Workshops

Seating is limited so sign-up early!

Saturday, April 4

Festival Workshops: Experience Japanese Culture

For those who would like a more hands-on experience, the Arkansas Cherry Blossom Festival offers a variety of workshops that allow participants to explore Japanese culture in a more meaningful way. These small-group sessions provide the opportunity to learn directly from skilled instructors and engage with traditional arts, crafts, and culinary traditions.

Workshop registrations also help support the mission of the Hot Springs National Park Sister City Foundation. Proceeds benefit student scholarships, educational exchanges, and year-round sister city programming that strengthen the connection between Hot Springs and Hanamaki, Japan.

Workshops are listed in chronological order, and some are offered more than once throughout the day—please scroll through the schedule to select the session that best fits your schedule.

Yukata Workshop Sign-Up

Yukata Experience

Rental Times:
9:00 am - 11:00 am

$50 for the full-day

Description:
Learn to wear a yukata, the casual summer kimono, and become familiar with the art of traditional Japanese dress. Perfect for the Cherry Blossom Festival, you'll walk away confident in dressing yourself and understanding the cultural significance behind each layer.

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Yukata

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Kokedama Moss Balls with Garvan Woodland Gardens 10am

Kokedama Moss Balls

10:00am

Sorry, all seats have been taken!
Reservations for this workshop are now Closed

Kokedama Moss Balls
Time: 10:00 - 11:00am

Create your own living work of art with kokedama, the Japanese technique of growing plants in moss-covered soil balls. This beginner-friendly workshop teaches you how to craft these stunning hanging gardens that bring natural beauty to any space. You'll leave with your own handmade kokedama and the skills to create more at home.

Max participants: 15 - Seats Remaining: 15
Cost: $40.00 per person

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Kokedama 10:00am

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Taiko 11:15am Workshop Sign-Up

Taiko 11:15am

Sorry, all seats have been taken!
Reservations for this workshop are now Closed

Taiko
Time: 11:15am

Grand Lobby

Experience the power and energy of taiko drumming in this hands-on workshop! Participants will learn about the history, cultural significance, and fundamentals of taiko before trying their hand at drumming alongside experienced performers. The workshop will be led by Central Arkansas Taiko, the state’s only performing taiko ensemble, with special input from Dallas Kiyari Daiko drummers. No prior experience is needed—just bring your enthusiasm and be ready to feel the beat! If under 12 years of age, must be accompanied by a registered parent.

Max participants: 15 - Seats Remaining: 15
Cost: $20.00 per person

Click

Taiko 11:15am

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The World of Sake: Brewing & Tasting with Origami Sake 11:30am

The World of Sake 11:30am

Sorry, all seats have been taken!
Reservations for this workshop are now Closed

Origami Sake Brewing
Time: 11:30am - 12:30pm

Learn about the history, culture and craft of brewing fine sake and, for participants who are over 21 one years of age, have the opportunity to taste sake crafted in Hot Springs, Arkansas at Origami Sake! Led by sake professionals with decades of experience in the drinks industry, Origami Sake is a frontrunner in the industry. Head Brewer JJ Hollyhead is a trailblazer in bringing such a distinctive craft to our region, and brings with him worldwide experience from Sake's roots in Japan, all the way to London.

“Through the craft of origami, an artisan can turn a single, flat sheet of paper into a dimensional art form. Similarly, Origami Sake deftly fuses our brewing expertise and a few simple, yet premium ingredients to create something nuanced, bold, and memorable. Origami Sake is made in Arkansas, made to be unique, and made to be enjoyed.” – Origami Sake

Max participants: 15 - Seats Remaining: 15
Cost: $30.00 per person

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The World of Sake 11:30am

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Kintsugi 11:30am Sign-Up

Kintsugi 11:30am

Sorry, all seats have been taken!
Reservations for this workshop are now Closed

Kintsugi
Time: 11:30 - 1:30

Discover the beauty of imperfection through kintsugi, the traditional Japanese art of repairing broken objects with over 500 years of history. In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn the philosophy behind kintsugi and repair one small plate using authentic materials and natural urushi lacquer.

This is a rare opportunity to learn traditional kintsugi techniques in a small-group setting. All materials are provided, no prior experience is necessary, and participants will take home one repaired plate.

Please note: This workshop uses natural urushi lacquer, which contains urushiol (also found in poison ivy). Urushi is applied with paint brushes only, and participants will not touch it directly. Protective gloves and arm cover are provided, and safety instructions will be given before materials are handled. This workshop is recommended for ages 16+ and is not suitable for individuals with severe urushiol allergies.

Max participants: 12 - Seats Remaining: 12
Cost: $60 per person

Click

Kintsugi 11:30am

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Kokedama Moss Balls with Garvan Woodland Gardens 12pm

Kokedama Moss Balls 12:00pm

Sorry, all seats have been taken!
Reservations for this workshop are now Closed

Kokedama Moss Balls
Time: 12:00 - 1:00pm

Create your own living work of art with kokedama, the Japanese technique of growing plants in moss-covered soil balls. This beginner-friendly workshop teaches you how to craft these stunning hanging gardens that bring natural beauty to any space. You'll leave with your own handmade kokedama and the skills to create more at home.

Max participants: 15 - Seats Remaining: 15
Cost: $40.00 per person

Click

Kokedama Moss Balls 12:00pm

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The Tea Village Experience

A Seasonal Journey through Japanese Tea, Sweets, and Incense

Description: Step into a world of mindfulness and tradition with an authentic Japanese Tea Ceremony. Learn the precise choreography, etiquette, and meditative practice behind this centuries-old ritual.

Wakei Chobako 11am

Wakei Chobako 11am

Sorry, all seats have been taken!
Reservations for this workshop are now Closed

Wakei Chobako
Time: 11:00am - 12:00pm

Wakei Chabaki is a portable tea gathering that emerged during wartime, created so that the spirit of tea- harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility- could continue even in times of disruption. Designed to be carried and set up anywhere, it represents resilience, adaptability, and the enduring heart of Japanese tea culture.

This Wakei Chobako gathering is offered in memory of Hounsai Sosho, honoring the continuity of Urasenke tea practice and the generations who have carried it forward.

Guests are invited to witness a living piece of tea history and while sharing tea prepared with seasonal awareness and care. This intimate gathering opens the day reflection and presence, setting a meaningful tone for the festival’s programming.

Max participants: 45 - Seats Remaining: 45
Cost: $45.00 per person

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Wakei Chobako 11am

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Viewing and Incense Experience

12:00 – 3:30pm $10 suggested donation

Guests are welcome to observe Japanese tea service and nerikiri sweets making throughout the afternoon while learning about traditional incense practices. This experience includes guided explanation and light participation, offering a deeper look into Japanese sensory culture without the formality of a full ceremony.

Lantern Making with Emergent Arts

12:00 – 3:30 pm
Suggested $2 per lantern

Come paint a lantern with the Tea Horse as Emergent Arts offers a series of creative, community-centered experiences honoring the season.

Lantern painting invites participants of all ages to engage in a reflective, hands-on activity that complements the cultural programming of the Cherry Blossom Festival and looks ahead to our shared Four Seasons Tea Village 2026 vision.

Guests are encouraged to explore Emergent Arts’ full calendar for additional related events throughout the season.

Nerikiri Sweets Making 12pm

Nerikiri Sweets Making 12pm

Sorry, all seats have been taken!
Reservations for this workshop are now Closed

Nerikiri Sweets Making
Time: 12:00 - 1:00pm

Nerikiri are traditional Japanese confectionaries served with tea, designed to express the beauty of the season. In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn the kinton method and shibori kai shaping, exploring how color, form, and intention come together in Japanese sweets.

Max participants: 12 - Seats Remaining: 12
Cost: $25.00 per person

Click

Nerikiri Sweets Making 12pm

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Tray-Style Tea Experience 12pm

Tray-Style Tea Experience 12pm

Sorry, all seats have been taken!
Reservations for this workshop are now Closed

Tea Experience
Time: 12:00 - 12:30pm

Guests are invited to enjoy Japanese matcha prepared and served by trained students of the Tea Horse using a tray-style (ryakubon) format. Each 30-minute session offers an intimate, guided tea experience that balances approachability with authenticity, allowing guests to learn about utensils, movements, and the seasonal spirit of Japanese tea practice.

Multiple stations run simultaneously, with each station reflecting a seasonal theme and offering subtle variations in presentation and atmosphere throughout the experience.

Sessions begin every 30 minutes and seating is offered on first-come basis.

Max participants: 24 - Seats Remaining: 24
Cost: $25.00 per person

Click

Tray-Style Tea Experience 12pm

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Tray-Style Tea Experience 12:30pm

Tray-Style Tea Experience 12:30pm

Sorry, all seats have been taken!
Reservations for this workshop are now Closed

Tea Experience
Time: 12:30 - 1:00pm

Guests are invited to enjoy Japanese matcha prepared and served by trained students of the Tea Horse using a tray-style (ryakubon) format. Each 30-minute session offers an intimate, guided tea experience that balances approachability with authenticity, allowing guests to learn about utensils, movements, and the seasonal spirit of Japanese tea practice.

Multiple stations run simultaneously, with each station reflecting a seasonal theme and offering subtle variations in presentation and atmosphere throughout the experience.

Sessions begin every 30 minutes and seating is offered on first-come basis.

Max participants: 24 - Seats Remaining: 24
Cost: $25.00 per person

Click

Tray-Style Tea Experience 12:30pm

We use PayPal to process Credit Card payments. After submitting this form you will be taken to PayPal to complete the transaction.
Once the payment is completed, you will receive a confirmation email.
If you do not receive an email, your payment did not go through. Please check your Spam folder! Please try again. Thank You
I Understand
Nerikiri Sweets Making 1pm

Nerikiri Sweets Making 1pm

Sorry, all seats have been taken!
Reservations for this workshop are now Closed

Nerikiri Sweets Making
Time: 1:00 - 2:00pm

Nerikiri are traditional Japanese confectionaries served with tea, designed to express the beauty of the season. In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn the kinton method and shibori kai shaping, exploring how color, form, and intention come together in Japanese sweets.

Max participants: 12 - Seats Remaining: 12
Cost: $25.00 per person

Click

Nerikiri Sweets Making 1pm

We use PayPal to process Credit Card payments. After submitting this form you will be taken to PayPal to complete the transaction.
Once the payment is completed, you will receive a confirmation email.
If you do not receive an email, your payment did not go through. Please check your Spam folder! Please try again. Thank You
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The World of Sake: Brewing & Tasting with Origami Sake 1pm

The World of Sake 1pm

Sorry, all seats have been taken!
Reservations for this workshop are now Closed

Origami Sake Brewing
Time: 1:00 - 2:00pm

Learn about the history, culture and craft of brewing fine sake and, for participants who are over 21 one years of age, have the opportunity to taste sake crafted in Hot Springs, Arkansas at Origami Sake! Led by sake professionals with decades of experience in the drinks industry, Origami Sake is a frontrunner in the industry. Head Brewer JJ Hollyhead is a trailblazer in bringing such a distinctive craft to our region, and brings with him worldwide experience from Sake's roots in Japan, all the way to London.

“Through the craft of origami, an artisan can turn a single, flat sheet of paper into a dimensional art form. Similarly, Origami Sake deftly fuses our brewing expertise and a few simple, yet premium ingredients to create something nuanced, bold, and memorable. Origami Sake is made in Arkansas, made to be unique, and made to be enjoyed.” – Origami Sake

Max participants: 15 - Seats Remaining: 15
Cost: $30.00 per person

Click

The World of Sake 1pm

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The Soul of the Samurai: Artistry and Action 1:00pm

The Soul of the Samurai: Artistry and Action 1:00pm

Sorry, all seats have been taken!
Reservations for this workshop are now Closed

The Soul of the Samurai
Time: 1:00 - 1:50pm

Lecture & Demonstration (40 min)
Step into the world of the samurai with an immersive lecture and demonstration that bridges ancient Japan and modern-day New York. Journey through the evolution of the warrior across the eras, exploring the exquisite craftsmanship and spirit of the Katana. You’ll witness a live demonstration of Tate (traditional sword-fighting choreography) and gain a deeper understanding of Shosa, the sacred ritual of movement and etiquette.

Beyond the blade, discover what it means to be a "Modern Day Samurai" in the heart of NYC. Follow the path from Japan to the city and learn how the ancient code of Bushido can be merged with our modern world to shape a vision for the future.

Max participants: 25 - Seats Remaining: 25
Cost: $20.00 per person

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The Soul of the Samurai 1:00pm

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Once the payment is completed, you will receive a confirmation email. Please check your spam folder before trying again. Thank You!
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Taiko 1:15pm Workshop Sign-Up

Taiko 11:15am

Sorry, all seats have been taken!
Reservations for this workshop are now Closed

Taiko
Time: 1:15pm

Grand Lobby

Experience the power and energy of taiko drumming in this hands-on workshop! Participants will learn about the history, cultural significance, and fundamentals of taiko before trying their hand at drumming alongside experienced performers. The workshop will be led by Central Arkansas Taiko, the state’s only performing taiko ensemble, with special input from Dallas Kiyari Daiko drummers. No prior experience is needed—just bring your enthusiasm and be ready to feel the beat! If under 12 years of age, must be accompanied by a registered parent.

Max participants: 15 - Seats Remaining: 15
Cost: $20.00 per person

Click

Taiko 1:15pm

We use PayPal to process Credit Card payments. After submitting this form you will be taken to PayPal to complete the transaction.
Once the payment is completed, you will receive a confirmation email. Please check your spam folder before trying again. Thank You!
I Understand
Tray-Style Tea Experience 1:30pm

Tray-Style Tea Experience 1:30pm

Sorry, all seats have been taken!
Reservations for this workshop are now Closed

Tea Experience
Time: 1:30 - 2:00pm

Guests are invited to enjoy Japanese matcha prepared and served by trained students of the Tea Horse using a tray-style (ryakubon) format. Each 30-minute session offers an intimate, guided tea experience that balances approachability with authenticity, allowing guests to learn about utensils, movements, and the seasonal spirit of Japanese tea practice.

Multiple stations run simultaneously, with each station reflecting a seasonal theme and offering subtle variations in presentation and atmosphere throughout the experience.

Sessions begin every 30 minutes and seating is offered on first-come basis.

Max participants: 24 - Seats Remaining: 24
Cost: $25.00 per person

Click

Tray-Style Tea Experience 1:30pm

We use PayPal to process Credit Card payments. After submitting this form you will be taken to PayPal to complete the transaction.
Once the payment is completed, you will receive a confirmation email.
If you do not receive an email, your payment did not go through. Please check your Spam folder! Please try again. Thank You
I Understand
Kokedama Moss Balls with Garvan Woodland Gardens 1:30

Kokedama Moss Balls 1:30

Sorry, all seats have been taken!
Reservations for this workshop are now Closed

 

Kokedama Moss Balls
Time: 1:30 - 2:30pm

Create your own living work of art with kokedama, the Japanese technique of growing plants in moss-covered soil balls. This beginner-friendly workshop teaches you how to craft these stunning hanging gardens that bring natural beauty to any space. You'll leave with your own handmade kokedama and the skills to create more at home.

Max participants: 15 - Seats Remaining: 15
Cost: $40.00 per person

Click

Kokedama Moss Balls 1:30

We use PayPal to process Credit Card payments. After submitting this form you will be taken to PayPal to complete the transaction.
Once the payment is completed, you will receive a confirmation email.
Please check your Spam folder!
I Understand
Nerikiri Sweets Making 2pm

Nerikiri Sweets Making 2pm

Sorry, all seats have been taken!
Reservations for this workshop are now Closed

Nerikiri Sweets Making
Time: 2:00 - 3:00pm

Nerikiri are traditional Japanese confectionaries served with tea, designed to express the beauty of the season. In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn the kinton method and shibori kai shaping, exploring how color, form, and intention come together in Japanese sweets.

Max participants: 12 - Seats Remaining: 12
Cost: $25.00 per person

Click

Nerikiri Sweets Making 2pm

We use PayPal to process Credit Card payments. After submitting this form you will be taken to PayPal to complete the transaction.
Once the payment is completed, you will receive a confirmation email.
If you do not receive an email, your payment did not go through. Please check your Spam folder! Please try again. Thank You
I Understand
Tray-Style Tea Experience 2pm

Tray-Style Tea Experience 2pm

Sorry, all seats have been taken!
Reservations for this workshop are now Closed

Tea Experience
Time: 2:00 - 2:30pm

Guests are invited to enjoy Japanese matcha prepared and served by trained students of the Tea Horse using a tray-style (ryakubon) format. Each 30-minute session offers an intimate, guided tea experience that balances approachability with authenticity, allowing guests to learn about utensils, movements, and the seasonal spirit of Japanese tea practice.

Multiple stations run simultaneously, with each station reflecting a seasonal theme and offering subtle variations in presentation and atmosphere throughout the experience.

Sessions begin every 30 minutes and seating is offered on first-come basis.

Max participants: 24 - Seats Remaining: 24
Cost: $25.00 per person

Click

Tray-Style Tea Experience 2pm

We use PayPal to process Credit Card payments. After submitting this form you will be taken to PayPal to complete the transaction.
Once the payment is completed, you will receive a confirmation email.
If you do not receive an email, your payment did not go through. Please check your Spam folder! Please try again. Thank You
I Understand
Kintsugi 2:30pm Workshop Sign-Up

Kintsugi 2:00pm

Sorry, all seats have been taken!
Reservations for this workshop are now Closed

Kintsugi
Time: 2:30 - 4:30pm

Discover the beauty of imperfection through kintsugi, the traditional Japanese art of repairing broken objects with over 500 years of history. In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn the philosophy behind kintsugi and repair one small plate using authentic materials and natural urushi lacquer.

This is a rare opportunity to learn traditional kintsugi techniques in a small-group setting. All materials are provided, no prior experience is necessary, and participants will take home one repaired plate.

Please note: This workshop uses natural urushi lacquer, which contains urushiol (also found in poison ivy). Urushi is applied with paint brushes only, and participants will not touch it directly. Protective gloves and arm cover are provided, and safety instructions will be given before materials are handled. This workshop is recommended for ages 16+ and is not suitable for individuals with severe urushiol allergies.

Max participants: 12 - Seats Remaining: 12
Cost: $60 per person

Click

Kintsugi 2:30pm

We use PayPal to process Credit Card payments. After submitting this form you will be taken to PayPal to complete the transaction.
Once the payment is completed, you will receive a confirmation email. Please check your spam folder before trying again. Thank You!
I Understand
The World of Sake: Brewing & Tasting with Origami Sake 2:30pm

The World of Sake 2:30pm

Sorry, all seats have been taken!
Reservations for this workshop are now Closed

Origami Sake Brewing
Time: 2:30 - 3:30pm

Learn about the history, culture and craft of brewing fine sake and, for participants who are over 21 one years of age, have the opportunity to taste sake crafted in Hot Springs, Arkansas at Origami Sake! Led by sake professionals with decades of experience in the drinks industry, Origami Sake is a frontrunner in the industry. Head Brewer JJ Hollyhead is a trailblazer in bringing such a distinctive craft to our region, and brings with him worldwide experience from Sake's roots in Japan, all the way to London.

“Through the craft of origami, an artisan can turn a single, flat sheet of paper into a dimensional art form. Similarly, Origami Sake deftly fuses our brewing expertise and a few simple, yet premium ingredients to create something nuanced, bold, and memorable. Origami Sake is made in Arkansas, made to be unique, and made to be enjoyed.” – Origami Sake

Max participants: 15 - Seats Remaining: 15
Cost: $30.00 per person

Click

The World of Sake 2:30pm

We use PayPal to process Credit Card payments. After submitting this form you will be taken to PayPal to complete the transaction.
Once the payment is completed, you will receive a confirmation email. Please check your spam folder before trying again. Thank You!
I Understand
Tray-Style Tea Experience 2:30pm

Tray-Style Tea Experience 2:30pm

Sorry, all seats have been taken!
Reservations for this workshop are now Closed

Tea Experience
Time: 2:30 - 3:00pm

Guests are invited to enjoy Japanese matcha prepared and served by trained students of the Tea Horse using a tray-style (ryakubon) format. Each 30-minute session offers an intimate, guided tea experience that balances approachability with authenticity, allowing guests to learn about utensils, movements, and the seasonal spirit of Japanese tea practice.

Multiple stations run simultaneously, with each station reflecting a seasonal theme and offering subtle variations in presentation and atmosphere throughout the experience.

Sessions begin every 30 minutes and seating is offered on first-come basis.

Max participants: 24 - Seats Remaining: 24
Cost: $25.00 per person

Click

Tray-Style Tea Experience 2:30pm

We use PayPal to process Credit Card payments. After submitting this form you will be taken to PayPal to complete the transaction.
Once the payment is completed, you will receive a confirmation email.
If you do not receive an email, your payment did not go through. Please check your Spam folder! Please try again. Thank You
I Understand
Tray-Style Tea Experience 3pm

Tray-Style Tea Experience 3pm

Sorry, all seats have been taken!
Reservations for this workshop are now Closed

Tea Experience
Time: 3:00 - 3:30pm

Guests are invited to enjoy Japanese matcha prepared and served by trained students of the Tea Horse using a tray-style (ryakubon) format. Each 30-minute session offers an intimate, guided tea experience that balances approachability with authenticity, allowing guests to learn about utensils, movements, and the seasonal spirit of Japanese tea practice.

Multiple stations run simultaneously, with each station reflecting a seasonal theme and offering subtle variations in presentation and atmosphere throughout the experience.

Sessions begin every 30 minutes and seating is offered on first-come basis.

Max participants: 24 - Seats Remaining: 24
Cost: $25.00 per person

Click

Tray-Style Tea Experience 3pm

We use PayPal to process Credit Card payments. After submitting this form you will be taken to PayPal to complete the transaction.
Once the payment is completed, you will receive a confirmation email.
If you do not receive an email, your payment did not go through. Please check your Spam folder! Please try again. Thank You
I Understand