Kumiko's Way Presents
Retreat in Setouchi
A selection of curated experiences designed to enrich your time in Kagawa. Immerse yourself in local culture, explore new activities, and walk the path untaken.
Ritsurin Garden Wabi-Sabi Walk & Garden Tea House Matcha
A premium private experience for high-end travelers who want authentic Japanese experiences in traditional spaces. Not a standard garden tour: this is embodied etiquette coaching—pace, gaze, and ma—followed by practical tatami-room etiquette, concluding with matcha in a garden tea house.
Highlights
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Curated garden walk: pace, gaze, stillness, and “ma” (the meaningful pause)
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Tatami etiquette mini-training (entry, walking, seating, etc.)
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Garden teahouse Matcha: how to receive, hold, and drink with appreciation
Kaiseki Dining Etiquette at a Ryotei
Kaiseki is not only a meal—it is a quiet choreography of respect.
This private experience is designed so you can enjoy a ryotei dinner with ease, confidence, and natural elegance. Guidance is discreet and timed to key moments, so you feel supported without being made self-conscious.
Highlights
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Private pre-dinner briefing: Seating, greetings, and how to handle utensils and vessels with quiet grace.
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Discreet dining guidance during the meal: Bowls and lids, chopsticks, and quiet manners—taught “just enough” to enjoy.
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Closing recap: A concise verbal summary of key points you can remember for future dining.
Shinto Retreat: Preparation, Prayer & Naorai Dinning
A quiet, authentic entry into Shinto—designed for high-end travelers who value depth without theatricality. The flow is simple and elegant: settle the mind through Mind-Free Calligraphy, enter the shrine with clear guidance, participate in prayer with calm support, and conclude with Naorai, a closing meal symbolizing harmony and connection.
Highlights
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Mind-Free Calligraphy to help the mind settle through writing.
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Clear guidance on rituals, shrine visits and etiquette.
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Discreet support at key moments during Prayer / Gokito Ceremony.
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You will learn the meaning and basic etiquette of Naorai, a quiet closing meal that completes the experience.
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Important: The priest prepares a written prayer beforehand so please share
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your intention at least 3 days in advance.
Don't just study it,
experience it.
In addition to the above, we also have Masterclass plans, which offer in-depth knowledge on proper Japanese Etiquette.
Each lesson walks you through every moment, from the first step to the last.
These are done online, so you can learn at your own pace in your own time.
