Kohsun Hayashi

Kodo (Japanese Incense Ceremony) Master

I first met Master Lin Yang on the winter solstice of December 2016. Nearly ten years have passed since that encounter.

She is a lineage holder of Yin Family Baguazhang, the imperial martial art of the Qing Dynasty, and her ancestors were part of the Li family tradition of Qing court cuisine. She represents a unique bridge between Chinese and Japanese imperial cultures.

The world of YiShuiKong, born from this heritage, breathes with profound beauty and qi within its stillness. I am deeply moved by its appeal and profoundly impressed by the spiritual depth embedded in every gesture.

Breath, qi, and the harmony of stillness and movement—these resonate deeply with the world of Kodo. 'Imperial elegance' is not mere formal beauty, but embodies the profound spiritual culture of the East: cultivating the mind, nurturing qi, and living in harmony with nature.

Both Kodo and YiShuiKong honor the invisible 'qi' and 'ma' (sacred space), serving as paths to harmonize body and mind. Treasuring this resonance, we have collaborated on cultural gatherings and dining experiences themed around 'Imperial Elegance,' continuing to share the history of friendship between Chinese and Japanese imperial traditions.

I sincerely hope that YiShuiKong will continue to spread quietly and beautifully throughout the world, transcending time and borders.