Upcoming Events
![Japanese Culture & Traditions [Learn about Japan series #1]](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6102f63ec9db1d143992f963/1774860463671-5Z04H2IQPJRFDF63O17Y/unsplash-image-824OwkP7sgk.jpg)
Japanese Culture & Traditions [Learn about Japan series #1]
This is the first of our webinar series:
Japanese Culture & Traditions
Japan has a way of making you feel both warmly welcomed and wonderfully humbled.
In this first session, we explore the rituals and customs that shape everyday life — from traditional celebrations and holidays to the quiet art of gift-giving.
You'll learn about omotenashi, the Japanese spirit of hospitality that anticipates your every need, and omoiyari, the deep sense of empathy and respect that flows through every interaction.
Topics covered:
History and traditions of major Japanese celebrations -Shougatsu (New Year), Setsubun, Obon, Shichi-go-san, etc
This is What you experience in Japan : Omotenashi (Japanese hospitality)
How Omoiyari shapes a common language for building a safe and respectful society
Rituals performed to honor Japanese ancestors
About the Host:
Miho was born and raised in Tokyo, Japan. With family in both Tokyo and Osaka, Miho observed the different cultures and traditions kept within Japan.
When she moved to the United States in 2004, the biggest culture shock she experienced was the food.
In Japan, food is approached with deep attention — not just for nourishment, but as a shared, communal practice for health and wellbeing. This inspired her to pursue a career as a Registered Dietitian to improve the health and wellbeing of others.
While living in the U.S., she continued practicing Japanese traditions — playing shamisen (a traditional Japanese string instrument), taiko (traditional Japanese drumming), nagauta singing, and dance. She also practiced Aikido, a Japanese martial art, for seven years.
Before opening House Nine in 2019, she told Sarah (co-owner) that her dream was to host a wellness retreat in Japan. After six years of dreaming, she will be leading the Japan Wellness Retreat in November 2026.
![Japanese Mythology [Learn about Japan series #3]](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6102f63ec9db1d143992f963/1774860601514-VKUMZFJBPYIOYDG8XN7G/Origin_of_the_Cave_Door_Dance_%28Amaterasu%29_by_Shunsai_Toshimasa_1889.jpg)
Japanese Mythology [Learn about Japan series #3]
The land of eight million gods.
Japanese Mythology
Every tree, river, rock, mountain has spirits that protect nature and humans.
The journey into the mythology of Japan — thousands years old oral legend of how islands of Japan was formed by the gods of the Universe. These aren't just old tales. They're the living foundation of Japanese identity still to this day.
Topics covered:
The divine formation of the islands of Japan
Birth of Amaterasu omikami (sun goddess)
Japan’s first emperor - Jinmu tenno
Shinto Shrines and the gods
Living myth - yearly Shinto rituals to worship the gods and current imperial family
Influence on Japanese social values and identity of harmony, responsibility, and the care for nature
Mt. Fuji as a spiritual symbol
About the Host:
Miho was born and raised in Tokyo, Japan. With family in both Tokyo and Osaka, Miho observed the different cultures and traditions kept within Japan.
When she moved to the United States in 2004, the biggest culture shock she experienced was the food.
In Japan, food is approached with deep attention — not just for nourishment, but as a shared, communal practice for health and wellbeing. This inspired her to pursue a career as a Registered Dietitian to improve the health and wellbeing of others.
While living in the U.S., she continued practicing Japanese traditions — playing shamisen (a traditional Japanese string instrument), taiko (traditional Japanese drumming), nagauta singing, and dance. She also practiced Aikido, a Japanese martial art, for seven years.
Before opening House Nine in 2019, she told Sarah (co-owner) that her dream was to host a wellness retreat in Japan. After six years of dreaming, she will be leading the Japan Wellness Retreat in November 2026.