October 22, 2026, 9:00-18:00
SSLW 2026 will feature an optional, one-day networking excursion on October 22, 2026, offering a relaxed opportunity to explore some of the most iconic cultural sites in Kyoto area while connecting with colleagues from around the world.
The tour will meet at 9 a.m. at Matsuri Clock Square near the Hachijo Entrance of Kyoto Station (see below). After check-in, participants will proceed to the nearby Tourist Bus Station to board the tour bus. The initerary includes visits to Fushimi Inari Shrine, known for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates; a traditional sake brewery (酒蔵, sakagura), where lunch will be served; Chazuna (Uji City Tea and Uji Town Exchange Center), featuring a tea-grinding experience; a scenic walk along the Uji River; and Byodoin Temple and its museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Participants may also check in and receive their name tags during the tour. The excursion will conclude around 6 p.m. at the venue for the Pre-Symposium Social.
Tentative Schedule
9:00-9:20 Check in and departure
10:00-11:30 Fushimi Inari Shrine
12:00-13:30 Lunch at Sake Brewery Museum and Restaurant
14:00-16:00 Tea Museum and Experience
16:00-16:15 Scenic stroll along Uji River
16:15-17:00 Byodoin Temple and Phoenix Hall Museum
18:00 Arrival at Pre-Symposium Social venue (TBA)
18:00-20:00 Pre-Symposium Social (ticketed event; pre-registration required)
Please note that this itinerary is tentative and subject to change without prior notice. See below for some of the highlights.
Excursion Highlights
Fushimi Inari Shrine（伏見稲荷大社）
Famous for its thousands of red torii gates, this iconic shrine offers a memorable walking experience through pathways that wind up a wooded hillside. The setting combines cultural significance with a calm, reflective atmosphere, making it an ideal space for informal conversation.
Kizakura Fushimi Brewery（黄桜伏水蔵）
This interactive facility introduces the sake brewing process, the role of local water, and the broader fermentation culture of the Fushimi area—one of Japan’s most renowned sake-producing regions.
Lunch at Kizakura Fushimi Brewery（伏水蔵レストラン）
Participants will enjoy a Japanese meal at the brewery’s on-site restaurant. A typical meal may include roast beef, grilled fish, sashimi, shrimp tempura, and egg dishes. Vegetarian options are available upon request at the time of registration. Please note that the actual meal may differ from the sample photo. Freshly-brewed craft beer and sake will also be available for purchase. (Cash payment recommended.)
Chazuna—Uji City Tea and Uji Town Exchange Center（茶づな)
An interactive cultural facility where visitors can explore the history, production, and cultural significance of Uji tea through accessible exhibits and hands-on experiences, including traditional tea-grinding activities.
Scenic Stroll along the Uji River
From Chazuna, the group will walk toward Byodoin Temple, crossing Uji Bridge and following the Uji River. This scenic route offers views of the river and surrounding landscape, as well as a chance to experience the local atmosphere while passing through the lively Omotesando approach.
Byodoin Temple and Hoshokan Museum（平等院・平等院ミュージアム鳳翔館）
The tour includes a visit to Byodoin Temple, one of its cultural highlights. Known for its elegant Phoenix Hall, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers a memorable glimpse into Japan’s historical and artistic traditions. Admission also includes the Hoshokan Museum, which features exhibits that provide additional insight into the temple’s history and artistry. Participants may explore the museum as time permits.
Pre-Symposium Social
The excursion concludes at the venue for the Pre-Symposium Social.
Registration
This excursion is a ticketed event with lunch ($100). Registration for the tour will open on June 1 at 10 a.m. (Japan Time; GMT+9). Participation is limited to 50 registered SSLW participants and will be confirmed on a first-come, first-served basis. Additional participants will be placed on a waiting list, and notified if a seat opens up before September 22.
Meeting Place
We will meet at 9 a.m. at:
Matsuri Clock Square,
Kyoto Station Hachijo Entrance
(京都駅八条口 祭時計広場)
The clock has two sides—one facing the station and one facing the street. We will gather on the station side, under the roof.
This is where you will check in and pick up your SSLW name tag. If you arrive early, you may also have a few minutes to purchase coffee or snacks at nearby shops.
Once everyone has checked in and the tour bus has arrived, we will move to the Tourist Bus Station across the street to board the bus (no later than 9:20).
