Ori-ori Sanpai

The Meeting of Art and Zen began as an opportunity to reexamine, through the medium of art, the history and philosophy amassed at Saihoji over its 1,300 years. Centered around exhibitions by guest artists, the series offers small-group programs designed to invite visitors to experience the world on a deeper level by engaging their senses.

The theme for the third iteration in 2027 is “Material”. Unlike intangible information, material is perceived through physical friction and resistance, and exists as a fundamental entity that gives tangible shape to a work of art. 

This time, we welcome artist Hashimoto Tomonari, who works with earth, specifically clay and glaze, as his material. He will create an installation within the temple grounds, as though engaging in a dialogue with the temple buildings, the garden, and the passage of time behind them.

After centering your mind in the main hall, we invite you to view the artworks, then take your time enjoying the winter garden at leisure. In the stillness, let your five senses awaken, and take a special moment to reflect inward as you feel the layered weight of 1,300 years.
Following the appreciation, take your time to stroll through the winter garden at your own pace.
*Please note that some areas of the garden may not be accessible, and there may be some noise due to the restoration work.

[Dates and Start Time]
February: 11 (Thu), 12 (Fri), 14 (Sun), 20 (Sat), 22 (Mon), 23 (Tue)
*The meeting time is 5 minutes before each session.
*Deadline: The day before a desired date
[Required Time]
Approx. 90 min.
*After the program, please feel free to take your time until closing time if you like.

[Qualified]
Non-supporters and Saihokai supporters
*aged 13 or older at time of visit.
(About Supporters' Program)
[Admission fee]
8,000 yen
*Our system usage fee will be charged per person per visit, aside from admission fee.
[Language]
Japanese
*Even if you don't understand Japanese, please feel free to join this program. We will provide you with a leaflet with English information.


[Important notes when reserving your visit]
-The garden paths are not wheelchair accessible, as the temple grounds include steps and areas covered in gravel.
[Change/Cancellation]
The date and time of the visit cannot be changed. If you wish to change the date and time of your visit, please cancel your reservation and make a new one. Cancellations (including reduction in the number of participants) will be subject to the following cancellation fees.
Cancellation fees:
(Up to 4 days before) Free of charge
(3 days before - 1 day before) 50%
(On the day of your visit) 100%
*The system usage fee is not refundable regardless of the date of cancellation.

[Artist]
Hashimoto Tomonari
Hashimoto is based in Shigaraki, Shiga Prefecture, and creates large-scale ceramic sculptures. He completed his doctoral studies at the Graduate School of Kanazawa College of Art in 2017 and was a finalist for the LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize 2019. His major exhibitions include Summer Museum Project #13 feat. Hashimoto Tomonari (The Museum of Modern Art, Wakayama, 2023) and Yet, yet again. (PARCEL, Tokyo, 2026). His works are held in various museum collections around the world, including at the Victoria and Albert Museum, Los Angeles County Museum of Art, and the LOEWE FOUNDATION.