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.
Join Us
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.
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
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.
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. Along with a few sides and some simple Japanese confections, we'll be ready to lunch al fresco in the autumnal air.
Soy Brewery
Kashiwameshi
day 3 Afternoon
day 4 Morning
DAy 5
We''ll 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
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
