A converted bean storehouse in a Kyoto back-street is the unusual venue for an innovative introduction to traditional Japanese culture. During just one busy day, participants in the Origin Arts Program can try their hand at the ancient martial art of "Waraku," tea ceremony, calligraphy and Noh theater.

For guide Joshua Beatty, who is accompanying a group of American school teachers on a tour of Japan, the one-day program provides a deeper than usual look at Japanese culture.

"We want to get past kimono and chopsticks," he says. "It's not about just stepping off a bus and taking a photo. The teachers really have to ask questions . . . (get) to know Japanese people."