Upcoming Cultural and Community Education Events
Hakone Moon Festival - featuring a performance by guzheng artist Jay Lai
Monday, October 6, 2025 from 5:30pm - 8:30pm
Join us for Hakone's first ever Moon Festival! Enjoy an evening under the full moon to celebrate the diverse traditions of how various Asian cultures honor the harvest moon each autumn. The night will feature a performance by guzheng artist Jay Lai, as well as live traditional Japanese music in our Moon Viewing House and a variety of activity booths for all ages. Guests are welcome to bring a picnic dinner or purchase offerings from a local food truck to enjoy at tables set up with a view of our gardens. For more info and to purchase tickets, click HERE.
Current Exhibit in the Cultural Exchange Center
Bonsai Pot Exhibit - a collection of ceramic work by Denise Soultanian
July 3rd, 2025 through December 26th, 2025
​​Denise Soultanian is a ceramic artist and instructor who brings warmth, curiosity, and a deep appreciation for nature to her work. Bonsai naturally invites collaboration. The bonsai artist selects a pot that complements their tree, and it’s always exciting to see how one of her pieces is paired with a living work of art. This dialogue between pot and plant reflects Denise’s belief that beauty can emerge through relationship, process, and care.
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* Please call us to check if the exhibit will be open to the public on the day of your visit.
Tea Ceremony Demonstrations
Sunday (Omote-senke school)
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The Sunday Tea Ceremony is available on the first Sunday of every month from April to December. Garden admission fee is not included in the price of the tickets.​ For larger groups or inquiries, contact John Larissou at larissou@gmail.com.
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Monday to Friday (Ura-senke school)
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Click here for more info and a request form. Tea Ceremony can be combined with Kimono Wearing Demonstration.
Upcoming Annual Events
Lunar New Year Event
February 2026
Please check back here in early 2026 for event date and details.​
Hanami at Hakone - Cherry Blossom Night Viewing
March 2026
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We are delighted to share the beautiful cherry blossoms in the evening at Hakone Estate and Gardens.
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Check back here in early 2026 for event dates and details.
Hanami at Hakone - Cherry Blossom Daytime Viewing
March 2026
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Check back here in early 2026 for event dates and details.
Toro Nagashi - Lantern Floating Ceremony
August 2026
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Toro Nagashi refers to the Japanese river lantern festivals held in summer where participants release candle-lit lanterns into the river together with their prayers for peace.​
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Check back in early summer of 2026 for event details.