. Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Kyoto while playing this traditional art form. Don’t worry if you’ve never played a musical instrument before, this workshop is beginner-friendly, and our instructor will provide guidance to help you master the song. Don’t miss out on the chance to create lasting memories and connect with Japan’s musical heritage in a fun, interactive setting! Please make a reservation by the day before. Information Source: Gojo Paradiso - Kyoto | eventbrite

Let's make an extra memory in Japan! Learn the traditional Japanese art of Ikebana in an engaging, hands-on class taught in English. Please express yourself in a tiny vase. An experienced Japanese Ikebana Master, Hanako, brings out your creativity in order for you to enjoy expressing yourself :) You will learn... A basic style arrangement, Rising Form, of Ohara School of Ikebana, one of the three major Ikebana schools in Japan.Some of the Japanese etiquette associated with the art of doing IkebanaWhat you'll get... All materials provided, including fresh flowers, a vase, Kenzan, scissors, and a comprehensive textbook.The Japanese vase that you used during the class will be a great souovenir!!Enjoy light refreshments in a beautiful gallery settingFeedback via WhatsApp or Email is complimentaryAnother benefit... Find yourself in a tiny container.Immerse yourself in the tranquillity in a Machiya style guest house.Positive energy along with the beautiful arrangement you have made.Bring back an unforgettable experience to homeWhat to bring... A big smile :)Suitable for... Beginners and Kids friendly!(An adult must accompany any attending kids. The adult may observe at the class for free)Location... Soi Guest House is located in Gojo-zaka near Kiyomizu TempleOthers... This would be a nice gift for your beloved one♥https://www.instagram.com/hanaikebito Information Source: hanaikebito | eventbrite