The sharpness of a sword is determined by sharpening! Japanese kitchen knives are very popular. What is important is maintenance. Chefs continue to carefully sharpen their own precious kitchen knives with the best whetstones to pr... More

This activity offers a rare opportunity to observe the production process of traditional Japanese paper goods such as goshuincho (temple stamp books) and watoji notebooks—items not typically seen by the public. With a guided tou... More

Experience the unique "Sōsen Aogi," a fan-making plan at the long-established Shimizu Shoten in Kyoto, which is celebrating its 78th anniversary. The "Sōsen Aogi" is a new type of origami fan that does not use fan ribs, making i... More

A one-of-a-kind experience in Kyoto. A traditional Kyoto townhouse where you can enjoy hands-on crafting experiences with an active Buddhist monk. There are two types of experience courses: incense making and natural stone bracele... More

At Maana, our renovation work has led us to a deep appreciation for Tsuchikabe—a distinctive blend of clay, rice straw, sand, and seaweed, crafted by skilled craftspeople called Sakans. In our workshop, let's discover this tradi... More

Create your own pair of traditional Japanese chopsticks in this hands-on workshop in Kyoto. In this beginner-friendly experience, you will shape, sand, and finish your chopsticks while learning about their role in Japanese daily l... More

This Tatami making experience in Kyoto blends hands-on craft at a long established shop with over 300 years of experience. You start with a short lecture on tatami’s history and structure, explore the working space, then learn t... More

Ever wanted to take home something truly unique from Japan — not bought, but made by your own hands? In this 90-minute experience near Nijo Castle, you'll needle felt your own Kanji character from natural wool — a meditative,... More

For centuries in Japan, fermented indigo dyeing has been used to create a spectrum of blue masterpieces, cherished for their symbolic and protective qualities. Dye your own textile (or use one provided by us), and learn about the ... More

Learn the art of paper folding step by step as you create classic designs such as cranes, flowers, and seasonal shapes. Your instructor will not only guide you through each fold, but also share the cultural meaning and history beh... More

What sets this experience apart is the chance to connect with Kyoto’s traditions in a hands-on, personal way. Rather than just observing, you’ll actively create something meaningful — a fragrant incense pouch using real Japa... More

- Turn your name into meaningful Kanji characters - Create a one-of-a-kind personalized hanko seal - Hands-on carving experience using traditional tools - Learn the story and meaning behind your name - Enjoy tea and matcha dorayak... More

Create your own metal shuriken in a real ninja house in Arashiyama Discover the hidden weapon culture of Japan’s samurai and ninja era Learn the traditional casting process in a hands-on workshop Design the shape, prepare the mo... More

Step into the world of traditional Japanese art and strategy. Unlike typical tourist activities, our Hanafuda workshop offers a hands-on dive into a 200-year-old card game. You won't just play; you'll learn the poetic meanings beh... More

Experience the “shibori” of scarves under the direct guidance of internationally renowned traditional craftsman Terukazu Matsuoka. You will observe traditional craft techniques ranging from classic Japanese techniques to the l... More

Do you know the dyeing technique called “katazome”? Before the advent of Inkjet Printers and Laser Impression, kimono patterns were made, either by hand painting or using this stencil technique. Hand painting consists of drawi... More

A Japanese calligrapher active in Kyoto will teach you calligraphy in a completely private space very close to the former palace where the emperor lived for about 500 years (1331 – 1869). Please enjoy traditional calligraphy an... More

Step into a 150-year-old Kyoto townhouse and enjoy a fully private cultural experience at Onishi Tsune Shoten, a renowned folding fan atelier with over a century of history. This exclusive, one-group-only program invites you to ta... More

The experience includes an introduction to the history of Kintsugi, an explanation of the materials required for restoration, and instruction on the proper use of tools. You will also view examples of Kintsugi works before selecti... More