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　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Shinjitu-ichiro by Tetsuzan Shinagawa


■The Philosphy of Nakamura Kyoko

"Kyo no inishie" (the capital of old) conveys the spiritual home of Japan and it seems to me that every possible facet of traditional culture is bound together in this name.

Since 1948, when the former villa of Prince Higashi-Fushimi was transformed into Ryori-ryokan Yoshida-sanso, we have aspired to the idea that Yoshida-sanso be a "bridge of destiny," a place for all those in pursuit of beauty to gather and feel at peace. We have also striven to follow "the straight path of sincerity" in an effort to offer our guests the utmost in refined hospitality.

Japanese cuisine has long been a cultural stage for classical literature, music and art. It is Yoshida-sanso's mission to creatively purvey this rich heritage with an international outlook into the new dawn of the 21st century.



The open and flexible nature of "okami-san" Nakamura Kyoko and her many personal touches contribute to the relaxed "at home" feeling of visits to Yoshida-sanso. At each place setting, guests are presented with a seasonal poem taken from the Manyoshu or other celebrated classical anthology and handwritten with ink and brush to convey the depth of gratitude for patronage of the inn. In the Izumi Salon, guests can also enjoy tea or coffee time served in wares personally designed by "Kyoko."


　
Special greetings and explanations handwritten

and

Calligraphic renditions of classical Japanese poems
by Nakamura Kyoko






During the days of Prince Higashi-Fushimi's residence, talented artists and musicians entertained and nourished the family and their frequent guests. In keeping with this genteel custom and the strong conviction that sincere, straightforward hospitality brings people who are destined to meet together, Yoshida-sanso hosts musical performances throughout the year and is also involved in the promotion of cultural events nationwide. In addition to sponsoring activities related to a renewed appreciation of kimono culture, the inn actively supports skilled artists and craftsmen by commissioning pieces for sale under the "Kyoko" brand name.


Nakamura Kyoko

Nakamura Kyoko and her daughter
　　　



■Kate Greenaway and Yoshida-sanso

In 1997, Yoshida-sanso hosted, in conjunction with NHK television, a nationally broadcasted exhibition commemorating the 150th birthday of the world-reknown British children's author and illustrator Kate Greenaway (1846-1901). Afterwards, much to the pleasure of Yoshida-sanso's guests, a selection of these works were put on permanent display in the Izumi Tea Salon. We hope that this exhibit will introduce more and more people to Greenaway's charming work.





Kate Greenaway illustration


　　　



The book of "Living in Japan"


　　　

■Events


Full Moon Concert


Sakura Concert


Daimonji Gozan Okuribi Viewing


Greetings handwritten by proprietress
Kyoko Nakamura


Every year Yoshida-sanso holds four seasonal concerts: the Sakura Concert in the spring, the Daimonji Gozan Okuribi Viewing at O-Bon, the Full Moon Concert in the fall and the Sylvester Concert at the end of the year. Guests can enjoy kaiseki delicacies in an atmosphere that celebrates the changing seasons.

Sakura Concert
The Sakura Concert is held outside under the beautiful blossoms of Yoshida-sanso's cherry trees. Garden party guests can luxuriate in spring Kaiseki cuisine while listening to the Chinese "Kosou" harp played by the talented musician Wu-Fang.

Daimonji Gozan Okuribi Viewing
Yoshida-yama is one of the rare places in Kyoto where all five of the Daimonji-yaki festival bonfires are visible. Indeed, what better place to be on August 16 than at Yoshida-sanso sipping sake, tasting special summer dishes and gazing at the surrounding hills alit in celebration of O-Bon.

Full Moon Concert
Each fall, Yoshida-sanso provides an array of autumnal delights to accompany a classical harp and violin concert under the mystical harvest moon.

Sylvester Concert
 On the last day of the year, we invite you to sample winter Kaiseki cuisine and watch snow falling on the Japanese garden while listening to a changing selection of traditional music.

* On any given New Year's Eve at Yoshida-sanso, more than 8 temple bells toll Joya no Kane at the stroke of midnight. The resonant peals from nearby Shinnyo-do, as well as Ginkaku-ji and Honen-in temples produce a magical soundscape ringing in the new year for all our honored guests.