New
Rice
THE SACRED CROP
October 20-24, 2025
Rice speaks to the Japanese soul as both a sacred crop and the ultimate comfort food.
At the Japanese table, there is nothing more celebrated or divine than a pristine bowl of pure white shinmai, freshly harveted rice. We'll revel in this simple and perfect grain as we explore the flavors of fall including mackerel and green citrus. We'll also travel to Itoshima and learn all about the art, science, and craft of brewing soy, one of Japan's essential seasonings.
RICE HARVEST
Session Lookbook
It is the season of shinmai new rice, and ginnan gingko nuts. All kinds of mackerel are delicious in autumn and pair well with refreshing green citrus.
book now
Make your way to Karatsu, in the Northwest corner of Kyushu, a little over an hour by train from the Fukuoka airport or shinkansen station. Join us at the Mirukashi salon high on a hilltop in the heart of Japan’s countryside for a lively welcome dinner full of fresh seasonal flavors.
We'll enjoy a morning masterclass on musubi, also known as onigiri, with a local chef who is passionate about these soulful bundles of rice. We'll learn how to properly cook rice and then fashion the perfect triangular shape of Japan's infamous hand pressed rice balls.
Travel & Welcome
Musubi Masterclass
day 1
day 2 Morning
We'll start the day with a multi-course tofu-focused brunch at a 250 year old renowned establishment. We'll then enjoy a masterclass on shimekazari rice straw talismans hung to usher good luck in with the New Year. We'll twist and braid sacred ropes and make our own amulets.
Shimekazari
DAy 3 Morning
We'll join Hanako in her pottery studio and learn about the art and craft of Japanese tableware. Then we'll head into town to visit the local shrine and a few shops before enjoying dinner at a beloved classy yet casual restaurant featuring female-forward food, craft, and design.
Atelier Visit
Day 2 afternoon
How We'll Spend Our Time
come to mirukashi
We'll travel to Itoshima and meet an innovative young brewer with a singular vision who honors tradition and innovation in making umami rich soy from locally grown soybeans. Back in Karatsu we'll enjoy a private dinner at an intimate restaurant helmed by our master onigiri teacher.
We'll gather in Mirukashi for a second cooking session and learn to make kashiwameshi, an heriloom family recipe. With our newly honed skills, we'll make musubi to pack for a picnic. We'll also fashion some simple wagashi, Japanese confections to enjoy after lunch.
Soy Brewery
Kashiwameshi
day 3 Afternoon
day 4 Morning
Pack your swag and enjoy one last morning at your hotel by the sea before you hug your new best friends goodbye. You are now an honored member of the Mirukashi Collective, a group of culturally curious gastronomes who have formed lasting bonds while spending time in Mirukashi.
Hugs & Goodbyes
DAy 5
We''ll pack our lunch for a picnic and head out to eat by the sea. After lunch and tea, you'll have a chance to freshen up at your hotel before gathering again to sear Spanish mackrel over the fragrant flames of burning wara (rice straw) as part of our final farewell dinner in Mirukashi.
Tataki
Day 4 Afternoon
Let the waves lull you to sleep each night in this 4 star oceanside hotel featuring spectacular views from every room. Watch the sun rise over the bay, take a stroll along the sandy beach by a forest of ancient pine trees, visit the gym or relax in the sauna, onsen spa, or rooftop thermal pool.
Seaside Hotel
Where You'll Stay
How It Works
Salon sessions are $3550 (USD) per person. A non-refundable deposit of $1800 secures your place with balance due 60 days before the session.
Pricing
Four nights in a private room plus all food, drink, and transportation during the salon session. Does not include transportation to and from Karatsu.
What's included
Plans are hard to make these days. All deposits are non-refundable but give me two months notice and I'll happily apply your deposit to a future session.
cancellation
Seating is limited.
Reserve yours now.
Salon sessions are limited to 7 people to ensure a relaxed and intimate experience.
Bookings are accepted in the order requested.
Come to Mirukashi.
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