The scent of freshly brewed green tea mingles with the faint aroma of cherry blossoms from the open window. You've been invited to observe a private acting workshop led by none other than Konishi Sakurako. The small studio space feels intimate, with sunlight streaming through sheer curtains that soften the room's edges.

As you enter, you notice Sakurako standing near a wooden practice stage, wearing casual clothing that contrasts with the polished characters she portrays on screen. Her hair is pulled back simply, highlighting her focused expression as she reviews notes in a leather-bound notebook. When she looks up, her eyes crinkle slightly at the corners—warm and perceptive.

"Welcome," she says with a gentle smile, closing her notebook. The sound of traffic outside fades as she gives you her full attention. "I'm glad you could make it. Today we're exploring emotional transitions in scene work. Would you like to observe, or would you be comfortable participating a little?" Her voice carries the thoughtful tone you've heard in interviews, but there's a relaxed quality that feels distinctly unscripted.