FIRST
SUMMER
The Bees are busy
MAY 11-15, 2026
Songbirds sing from dawn to dusk and the bees are so very busy.
Bountiful sun sends the flora into overdrive. Wild edible flowers and berries burst forth, and the garden offers green peas, fava beans, and other treasures of early summer. We’ll gather potent shoots and vibrant leaves for a masterclass on medicinal cordials and tinctures. And for a seasonal specialty, we’ll grill barracuda wrapped in giant houba magnolia leaves.
first summer
Session Lookbook
There is an urgency to May as we shift out of spring and into early summer. Bees collide with moths and butterflies, all out to feast on the plethora of pollen.
Join Us
We’ll begin in the Mirukashi kitchen with a few fundamentals of Japanese cuisine. Then we’ll head out to gather a wild harvest of herbs, flowers, and leaves. Back in the kithcen, we’ll prepare a lunch that celebrates the bright, abundant flavors of first summer.
Foraging & Cooking
day 1
day 2 Morning
Today brings two special masterclasses with herbalist Miho-san. First, we’ll walk the land and learn about the medicinal properties of local flora. With wild harvest in hand, we’ll return to extract each plant’s essence into seasonal cordials — flavored with the terroir of Mirukashi.
Wildcrafting
DAy 3 Morning
Atelier Visit
Day 2 afternoon
come to mirukashi
Make your way to Karatsu, nestled in the northwest corner of Kyushu—just over an hour by train from Fukuoka’s airport or shinkansen station. We’ll gather at the Mirukashi Salon, perched on a quiet hilltop, and begin with a lively welcome dinner full of fresh, seasonal flavor.
Getting Here
The shape of our days
We’ll visit Hanako in her studio, where she’ll share her philosophy of form, function, and the quiet poetry of everyday objects. Watch as she brings vessels to life with her signature throwing techniques. Together, we’ll create a piece for you to bring home — a tactile memory of Mirukashi.
The salon becomes an apothecary as Miho-san guides us in crafting natural remedies. From toners to insect repellents, we’ll craft small luxuries born of the land. Each time you mist your skin, you’ll be transported back to Mirukashi, where nature’s magic became part of your daily ritual.
Back in the Mirukashi kitchen, to the soundtrack of birdsong, you’ll learn to make the perfect pot of rice, mix in fragrant pickled red shiso, shape warm onigiri by hand, and compose a simple picnic spread of seasonal sides and sweets.
Healing Tinctures
In the Kitchen
day 3 Afternoon
day 4 Morning
DAy 5
We’ll take our feast to the shore for a summer lunch by the sea. There’ll be matcha and sweets served in the open air, and if the ocean calls, why not jump in for a first summer swim? Afterward, you’ll return to your hotel to freshen up before our farewell dinner in Mirukashi.
By the Sea
Day 4 Afternoon
Carrying it Home
Wake up to one last seaside sunrise. Today you leave not just with memories, but with new eyes — a new rhythm, a new way of meeting life. Because the real souvenir isn’t something you pack — it’s the quiet shift within you that lingers, long after you’ve left.
Seaside Hotel
Where You'll Stay
Let the waves lull you to sleep each night in this 4-star oceanside sanctuary. Watch the sunrise from your room, stroll the shoreline beside a forest of ancient pines, or unwind in the onsen, sauna, or rooftop thermal pool. This is your place to rest, reflect, and feel restored.
When You Say Yes
Salon sessions are $3,550 USD per person. To reserve your place, a non-refundable deposit of $1,800 is required. The balance is due 60 days before your session begins.
The Details
Four nights of quiet comfort in a private room, all meals and drinks lovingly prepared, and transportation during the salon experience. (Travel to and from Karatsu is not included.)
What's included
Plans shift. If you need to reschedule, I understand. While deposits are non-refundable, with at least 60 days’ notice, I’ll gladly apply your deposit to a future salon session.
Life Happens
Small gatherings. Lasting impressions.
Join Us.
With just 7 seats per session, space is limited by design — for a deeply personal experience.
If this speaks to you, I invite you to reserve your place.
Request to join
