Spending time at a traditional house on Sado Island for cultural experiences offers a unique moment that goes beyond typical sightseeing.
My student and his friend visited this beautiful place, surrounded by the lush scenery of Sado Island, and had a wonderful time immersing themselves in Japan’s traditional culture.
From harvesting to cooking, and even experiencing calligraphy, they enjoyed memorable moments rooted in daily life.
In this post, I would like to share the details of their cultural experiences.
Learning Japanese Home Cooking: Making Rice Balls and Miso Soup
First, we harvested fresh vegetables from the garden my mother lovingly tends. She grows the vegetables without pesticides, trusting in the natural power of the earth, and they had fun walking through the fields while picking the vegetables.
Using the freshly harvested vegetables, we all tried making traditional Japanese home-cooked dishes: rice balls (onigiri) and miso soup. The rice for the onigiri was grown by our family, and although simple, the taste of the rice balls was comforting and warm.
My mother demonstrated how to make them, and the two of them learned attentively, preparing their own rice balls and miso soup.
The miso soup, filled with fresh vegetables, had a nostalgic and homely taste. Everyone enjoyed it, eating happily along with the rice balls.
Calligraphy Experience: Calming the Mind with Japanese Tradition
Next, we tried our hands at calligraphy using brushes and ink. Writing our names or favorite words in kanji was like a form of meditation. Holding the brush brought a sense of calm to the mind, allowing us to focus and have a special moment of introspection.
Furthermore, based on their names, I chose appropriate kanji and explained their meanings.
- Cole (孔)
The kanji “孔” symbolizes breadth, depth, and learning. It reflects Cole’s wide perspective and curiosity as a musician. It is a perfect match for his role in connecting the world through music. - Eric (笑陸)
“笑” represents spreading positive energy, while “陸” signifies stability and growth. This kanji reflects Eric’s bright smile and strong, energetic approach to life.
Both of them were deeply focused as they worked on their calligraphy, creating unique pieces. Through this experience, I believe they were able to feel the depth of Japanese culture.
Enjoying Music Amidst Nature
Surrounded by the beautiful nature of Sado Island, each person enjoyed their own time.
Cole, with a shakuhachi (Japanese bamboo flute) in hand, quietly walked along the rice field paths, playing. The sound blended beautifully with the natural surroundings, creating a calm and soothing atmosphere.
Eric played the piano in front of the house, happily filling the air with music.
As musicians who practice for over five hours a day, they even brought their instruments on vacation and played whenever they had the chance. Their passion and love for music was evident.
Finally, we all played and sang together, performing the traditional Japanese song “Kōjō no Tsuki” (The Moon Over the Ruined Castle). Music brought us all together, and it was a truly special moment of “Ichigo Ichie” – a once-in-a-lifetime encounter.
Experience Japanese culture and nature through a relaxing 4-hour program:
- Harvesting and Cooking (2 Hours)
Pick fresh vegetables and prepare onigiri and miso soup with local ingredients. - Calligraphy (1 Hour)
Write your name or favorite kanji and learn its meaning in a peaceful, creative setting. - Free Time (1 Hour)
Stroll through the village, relax, or enjoy conversations in a traditional Japanese house.
Immerse yourself in the charm of Sado Island and create unforgettable memories!
If you have any questions or would like to make a booking, please feel free to contact me.
