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.
Current Exhibit in the Lower House
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"Miko Dolls - Memories & Traditions Reimagined" - Mikio Sakuma
September 2025 through December 2025
​​Mikio Sakuma was born in 1948 and raised in the small seaside town of Tateyama, Chiba, Japan, located 64 miles south of Tokyo. Over the years living in the United States, Sakuma felt the traditions of Japan were fading in Japan’s modern society. To address this he began using his artistic talents through the creation of one of kind handmade miniature scenes called “Miko Dolls” (www.MikoDolls.com). Mikio Dolls reminds one to appreciate the beauty of nature in all things. Sakuma hopes to preserve and celebrate the Japanese cultural customs for generations who view his art as well as to educate younger generations of the rich legacy of the Japanese culture.​
Tea Ceremony Demonstrations
Public Tea Ceremony Demonstrations (Omote-senke school)
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December 7th, 2025: 12pm, 1pm, or 2pm ​
​​Hakone offers public tea ceremony demonstrations in our Cultural Events Center 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.
Private Tea Ceremony Demonstrations (Ura-senke school)
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Click here for more info and a request form. Private tea ceremony bookings may also be combined with other activities such as a private docent tour, origami workshop, and/or kimono wearing demonstration.
Upcoming Events & Workshops
Introduction to Sumi-e Workshop - Special Holiday Edition
Wednesday, December 3rd, 2025: 11am - 1pm
Friday, December 5th, 2025: 11am - 1pm
Discover the beauty of simplicity through traditional Japanese brush painting.​
During our special holiday sumi-e workshops, attendees will create beautiful holiday cards using traditional Japanese brush techniques. This hands-on session is perfect for anyone who loves Japanese art and wants to add a personal, artistic touch to their holiday greetings!
Recurring Annual Events
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Hakone Lunar New Years Celebration
March 8, 2026 - 11am - 3pm
Please check back here in February 2026 for any updates and more 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.
Hakone Moon Festival
October 2026
Celebrate the autumn moon at Hakone in our illuminated gardens.
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Check back early summer of 2026 for event details.