The term "Wabi-Sabi" has long existed, where "Wabi" typically refers to a "state of harmonious tranquility," and "Sabi" signifies the "principle of the passage of time." When these two concepts merge, they describe a profound yearning for natural philosophy and a simple aesthetic, inspired by the solitude and sense of impermanence brought by the passage of time.

Leonard Koren also believes that Wabi-Sabi "to some extent restores rationality and balance to the art of living." As we appreciate the completeness, certainty, and perfection in daily life, we naturally also come to admire the "beauty of imperfection, transience, and incompleteness." The exploration of the multifaceted nature of things shapes a multidimensional image of aesthetic taste.

As "an aesthetic paradigm rooted in nature," Wabi-Sabi to some extent forms the foundation of Japan's natural philosophy. It aligns with the concept of "place" discussed in the previous two editions of the Japan tour and grows together with it, drawing us to explore the world through another perspective.

From December 15 to December 21, on a 7-day, 6-night journey, you can embark on a Japanese Wabi-Sabi aesthetic tour with YINJISPACE. From Kyoto to Hokkaido, you will have in-depth communication with fellow travelers of various social roles, including artists & collectors, architects, garden designers, Zen monks, floral artists, and master traditional craftsmen. This may provide a glimpse into the aesthetic logic and social significance behind things.

Japanese Wabi-Sabi Aesthetics Journey: From Kyoto to Hokkaido, spanning two cities, inviting seven founders to join, accompanied by a professional art Japanese interpreter throughout.

Seven Major Study Tour Segments: Art Collection (Shouya Grigg), Architectural Design (Makoto Nakayama), Machiya Renovation (Shigeru Uotani), Kyoto Garden Design (Kato Ueyama), Ikebana Study (Kadokatsu Katagiri), Zen Meditation (Tosei Shinobu), and National Treasure Craftsmanship (Hosoo).

Four Major Design and Art Courses: "The Beauty of Shadows," "Traditional Japanese Gardens - Karesansui," "Resort Hotel Design," and "National Treasure Craftsmanship: Nishijin Weaving."

Visits to Three Temples: Tofuku-ji, Kennin-ji, Nanzen-ji, along with their private gardens, where courses or art experiences will be held at each.

Visits and Stays at Four Gallery Villas: FU, SUI, KA, and KU – offering the pinnacle of Japanese aesthetic experiences.

Visits to Five Luxury Design Hotels: Aman Kyoto (Kerry Hill), Park Hyatt Kyoto (Tony Chi), Mitsui Kyoto (Andre Fu), Sowaka (Shigeru Uotani), and Shiguchi (Shouya Grigg).

Shouya Grigg is a collector and an artist whose works combine art, design, and a sense of hospitality. Having lived in Hokkaido for over 30 years, these experiences have fostered a deep connection between Grigg and Japan’s northernmost island. His works are often perceived as luxurious, though he himself does not consider this when creating. He also believes that the definition of "luxury" is inaccurate. In any industry, the difference between luxury and fine goods can be simply understood as the involvement of art. It is this involvement of art that gives Grigg’s three significant works—Zaborin, Somoza, and Shiguchi—their unique influence.

Makoto Nakayama, a renowned architect from Hokkaido, was born in 1955 in Hokkaido. He graduated from the Department of Architecture at Tama Art University in 1978 and later obtained a master's degree in architectural design. Nakayama's architectural works are known for their elegance, simplicity, and functionality, with a focus on the intrinsic relationship between design, nature, and life, and a profound understanding of seeking balance. He collaborated with Grigg on the design of Zaborin and also designed a private residence for renowned Chinese designer Steve Leung.

Shigenori Uoya, a Kyoto-based architect, was born in Hyogo Prefecture in 1977. He graduated from the Faculty of Engineering at Kyoto University in 2001 and earned a master’s degree two years later. Currently, he serves as a part-time lecturer at Kyoto University and a distinguished professor at Kyoto Institute of Technology. Rooted in traditional Japanese architectural practices, Uoya specializes in the renovation of machiya (traditional townhouses), honoring Japan’s architectural heritage through his “new for old” approach.

Ueyama Kato Landscaping upholds the traditional Japanese techniques and craftsmanship in garden design, with the primary goal of both staying current and striving to create and construct new landscapes. In addition to garden management, design, and construction, Ueyama Kato Landscaping also conducts research and exploration of traditional Japanese gardens, interpreting their unique personality and profound meaning, making them one of the important symbols of Japanese culture.

Kadokatsu Katagiri, born in Osaka in 1973, became the head of the esteemed Misasagi School of Ikebana in Sakai, Osaka in 1997. His style ranges from traditional Ikebana to contemporary art, and he collaborates with artists from various fields. While exhibiting his works, Katagiri constantly explores the relationship between humans and nature from an anthropological perspective.

Tosei Shinobu is a Zen monk currently residing at Ryosokuin, a sub-temple of the historic Kennin-ji in Kyoto. Born in Tokyo and raised in Ibaraki and Nara, Shinobu’s childhood experiences cultivated a deep connection with nature. After a rebellious youth, a law degree, world travel, and collaborations with master craftsmen in Kyoto, Shinobu chose the Zen path at around thirty years old. He began creating kekkai seki (sacred boundary stones), which are meticulously “woven” into handmade hemp threads.

Masataka Hosoo was born in 1953 and is the chairman of the Kyoto-based Hosoo Co., Ltd. Founded in 1688, Hosoo has over 330 years of history and is renowned for its Nishijin weaving craftsmanship. Under his leadership, the company has transformed from a traditional kimono manufacturer into a global luxury fabric brand, collaborating with top designers and merging modern technology with ancient craftsmanship.

Interested individuals can inquire by calling 008618516033254 or adding the official WhatsApp at 08618516033254. Additionally, you may send your requirements to the email address: mia@yinjispace.com.

For a group of 3 or more participants, each person will receive a discount of 500CNY.

If a group consists of 5 or more participants, each person will enjoy a discount of 800CNY.

Returning participants who have attended 2-5 trips will receive a discount of 500CNY, and starting from the 6th trip, the discount increases to over 1000CNY. Note that discounts offered by items 1 and 2 do not stack, but item 3 can be combined with either of them.

Hotel Notes:

The listed hotels in the itinerary are based on double occupancy, with room assignments arranged randomly according to the order of registration. If a participant experiences poor sleep quality, it is recommended to upgrade to a single room. The price difference for the upgraded room is to be borne by the participant.

Visa Notes:

The passport must have at least 6 months of validity remaining after the trip concludes and should have 2 blank visa pages (excluding observation pages). YINJISPACE only collects passports on behalf of participants. The approval of the visa application is at the discretion of the consulate. Any losses (including, but not limited to, self-booked flights or hotel reservations) incurred due to visa rejection are the responsibility of the visa applicant. Once the visa application is submitted, the visa fees are non-refundable, with a processing time of 6-8 weeks.

Insurance Notes:

The insurance provided for this trip is only applicable to participants holding passports issued by mainland China. Participants holding non-mainland China passports are required to purchase their own insurance (self-provided insurance). Any risks and losses incurred due to opting out of insurance coverage will be the responsibility of the participant.