Question 1

How do I join the Shabbat meals at Chabad House❓

Accepted Answer

Chabad Kyoto holds Shabbat prayers and meals for travelers and local residents.✅ Participation in the Shabbat meals requires advance registration through our website: chabadkyoto.com/shabbat✅ We recommend registering as early as possible, especially during peak tourist seasons and Jewish holidays. Early registration helps us prepare accordingly.✅ Payment is made during the online registration process. We kindly ask guests to avoid paying in cash on-site, as this helps our kitchen and hospitality team prepare and organize in advance.📌 A vegetarian meal is usually available. If you would like one, please mention it in the comments when registering.📌 You are welcome to attend the Shabbat prayers without registration. Registration is required for the Shabbat meals only.

Question 2

What time are the Shabbat prayers and meals held❓

Accepted Answer

The times for prayers, meals, and candle lighting vary throughout the year according to the local Shabbat schedule.📌 Shabbat candle-lighting and Havdalah times are displayed at the bottom of our website and are updated weekly: chabadkyoto.com💡Click here to view this week's Shabbat times.Friday NightMincha – 5 minutes after candle lighting.Kabbalat Shabbat – Immediately following Mincha.Friday Night Shabbat Meal – Approximately 45 minutes after candle lighting.Shabbat Day09:00 – Chassidut class, coffee, and cake.10:00 – Shacharit.12:00 – Shabbat lunch.Mincha – After lunch.Maariv and Havdalah – Immediately after Shabbat ends.

Question 3

Can I light Shabbat candles at Chabad House❓

Accepted Answer

Yes, with pleasure.There is a designated area for guests to light Shabbat candles.📌 It is recommended to light the candles in the place where you will eat the Friday night Shabbat meal.

Question 4

Are Tallit available at Chabad House❓

Accepted Answer

Yes, tallitot are available at Chabad House for the use of worshippers, but the quantity is limited.📌 If you normally pray with a tallit, we recommend bringing your own, especially during peak tourist seasons, when many people attend the prayers.⚠️ There is no eruv in Kyoto. Therefore, you should bring your tallit to Chabad House before Shabbat begins, or wear it on your way.📌 There is no concern about wearing a tallit in public. Thank G-d, there are no known incidents of antisemitism against Jews in Kyoto, and we are not aware of any cases in which someone experienced a problem because of displaying a Jewish symbol.

Question 5

Is there an eruv in Kyoto❓

Accepted Answer

⚠️ No.There is no eruv in Kyoto.📌 Before leaving for the street on Shabbat, it is recommended to check all your pockets and make sure you are not carrying anything.

Question 6

Are there walking routes near Chabad that are suitable for Shabbat❓

Accepted Answer

Yes. Within walking distance of Chabad Kyoto, there are several pleasant walking routes and attractions suitable for Shabbat:🚶‍♂️ Philosopher’s Path – A peaceful and scenic walking path along a canal, highly recommended for Shabbat.🏛️ Lake Biwa Canal Museum – A free museum explaining the historic canal system that brought water to Kyoto.🌲 Forest Walking Trail – A short nature trail beginning at the end of the Philosopher’s Path and continuing toward the Waterway Pavilion. A pleasant route for a relaxing walk.🦁 Kyoto City Zoo – A well-maintained zoo, ideal for families. Admission is free for children under 15.🏭 Keage Water Intake (蹴上発電所取水口) – Within walking distance of the Philosopher’s Path is a historic site connected to Kyoto’s canal system, featuring the water intake for Kyoto’s hydroelectric power station. It is an open and pleasant area for walking, with canal views and historic structures related to the development of the city's water and electricity systems.📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/zdu98yCTPUL6soBy5

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FAQ - Chabad Kyoto