Kyoto was the capital of Japan for centuries, and it remains today the cultural heart of the country; with its extraordinary wealth of temple architecture, art works and gardens, it can be argued that the essence of Japanese culture can be found there. Sansui-Design Ltd has over 10 years experience of introducing visitors to the city and its surrounding areas, with a particular interest in exploring the traditional garden culture and other associated arts. Our garden-orientated tours are centred around Kyoto, with excursions and visits to other locations by arrangement.

In and around the Kyoto area are literally thousands of temples, many of which have fine gardens. To have an interest in Japanese culture or the gardens makes a visit to Kyoto essential at some point in one's life, as a city it is a fascinating mixture of the ancient and modern Japan.

Our chief guide, Robert Ketchell has had nearly twenty-five years of experience of the gardens of Kyoto, and the surrounding area. He originally studied as an apprentice to a Master Gardener in Kyoto, and has retained strong links with Kyoto. He is a Director of Sansui-Design Ltd, a company designing and creating gardens worldwide, as well as lecturing and teaching on the subject. He has written a book on creating Japanese style gardens, and made a documentary film, ‘Shishu’, on the garden tradition. He was also involved with the formation of the Japanese Garden Society (UK), and served for several years as Chairman of the Society. With excellent contacts in Kyoto, occasionally visits to private gardens may also be possible.

Our Kyoto representative, Keiko Maeda, was born and bred in Kyoto, and knows the city as well as anyone. With many years experience of the travel business, and being fluent in English, she is able to add great value to visitors’ experience.

Most visitors arriving in Japan have little knowledge of Japan or the Japanese language, so to fully experience what Japan has to offer it pays dividends to be assisted by a sympathetic and knowledgeable guide. Itineraries and tours can be arranged for individuals, couples or groups. From one-day visits to longer stays, we can arrange flexible itineraries which may also be tailored to individual interests. With our excellent local knowledge, we can also arrange hotel accommodation (3 to 5 star), or traditional style ryokan (Japanese inns). We do our best to allow visitors to appreciate the very best Japan has to offer, whether it be the finest gardens, great food, Ikebana (flower arrangement) demonstrations or Kabuki theatre tickets. We are confident of being able to provide a first class service, to arrange the time and space for visitors to truly have the ‘experience of a lifetime’.

Our availability for guiding is during the spring and autumn seasons:

• Autumn 2004: Sept 4th – Dec 1st
• Spring 2005: April 9th – July 8th
• Autumn 2005: Sept 3rd – Dec 1st
• Spring 2006: April 8th – July 7th

For further details please contact: Jacquie Blakeley (Director)

You may view a gallery of recent tour images here

Of interest to horticultural societies, ..... All such engagements are specifically designed to suit the needs and conditions available. Lectures and seminars have been arranged in both the UK and in Europe. Please contact Robert Ketchell, who would be happy to discuss possibilities for your event.