Daigoji
Develop a deeper understanding of Daigoji's 1,150-year history, Shingon Esoteric Buddhism, architecture, gardens and cultural treasures through specialist-led training. The programme combines cultural knowledge with practical guiding skills and international hospitality, preparing guides to share the significance of Daigoji with visitors from around the world.
Information about Daigoji (PDF)
Training Dates
Oct 11 (Sun) | Oct 25 (Sun) | Oct 31 (Sat)
Final assessment: Date to be announced
Maximum 10 participants
Program Schedule
*Curriculum is subject to change
Day 1
Oct 11 (Sun) 9:00 ~ 14:00
Shingon Buddhism & 1,150 Years of Daigoji History
Introduction to Shingon Buddhism & Daigoji
The principles of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism, Kūkai, Daigoji's 1,150-year history, and an introduction to understanding its Buddhist sculpture.
Daigoji as a World Heritage Site
The cultural and historical significance of Daigoji, with a particular focus on Mirokudō and Sanbō-in.
Reihōkan Museum Visit
Guided study and interpretation of Daigoji's Buddhist sculptures and cultural treasures.
Lunch
Temple Grounds Fieldwork
On-site study of key locations including the Kondō, Five-storied Pagoda, West Gate and Bentendō.
Day 2
Oct 25 (Sun) 9:00 ~ 12:30
Daigoji Architecture, Sanbō-in Garden & Garden Culture
Introduction to Temple Architecture
Fundamentals of Japanese temple architecture, including shoin-zukuri, changes in pagoda proportions, the Kondō and traditional wayō Buddhist architecture.
The Cultural Significance of Sanbō-in Garden
Exploring the garden's history, design and value as an important cultural property.
Architecture & Garden Fieldwork
On-site study with both specialists, visiting Sanbō-in, the Kondō, Five-storied Pagoda, West Gate, Bentendō and other significant locations.
Day 3
Oct 31 (Sat) 14:00 ~ 17:00
Hospitality from a Global Perspective
Opening & Introduction
Introduction to the programme's approach to hospitality and the concept of a dignified relationship between host and guest.
Part 1 — Global Standards of Hospitality & Protocol
Drawing on Air France La Première, this session explores hospitality for VIP and high-net-worth guests, international standards, and service founded on respect for the individual.
Q&A + Short Break
Part 2 — Mutual Respect in Kyoto Hospitality
Applying international hospitality principles to Kyoto cultural tourism, including the use of space and the senses, appropriate interpersonal distance, and sensitivity to cultural differences.
Part 3 — Closing Dialogue
A group discussion connecting the day's principles with the practical challenges guides encounter, and considering how they can be applied in the field.
Day 4
Date to be announced 10:00 ~ 12:00
Final Practical Assessment & Certification
Practical Guiding Examination
Candidates conduct a practical guiding exercise designed around the needs of international visitors.
Feedback, Completion Ceremony & Certification
Assessment considers knowledge and accuracy, communication and interpretation, adaptation to visitors' cultural backgrounds and interests, safety and time management, appropriate conduct and hospitality, and the ability to respond to questions with integrity.
Lecturers/Speakers
Shunkai Iida
Monk & Curator, Daigoji Temple
A graduate of Shuchiin University and Daigozan Denpo Gakuin, Shunkai Iida serves at Daigoji Temple as both a Buddhist monk and curator. His work includes cultural property research, exhibitions and displays, bringing an on-site perspective to the interpretation of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism and Daigoji's history and cultural treasures.
Yuichi Ishikawa
Senior Cultural Property Conservation Engineer, Kyoto City / PhD
Specialising in modern architectural and residential history, Yuichi Ishikawa works in Kyoto City's Cultural Properties Protection Section, where he is involved in the preservation of historic buildings and gardens. He is also an advisor to the Kyoto Modern Architecture Festival and author of Kyoto no Yōkan (Western-style Architecture in Kyoto).
Kaori Machida
Garden Historian / Associate Professor, Kyoto University of the Arts
A specialist in the history of Japanese gardens, Kaori Machida conducts academic research into cultural-property gardens and delivers public lectures on their history and significance. She is also a researcher at Kyoto University of the Arts' Research Center for Japanese Garden Art and Historical Heritage.
Yuichi Shibasaki
Account Manager & La Première Sales, Air France–KLM
Yuichi Shibasaki joined Air France after graduating from Seijo University and has worked across airport passenger services, ticketing and corporate sales. Since 2014, he has specialised in First Class sales, with extensive experience serving luxury brands and VIP clients, as well as international training and university-level hospitality education.
Yukiko Kawarasaki
Founder, TAZAR
Yukiko Kawarasaki spent 33 years as an international cabin crew member with Air France, completing more than 18,000 flight hours and serving aboard Concorde as well as earning First Class qualifications. She later worked in higher education and hospitality and now provides English and French interpretation and personal assistance for high-net-worth international visitors and VIPs.
