The beauty of the Edo period, the beauty of the modern era, the beauty of the Jomon period... Experience "Japanese beauty" that transcends time and space.

Art and works of art imbued with soul, regardless of the era, mysteriously captivate us, sometimes shattering preconceived notions and offering unexpected insights. Let's seek fresh inspiration and encounter "beauty" that transcends time and space.

When it comes to representative artists of the Edo period, a time when townspeople's culture flourished, Katsushika Hokusai and Ishikawa Uncho are indispensable.

Hokusai, who was active as a ukiyo-e artist, is known for his overwhelming artistic skill and unconventional style, exemplified by works such as "Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji," but many people may not know that he spent his entire life exploring the expression of "waves." "Male Wave" and "Female Wave" are works from his late 80s, representing the ultimate form of waves that Hokusai achieved in his final years.

Uncho, often called "Japan's Michelangelo," was a master carver. He left behind many vibrant and dynamic wood carvings, but the reason for this title is the incredibly diverse range of works he left behind, including not only wood carvings but also stone carvings, paintings, temple designs, fusuma paintings, plasterwork, and shoji screens. He continues to fascinate fans as an enigmatic artist who explored overwhelming beauty and a dynamic worldview without being confined to any particular genre.

The beauty created by these two geniuses, who continue to awe people across generations, is something you should definitely see at least once.

In the modern era, Western culture mingled with pre-Edo Japanese culture, leading to the rapid development of a unique culture. The Kyoto State Guest House, designed with the aim of fusing traditional Japanese architecture with modern construction techniques, offers a glimpse into this modern era.

With its irimoya (hip-and-gable roof) and sukiya-style exterior, it has welcomed distinguished guests with an appearance that recreates the breath of inherited culture. In the grand hall 'Fuji no Ma,' named after the wisteria symbolizing 'welcome,' the 'Reika' woven weaving system, featuring 39 types of flowers and flowers based on sketches by Japanese painter Kiyomichi, will lavishly welcome guests. In the 'Evening Shadow Room,' used for tea and other occasions, the weaving 'Hiei Getsuei,' which beautifully depicts the moon illuminating Mount Hiei, is also displayed. With Club Tourism tours, there is no need to make a reservation, and we will guide you to a guided tour.

You can also visit Kyoto's representative 'Toji Temple,' and see 'Koshibo,' which is usually closed to the public and features Fusuma paintings inspired by Domoto.

The Jomon period has been attracting a lot of attention in recent years. This era, which is said to have been remarkably peaceful with little conflict for approximately 10,000 years, offers a glimpse into the spirit of its people through their sense of "beauty."

One of the defining characteristics of the Jomon period is said to be its highly creative spirit. This is evident from the fact that the styles of pottery and clay figurines vary considerably from period to period, and that they reflect the unique sensibilities and imaginations of their creators.

A prime example is the national treasure "Gassho Dogu" (praying clay figurine), believed to have been made approximately 3,500 years ago. Its praying posture is widely believed to represent prayers for fertility and safe childbirth. The "Kaen-gata Doki" (flame-shaped earthenware), believed to have been made approximately 5,000 years ago, is also unique, with a form that evokes a burning flame. It is said that Taro Okamoto was impressed by its artistry.

Many Jomon ruins remain in areas like Kita Tohoku, Nagano, and Niigata, where it's comfortable to spend early summer. With Club Tourism tours, you can deepen your knowledge of history and culture in the same area accompanied by a guide knowledgeable about history, regardless of your interest in history or culture.