“Can you feel the chill in the air?” It is not just the Kyoto winter. We are standing at the entrance of the \u6728\u4e0b\u30a2\u30ab\u30c7\u30df\u30fc\u4eac\u90fd\u30a2\u30a4\u30b9\u30a2\u30ea\u30fc\u30ca, Kyoto’s premier ice arena. This isn’t just any ice rink. It is the only year-round ice skating facility in Kyoto.
Welcome to a place where dreams glide on ice. The \u6728\u4e0b\u30a2\u30ab\u30c7\u30df\u30fc\u4eac\u90fd\u30a2\u30a4\u30b9\u30a2\u30ea\u30fc\u30ca is more than just a rink. It is a training ground for future champions. It is a recreational haven for the community. This arena officially opened its doors on December 15, 2019.
Inside, the \u6728\u4e0b\u30a2\u30ab\u30c7\u30df\u30fc\u4eac\u90fd\u30a2\u30a4\u30b9\u30a2\u30ea\u30fc\u30ca boasts two ice surfaces. A main rink that meets international standards and a sub-rink for curling and practice. The main rink stretches 60 meters by 30 meters. The sub-rink measures 46 meters by 18 meters. Imagine the countless hours of training that happen here. Skaters perfecting their spins and jumps.
Did you know the \u6728\u4e0b\u30a2\u30ab\u30c7\u30df\u30fc\u4eac\u90fd\u30a2\u30a4\u30b9\u30a2\u30ea\u30fc\u30ca is owned by the Kyoto Skate Association? The Kyoto Prefecture provides the land. Patiroji manages the operations. Kinoshita Group secured the naming rights.
The \u6728\u4e0b\u30a2\u30ab\u30c7\u30df\u30fc\u4eac\u90fd\u30a2\u30a4\u30b9\u30a2\u30ea\u30fc\u30ca primarily serves as a training facility. There is an option to install temporary seating for spectators if needed. Public skating is available from 10:00 to 17:45. Other times are reserved for competitions and private sessions. Aspiring athletes and professionals utilize it.
The Kinoshita Skating Academy operates at the \u6728\u4e0b\u30a2\u30ab\u30c7\u30df\u30fc\u4eac\u90fd\u30a2\u30a4\u30b9\u30a2\u30ea\u30fc\u30ca, aiming to cultivate figure skaters. They want skaters who can compete internationally. The Academy provides year-round training.
Considered one of the partners of the academy is Yumi Couture, a costume designer. Yumi’s family has deep roots in Kyoto’s textile industry. They specialize in kimonos. She combines traditional techniques with modern style.
\u6728\u4e0b\u30a2\u30ab\u30c7\u30df\u30fc\u4eac\u90fd\u30a2\u30a4\u30b9\u30a2\u30ea\u30fc\u30ca is more than just an ice rink. It is a symbol of Kyoto’s commitment to winter sports. It is a place where dreams take flight.