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Yuzu, Zen, Earth

3-days MINI workshop

This workshop is ideal for travelers looking for a brief, enriching experience as one part of their travel within Japan.

Day 1:

Yuzu Magic

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of "Yuzu Magic" amidst breathtaking views and the captivating aroma of a sprawling yuzu orchard at a 150-year-old traditional farmhouse. Surround yourself with the beauty of the "green yuzu," waiting to be personally harvested in the only season. Learn the art of making hand-made udon noodles and craft your own yuzu pepper from scratch under the expert guidance of the yuzu farm owner, renowned for their expertise in yuzu cuisine.

*Yuzu kosho is a pasty Japanese condiment made from fresh chiles then fermented with salt along with zest and juice from yuzu. The trifecta of chiles, citrus, and salt come together in a powerful and distinctive flavor that enlivens a dish—anything from savory to sweets—instantly.


9:30AM Pick up at Fujino station

10AM  Welcome and Introductions

11AM  Yuzu harvesting

12PM  Yuzu pepper (yuzu kosho) & Handmade udon Noodle making

1:30PM  Lunch / Handmade udon noodle with yuzu kosho, locally harvested organic vegetable side dishes

3:30PM  Visit local art/design/craft galleries (optional) / Free time

7:00PM Dinner/ Japanese traditional irori grill with your choice of fish, meat, locally harvested organic vegetables


Day 2:

Be Zen - stay focused, be present

With the breath-taking view of the mountain, begin your day with Zazen, a Buddhist sitting meditation led by the head monk of a respected local temple.

Later in the day embark on a culinary journey led by a local vegan chef, immersing yourself in the art of Shojin ryori cooking. Utilizing locally harvested ingredients, learn the intricate techniques and philosophies behind this traditional Buddhist cuisine, all while fostering a clean palate and a serene mind. Delve into the creation of Shojin dishes and explore the rich flavors of the region's produce. Afterward, relish the opportunity to savor your culinary creations, indulging in the delicious and nutritious offerings you've prepared, maintaining both a clean palate and a clear mind.

It's a holistic journey that nourishes your inner self as well as your connection with nature, blending mindfulness, culinary exploration, and creative expression.


*"Shojin ryori" refers to traditional Buddhist cooking. It's made without meat or fish, and instead focuses on seasonal vegetables and mountain plants. Strong flavors such as garlic and onion are also avoided. Shojin ryori is fully vegetarian, and in fact, frequently uses no animal products at all, making it suitable for vegans, too.


7AM  Zazen Meditation

9AM  Breakfast / Porridge, Locally harvested organic vegetable side dishes

10AM-12PM Bamboo craft

12PM - 4PM Hike & Lunch at Mt.Jinba.

5-7PM - Shojin Ryori Cooking + Dinner


Day 3:

Connections beneath your feet

Discover sustainable living in Fujino through a guided tour of permaculture farms, discussion of community currencies, and hands-on tsukemono workshops using vegetables from the local farm. Led by knowledgeable local experts, this immersive experience offers firsthand insights into sustainable agriculture, regenerative practices, and the integration of ecology and design at permaculture farms. Engage in workshops focusing on alternative economic systems and grassroots initiatives, aimed at building resilient and self-sufficient communities.

Learn the cultural significance of “Tsukemono”, the traditional Japanese art of pickling, and connect with the earth through this age-old preservation and fermentation method.

Deepen your understanding of sustainable practices while forging meaningful connections with local communities, fostering a sense of harmony with the earth, and taking a step towards a more resilient future.


8AM Breakfast / Japanese traditional breakfast

10AM Farm & Transition town tour and guidance

1PM-4Pm Tsukemono Workshop, Lunch

4:30PM Discussion and feedback

6PM Departure and drop off at Fujino Station


Price: xxx/person

Date: Oct 23-25 2024


*Please note that the schedule/agenda/meal plan changes may be necessary under certain circumstances.

  • Accommodation & meals, snacks, drink(non alcohol) are included

  • We can accommodate for vegetarian, vegan diet

  • All participants sleep in private rooms

  • Tools,materials,ingredients are provided

  • All workshops are taught in English (With a translator)

  • The number of participants is limited to 15

Insurance:

Each participant is responsible for arranging sufficient insurance coverage for the duration of the workshop: accident, liability and health insurance for travel abroad including evacuation, theft insurance for one’s personal effects. The organizer is not liable for any costs or damages. For all its offered courses and undertaking, the organizer shall not be liable for any damages to people or property caused by sovereign acts of any government, acts of nature or by third parties.

The jetlag on long-distance flights to Japan can be rough, so we recommend you visit Tokyo a few days before the trip. Then you will be fresh for the workshops.

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