2026 Nishiwaki City Cultural Festival: Shofukai Tea Ceremony

About this event

The '2026 Nishiwaki City Cultural Festival: Shofukai', held on the grounds of Saiirin-ji Temple adorned with beautiful autumn foliage, is an event where one can deeply appreciate traditional culture and autumn atmosphere. Elaborate tea ceremonies arranged by members of the Nishiwaki City Tea Ceremony Association and their apprentices are set up across various spots on the grounds—offering visitors the spirit and artistry of tea at the Main Seat (Honseki in the back tatami room), Outdoor Tea Ceremony Seat (Nodateseki at the Main Hall), Children's Seat (Main Hall), and Simplified Tea Ceremony Seat (Tenshukuseki at the priests' living quarters / Kuri). Additionally, in the temple's Kuri, performing arts presentations such as folk songs and dances by groups affiliated with the Cultural Federation will be held concurrently, creating a lively atmosphere. You can enjoy a variety of performances, including music by Takaton Music School, dances by Hanayagi-ryu Tsuki-no-kai and Hanayagi-ryu Gyokusen-kai, and folk songs by the Nihon no Heso Ondo Preservation Society. In addition, the 47th Hokuban Sketch Contest will be held as an affiliated event, making it a day to fully relish the autumn of art. Continuing since 1966 (Showa 41), this historic tea gathering provides an ideal opportunity to rediscover the charm of the hometown of Nishiwaki.

Venue

Saiirin-ji Temple

455 Sakamoto, Nishiwaki, Hyogo 677-0026