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X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.shinzenjapanesegarden.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Shinzen Garden
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260602T170000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260602T183000
DTSTAMP:20260505T163117Z
CREATED:20260505T163117Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260505T163117Z
UID:10000459-1780419600-1780425000@www.shinzenjapanesegarden.org
SUMMARY:Japan Metalcraft Superstars: Ten Master Artist
DESCRIPTION:Japan’s Metalcraft Superstars: Ten Master Artists\nPresented by Japan Society of Northern California \n*Online Program \nDrawn from 2\,300 years of Japan’s rich metalworking heritage\, today’s leading metal artists are redefining tradition for the 21st century. Join us for an online Zoom presentation by Steve Beimel of JapanCraft21\, which will explore remarkable casting and forging techniques while highlighting the work of ten extraordinary artists — men and women whose creativity bridges history and innovation through a dazzling range of original works and contemporary processes. \nBeimel and his team at JapanCraft21 are passionately committed to revitalizing traditional Japanese arts. Don’t miss your chance to learn about Japanese metalwork master artisans! \nREGISTER HERE\n​Venue:\nOnline via Zoom (You will receive the Zoom link after registration) \n​Agenda:\n5:00-5:05 PM Opening Remarks\n5:05-6:00 PM Presentation by Steve Beimel\n6:00-6:10 PM Moderated Discussion led by Steve Pollock\n6:10-6:25 PM Q&A\n6:25-6:30 PM Closing Remarks \nSPEAKER \nJapanCraft21 | Steve Beimel\, Founder \nLongtime Japanese resident Californian Steve Beimel has been involved with Japanese culture since the early 1970s. In 2018\, he founded JapanCraft21 to identify viable but vulnerable traditional Japanese crafts and assist in their revitalization. They started Shinmachiya Juku\, a free-of-charge school in Kyoto that teaches traditional construction skills to working carpenters and plasterers\, and a program that supports apprenticeship in vulnerable craft genres. Additionally\, they hold national contests in support of talented craftspeople. Their Craft Leader Program promotes the work of their 30 contest winners to date. Steve recently retired from Esprit Travel and Tours\, a U.S.-based Japanese culture-focused tour company that he founded in 1992. At Esprit\, he connected travelers from around the world with talented and gracious Japanese people\, enabling them to encounter the richness and beauty of Japanese culture. Prior to that\, Steve ran a large U.S.-based wholesale plant growing operation with Japanese partners\, serving the landscape construction industry during California’s construction boom years. He holds an M.A. in Applied Counseling Psychology\, and he currently lives in the Kyoto foothills with his wife of over 42 years\, Ritsuko\, an ikebana instructor. \nMODERATOR \nJapan Society of Northern California | Steve Pollock\, President \nSteve Pollock is the President of Japan Society of Northern California (JSNC). Apart from his management responsibilities\, he is also an avid consumer of JSNC’s diverse programming on topics ranging from Japanese arts and culture\, to business and innovation\, healthcare\, and policy and economics. Prior to leading JSNC\, Steve worked for many years advising Japanese and US companies about cross-cultural business and market entry\, while also traveling and reading widely about Japan. He has lived and worked in Japan with his family\, and has a passion for sharing and discussing interesting Japan-related content with others.
URL:https://www.shinzenjapanesegarden.org/event/japan-metalcraft-superstars-ten-master-artist/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Cultural Demonstrations,Special Programs
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260602T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260602T203000
DTSTAMP:20260507T203848Z
CREATED:20260507T203848Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T203848Z
UID:10000460-1780426800-1780432200@www.shinzenjapanesegarden.org
SUMMARY:Seikichi Izumi X\, the sole inheritor of the 370 years of Urushi Lacquer brushi making
DESCRIPTION:Seikichi Izumi X\, the sole inheritor of the 370 years of Urushi Lacquer brushi making\nONLINE PRESENTATION\nThis online lecture centers on the craft of urushi brush making\, presented by Seikichi Izumi X\, a lacquer brush artisan from a lineage dating back to the 17th century. For over 370 years since Seki Izumi I\, he has been the sole inheritor of traditional Edo techniques\, using human hair as the primary material\, passed down exclusively through oral tradition from generation to generation\, and continues to preserve them to this day\, \nHosted by the Japan Foundation\, Los Angeles \nREGISTER HERE
URL:https://www.shinzenjapanesegarden.org/event/seikichi-izumi-brushi-making/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Cultural Demonstrations,Special Programs
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.shinzenjapanesegarden.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/g006.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260609T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260609T170000
DTSTAMP:20260604T160914Z
CREATED:20260428T164331Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T160914Z
UID:10000454-1781017200-1781024400@www.shinzenjapanesegarden.org
SUMMARY:Speak Japanese Class
DESCRIPTION:Interested in learning Japanese for travel\, cultural exploration\, or everyday conversation? This beginner-friendly course is designed for students with little to no prior Japanese experience and focuses on practical phrases and real-life communication skills. \nParticipants will learn essential greetings\, introductions\, common questions\, dining phrases\, travel vocabulary\, shopping expressions\, and everyday conversational basics that can be immediately used in Japan or while engaging with Japanese culture locally. The course will also introduce students to basic pronunciation\, etiquette\, and simple sentence structure in a welcoming and supportive environment. \nWhether you are planning a future trip to Japan\, interested in Japanese culture\, or simply looking to learn a new language\, this class offers a fun and approachable introduction to conversational Japanese. No prior language experience is required. \nThis course takes place over four weeks\, meeting once per week from 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm. Each session builds on the previous week’s lessons\, allowing participants to gradually develop confidence using basic conversational Japanese phrases and expressions. The session days are June 9\, 16\, 23 and 30\, 2026 and the will meet at the Shinzen Garden Office.
URL:https://www.shinzenjapanesegarden.org/event/speak-japanese-class/
LOCATION:Shinzen Office\, 323 W. Cromwell\, Suite 101\, Fresno\, 93711\, United States
CATEGORIES:Classes,Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shinzenjapanesegarden.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Speak-Japanese-Class.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Shinzen Friendship Garden":MAILTO:info@shinzenjapanesegarden.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260613T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260613T120000
DTSTAMP:20260611T163550Z
CREATED:20260428T173410Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T163550Z
UID:10000458-1781344800-1781352000@www.shinzenjapanesegarden.org
SUMMARY:The Art of the Kimono
DESCRIPTION:Step into the rich cultural world of the kimono in this engaging and educational workshop exploring the history\, symbolism\, and artistry of Japan’s most iconic garment. The Art of the Kimono: Tradition\, Symbolism & Style will guide attendees through the evolution of the kimono from traditional court attire to a lasting symbol of Japanese culture and identity. Participants will learn about seasonal fabrics and motifs\, the meanings behind symbolic patterns and colors\, the various kimono styles worn for different occasions\, and how kimono historically reflected social status\, age\, and personal expression. \nThe workshop will also introduce the fundamentals of proper kimono wearing techniques\, including layering\, accessories\, and etiquette. Guests will enjoy a live kimono dressing demonstration\, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at the beauty\, precision\, and craftsmanship involved in traditional kimono dressing. Perfect for anyone interested in Japanese culture\, fashion history\, or textile arts\, this immersive experience provides a deeper appreciation for the elegance and cultural significance of the kimono.
URL:https://www.shinzenjapanesegarden.org/event/the-art-of-the-kimono/
LOCATION:Shinzen Friendship Garden\, 114 W Audubon Drive\, Fresno\, CA\, 93720\, United States
CATEGORIES:Classes,Cultural Demonstrations,Family Fun,Special Programs,Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shinzenjapanesegarden.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Art-of-the-Kimono-1.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Shinzen Friendship Garden":MAILTO:info@shinzenjapanesegarden.org
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260620T083000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260620T120000
DTSTAMP:20260120T185036Z
CREATED:20260120T185036Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260120T185036Z
UID:10000435-1781944200-1781956800@www.shinzenjapanesegarden.org
SUMMARY:3rd Saturday Volunteer Day June 20
DESCRIPTION:Join us Saturday\, June 20\, 2026 for a rewarding Volunteer Day at Shinzen Garden! This hands-on event is a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature\, meet like-minded community members\, and contribute to the care and maintenance of this beautiful space. \nVolunteers assist with tasks such as weeding\, pruning\, planting\, and other seasonal projects that help preserve the garden’s tranquility and charm. No prior gardening experience is necessary—our team will provide guidance and tools. \nBring your enthusiasm\, comfortable clothing\, and a spirit of teamwork! Together\, we can ensure Shinzen Garden remains a vibrant sanctuary for all to enjoy. \nWhat to Bring: Closed-toe shoes\, gloves\, water bottle\, and a hat. \nWe look forward to seeing you there!
URL:https://www.shinzenjapanesegarden.org/event/3rd-saturday-volunteer-day-june-20/
LOCATION:Shinzen Friendship Garden\, 114 W Audubon Drive\, Fresno\, CA\, 93720\, United States
CATEGORIES:Volunteer Saturdays
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ORGANIZER;CN="Shinzen Friendship Garden":MAILTO:info@shinzenjapanesegarden.org
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DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260620T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260620T120000
DTSTAMP:20260115T210552Z
CREATED:20260115T210552Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260115T210552Z
UID:10000419-1781949600-1781956800@www.shinzenjapanesegarden.org
SUMMARY:June Botanical Watercolor
DESCRIPTION:Bring color\, movement\, and a touch of elegance to your painting practice in this botanical watercolor class inspired by the peacocks of Shinzen Garden on June 20\, 2026. Guided by an instructor\, participants will learn watercolor techniques while capturing the iridescent feathers\, graceful forms\, and natural surroundings of these iconic birds. Designed for all skill levels\, this relaxed\, creative experience blends observation\, artistic exploration\, and the tranquil beauty of the garden. Leave with a vibrant piece of art—and a deeper connection to Shinzen’s living landscape. \nPre-registration is required. \n  \nMeet your instructor: Noelle Correia – Born under a full moon in Scorpio in Fresno\, California\, after spending time tinkering around at her father’s auto repair/welding shop as a child\, Noelle began to create an imaginary world out of carpenter’s chalk drawings of discarded car parts. This world turned the industrial environment of downtown Fresno into a delusional paradise. Noelle left Fresno at eighteen but took her imaginary world with her and continues to process the nuance and grit of everyday cultural collision through fluvial imagery. \nHer creative process begins with color. Noelle is inspired by how the color schemes pop in biodiversity\, such as a poisonous dart frog’s epidermal layers resting on a muted green leaf. The biodiverse thread within her creative practice is that of Botanical Surrealism. She begins her work by thinking about the relationship between emotions and color and allows color theory to drive the outcome. Symbols that represent the feminine mystique and practical magic are a reoccurring thematic backdrop. The process has become a life metaphor in which she works through obstacles\, obtains epiphanies\, and understands herself as a tiny part of a much larger whole. \nShe conveys the beauty and complexities of human nature using texture\, pattern\, and narrative elements throughout her work. Her work has been exhibited in California Galleries and collectives exhibitions\, including Radius Gallery\, The Art Cave\, The Art League of Santa Cruz County\, Pajaro Valley Arts Gallery\, and Arte Americas. Noelle’s work further explores the botanical world through watercolor painting\, paper-cut collage practices\, and encaustic medium. Through wax\, water\, and human narratives of all kinds\, Noelle creates a vibrant play on color and form.
URL:https://www.shinzenjapanesegarden.org/event/june-botanical-watercolor/
LOCATION:Shinzen Friendship Garden\, 114 W Audubon Drive\, Fresno\, CA\, 93720\, United States
CATEGORIES:Classes,Garden Events,Workshops
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ORGANIZER;CN="Shinzen Friendship Garden":MAILTO:info@shinzenjapanesegarden.org
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260620T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260620T150000
DTSTAMP:20260120T181152Z
CREATED:20260120T181152Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260120T181152Z
UID:10000429-1781960400-1781967600@www.shinzenjapanesegarden.org
SUMMARY:Seasons of Stories Book Club June Meeting
DESCRIPTION:JUNE 2026 BOOK SELECTION\n\nThe Guest Cat\nby: Takashi Hiraide\n  \n \nA bestseller in France and winner of Japan’s Kiyama Shohei Literary Award\, The Guest Cat\, by the acclaimed poet Takashi Hiraide\, is a subtly moving and exceptionally beautiful novel about the transient nature of life and idiosyncratic but deeply felt ways of living. A couple in their thirties live in a small rented cottage in a quiet part of Tokyo; they work at home\, freelance copy-editing; they no longer have very much to say to one another. But one day a cat invites itself into their small kitchen. It leaves\, but the next day comes again\, and then again and again. Soon they are buying treats for the cat and enjoying talks about the animal and all its little ways. Life suddenly seems to have more promise for the husband and wife — the days have more light and color. The novel brims with new small joys and many moments of staggering poetic beauty\, but then something happens…. \nAs Kenzaburo Oe has remarked\, Takashi Hiraide’s work “really shines.” His poetry\, which is remarkably cross-hatched with beauty\, has been acclaimed here for “its seemingly endless string of shape-shifting objects and experiences\, whose splintering effect is enacted via a unique combination of speed and minutiae.” \n  \n  \n  \n  \nORDER THE BOOK HERE\n  \nSeasons of Stories is a new book club at Shinzen Garden that invites readers to gather in the natural setting of the garden to explore literature inspired by Japanese culture and explore books from Japanese American authors.  We will be diving into a thoughtfully selected book each month and enjoy meaningful conversations surrounded by the beauty of the garden. All are welcome—bring your curiosity and love for stories! \nJoin our online club by scanning the QR Code\n \n 
URL:https://www.shinzenjapanesegarden.org/event/seasons-of-stories-book-club-june-meeting/
LOCATION:Shinzen Friendship Garden\, 114 W Audubon Drive\, Fresno\, CA\, 93720\, United States
CATEGORIES:Garden Events,Special Programs
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shinzenjapanesegarden.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/June-2026-BookClub.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Shinzen Friendship Garden":MAILTO:info@shinzenjapanesegarden.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260628T103000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260628T120000
DTSTAMP:20260428T165909Z
CREATED:20260428T165520Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260428T165909Z
UID:10000456-1782642600-1782648000@www.shinzenjapanesegarden.org
SUMMARY:Free Garden Tour on June 28\, 2026
DESCRIPTION:  \nJoin us for a free docent-led tour on select Sundays\, providing visitors with an in-depth exploration of its serene landscapes and cultural significance.  During the tour\, our knowledgeable docents guide guests through the garden’s features\, including the Clark Bonsai Collection\, stroll gardens\, traditional architecture\, and tea houses\, offering insights into Japanese culture and garden design. \nThe tours are approximately 1.5 hours long and free to the public with paid garden admission
URL:https://www.shinzenjapanesegarden.org/event/free-garden-tour-june-28/
LOCATION:Shinzen Friendship Garden\, 114 W Audubon Drive\, Fresno\, CA\, 93720\, United States
CATEGORIES:Family Fun,Garden Events,Special Programs
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shinzenjapanesegarden.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Garden-Tour-2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Shinzen Friendship Garden":MAILTO:info@shinzenjapanesegarden.org
END:VEVENT
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