4.5 hour private experience (divided into three 90 minute sessions over several days)
Location: Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City
Offered in Japanese, with a friendly Deeper Japan guide interpreting in your language
Meet the Master
A kintsugi master with over 40 years of crafting experience under his belt, Tsuyoshi was just a university art student when he first fell in love with kintsugi. Since then, he has repaired countless precious ceramic pieces for customers, instructed dedicated students both living in Japan and visiting from abroad, and created his kintsugi masterpieces reflecting his refined expertise.
What you’ll do
Over multiple courses, learn all the essential techniques for crafting your own kintsugi masterpieces. Begin by bonding the broken pieces using lacquer. After the ceramic has set, carefully sand the excess off to create a smooth finish. Finally, apply 24-carat gold dust on top of another fine layer of lacquer. As you wrap up your kintsugi work, enjoy drinking freshly prepared matcha from antique tea bowls repaired with kintsugi by the instructor.
Availability
Wednesday to Friday
Session 1 (10:30-12:00)
Session 2 (13:30-15:00)
Session 3 (16:30-18:00)
Please choose three sessions at checkout.
Who can attend
Children must be 7+
What to wear
Clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty.
What else you should know
All sessions are private except for those on Thursday, which takes place with local Japanese kintsugi students
For larger groups (5+ participants), additional session times may be available upon inquiry.
Access
20 minutes by car from Kyoto Station
Gentleness Through Gold
At once a restorative craft and a quiet philosophy, kintsugi reimagines fracture as form. Broken vessels are not returned to an imagined original state, but patiently rebuilt, their seams illuminated with gold to honor what has been endured. Long associated with the tea ceremony and the refined sensibilities of the samurai class, kintsugi reflects the intertwined ideals of mottainai—a respect for what still has purpose—and wabi-sabi, the Buddhist-rooted acceptance of transience and imperfection. Kintsugi repair requires an array of techniques, from setting and sanding, to dusting and designing, as well as time and patience, to ensure all steps are fully complete before proceeding onwards. In this Kyoto kintsugi studio, led by a kintsugi artisan with over 40 years of crafting experience, you'll learn the essentials of kintsugi - from start to finish—an intimate opportunity to restore, reflect, and carry home not only a repaired ceramic, but also a deeper understanding of Japanese craft and philosophy.
Cancellation Policy
Please make your booking at least 7 days in advance. See cancellation policy here.
A detailed itinerary will be emailed to you once your booking has been confirmed.
