Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on June 2011

If you are as fascinated with Japanese food as you are with ancient Japanese culture, then you can immerse yourself in both at this multi-sensory experience.

Since ancient times, the Japanese have loved to appreciate the blessings of nature by viewing cherry blossoms and the moon while dancing to music, and enjoying sake and food from tiered, lacquerware boxes. Now you can take the opportunity to enjoy classical art and traditional craftwork while learning about noh theater. All this while noshing on Japanese food and drinking sake.

The first half of the program is a noh workshop, where you can take a closer look at some masks and learn the meanings of the typical noh gestures. The second half will involve lectures on “the Japanese spirit underlying sake and macrobiotic food” by a traditional sake brewer’s president, a lacquerware manufacturing company owner, and a Japanese food restaurant chain operator. There will also be an exhibition of tiered lunchboxes from the 1800s to present day. Refreshment-wise there will be Miyagi’s famous Urakasumi sake, plus macrobiotic food from Matsumoto Foods.

The program costs ¥3,000 and will take place on both Friday, July 1 at 7pm (doors 6:30pm) and on Saturday, July 2 at 12:30pm (doors 12pm). Only the first 25 people will be admitted on each day, so best get moving! Just email your name, contact details and preferred number of people to the address below by June 17.

3F Place Rin, 3-6-26 Kita-Aoyama, Minato-ku. Nearest stn: Omotesando, exits B2/B4. info@saishokukenbi.com. www.saishokukenbi.com.