Otsu-e Folk Art Workshop & Local Culture Walk Near Kyoto

5.0
(13 reviews)

3 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English

Join a unique cultural experience led by Misato Takahashi, an Otsu native and daughter of Wado Takahashi, an Otsu-e artist originally from the Otsu-e master family, Takahashi Shozan. Misato is fervently committed to preserving the important local tradition of Otsu-e painting, a form of traditional folk art that originated in this area about 400 years ago. This unique cultural experience provides an excellent opportunity to delve into Japan's artistic heritage, immersing yourself in the creativity and artistic expression that has enriched Otsu's local culture for centuries. And with only a 10-minute train ride from Kyoto Station, you can relax in the cozy lakeside town of Otsu while exploring the city's rich history and treasures.

What's Included

English speaking professional guide with deep interest in Japanese culture
Admission fees to Otsu Hyakuchokan, Otsu Festival Float Exhibition Hall or other alternative places
Local taxes
Original Otsu-e souvenirs
Welcome tea and sweets, local snacks
The Otsu-e "Lucky Oni Bell" or "Three Wise Monkeys" painting workshop
All train fares, i.e. Kyoto-Otsu by JR: JPY200/adult (but covered by valid JR Pass if you have)
Lunch

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
You can choose from multiple locations at checkout.
End point

The tour concludes at the venue of painting workshop, Ichie Wado. A detailed map around the area including to nearby stations is available.

Itinerary

Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
  • 1

    Tour starts from the North ticket gate of the station.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Gingko trees of Kekaiji Temple, Kyomachi 3-chome: The trees used to be a remarkable landmark for boats on Lake Biwa

    Admission ticket free
  • 2

    Mochihyo Japanese sweets shop, Facing the Old Tokaido Road: We pick up Japanese sweets that the guests enjoy before the painting session later.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3

    Senmaruya dried food store, Nakamachi Street: Local long standing dried food store selling stuff indispensable to Japanese cuisine. We'll pick up retro snack here.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Hirai Shoten, Maruya-cho shopping arcade : Sake brewery with 365 years of history. Sells its original brand’s local sake.

    Admission ticket free
  • 4

    Maruya-cho shopping arcade: One of the actual floats pulled during the Otsu Festival is on display.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5

    Maruya-cho shopping arcade: Old typical Otsu Machiya merchant house is well preserved. Our guide will do a house tour.

    20 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 6

    Yaoyo pickle shop, Hishiya-cho shopping arcade: Long established pickle shop with a wide variety. Learn one aspect of Japanese dietary. We pick a seasonal pickle for later treat.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 7

    Otsu-e no Mise, Miidera sando: Otsu-e folk Art paintings store and workshop. Succeeded by the 5th Takahashi Shozan.

    20 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 8

    Ichie Wado Seminar House, Kozeki-cho 4-17, in front of Nagara Jinja Shrine: Painting workshop venue for the tour. Watch a presentation on Otsu-e history and features enjoying the welcome tea and sweets as well as local snacks purchased on the way.

    1 hour 30 minutes Admission ticket included

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Supplied by Ichie Wado

Tags

Half-day Tours
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Art Tours
Rail Tours
Walking Tours
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Cancellation Policy

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

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Rating

5.0 Based on 13 13 reviews
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