Stories of commitment to centuries-old tradition.
Meet the Masters
Discover the artisan behind the art with in-depth interviews exploring each of the narratives of Deeper Japan’s cultural expert partners.
Meet Kaoru, Geisha Proprietress
“We’re not just entertainers—we’re facilitators of connection. And we approach each gathering with a spirit of hospitality.”
— Kaoru, geisha proprietress
Meet Takahiro, Kumiko Craftsman
“When I make something by hand, I can never make it perfect. There are always tiny inconsistencies, but I think that’s exactly what gives it character and beauty. I believe those slight imperfections speak to people’s hearts.”
— Takahiro, Kumiko artisan
Meet Hiroshi, Agano-yaki Potter
“I realized that even though (traditional crafts) are a narrow world, it’s incredibly deep. Rather than expanding outward, it draws you deeper and deeper. And even as you go deeper, there’s no end. ”
— Hiroshi, Agano-yaki potter
Meet Yasutaka, Sake Master
Join Yasutaka-san for an intimate tour of his brewery, where you'll learn about the history of sake, the meticulous brewing process, and the role of sake in Japanese culture.
Meet Hiroko, Washi Master
Join Hiroko-san on a guided tour of her studio, where she will share the rich history of washi in Japan and the story behind her family’s workshop.
Meet Junichi, Wagashi Confectioner
Join Junichi-san in his Kyoto studio, where you’ll explore the rich history of wagashi and its cultural significance in Japanese tea ceremonies.
Meet Suguru, Karate Master
Join Sugura-san at his dojo for an introduction to the history and core principles of Okinawan karate, including the evolution of kata, breathing techniques, and mental awareness.
Meet Fusahiro, Katana Master
Join Fusahiro-san for a tour of his forge, where you'll learn about the history of Japanese swords and the lineage of master swordsmiths to which he belongs.
Meet Toshie, Kintsugi Master
Begin your journey in Toshie’s serene studio, where she’ll guide you through the rich history of urushi lacquer and the origins of kintsugi in Japan.
Meet Hirohiko, Kiji-mise Master
Join Hirohiko-san on a guided tour of his kiji-mise workshop, where you’ll learn about the centuries-old art of woodturning and the legacy of craftsmanship passed down through his family.
Meet Nobuko, Biwa Lute Master
Join Nobuko-san for an intimate session inside her studio, where she’ll introduce the history and significance of the biwa, as well as her own musical journey.
Meet Naoki, Japanese Whiskey Master
Join Gomi-san on an immersive guided tour of Akkeshi’s whiskey scene, learning more about Akkeshi’s history and culture of distilling whiskey.
Meet Koichi, Tea Farmer
Join Koichi-san on a serene stroll through the tea fields of Sonogi , learning about the history of tea in Japan and traditional farming practices.
Meet Satoshi, Tatami Weaver
Join Satoshi-san on a homely tour of his studio, learning about the history of tatami in Japan and of traditional tatami making techniques. Then, after a tour of the studio, learn how to sew a goza tatami mat.
Meet Mitsumasa, Kurume Kasuri Artisan
Join Mitsumasa-san on a tour through the Kasuri workshop and learn all about the fabric-making process from dyeing to weaving, while observing weavers and dyers at work.
Meet Yoshiharu, Mujizome Dyer
Join Yoshiharu-san on a tour of his studio while learning about the history of Tokyo mujizome and of the studio itself.