Weave Your Own Textile Art: Traditional Kyoto Workshop

One-on-One Guidance from Master Craftsman Kikuo Hirano
Learn directly from a skilled craftsman with over 40 years of experience who has been awarded the Order of the Sacred Treasure, Silver Rays. With his expert support and artistic sensibility, even beginners can create a stunningly beautiful piece of "Textile Frame Art."

A Workshop in Kyoto's Oldest Geisha District
The studio is located in Kamishichiken, near Kitano Tenmangu Shrine. This area preserves the charm of old Kyoto with its stone-paved alleys and traditional teahouses. The walk from the meeting point to the studio is a highlight in itself, offering a truly authentic atmosphere.

Sharing Kyoto Exclusive Plan and a "Jewelry Box" of Threads
Select your own colors from the tens of thousands of threads that line the walls of the studio. Weaving your own textile in an authentic Tsuzure-ori workshop and taking it home as "Framed Art" on the same day is an exclusive experience available only through Sharing Kyoto.

Witness the Master Technique: "Tsumegaki Hon Tsuzure-ori"
This craft features the unique "Tsumegaki" technique, where artisans use their fingernails to weave intricate patterns. Known for its ability to create fine gradations and delicate shading, it has long been prized as decorative tapestry art. Witness this "handcrafted art," impossible to replicate by machine, performed right before your eyes.

Born in 1939 in Nishijin, Kyoto, Mr. Hirano was raised in a family of tsuzure-ori weavers spanning three generations. With over 40 years of experience perfecting his craft in the textile world, he has created numerous works of art.

His exceptional craftsmanship has earned him national recognition and honors, yet he remains incredibly approachable and warm-hearted. You will surely be captivated not only by his expert tsuzure-ori weaving skills, but also by his genuine character.

The workshop is now open to the public, offering an opportunity to experience the art of tsuzure-ori through tours and hands-on experiences. Learning directly from a master craftsman who remains active after so many years is a rare and invaluable opportunity.

◎ English-speaking local guide
◎ Workshop tour
◎ "Textile Framed Art" making experience
× Transportation costs

Meet at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
Meet your guide and walk to the studio through the atmospheric streets of Kamishichiken, Kyoto's oldest geisha district.

Workshop Tour: Witness the Craft
First, learn the history through a video introduction, followed by an exclusive live demonstration of the "Tsumegaki" technique by a master craftsman.

Weaving Experience: Create Your Textile Framed Art
Choose from tens of thousands of thread colors and weave your art on a traditional loom with the master's support. You will create a one-of-a-kind piece.

End of Tour
Your work will be framed on the spot, ready to take home immediately.

・Your reservation will be confirmed upon a reply from Sharing Kyoto.
・Please book at least 2 days in advance so that we can build the best experience for you.
・Applicants must be at least 18 years old to apply. Minors must obtain the consent of a parent or guardian before applying. Elementary school children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
・The experience may be canceled or postponed at short notice, or the content may be changed due to traffic conditions, etc.
・We may share your responses to surveys and reviews on our social networking sites and media.

・Free of charge for cancellations up to 3 days prior to the tour date, 100% for cancellations 2 days or less prior to the tour date.
・Special Cases (Natural disaster, virus, etc.): Full refund.
・Transaction fees for refunds in the event of cancellation will be borne by the customer.
・Please contact us if you will be more than 5 minutes late. If you are late without notice, we may have to treat your booking as a cancellation. Please be aware of this policy.