Japanese House and Garden enrichment classes

Language Classes

The Japanese Classroom Program offers evening Japanese classes for adults based on a college-style curriculum. There are four semesters annually, Spring (January-April), Summer I (May-June), Summer II (July-August), and Fall (September-December). Classes are held at International House Philadelphia.

Conversation Club is an informal language exchange forum where Japanese and English speakers can practice their conversational language skills. Attendees include speakers of all levels of Japanese and English. Participation is free and open to the public. For dates, check the program calendar.

Culture Classes and Workshops
Tea Lessons - Our tea ceremony classes offer the opportunity to practice in a traditional style in an authentic setting. Our teachers are licensed by the Chado Urasenke Tankokai Philadelphia Association, licensed by Urasenke headquarters in Kyoto, Japan.

Tea Ceremony - Tea ceremonies at Shofuso are led by members from the Chado Urasenke Tankokai Philadelphia Association, headquartered in Kyoto, Japan. Public demonstrations are narrated to provide context to guests.

Taiko Lessons - Learn how to play taiko drums with beginner taiko classes from Kyo Daiko! Classes are open to adults of all ages, musical backgrounds and experience. In fact, no experience is necessary. We will teach you everything from proper stance, how to hold the drumsticks, and striking technique, in addition to teaching you about the history and traditions of taiko.

Dance Lessons - Use movement to experience the culture of Japan in our Classical Japanese Dance Lessons! Lessons include both one-on-one and group instruction and are appropriate for all ages. Lessons are taught by licensed instructor Fujima Nishiki-no (Helen Moss).