Experience the Ultimate Dining Event Celebrating Japanese Craftsmanship at Ninna-ji Temple

A Culinary Journey Celebrating Japanese Craftsmanship

On November 8, 2025, Suntory held an extraordinary event dubbed "ARTISTIC JAPAN by MASTER'S DREAM" at the historic Ninna-ji Temple in Kyoto. Known for its 1,137-year history and recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this event aimed to immerse 20 guests in a realm of gastronomy where tradition meets innovation. Featuring exquisite cuisine paired with the refined flavors of "The Premium Malts Master's Dream" beer, this unique dining experience focused on the essence of Japanese craftsmanship rather than mere efficiency.

The Venue: Ninna-ji Temple

Ninna-ji Temple, founded in 888, offered a serene atmosphere, perfect for this exclusive dinner event. Guests were treated to a special private viewing of the temple’s iconic Amida Nyorai statue, followed by an enchanting experience of Gagaku, traditional Japanese court music, performed in the Shin-den hall. A highlight was the spectacular cloud sea light display, creating a breathtaking ambiance against the backdrop of autumn foliage.

Gastronomic Delights by Chef Kenji Nagashima

The culinary mastermind behind the dinner, Chef Kenji Nagashima, who has honed his skills at the world-famous El Bulli in Spain, designed a course that underscored the theme of “tradition and innovation.” Diners embarked on their journey with a delicate starter featuring tofu sauce accompanied by smoked mackerel wrapped in Nozawana pickles. This was followed by Chef Nagashima’s signature reinterpretation of carbonara, where a soft-boiled egg is injected with truffle essence, showcasing a devotion to flavor.

As the evening unfolded, guests savored a beautifully plated dish featuring grouper topped with clams and leafy greens. Notably, an exclusive preview of the new beer release, "The Premium Malts Master's Dream ," created an exhilarating ASMR experience as they sipped the harmonious blend of rich aromas, sweetness, and bitterness.

Attention to Detail

The latter half of the meal showcased squid ink ravioli adorned with snow crab and a main course featuring Ezo deer accompanied by seasonal vegetables, enthralling diners with its robust flavors. A sinfully delicious fig dessert, carefully paired with kinako flour and fig-flavored anglaise sauce, marked the culinary finale.

The atmosphere was further enhanced with artfully curated lighting and original music, creating an immersive experience that appealed to all five senses. Chef Nagashima expressed his delight in being part of this unique experience with the guests and the collaborative spirit between Ninna-ji Temple, Suntory, and restaurant 81, which he founded.

Looking Ahead

"ARTISTIC JAPAN by MASTER'S DREAM" celebrates the unwavering commitment to Japanese craftsmanship while following the philosophy of "tradition and innovation." The event series continues to attract attention as it reflects the intricate balance between time-honored methods and modern creativity in the culinary world. Future events are in the works, with plans underway for the upcoming fourth installment in Niseko, scheduled for March 2026.

For those who wish to engage in the next thrilling culinary adventure, Suntory invites you to participate in a campaign where you can enter for a chance to win an exclusive invitation. The Premium Malts Master’s Dream is more than just a drink; it represents the dreams and aspirations of its brewers, using innovative techniques grounded in centuries-old traditions. Don't miss your opportunity to experience the harmonious blend of flavors in Japan's finest beer.

For more details, visit the official campaign page here.

About the Creator: Kenji Nagashima

Kenji Nagashima, founder and creative director of the experience-based restaurant "81," operates between Tokyo and Niseko. Firmly believing in the motto “More than a restaurant,” he melds culinary artistry with music, visuals, and physicality to create multidimensional dining experiences that captivate guests worldwide. With a commitment to intertwining Japan's aesthetic sensibilities with diverse culinary traditions, he continues to craft unique experiences that go beyond mere dining.