Experience Japanese culture in our live demonstrations on select Saturdays throughout the season. Each demonstration offers our visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in Japanese culture. Enjoy sado (tea ceremony), koto (a traditional stringed instrument) and kitsuke (kimono culture).
All programs are open for registration on August 1st of each year for the upcoming season. Each season runs from October through the summer of the next year.
Explore each cultural demonstration page or browse the full list.
Karesansui Raking Kimono Culture Koto Kyudo (Archery) Sado Tea
Japanese Traditional Music Instrument
Koto Demonstration
Koto is a traditional Japanese stringed instrument first introduced to Japan from China in the 7th-8th centuries. Learn the fascinating history of this exquisite instrument and listen to its captivating and tranquil sounds demonstrated by intermediate koto students.
World Bonsai Day
Join us at The Morikami for World Bonsai Day, where you can explore the ancient art of bonsai. Celebrate World Bonsai Day with bonsai pruning and potting demos, bonsai vendors, and Japanese artisan vendors.
10:00AM, Saturday, May 9, 2026
Morikami Gardens
Japanese Traditional Tea Ceremony
The Way Of Tea: Sado Demonstration
Observe Japanese sado, an ever-changing demonstration rich in seasonal subtleties. Your involvement in the true spirit of sado — harmony (wa), reverence (kei), purity (sei), tranquility (jaku) will help you bring a calm perspective into your busy life.
12:00PM, Saturday, May 16, 2026
Morikami Theater