Shakuhachi Summer Camp amongst pristine nature on a private island in Finland

The summer camp of our shakuhachi society will be held on August 14.-16. in Kangasala, Finland. This time we have reserved a private island, Saukonkari (location in Google Maps) The location can be reached by either car by parking it by the shore at the address Käkimäentie 22, 36200 Kangasala, Finland, from where someone will fetch you with a rowing boat, or by train via Orivesi station (more guidance by email or direct messaging after you register), from where someone will fetch you by car.

The location is within viewing distance from the Vahderpää Camp Center, which is by the shore facing the island - the location where we have hosted our previous four summer camps.

The private island we have reserved is completely at our disposal between August 14.-16. There are three summer cottages on the island, containing a total of seven bedrooms, with three double and seven single beds. Additionally it is possible to camp on a tent on the island, there is convenient room for multiple tents. We expect there to be around 7-10 participants in the camp, meaning that the beds should suffice for all participants.

The island does not have running water, but it has two separate outhouse toilets and we will be bringing lots of drinking water to the site. There is a traditional sauna, and a spot on the shore cleared of aquatic vegetation to make room for swimming. There are a few rowing boats in our use. In case you are unable to swim and wary of being on a rowing boat, the area that has to be traversed by boat to get to the island is shallow enough to walk across, so there is no danger whatsoever.

This year we will not organize a separate concert along with the camp. The camp is not organized with a strict schedule including times, but we have prepared for the following activities, the content of which can be changed and modified depending on the interests and wishes of the participants.

  • A detailed workshop on shakuhachi maintenance and repair.
  • An introduction and Q & A session on shakuhachi history and differences between different schools.
  • A lighthearted improvisation contest inspired by the nature.
  • Cooking, eating, going to sauna, swimming and enjoying the nature together.
  • Private and group lessons (separate payment at discounted price)

Workshops taught by chm. Aaro Senzui Haavisto and Marek Kimei Matvija

The camp will be participated by players of various backgrounds, in the previous years there has been around 2 shakuhachi teachers, 2-4 who have played for multiple years and 3-4 who have started within the last year. The whole camp happens in a very lighthearted and relaxed spirit and has yearly received praise for being very relaxing.

Registrations to the email info@shakuhachi.fi or by phone +358406726865

It is not necessary to be a member of the Finnish Shakuhachi Society to participate. Participation costs 120 euros, which consists of the participation to the workshops, accomodation and meals. Meals are cooked either together or by a volunteer cook and we strive to prepare ingredients that suit everyone, possibly by a couple of choices. For this reason you have to let us know any necessary details about your diet. You are welcome to bring your own food as well and there are refridgerators in each cottage.

Because the place is not reachable all the way with public transport, transportation needs to be discussed with each participant who doesnt arrive by their own car.

Photos of the island:

Photos from camps we held on previous years: