This kintsugi class was one of the first things we did in Japan, and yet it was one of our favorite activities over our two-week trip!
Yoshiko and Yoshiichiro are welcoming, patient, knowledgable and talented instructors. We learned about the art of kintsugi and its history, snacked on delicious tea and snacks, and were guided through producing lovely pieces that we'll enjoy for years to come. Furthermore, we had great conversations (English is not an issue) and lots of laughs.
Very short walk from the bus stop as well. Would highly recommend! Thank you Yoshiko and Yoshiichiro!
Ask for local food recommendations and to learn about their cat! :)
This was a fantastic experience. The owner and her husband made us feel very welcome and provided excellent tuition. The tea and sweet treats were delicious.
It was very clear that they were exceptionally talented, and the craftsmanship on display was incredible!
We feel very inspired to continue Kintsugi at home and plan on breaking many plates!
Highly recommend. This was our favorite part of a great trip! Toshie is a wonderful teacher and she has set up this easy-going experience so that it's fun and accessible for everyone. Absolutely worth the price!
Our group was two couples, it was just us; I think she extended the time because she saw we were having fun. Skill and language are no barriers, she has pictures, labels, and experience doing this for many years and it's easy to learn from her and incredibly fun! She serves tea and snacks to enjoy and you can chat casually as you work and wait for things to dry. Plus you get an incredible, one-of-a-kind souvenir/gift/memento out of it! (Which she packages securely for you to travel without worry of damaging it.)
As a tourist who doesn't speak Japanese, this was the activity that left me feeling the closest connection to the culture.
At the end of the class I wish I had some small gift to give back to our teacher.
Let me start by saying this art form is so cool and everywhere in Japan. And make no mistake, this is an art studio that has been passed down for generations. We had a great time and learned a lot of new things, immersing ourselves in this unique art form with wonderful teachers. Highly recommend.
From start to finish, this was an amazing experience. It's an intimate, private class inside the artist's studio. The instructor provided information on the history of kintsugi and carefully guided us through each step of the process with ample detail. A list of all the tools and materials used in the class are provided in a list as well (make sure to go to Tokyu Hands in Shinjuku to get them yourself!)
Easy to find, but like others have said give yourself a little extra time just in case.