Experience rich culture through traditional craft workshops in Tokyo

Traveling abroad is an amazing way to understand its culture, customs and traditions. Exploring and sightseeing are great options, but what about joining workshops? In Tokyo, there are venues where you can experience traditional crafts and arts! We’ve compiled a list of places where you can not only learn about these traditional practices but also discover their sustainable aspects.

Kintsugi: A Japanese art to repair pottery

Kintsugi is a traditional Japanese art of repairing broken pottery using lacquer and gold. The core of Kintsugi lies in our dedication to cherishing items and ensuring their longevity. Kintsugi is a way to transform broken pottery into a beautiful art piece as well as unique tableware. It is globally recognized and gaining popularity, thus requiring a technique to finish it beautifully.

For those interested in learning the traditional technique of Kintsugi, Tsugu Tsugu holds workshops at its Ebisu and Asakusa studios in Tokyo. Three types of workshops are available: learning the technique using provided vessels, repairing your own piece while learning the technique or making accessories with the technique. Tsugu Tsugu also offers a Kintsugi kit for purchase, so you can try it out at home. All workshops require a reservation at least one week in advance and are quite popular, so don’t miss out!

Washi: Traditional Japanese paper-making

Washi is a type of paper made from the fibers of various plants with a history spanning 1,400 years in Japan. It is known for its durability and distinctive warm texture, which is pleasant to the touch. Plants used for washi grow more quickly compared to trees used for regular paper, which means it helps reduce deforestation. This is the reason why washi is considered eco-friendly.

Washi is traditionally crafted by hand. At Ozu Washi, you can experience authentic washi-making with English-speaking staff. They offer not only basic washi-making, but also other artistic styles such as lace-like patterns, and the option to create your own colorful designs. Washi is not just paper. It can be a wonderful gift whether for yourself or others if you happen to travel to Japan.

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Aizome: Natural indigo dyeing

Aizome refers to a Japanese natural indigo dyeing method that utilizes a plant called “Tade.” Simply boiling Tade does not produce a beautiful blue color. It can only emerge through a long process of drying and then fermentation. Compared to the modern process of dyeing using chemicals, this traditional method using natural plants is more eco-friendly.

At Wanariya, you can create your own unique Aizome artwork. Not only can you dye objects in a single color, but various techniques also allow you to produce one-of-a-kind patterns. Just bring yourself, as they offer various items such as bags, scarves and clothing for the Aizome experience!

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Next time you are in Tokyo, try joining these workshops and enjoy discovering different perspectives on Japanese culture!