2 hour private experience
Location: Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto City
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 Master
What you’ll do
Embark on a short guided tour of the machiya, with the sensu shop at the front. Then, with views of the small inner garden, take a seat and paint a sensu with a selected pattern.
Availability
Monday to Friday
Session 1 (10:00 - 12:00)
Session 2 (13:30 - 15:30)
Not available during national holidays, obon, and New Year's holidays.
Who can attend
Children must be 10+ years old.
What’s included
A kyo sensu fan, painted by yourself under the guidance of the Master.
What to wear
Clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty and that you can move around in freely.
Access
10min by car from Kyoto Station.
Outlined in Gold
From seasonal designs to themed designs, crafted with washi paper or cloth, and ribbed with the skillfully thin bamboo at the hands of skilled artisans, Kyoto sensu fans are a culmination of delicate artisanal technique, ceremonial and performative use, and practical everyday use. The crafting of a single sensu fan involves up to 87 production steps, divided among several artisans, each specializing in specific steps in the process. Originating more than a millennium ago, the first sensu were made of thin wood pieces tied together, which then gradually changed to bamboo and washi paper, and settled into its now-familiar shape during the mid-Heian era. At this Kyoto sensu studio shop, designers and artisans seek to create new and modern designs, in addition to classic patterns and shapes, to tie this ancient everyday item into the current times. Step inside the traditional machiya and learn about the interior of the machiya, as well as the history of the shop. Then, try your hand at hand-painting a sensu and take home a piece of Kyoto culture and history.
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.
