The Kyoto Retreat is an opportunity for RESEARCH AND EXPLORATION.
About The Kyoto RETREAT
Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto, once the imperial capital of Japan for over a thousand years, is renowned for its timeless charm, classical Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, and refined traditions. With a population of approximately 1.5 million, the city elegantly merges its storied past and modern innovations. Countless UNESCO World Heritage Sites and centuries-old cultural practices draw visitors from around the world to explore Kyoto’s exquisite landscape. In October and November, the city enjoys mild weather, with average temperatures ranging from 17°C (63°F) to 12°C (54°F).
OUR SELECTION PROCESS
We select artists, curators, and writers at all career stages, working in drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, film, video, new media, installation, fiction and nonfiction writing, poetry, interdisciplinary, and social practice. Individuals must be over 21 years old to apply. Our application requires you to submit a CV or resume, a brief statement about your creative interests and a description of how you anticipate using the time if selected for The Kyoto Retreat. You can also provide up to 10 work samples.
FLIGHTS & ACCOMmoDATIONS
If you are selected for the retreat, you will receive a roundtrip flight to Kansai International Airport (KIX) or Osaka International Airport (Itami Airport, ITM). You will have a private bedroom in a shared, private house for four weeks (October 16 - November 13, 2025). You will also receive $800 USD to supplement your meals and local transportation. Please visit our FAQs for more information.
Your TIME DURING THE KYOTO RETREAT
Although there will be several scheduled events during your stay, the primary purpose of the retreat is to give you an opportunity to immerse yourself in various aspects of Japanese culture and to meet other creatives. You are not required to make new work during the retreat. We want you to have ample time to explore Japan and get inspired in a calm, nurturing environment.