Featured Events in Kyoto Prefecture in February 2025 (August Updated)

The first large-scale exhibition outside China since the site was designated a World Heritage Site 44 first-class cultural relics and approximately 200 other pieces from 27 museums in China will be on display The Silk Road, which connects the East and the West, is an important trade route that crosses the Eurasian continent. Since ancient times, many people and goods have traveled along it, and diverse cultures have flourished at its key points. This exhibition will introduce Silk Road treasures discovered in Luoyang, Xi'an, Lanzhou, Dunhuang, and Xinjiang regions of China. Enjoy its eternal history through approximately 200 pieces, some of which will be on display in Japan for the first time.

The first large-scale exhibition outside China since the country was designated a World Heritage Site Including 44 first-class cultural relics, approximately 200 pieces from 27 museums in China will be on display. The Silk Road, which connects the East and the West, is an important trade route that crosses the Eurasian continent. Since ancient times, many people and goods have traveled along it, and diverse cultures have flourished at its key points. This exhibition will introduce Silk Road treasures discovered in Luoyang, Xi'an, Lanzhou, Dunhuang, and Xinjiang regions of China. Enjoy its eternal history through approximately 200 pieces, some of which will be on display in Japan for the first time.

Kuroda Tatsuaki, who was active in Kyoto, is one of Japan's leading wood lacquer craftsmen, and in 1970 he was the first person in the field of woodworking to be designated a holder of an Important Intangible Cultural Property (Living National Treasure). Questioning the division of labor that was common at the time, Kuroda created his works in a consistent manner, from designing and creating the base to decorating them, and opened up a unique creative world by integrating practicality, decorativeness, and the characteristics of the materials. This exhibition is being held to commemorate the 120th anniversary of Kuroda's birth, and will introduce the life of this artist who left a clear mark on the history of Japanese crafts through his representative works from his early period to his later years.

"Golden Demon" 1932 Shochiku Kamata production (silent, black and white, 119 minutes) / Director: Nomura Yoshitei / Cast: Hayashi Chojiro, Tanaka Kinuyo, Yakumo Emiko

The museum currently houses approximately 4,200 works of modern and contemporary Kyoto art (Japanese paintings, Western paintings, sculptures, prints, crafts, and calligraphy). In addition to the masterpieces of Japanese and Western paintings that were famous throughout the country during the Meiji to Showa periods (late 19th and early 20th centuries), there are also new collections that have recently been added to the collection, including the ZERO collection, which includes works by world-renowned printmakers, and award-winning works from the VOCA exhibition, which has witnessed the transformation of contemporary art in two-dimensional forms over the past 30 years. In the collection room, in addition to introducing works by popular Kyoto masters such as Takeuchi Seiho, Uemura Shōen, and Kijima Sakuratani, visitors can also experience the charm of modern and contemporary art based on Kyoto through special themed exhibitions.

British aristocrats who visited Venice competed to purchase the vedutas (landscape paintings) of the 18th century painter Canaletto (1697-1768) as mementos of their trip. The ideal image of Venice, with its sparkling waters, orderly architecture, and festive atmosphere, was established through Canaletto's vedutas, which combine grandeur and precision. This exhibition is the first in Japan to introduce the entire work of Canaletto, the master of vedutas. Through Canaletto's magnificent Venetian landscapes, we will trace the process by which the veduta genre was established, and also introduce the works of 19th century painters who captured Venice with a different perspective than Canaletto.

The Kyoto Marathon (京都マラソン) is a men's and women's marathon sports event held in Kyoto, Japan in mid-February each year, with a standard distance of 42.195 kilometers.

Born in 1997, Morikai Sakamoto is a contemporary artist who works primarily in ceramics. Wherever he goes, Sakamoto digs the soil, learns about the local history and geological formations, and fires his works in an earthen kiln he built himself. By doing all the processes himself, Sakamoto can play with the contingency of the fired objects. Sakamoto is interested in dialogue with clay, the uncontrollable performance of the firing process, and exploring the essential relationship between objects and the world by holding the fired objects in his hands or putting them to his mouth to communicate. During the exhibition, in addition to an exhibition consisting of videos, photos, and pottery, participatory workshops and performances using clay and pottery will be held, aiming to create opportunities for viewers to think deeply about the environment and themselves.

Date: 6th February 2025 Time: Doors open at 15.00pm - Concert starts at 3.30pm Venue: Kyoto Concert Hall DREAMS IN KYOTO Step into a world where music transforms into a living, breathing story. Join Mirana Faiz, an internationally acclaimed pianist and composer, for an unforgettable afternoon of music, memory, and imagination. Through her evocative performances and masterful compositions, Mirana invites you to journey through emotions and dreams, leaving you captivated and inspired. The Artist: Mirana Faiz holds a Master’s Degree from Leeds Conservatory, UK, and has performed at some of the most renowned venues in the world, including Hong Kong City Hall, Cardiff City Hall, Leeds Town Hall, the University of Music and Performing Arts in Vienna, as well as prestigious castles and historic venues. Her performances are celebrated for their expressive depth, particularly her interpretation of Chopin's works, which masterfully capture the emotion and intricacy of his style. As a composer, Mirana’s talent has garnered international acclaim, with one of her pieces earning a nomination at the Hollywood Music Awards. Since 2019, she has expanded her artistry by creating music videos that blend her original compositions with compelling visual storytelling, connecting with audiences on a deeply emotional level worldwide. The Album: DREAMS, recorded at the legendary Abbey Road Studios, is Mirana’s latest triumph a deeply personal collection of solo piano compositions. These pieces invite listeners into hidden emotional landscapes, weaving together the profound and the ethereal. For those seeking more, the exclusive vinyl and CD editions include an illustrated booklet offering glimpses into the inspirations behind each piece. The Concert Program: Mirana will bring DREAMS to life in its entirety, alongside exclusive works never before performed. The evening’s repertoire includes: Selections from DREAMS: Whispers of the JourneyPerle De MerAmber NocturneThe SpinningLake VyrnwyLe Réveil des Rêves (Morning Valse)Valse Endormie (Evening Valse)Exclusive Performances: Themes from Memoirs of a Geisha – John Williams (Piano Arrangement by Mirana Faiz)Snow Globe – Mirana FaizLost in Kyoto (Last Dance) – Mirana FaizOne of the night’s highlights is the world premiere of Lost in Kyoto (Last Dance), a hauntingly beautiful piece inspired by a dream a reflection of fleeting moments and whispered goodbyes. Why This Concert Is Special: This isn’t just a performance; it’s a journey. A chance to feel the music not only with your ears but with your soul. Mirana’s ability to blend classical tradition with contemporary storytelling makes this evening a rare and unforgettable experience. Let yourself be carried away. Reserve your seat now for a concert that promises to stay with you long after the final note fades. ⭐️DREAMS: NOW OPEN FOR PRE-ORDERS⭐️ https://www.diggersfactory.com/shop/mirana Information Source: Mirana Faiz | eventbrite

A religious event of the Agama sect held every year at the traditional end of winter. Yamabushi (monks) dressed in costumes march in procession with axes, bows and sacred swords to symbolically purify the boundaries of the site. Then gomaki (wooden prayer sticks) painted with worshippers for the dead and asking for prayers are thrown onto the woodpile and burned. The flames reaching high into the sky are a sight to behold. Other things to watch are shugen-daiko drumming and gagaku (traditional court music). There are special bus routes for worshippers and visitors from all over the country.

Japanese Instrument Koto class @ the heart of Kyoto Come join us for a unique experience in the beautiful city of Kyoto! Our koto class will take place at the charming Gojo Paradiso 五条パラディソ, where you'll learn how to play Japanese instrument koto from a skilled instructor. Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Kyoto while playing this traditional art form. Don’t worry if you’ve never played a musical instrument before, this workshop is beginner-friendly, and our instructor will provide guidance to help you master the song. Don’t miss out on the chance to create lasting memories and connect with Japan’s musical heritage in a fun, interactive setting! Please make a reservation by the day before. Information Source: Gojo Paradiso - Kyoto | eventbrite

AsiaTIDES Oligonucleotide & Peptide Therapeutics is the only event in Asia bringing together science, technologies, and partners AsiaTIDES Oligonucleotide & Peptide Therapeutics is the only event in Asia bringing together science, technologies, and partners to accelerate oligonucleotide and peptide molecules to market. It offers separate tracks covering the latest oligonucleotide and peptide development strategies from discovery, nonclinical, clinical and CMC to late-stage development and commercialization. Information Source: Informa Exhibitions | expotobi