(All Reviews) Page 3) Workshops and Lessons, Kyoto tours & activities, fun things to do in Kyoto | VELTRA

This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies. Find out more here

All Reviews for Workshops and Lessons in Kyoto

Overall Rating

4.72 4.72 / 5

Reviews

204 reviews

Shibori workshop in Kyoto

What a wonderful experience

Reviewed by: Dianne, 2019/11/22

What a wonderful experience. Our instructor, Nina, was fantastic - very knowledgeable and patient. It was fascinating hearing about the artisans who spend a lifetime creating such wonderful works of art. The Shibori experience takes fabric dyeing to a whole new level. The class itself was paced really well for the beginner and we were given a choice of designs and colour. The process was explained clearly and help was patiently provided when needed. The class also included a short but informative video on this wonderful artform. There was also time to look around at some of their museum pieces - what a treat for the eyes. At the end of the class our Shibori pieces were presented to us in a gift box. There was an array of goods to purchase too but no pressure to buy. I would highly recommend this activity for anyone wanting to experience traditional Japanese artforms/crafts.

Rating:
Attended as: Friends
Activity Date: 2019/11/13
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Introductory Traditional Kyo-Yuzen Hand-Dyeing Workshop in a Machiya

Great relaxing activity. Perfect for a rainy day or to take a break from city excursions.

Reviewed by: Nikki, 2019/11/17

I made an awesome tumbler that I absolutely LOVE.

I'm a bit of a perfectionist and was worried about things coming out just right but the staff there was patient and willing to put up with my extra questions and offered advice. They had a native English speaker there so it made the explanations super easy to understand. Thanks Saskia!

The only sort-of-criticism I have is more with Veltra's layout. The location actually had more items than was listed on the site. But we were given free range of anything at the price range of the tumbler (which we both chose on the site) or above, with us paying the difference in store (we COULD have chosen a less expensive item but we'd be loosing out on money since it was payed for in advance through Veltra). I chose to stay with the tumbler I originally planned but having those options given to me was very nice. So really, this was both a negative AND a positive.

Rating:
Attended as: Friends
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Japanese Washi Paper Souvenir Book Making Lesson in Kyoto

Quiet Creativity and Culture

Reviewed by: Bridget, 2019/11/07

I had such a good time time at this activity -- I highly recommend it. The staff were incredibly kind and helpful. Aside from making and poking holes in your paper, you are involved in every step, including designing, tracing and cutting the stencil you use for the cover art. More than worth the price, and the souvenir you take with you is definitely meaningful.

Rating:
Attended as: Solo Travelers
Activity Date: 2019/11/06
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Half Day Traditional Batik and Indigo Dyeing Lesson in Kyoto

Nice workshop!

Reviewed by: Annaïck, 2019/10/29

Spot easy to find.
First you get to chose your design from the design library sorted by styles.
You can also come up with your own design (a black and white print is all you need)
Then the host teaches you how to apply wax. You get a little training on sample.
Afterwards you can apply wax on the kind of fabric you selected for the workshop with the chosen design.
Once it’s done, it’s time for the dyeing process, which takes 10 to 15mn.
Then the piece of cloth gets dried very quickly, in less than 5 mn.
The result I had on my design was a bit bolder than expected.
I think I got a bit too heavy on the wax and brush ;)

Host is friendly and easy to communicate with in English!


Rating:
Attended as: Solo Travelers
Activity Date: 2019/06/06
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Traditional Japanese Shibori Tie-Dye Workshop in Kyoto

Awesome experience !

Reviewed by: Annaïck, 2019/10/28

Completely amazed by the workshop host who was so nice and helpful in teaching me Shibori, despite my very basic knowledge in japanese language.

He kindly showed me his technique so I could replicate and learn how to make Shibori.

I also loved the magic and the surprise of seeing the pattern appearing when unfolding the fabric after dyeing :)

I had a wonderful time and I am pleased with the Shibori I made

One of my favorite memories from Japan and an amazing souvenir too ^^


先生ありがとうございました!

Rating:
Attended as: Solo Travelers
Activity Date: 2019/06/07
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Introductory Traditional Kyo-Yuzen Hand-Dyeing Workshop in a Machiya

Nice workshop!

Reviewed by: Annaïck, 2019/10/28

Spot easy to find.
First you get to choose your stencil design in a big selection well sorted by style.
Then you pick your favorite design and the host shows you how to proceed and make you try the technique a little bit before using the piece of cloth you chose for that workshop.
Then the host lets you practice and is still around if you need help.
It took me a half day, but that was mostly because I am always hard to choose stencils and colors, also I’m slow at painting.
Host was nice, helpful and easy to communicate with in English.

Rating:
Attended as: Solo Travelers
Activity Date: 2019/06/06
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Traditional Bamboo Basket Weaving Experience

Nice experience!

Reviewed by: Annaïck, 2019/10/28

This workshop was my first experience in weaving.
I made a Shikainamihana basket and it wasn’t difficult.
The host had a good level in English and was patient in showing and explaining all the steps.
It didn’t even take too long to make ! It took about an hour.
This workshop is fine for beginners and totally ok if you speak English!
I recommend going to the Take No Ko shop for the appointement

Rating:
Attended as: Solo Travelers
Activity Date: 2019/06/07
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Traditional Bamboo Basket Weaving Experience

Peaceful personalized experience

Reviewed by: Davin, 2019/09/09

We entered the weaving store, then the teacher led us back into the garage/workshop.

My wife and I had chosen different products to make. Mine was a bit more difficult (ebikago) while my wife's (yorozukago) was simpler and took 30 minutes less to complete. My wife was pleased with the product

I really loved the workshop, it was cool despite the summer heat and the teacher was nice and patient

  • The workshop

Rating:
Attended as: Couples
Activity Date: 2019/09/06
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Traditional Zogan Inlay Handicraft Lesson in Kyoto

Amazing experience, I may even pick this up as a hobby!

Reviewed by: Davin, 2019/09/09

Positives:
- Opportunity to express my creativity,
- Requires moderate skill

Negatives:
- limited selection of gold/silver foil templates. I had to cut up a rabbit to create my own shapes.

Comments from activity operators

Thank you very much for taking time to leave us such a wonderful review! We really appreciate you sharing your experience with us. It is our pleasure to help making your travel memories better and we all keep challenging ourselves to deliver the best service. I am looking forward to your next visit.

Rating:
Attended as: Couples
Activity Date: 2019/09/07
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

漆器加飾　最も豪華な「螺鈿」を体験 ＜上京区＞ 京の手創り体験 地域観光情報研究社 催行

一人参加

Reviewed by: まろん, 2019/08/22

予約は14時だったんですが、集合時間が13時だったみたいで全く気付かず申し訳なかったです。予約の際は皆さんご注意を。
体験はお盆明けで、一人参加が他に一人居ただけで空いていたため、丁寧に教えて頂きました。金粉と螺鈿でピカピカに仕上がりました。よりオリジナルが作りたい方は自分で絵を持っていくとイイですよ。ただし細い線や細かい絵は無理です。螺鈿がとても薄くて割れやすいのでそれどころではありません（笑
また金粉を付ける線も細筆とは言え、素人が細く描くのは難しいと思います。
時間とデザインにはゆとりを持って挑戦してみてください。

Rating:
Attended as: Solo Travelers
Activity Date: 2019/08/19
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Elegant Ikebana Flower Arrangement Lesson in a Traditional Townhouse in Kyoto

Perfect experience!

Reviewed by: Panagiota , 2019/08/15

It was one of the best experiences I had in Kyoto! Master Kimi was amazing! I would do it again!

Comments from activity operators

Dear Panagiota,

Thank you very much for attending our ikebana class and writing a review for us! We are more than glad you enjoyed the class and it became one of your good memories in Kyoto. We hope you had a great time in Japan and we'll meet you again in the near future. Thank you so much!!

Kind Regards,
Kimi

Rating:
Attended as: Couples
Activity Date: 2019/08/12
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Half Day Traditional Batik and Indigo Dyeing Lesson in Kyoto

Fun to try & a nice souvenir to take away

Reviewed by: Stevie , 2019/08/06

Host was very kind and helpful. I was the only one on the day but he was very informative and patient nonetheless. I would be shown each step and left to continue whilst he would check and see my progress. I liked that he gave me space to get on with it, otherwise I would have felt pressured into rushing. When it came to mixing and rinsing the dye, I didn't need to do much but it was interesting to watch him finish the process. The product came out looking lovely and the overall experience was interesting. A good experience whether in a group or solo.

  • I chose a Japanese wash cloth and a temple design

Rating:
Attended as: Solo Travelers
Activity Date: 2019/07/06
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Make a Geisha Hana Kanzashi Flower Hair Ornament in Kyoto

definitely a highlight of our vacation!

Reviewed by: CSK, 2019/07/29

Absolutely worth it. Language barrier not an issue in the slightest, she has prepared materials in English to translate instructions. They were very kind and patient. Excellent teacher, the final results were beautiful. Wide range of colors and patterns and styles to choose from, I was not disappointed in our choices. Would do it again for sure!

Rating:
Attended as: Couples
Activity Date: 2019/07/29
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Traditional Bamboo Basket Weaving Experience

Patient, easy-to-understand instruction

Reviewed by: American in Kyoto , 2019/06/30

My sister, an American basket weaver with a great deal of experience in weaving other materials, and I, a long-term resident of Japan with no previous experience, took the course. We were the only two students that day and both had a great time. The young woman who instructed us was friendly and patient with us, taking us one step at a time through the process of making the rather complex but beautiful Shikainami basket. We both ended up with nice-looking baskets. The instructor cheerfully answered my sister's questions about preparing the bamboo and agreed to prepare 200 strips for my sister to take home with her a week later. All-in-all, a very satisfying experience well worth the price.

Rating:
Attended as: Friends
Activity Date: 2019/06/24
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Half Day Traditional Batik and Indigo Dyeing Lesson in Kyoto

Extremely enjoyable workshop

Reviewed by: PoorMan, 2019/06/16

We have never worked on cloth dyeing like this before. The store owners were incredibly friendly and walked us through every step of the process. They were always there to answer questions and provide assistance if we needed it. The entire process was fascinating, making the experience that much more interesting and fun. We highly recommend trying this for yourself if you are ever in Kyoto!

Comments from activity operators

Thank you for the review.
It looks like you were very happy. .
I would also like to visit you when there is an opportunity.
Thank you

Rating:
Attended as: Couples
Activity Date: 2019/06/16
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Handmade Pottery Experience in Kyoto

Wonderful experience

Reviewed by: Susan, 2019/06/05

Our session was about 1.5 hours and we were given the option to make cup, mug, plate or bowl - 2 pieces in total.
We would have liked to make smaller pieces however we ended up making 2 cups each.
Beautiful and relaxing space and host was delightful - his work is lovely.
If we go back to Kyoto we would love to do this again.

Rating:
Attended as: Couples
Activity Date: 2019/05/26
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Kyo-Yuzen Hand Dyed Accessories Workshop in a Traditional Kyoto Machiya

Kyo-Yuzen Dyeing

Reviewed by: Vicky- Australia, 2019/05/20

The activity was fun and we enjoyed doing it but I feel it should be renamed.
This activity was more stencilling on a small wall hanging rather than the 'dyeing' we expected. There were many stencils to choose from and we were allowed plenty of time. Demonstrations were good & the explanations clear. This is a good family activity or for someone wanting to do some easy Japanese craftwork. Just be clear- it is using various applications of colour with a stiff brush over stencils that line up to create an overall picture on a small wall hanging.

Rating:
Attended as: Friends
Activity Date: 2019/04/30
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Make a Geisha Hana Kanzashi Flower Hair Ornament in Kyoto

Hana-kanzashi

Reviewed by: Rebecca G., 2019/04/13

Today was a special day for me, to be able to learn and make myself my own Kanzashi was a great experience. Even I dont speak Japanese(we used a translation app to communicate) it went very well. The choice of colors is very interesting.

Comments from activity operators

ご来店ありがとうございました。素敵な作品に仕上がりました。楽しんで頂けて、こちらもとても嬉しく思います。
お店が分かりにくくて、ごめんなさいね。

Rating:
Attended as: Solo Travelers
Activity Date: 2019/04/14
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Gold Leaf Stamping Traditional Art Lesson in Kyoto

More like a demonstration than a hands on experience

Reviewed by: Aisling, 2019/04/12

Husband and I did the chinkin class and the gold leaf stamping class at kyoto artisan workshop and we have to say that we enjoyed the chinkin class better as it was more hands on. For the gold leaf stamping class, we did the cutting of the template but the actual gold leaf application was done by the teacher (our teacher that day was Mr Fuji). This is probably due to the fact that gold leaf wrinkles at the slightest touch and it was probably too difficult for beginners to handle. A tip for those choosing this class - choose a design that is not too fine for a better effect. I chose a crane design and the long thin legs of the crane did not stick well.

  • Mr Fuji applying the gold leaf as my husband looks on

Comments from activity operators

ご来店ありがとうございました。人気の箔押しですが、扱いが難しいのが難点です。コメント頂きましたとおりデザイン選びが明暗を分けると思います。是非またTRYしにお越しくださいませ。

Rating:
Attended as: Couples
Activity Date: 2019/04/08
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Delicate Chinkin Style Lacquerware Decoration Workshop in Kyoto

Learnt a lot

Reviewed by: Aisling, 2019/04/12

I did a raden class at sagaraden nomura and a makie class at innui shikki and I have to say that my husband and I both enjoyed the chinkin class at kyoto artisan workshop best of all. The teachers were elderly and speak Japanese only but we had no problems following through the teacher's demonstration. What sets kyoto artisan workshop apart was the incredibly hands on experience from the woodcutting to the application of lacquer and metallic powders, unlike the other workshops that we've been to where some steps were done for us by more expert hands so that we would have a nice product to take home. As a result we learnt a lot. Highly recommend this class.

Comments from activity operators

ご来店ありがとうございます。沈金体験を出来る施設は少ないと思いますので当店でお楽しみいただけたとのこと、うれしく思います。またのご来店をお待ちしております。

Rating:
Attended as: Couples
Activity Date: 2019/04/08
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Visit a Fan Workshop and Make Your Own Kyo-Uchiwa Fan in Kyoto

Very nice experience

Reviewed by: Camille and Benoit, 2019/03/28

Very nice experience in this interesting Kyoto fan making small factory.
It was nice to prepare, cut and adjust the paper to make the fan.We also had the oportunity to see the staff crafting the fans. We were very well welcomed in a nice atmosphere. The fans they are making there are bsolutely beautiful and delicate.
Thank you for this nice experience.

Rating:
Attended as: Couples
Activity Date: 2019/03/26
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Make a Geisha Hana Kanzashi Flower Hair Ornament in Kyoto

Great experience

Reviewed by: Alyssa, 2019/03/21

I grew up doing arts and crafts, so deciding to do this class while in Kyoto was an obvious choice for me. I am so glad I did it! I am very happy with the hair ornament I made and can't wait to bring it home and wear it at a dressy event. Thanks Dekobokoan!

Rating:
Attended as: Couples
Activity Date: 2019/03/19
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Cool Traditional Crest Printing Experience in Kyoto

Come for Mon, stay for fun!

Reviewed by: Shona M, 2019/03/08

The lady who runs this place is so fun. She seems to have a few students who are nice and cool. They let you choose what item you want to print on, and what family crest, also known as mon. Even if you don't know Japanese the teacher will still try to communicate with you using the Google Translate app. It works great, so you can communicate a lot. They also have a special drinking fountain, from Alice you can sample or buy bottles. The water is especially sweet and smooth, good foraking matcha, rice, and drinks. It's totally different from any other water
Also, your teacher will help you find Nishiki market if you ask. Really fun!

Rating:
Attended as: Solo Travelers
Activity Date: 2019/03/08
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Half Day Traditional Batik and Indigo Dyeing Lesson in Kyoto

Paint with wax and dye!

Reviewed by: Shona M, 2019/03/07

The man who runs this class is very nice. An old lady also helps. You get to pick a design and practice painting it before you do your final copy. You can choose what you paint on. The man helps you dye the fabric and remove the wax. He really looked after my kimono to protect it from the dye. Highly recommend if you like batik or want to know more about Japanese culture. The dye changes color right before your eyes!

Rating:
Attended as: Solo Travelers
Activity Date: 2019/03/05
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Gold Kindami Yuzen Kyoto Fabric Dying and Handcrafts Lesson

Artisans teach you for real!

Reviewed by: Shona M, 2019/03/07

It was such a privilege and honour to learn a true Japanese fabric technique from and artisan who had been working for 60 years! Finding the place is a little tricky, but it is so worth it. The bag you get in the end is made of durable denim and good for holding any little trinkets you collect in your travels. I was there in spring so I was able to buy a box of sakura manju, too. :) you can do this alone or with children. I recommend bringing friends.

Rating:
Attended as: Solo Travelers
Activity Date: 2019/03/06
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Japanese Washi Paper Souvenir Book Making Lesson in Kyoto

Rubbing elbows with true artisans!

Reviewed by: Shona M, 2019/03/07

The staff here are so nice. They served me right away, even though I came very early. They like to explain a lot about Japanese history and culture. The book binding is organised to be quick and easy to do, so that both kids and adults can enjoy it. I only wish I could have learned more about the process! If only I knew more Japanese language!
What really impressed me, however, is that they built some katagami, or traditional artisan stencilling, often done on silk. Kozaka San and Monoba San really are great to chat with as well, and well tolerate poor Japanese language skills. :)

Rating:
Attended as: Solo Travelers
Activity Date: 2019/03/06
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Kyo-Yuzen Hand Dyed Accessories Workshop in a Traditional Kyoto Machiya

Really enjoyed it

Reviewed by: Kate Lack, 2019/03/02

We created something special to bring back with us other than normal souvenir type objects. It was super easy to do. Would not recommend the eco bag as it is quite small.

Rating:
Attended as: Friends
Activity Date: 2019/02/09
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Half Day Chopstick Making and Kyoyuzen Dyed Chopstick Case in Kyoto

So much fun!

Reviewed by: Kate Lack, 2019/03/02

They had all the instructions in English so it was super easy to follow and the staff were all so lovely. It does take a while to get the hang of. All up it took 2 and a half hours to make. Would definitely recommend to anyone that is sick of looking at temples and shrines.

Rating:
Attended as: Friends
Activity Date: 2019/02/10
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

ローケツ染体験 選べる下絵は200種以上！のれん・タペストリー・Tシャツなど＜京都市＞

とても楽しかったです

Reviewed by: kaalpes, 2019/02/14

大人ふたりと子どもひとりで参加しました。
たくさんの下絵があり、持参した下絵も使って挑戦しました。
丁寧に教えてくださったので、みんなで楽しめました。
できあがった作品をこれから大事に使いたいと思います。
よい思い出になりました。ありがとうございました。

Rating:
Attended as: Families with Young Children
Activity Date: 2019/02/11
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Advanced Traditional Hand-Dyeing Workshop Kyo-Yuzen Course in a Machiya

An excellent opportunity to experience an iconic Japanese craft

Reviewed by: JJ Loughran, 2019/02/12

I arrived at the studio and was welcomed by a staff member. During my time there I was pleased with the oversight of the staff -- and truly enjoyed my experience. The helpfulness, the professionalism and the interest of the staff provided a supported experience which I found enormously satisfying. This is a great craft experience and I highly recommend it. I was directed to a local supplier and bought the materials necessary to do this again

Rating:
Attended as: Solo Travelers
Activity Date: 2018/11/12
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]
Next » « Prev

Browse by Kyoto

Kyoto Categories

Reviewed by

Reply from activity provider

An unexpected error has occurred. Please go back to the previous page and try again, or wait a few minutes and try once again.