Asakusa, Tokyo: Make Your Own Kanzashi Hairpin with an Artisan

5.0
(1 reviews)
Tokyo, Japan

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1 hour 30 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: Japanese and 1 more

Four people, maximum. That is not a marketing line — it is the size of the room. The studio is the artisan's own workspace in a residential corner of Sumida, not a venue built for visitors, and he is one of the few people still making kanzashi entirely by hand in Tokyo.

What you make is brass, shaped with his tools and his mallet, and you choose what it means before you start. Kanzashi have always carried symbolism — a flower for a season, a motif for long life, a message from the man who gave it. You pick yours, and the piece you wear out is the only one like it.

What's Included

All brass materials and use of the artisan's traditional tools
Hands-on guidance from a kanzashi master
One finished kanzashi to wear home
Entry to the artisan's private studio in Sumida and participation in the hands-on session.
A dedicated English interpreter with your group throughout the session
Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Food and drinks

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Guests will meet the instructor directly at the Kanzashi workshop in Sumida. Please arrive at the workshop entrance 5 minutes before the start time. A staff member will be waiting at the entrance to welcome you.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What to expect

Kanzashi are the ornaments worn in Japanese hair — by geisha, by brides, and with kimono at festivals. In the Edo period a man gave one as part of a bride's trousseau, much as an engagement ring is given today, and the flower or symbol he chose carried the message.

The studio sits in a quiet corner of Sumida and belongs to one of the few artisans still making kanzashi entirely by hand.

What you'll do:
- Choose your design and the symbol you want it to carry
- Shape the brass by hand, using the artisan's own tools and mallet
- Assemble and finish the piece
- Wear your kanzashi out of the studio

Groups never exceed four people, so the artisan works beside you rather than in front of a room. You do not need to be artistic — every step is guided, with an English interpreter present throughout.

You are welcome to photograph the studio and the artisan at work (without flash), and to buy finished pieces directly from him.

Additional info

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by DENTÔ

Tags

Art Classes
Craft Classes
Small Group
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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