Authentic Kintsugi Experience: Art of Golden Joinery in Tokyo

4.9
(485 reviews)
Tokyo, Japan

1 hour (approximately)
Offered in: English

Make your own way to the centrally located Kintsugi atelier in Tokyo's Minami-Aoyama neighborhood and get ready to try your hand at the art of golden joinery. Meet your teacher and a small group of no more than 10 guests, then put on your “samue,” a traditional Japanese craftsperson's garment.

Over the course of an hour or so, your teacher will guide you through the technique of Kintsugi, using a specially prepared ceramic plate supplied by the atelier. You'll also learn about Japanese culture and philosophy and get insights into traditional Japanese crafts. In the case of Kintsugi, it represents the idea of giving that which is thought to be at the end of its life a new beginning. By the end of the lesson, you'll have a unique souvenir to take home and a new perspective on the true value of objects.

What's Included

All necessary equipment included
A plate you will use for the lesson, and to bring home after lesson.
All taxes, fees and handling charges
Lesson fee
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Food and drinks
Gratuities

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
TNCA☆ Minami-Aoyama Studio

The atelier is located in the basement floor of the OG building (across the alley from the large, glass Pasona Square building). Look for a swing gate followed by a set of stairs going downwards.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What to expect

Turn something old into something new during this lesson in the Japanese art of "Kintsugi," the practice of repairing broken pottery. Stemming from a Japanese belief that breakage is part of the history of an object, rather than a reason to discard it, your class involves repairing damaged pieces (plates are provided; personal items are not allowed) with resin mixed with gold powder.

Unlike touristy, generic arts and crafts workshops, this Kintsugi experience takes place at the atelier of Master Taku Nakano, one of the country’s premier Kintsugi experts. Surrounded by stunning, elaborate pieces made by Master Taku and his team, put on a "samue," a type of traditional Japanese craftsperson attire, as you repair and refinish your own traditional pottery item, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for Japanese aesthetics as well as a unique souvenir.

If you’re lucky you might see Master Taku at the atelier on the day of your visit! In 2024, Master Taku was awarded the Japanese Medal with Dark Blue Ribbon, an honorable commendation for his national contribution to the arts.

Additional info

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Children under the age of 6 are not allowed into the atelier for safety reasons
Supplied by Beauty of Japan
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Tags

Historical Tours
Pottery Classes
Likely to Sell Out
Top Product
Low Supplier Cancellation Rate
Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

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

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Rating

4.9 Based on 485 485 reviews
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