"The trees cast deep shade in the lush summer; the towers reflect in the pond’s still light." How should one spend these sweltering summer days? The Nikken Sekkei Kaga Ryokan has prepared a series of quintessentially Japanese summer cooling experiences. Come and immerse yourself to create truly unforgettable summer memories!
Experience the exquisite artistry of geisha performances without traveling to Japan!(Photo provided by Nikken Sekkei Kaga Ryokan)
Midsummer Cooling Night
In the movie *Memoirs of a Geisha*, geisha appear at private gatherings with their stunning beauty and exceptional talents, bringing the luxury banquets to a climax. According to the traditional geisha practice of "ichigen-san okotowari" (declining first-time or unfamiliar guests), arranging for a geisha to perform at a banquet requires an introduction from a regular patron and the gradual earning of the tea house's trust before one can make a booking.However, on a clear summer night with the sound of flowing water, the premium Japanese hot spring ryokan, Nikken Sekkei Kaga Ryokan in Beitou, invites guests to step back in time to Kanazawa’s Nishi Chaya District 300 years ago. From July 13 (Thursday) to July 17 (Monday), every evening at 18:30, experience the mysterious and luxurious "geisha performance." Among those performing at the ryokan are three geisha, including Yui, the top-ranking geisha from the Nishi Chaya District. They will present their refined dance and music at the Golden Nyokan Garden on the 6th floor of the Nikken Sekkei Kaga Ryokan, offering visitors the chance to enjoy a cinematic-style geisha banquet scene without leaving Taiwan. All guests visiting during the event period can enjoy the performance free of charge. This once-a-year opportunity lasts only one week — don’t miss your chance to get up close to the grace and elegance of geisha culture if you love traditional Japanese arts!
A refreshing summer banquet that is as exquisite as it is cooling. (Photography by MOOK Scenic Spots Zhang Yingying)
Song of the Brilliant Summer – The Cooling Banquet
When talking about summer, one cannot overlook the classic image of summer in Japan’s seasonal scenery — the “riverbed cooling.” The “Cooling Banquet” originates from this tradition and represents the most luxurious summer enjoyment of ancient Japanese nobility. Following traditional Japanese customs, Nikken Sekkei Kaga Ryokan hosts a “Cooling Banquet” on-site and invites you to join the limited-time “Japanese Tableware Gourmet Banquet” from July 14 (Friday) to July 16 (Sunday). Spend the hot summer days in graceful style!
The chef at Nikken Sekkei Kaga Ryokan says: "The vessels that hold the food are like the kimono of the cuisine!" Subtle and understated yet deeply intriguing, they are like the brilliant fireworks in the summer night sky — each adding its unique charm behind the scenes, enhancing the flavors of the dishes to perfection and bringing extra sparkle to this feast. The “Japanese Tableware Gourmet Banquet” pairs seasonal delicacies with brightly colored Kyōyaki tableware, conveying an elegant and delightful sense of coolness through these luxurious vessels, as if participating in a multi-sensory luxury banquet. Guests attending the “Japanese Tableware Gourmet Banquet” will receive one “Public Bath Holiday Coupon.” Additionally, at the same time, the 6F Yamaran Hall is hosting the “Gorgeous Kyōyaki Lovers' Gathering,” where you can bring home your favorite pieces and continue to enjoy the beauty of the season at home!
Once-a-year, one-week-only rare performance by geisha from Kanazawa’s Nishi Chaya District coming to Taiwan. (Photo provided by Kaga Ryokan Nikken Sekkei)
“Five Consecutive Years of Japanese Tableware Gourmet Banquets”
[One session per day, limited to 30 VIP guests per session, reservation deadline is July 10]
Historic Café Starbucks Spots: Six Classic Must-Visit Locations Across Taiwan