A master Edo sashimono artisan welcomes guests to a traditional Tokyo workshop for a private experience exploring Japan's renowned nail-free woodworking tradition.
Close-up of handcrafted wooden joints showcasing the seamless precision of traditional Edo sashimono joinery without nails or metal fasteners.
Guests tour a historic Tokyo workshop while learning the history and craftsmanship of Edo sashimono from a master artisan with more than 50 years of experience.
A master woodworker demonstrates intricate hand-cut dovetail joints and traditional joinery techniques used to create elegant Edo sashimono furniture.
A participant experiences traditional woodworking techniques while assembling precision-fitted wooden components under the guidance of a master craftsman.

The Art of Edo Sashimono

from $260.00

Witness the seamless craft of Edo sashimono with a master artisan of over 50 years

People:

Witness the seamless craft of Edo sashimono with a master artisan of over 50 years

  • 1.5 hour private experience

  • Location: Arakawa Ward, Tokyo

  • 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

Enter the workshop of a master artisan and learn about the history and technique of Edo sashimono. Get a glimpse into the craftsmanship that goes into the creation of Edo sashimono works.

Availability

Everyday
Session 1 (10:00 - 11:30)
Session 2 (13:30 - 15:00)

Who can attend

Children must be 6+

What to wear

Clothing that you don't mind getting dirty.

Please refrain from wearing short skirts or otherwise revealing clothing.

Access

20 minutes by car from Tokyo Station

 

Seamless Joinery

Developing from Kyoto sashimono artisans brought to Edo when the Tokugawa Shogunate settled there, Edo sashimono techniques were used to craft furniture for samurai families and townspeople, as well as for kabuki actors of the entertainment scene. Edo sashimono follows techniques of building without using nails and instead uses hand-cut dovetail joints to seamlessly connect wooden pieces to create both a household piece of furniture and a work of art. Furthermore, the joints of Edo sashimono creations are made not to be visible from the outside; while the exterior may look delicate, the interior is very structured and sturdy enough to last for generations to come. At this Edo sashimono master's workshop, learn about this enduring craft and about the techniques and tools utilized by the master in his 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.