Delicately carve out and inlay metal with master artisans at a 3rd-generation studio
3 hour private experience
Location: Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture
Offered in Japanese, with a friendly Deeper Japan guide interpreting in your language
A minimum of 2 guests is required to book. Solo participants are welcome but will be charged the 2-person rate
Meet the Masters
What you’ll do
Tour the front gallery of the studio to see the work of three generations of Kaga zougan artisans. Then, enter the studio and learn about the unique inlay technique utilized in Kaga zougan from the master artisan. Finally, craft your very own Kaga zougan charm.
Availability
Monday to Saturday
Session 1 (13:30 - 16:30)
Not available on national holidays.
Who can attend
Children must be 10+
What’s included
A Kaga zougan charm, crafted by yourself
What to wear
Clothing that you can move around in freely
Access
12 minutes walk from Kanazawa Station
Striking Precision
The craft of metalwork inlay made its way to Japan during the Asuka Period, through the Silk Road from mainland Asia. During the Edo Period, this art form developed in three areas across Japan: Kyoto, Kumamoto, and finally, Ishikawa. It was used to decorate katana handguards, armour, mirrors, and other metal-based crafts. Zougan crafting arrived in the Ishikawa prefectural area, then known as the Kaga domain, when the craft was brought to the area from Kyoto and was passed down through the generations of artisans. Kaga zougan utilizes a method called hira zougan, or horizontal metal inlay, where the artisans would seek to inlay the decorative metal to precisely match the surface into which it was being inlayed, creating the illusion that it was a painted decoration. In addition to matching the inlayed surface, a special technique of precision chiseling is used to lock the inlayed piece into the surface flawlessly. Try your hand at this detailed craft with a 3rd-generation Kaga zougan artisan at her studio in the heart of Kanazawa and take home a piece of traditional Kaga craft.
Cancellation Policy
Please make your booking at least 3 days in advance. See cancellation policy here.
A detailed itinerary will be emailed to you once your booking has been confirmed.
