Guided Search: Japanese, Visitors

Join the Japan- America Society of Greater Philadelphia (JASGP) for a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at Shofuso this July 17th! Members of Urasenke Philadelphia will demonstrate a tea ceremony, and then provide guests with a bowl of matcha (green tea) and a wagashi (Japanese traditional seasonal sweet).

Join Taiko instructor Mac Evans for a repertoire-learning workshop Sunday, July 9th at Philadelphia’s West Fairmount Park. This is a great opportunity to learn more about Japanese culture in Philadelphia and experience the beauty of the Shofuso’s historic 17th century architecture.

The Human Bullet, 1968 Written and directed by Okamoto Kihachi This satirical look at the absurd side of World War II deals with the topic of human torpedoes and suicide missions. The unnamed protagonist is assigned to destroy an American battleship at the cost of his own life.

What better way to “spring” into cherry blossom season than with a run (or walk) beneath the trees? Take in great views of Memorial Hall and Shofuso as you run through Fairmount Park’s historic Centennial District on 10K and 5K courses. All participants receive a free admission to Shofuso. Registration opens 6:30 AM, race starts at 7:30 AM.

RUN OF SHOW

6:30 AM – Registration opens
7:30 AM – Race begins
8:30 AM – Medal ceremony
9:30 AM – Race ends

The koto holds a special place in Japanese music. As the national instrument, the harp-like koto features heavily in traditional music and has even carved out a place in modern J-pop. In this workshop, participants will build their own personalized traveler version of the koto. Instructor Paul Butler leads the workshop and will also show you the basics of playing.

Celebrate the growth and well-being of your children in the traditional ritual of Shichi-go-san! This beautiful ceremony, open to 3 and 7 year-old girls and 5 year-old boys, is an opportunity to get photos of your child in traditional kimono against Shofuso’s backdrop by Rev. Kuniko Kanawa, a trained photographer, Shinto priestess, and expert kimono stylist. Photo session is $490 ($470 JASGP members) and includes professional kimono dressing with themed props.

Space is limited, and registration closes November 6 at 3 PM. Please note that there are no refunds for cancellations after this date, and there will be no refunds for missed appointments.

Available photo session times for Saturday, November 10: 12:30 – 1:30 PM, 1:30 – 2:30 PM, 2:30 – 3:30 PM, and 3:30 – 4:30 PM

Celebrate the growth and well-being of your children in the traditional ritual of Shichi-go-san! This beautiful ceremony, open to 3 and 7 year-old girls and 5 year-old boys, is an opportunity to get photos of your child in traditional kimono against Shofuso’s backdrop by Rev. Kuniko Kanawa, a trained photographer, Shinto priestess, and expert kimono stylist. Photo session is $490 ($470 JASGP members) and includes professional kimono dressing with themed props. An additional Shinto ritual, in which Rev. Kanawa will humbly appreciate and pray to kami (deities) for your child, including the offering of an evergreen tamagushi branch, is available for an additional $50.

Space is limited, and registration closes November 6 at 3 PM. Please note that there are no refunds for cancellations after this date, and there will be no refunds for missed appointments.

Available photo session times for Sunday, November 11: 10:30 – 12:30 PM, 12:30 – 1:30 PM, 2:00 – 3:30 PM, 3:30 – 4:30 PM