Programs described below
Whether in Karatsu, off-the-radar of the tourist masses in the beautiful southern region of Japan, or in the historically rich city of Kyoto, these journeys are full of aesthetic beauty, delicious flavors, and intimate encounters with dedicated and passionate artisans.
journey deep into the food and culture of Japan
hosted travel
- John & Lari
"The depth and breadth of Japanese food culture and ceramics we experienced was way beyond our expectations. What made it so special is the personal connections Prairie and Hanako have with all the chefs, artisans, and ceramicists we visited. Their passion about this unique culture was beautifully transmitted in rich detail, and we learned so much. We came back full of inspiration, and can’t imagine any way to make this trip better than it was. We’re so grateful to Prairie, Hanako, and their whole team for making this the trip of a lifetime."
"This was such an extraordinary adventure!"
- Melissa & Tom
“Prairie exceeded all expectations for us as a guide in Japan. She thoughtfully introduced us to experiences that left us with a feeling of appreciation and connection to Japanese culture in a way we couldn’t have experienced on our own.”
"With her unique perspective, open mindedness and curiosity"
- Michele
"I loved every minute of this beautifully curated tour. Upon my return home it now feels like a dream! Surpassing all expectations, this trip opened my eyes to Japan’s unique culture of food and ceramics. I loved meeting local artists, chefs and makers who shared their passion for tradition and innovation for what they do. Thank you, Prairie and Hanako, for making this once in a lifetime trip a truly inspiring and memorable experience. Now I cannot wait to return to Japan!"
"And the food… oh my… was all so extraordinary!"
- Evy
"We were truly lucky to benefit from Prairie's connections with makers, chefs, and pottery artists. Her gentle spirit and appreciation for Japanese culture opened doors that we would not have been able to see without her hard work. The dinners and trips to the various pottery studios are experiences of a lifetime."
"I am singing your praises"
November 2021 itinerary and registration details coming soon...
Join us for an intimate behind-the-scenes experience in the beautiful southern region of Japan, off-the-radar of the tourist masses, as we explore the intersections of food and ceramics and the special story that interplays between them. Karatsu is filled with culinary surprises and sought after pottery. We will meet with local makers, chefs, food producers and harvesters - think soy, sake, and nori - modern ceramic artists, traditional potters and more.
November is a wonderful time of year to visit Karatsu. The days are still mild even as evenings cool. The momiji maples are turning red and the autumn air is clear and bright.
This experience is offered through Ace Camps Travel.
*Due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic this program will resume in 2021.
The story of food and ceramics with local makers
Karatsu | November
May 2022 itinerary and registration details coming soon...
Join us for an intimate behind-the-scenes experience in the beautiful southern region of Japan. Karatsu pottery has long been collected by practitioners of tea ceremony from which the philosophies and aesthetics of omotenashi, Japan’s revered art of hospitality, has evolved. With a focus on quality ingredients and their presentation in ceramic vessels, we’ll explore the practices of arranging buds and branches, serving and receiving tea and sake, and plating food.
May is a wonderful time of year to visit Karatsu. The days are mild and sunny and evenings slowly turn warm enough to leave the windows open. The first cry of the cicadas marks the entrance into summer. It’s the season of fragrant citrus blossoms and fresh garden vegetables, and the tea harvests are underway.
This experience is offered through Ace Camps Travel.
*Due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic this program will resume in 2022.
THE STORY OF tea AND CERAMICS WITH LOCAL MAKERS
Karatsu | May
May 2022 itinerary and registration details coming soon...
Join us for a first-hand look inside the historically rich city of Kyoto where we will explore the noble flavors and aesthetics of Japan. We will meet and learn with local specialists, artisans and makers. We learn about the culture and aesthetics of green tea and the finest incense in the world, wander through exceptional moss gardens and mesmerizing bamboo forests, examine centuries old temples and castles. You will enjoy various culinary specialties of the region including Oden, shojin ryori vegetarian Temple cuisine, and different expressions of kaiseki.
May is a wonderful time of year to visit Kyoto. Spring is turning into summer, the weeping willows sway in the breeze and the birds are lively with song. The days are sunny and mild and the evenings cool.
This experience is offered through Ace Camps Travel.
*Due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic this program will resume in 2022.
the noble flavors and aesthetics of Japan
kyoto | May
All content and imagery © Prairie Stuart-Wolff 2021
