Case Study — Cultural Programme

Japanese Culture Workshops

Many organisers and delegates wish to get to know their host country and city as they take part in conferences. To this end, Michi Ogawa and her team from the WAK Japan make it their job to create a relaxing and enjoyable Japanese atmosphere throughout a meeting venue. At least one room is turned into classic Japan and delegates may freely wander in to experience daily life, culture and the Japanese way of thinking.

This philosophy is based on viewing the service from the position of the guest and tailoring each programme to the interests of the individual taking part. It stems back 30 years to when Mrs Ogawa was travelling abroad and wanted to have a deeper understanding of the daily life she observed from her hotel window. Therefore WAK Japan specialises in training local people to introduce their culture and traditions through English. Speakers hold workshops at conferences only after completing extensive training.

Ogawa explains: - We aim to put the activity in context and provide an understanding of the essence of Japan. For example, it is not enough to just drink tea during the Tea Ceremony without its place in history and contemporary society being explained. WAK Japan introduces traditions that are part of the everyday life of local people. Japanese culture was created in the long history written by the ordinary citizens of Kyoto. If we can explain this in an interesting way, I think it will lead to a deeper appreciation of Kyoto.

WAK Japan produces extensive programmes for scientific gatherings as well as incentive groups. As an addition to the standard break fare of coffee and snacks, attendees are able to brush with the tea ceremony, take kimono photo-shoots in the garden and make origami souvenirs for their children.

The most popular WAK Japan course is undoubtedly the Tea Ceremony. Delegates enjoy following the practices of the samurai who put down their swords in order to enter the tea room. Flower arrangement and calligraphy also receive wide acclaim. People also very much enjoy learning how to dress in kimono and then put on a show. Comments such as, "I wish I could wear the kimono to all of the meetings" often echo around the conference hall. All convention attendees say how much these touches add to the Kyoto experience.

A final word from Mrs Ogawa - Kyoto not only provides state of the art facilities, but it combines them in a setting that connects delegates with the culture and history of Japan. You can experience the synergy of the old and the new everywhere in the city. WAK Japan would like to assist you with the social programme at your conference. We look forward to meeting you in Kyoto.