#Japan #Tokyo #Cultural Experience #Keio Plaza Hotel #Journey into Japan

Experience Japanese Culture through Art

Keio Plaza Hotel, located in the heart of Tokyo, is pleased to announce the upcoming 'Journey into Japan: A Workshop of Cultural Discovery,' a series of engaging cultural experience workshops scheduled from May to August 2026. These workshops aim to provide both domestic and international guests with an opportunity to explore Japan's rich artistic heritage in a convenient and welcoming environment.

With a high percentage of foreign guests, about 80-90%, the hotel recognizes the importance of enhancing the stay of its visitors by offering them unique cultural experiences. Since its inception in July 2025, this initiative has received positive feedback, with many participants expressing joy in being able to engage in these activities while staying at the hotel. Repeat attendance from past participants highlights the popularity and success of this program.

The workshops take place in the Art Lobby on the third floor of the hotel, a space designed to accommodate various cultural activities. Each month, attendees will have the chance to create their own artwork, themed around Japanese seasons and traditions. This initiative not only offers a creative outlet but also enables participants to take a piece of Japan's culture home with them.

Upcoming Workshop Schedule

May: Create a Kabuto with Paper Cutting

• - Date: May 22 & 23, 2026
• - Time: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• - Instructor: Rakusaburou Hayashiya
• - Fee: 1,000 yen (tax included)
• - Duration: Approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour
• - Capacity: 20 participants per day

Participants will learn the traditional Japanese art of paper cutting, creating a decorative kabuto (helmet) in honor of the Children's Day celebrated on May 5. This workshop connects not only with the craft but also with the deep-rooted customs associated with Japanese culture, fostering an atmosphere of gratitude and reverence for nature.

June: Make Your Own Tsuri Shinobu

• - Date: June 5 & 6, 2026
• - Time: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• - Instructor: Asako Torigata
• - Fee: 3,000 yen (tax included)
• - Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour
• - Capacity: 20 participants per day

This workshop invites participants to make their own tsuri shinobu, a traditional Japanese decoration used to evoke a sense of coolness during the hot summer months. The activity will incorporate both Western and Eastern artistic techniques, letting guests explore cross-cultural creativity.

July: Decorate a Wind Chime

• - Date: July 17 & 18, 2026
• - Time: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• - Instructor: Shinji Hatae from Hata-man Pottery
• - Fee: 2,000 yen (tax included)
• - Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour
• - Capacity: 10 participants per day

In this workshop, participants will paint their designs onto beautiful Imari porcelain wind chimes, exploring the sound of summer through this timeless art form. Wind chimes in Japan are steeped in tradition and are believed to ward off evil spirits, making this an enriching cultural experience.

August: Customize Your Own Chopsticks

• - Date: August 14 & 15, 2026
• - Time: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• - Instructor: Kaeko Tokita from Hyozoemon
• - Fee: 2,500 yen (tax included)
• - Duration: 1 hour
• - Capacity: 10 participants per day

Participants can create their personalized chopsticks, a staple of Japanese dining culture, while learning about their historical significance and cultural importance. This workshop emphasizes mindfulness and respect for traditional crafting techniques.

Cultural Significance

Japanese culture is deeply intertwined with natural elements and seasonal changes. These workshops offer a unique opportunity for participants to engage with this rich heritage, enabling them to not just learn but to create meaningful keepsakes that reflect their individual experiences. By fostering a connection to the arts, Keio Plaza Hotel ensures that every guest walks away with not just memories but also a deeper appreciation for Japan's artistic traditions.

The objective of these workshops is to bridge the gap between the art of today and the traditions of yesterday, promoting cultural exchange in the heart of Tokyo. Through hands-on experiences, participants can dive into the essence of Japanese culture, creating lasting memories that they will carry with them long after their departure.

About Keio Plaza Hotel

Founded in 1971, Keio Plaza Hotel is located in Shinjuku and serves as both a business and tourism hub. The hotel aims to create enriching experiences for travelers, ensuring that every visit is one filled with beauty and inspiration. For more information about the workshops and to plan your visit, contact the event department at 03-5322-8061 or visit Keio Plaza Hotel's website.