Visiting Spring Time to Japan

I returned to Japan this spring for the first time in six years. I

was lucky enough to see the cherry blossoms, and it made me feel truly blessed and filled with joy.

The beauty of the season moved me so much that I’ve decided to change the timing of my collaborative pottery workshop with Inoue-sensei—from autumn to spring starting next year.

It’s perfect timing, as the Hida Furukawa Festival is also held during that period, so workshop participants will have the chance to experience this traditional celebration as well.

For more details, please see the link below.

https://www.chisatokuroki.com/japanese-tablewear-workshop2026

HIDA FURUKAWA FESTIVAL

This 1,100-year-old cherry tree grows in my hometown, where it has stood for centuries

Garyu-zakura is a giant Edohigan cherry tree located in Garyu Park in Ichinomiya Town, Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture. Estimated to be around 1,100 years old, it gets its name—“Garyu” (lying dragon)—from the way its branches spread out like a reclining dragon. It was designated a National Natural Monument in 1973.

For over a millennium, this cherry tree has blossomed every spring. I am truly grateful for its presence—it emanates a sacred, majestic energy that touches the soul.

Thank you for reading. See you in the next blog post!