East and Southeast Asia season
A vibrant cradle of humanity, East and Southeast Asia are home to 2.2 billion people and some of the world’s most influential cultures, histories, and traditions. Spanning 19 countries and territories, these regions have shaped global politics, economics, philosophy, art, cuisine, and wellbeing practices for millennia. From the rich histories of China and Japan to the dynamic cultures of Indonesia and the Philippines, their legacies transcend borders. Whether you're drawn by family heritage, a love of travel, or curiosity sparked by global media, City Lit invites you to explore and celebrate the profound significance and contemporary impact of East and Southeast Asia.
- Tai Chi Chuan: Beginners
Course start date: Wed 14 Jan 2026 (and 2 other dates)Location on this date: Online
Tutors: Kamal ThapenLearn the Yang-style Tai Chi form. This flowing movement sequence contains the basic movements of Tai Chi which will help you to develop and practice smooth movement, good alignment and improved balance. Develop good personal practice that will enable you to fully realise the benefits of this absorbing Taoist art.Full fee £179.00 Senior fee £143.00 Concession £125.00 - Ikigai: the Japanese secret to a long and happy life Course start date: Sun 25 Jan 2026 (and 1 other date)
Location on this date: Kean Street Wellbeing Centre
Tutors: Hilary LyonsThe people of Japan believe that everyone has an Ikigai or a reason for being. Finding it can lead to a happier, more fulfilled life. Learn how to live in the moment and pursue your purpose and passion.
Full fee £99.00 Senior fee £99.00 Concession £99.00 - Japanese beginners: holiday Kit Course start date: Sat 9 May 2026 (and 2 other dates)
Location on this date: Online
Tutors: Chikako NakagawaMake the most of your trip to Japan!
Planning a visit? This short, intensive course is your ultimate survival kit for Japan. Learn the essential phrases and cultural tips to navigate common holiday situations with confidence—from ordering food to asking for directions—and even enjoy friendly chats with locals.Full fee £49.00 Senior fee £49.00 Concession £32.00 - Arts of Imperial China Course start date: Wed 25 Feb 2026
Location on this date: Online
Tutors: Meitao QuExplore the arts of imperial China spanning across 13 dynasties and 2000 years. Study how painting, sculpture, and architecture were deeply shaped by its richly diverse culture, philosophy, and religion.Full fee £179.00 Senior fee £143.00 Concession £116.00 - Heaven and hell in world religionsCourse start date: Tue 21 Apr 2026
Location on this date: Online
Tutors: Vanessa KingCompare and contrast the afterlife beliefs of the five major religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Christianity and Judaism. Explore how these ideas developed and influenced each other.Full fee £219.00 Senior fee £219.00 Concession £142.00 - Japanese beginners: short introductionCourse start date: Tue 28 Apr 2026 (and 2 other dates)
Location on this date: Online
Tutors: Noriko InagakiGet a short introduction to the Japanese language and discover aspects of Japanese language culture in these online communicative classes. Suitable for complete beginners.Full fee £149.00 Senior fee £119.00 Concession £97.00 - Shinrin-yoku: nature therapy Course start date: Fri 5 Jun 2026 (and 1 other date)
Location on this date: Online
Tutors: Hilary LyonsConnect with nature for health and wellbeing. This scientifically backed Japanese tradition of forest bathing has been shown to improve physical and mental health. A slow, guided, mindful walk near trees reduces stress levels and boosts your immune system. We will meet in Richmond Park. We will NOT meet at the City Lit.Full fee £59.00 Senior fee £59.00 Concession £59.00 - Tokyo: an insider's guideCourse start date: Fri 15 May 2026
Location on this date: Online
Tutors: Kiyomi UntenJoin this lively course and learn about this bustling capital that mixes the ultramodern and the traditional, from neon-lit skyscrapers and anime shops to cherry trees and temples. Open to all levels.Full fee £39.00 Senior fee £39.00 Concession £39.00 - Exploring Early Modern China Course start date: Tue 26 May 2026
Location on this date: Online
Tutors: Qiuyang ChenTo understand China of our present means understanding China of the past. Explore the histories and legacies of the Ming and Qing Dynasties.Full fee £119.00 Senior fee £119.00 Concession £77.00 - Chinese beginners: short introduction Course start date: Sat 30 May 2026 (and 1 other date)
Location on this date: Online
Tutors: Xiaolan BiGet a short introduction to the Chinese language and discover aspects of Chinese language culture in these either in-person course in Covent Garden or live online communicative classes. Suitable for complete beginners.
Full fee £119.00 Senior fee £119.00 Concession £77.00
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