Traditional Kintsugi Workshop – Learn from a Nationally Recognized Master Craftsman

Kintsugi is a traditional technique that adds a meaningful touch to damaged objects. This technique symbolically represents the Japanese aesthetic of embracing imperfection and the spirit of valuing things. The restored object is transformed into a completely new and unique piece while retaining the story of the past, so that it can be used with love and care again.

In this session, you will learn directly from a master craftsman who has been engaged in creating and restoring Buddhist ritual objects for over 50 years. He is officially recognized by the government as a traditional craftsman who preserves advanced skills and techniques, and is also a recipient of the Order of Merit. Engaging with artisans of traditional Japanese crafts will offer a unique opportunity to broaden your perspective and connect with Japan’s living traditions.

・Offered in Japanese, with a friendly Sharing Kyoto guide interpreting in English
・Local meeting and local breakup

Mr. Matsuda is a skilled master craftsman, well-versed in lacquer techniques used in traditional Japanese crafts. Friendly and personable, he possesses deep knowledge of lacquer and a wealth of experience, teaching not only Kintsugi but also a wide range of other Japanese crafts. He is also happy to show you his own works, including Buddhist altars and ritual articles, to help you gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture.

－Over 50 years of experience in the production of Buddhist altarware and other artifacts, winning numerous awards at competitions
－In 2004, he was certified as a traditional craftsman, a national qualification recognizing advanced skills and techniques in traditional crafts.
－In 2019, he was awarded the Order of the Sacred Treasure, Silver Rays

◎ Kintsugi experience fee (includes materials and vessels)
◎ English interpretation
△ (Optional) Bring your own vessels or change to antique vessels
✖ Food and drinks; transportation costs

Choose a vessel and learn the technique of restoring it using gold powder.

During the drying process, you will enjoy tea and sweets served in vessels created and repaired by the instructor. While sharing tea, you will also have the chance to see and hear about his wide range of works, including Buddhist altars, and learn about the fascinating history of traditional crafts.

The restored vessels will be placed in a wooden box for you to take home.

*The original traditional technique of hon-kintsugi, using lacquer, is a process that takes at least one month to complete, so it cannot be done during this experience; however, you will be taught the process.

・Please book at least 12:00 p.m. the day before
(Office hours: Monday - Friday 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.)
・Confirmation will be received at the time of booking.
・Applicants must be at least 18 years old to apply. Minors must obtain the consent of a parent or guardian before applying.
・The experience may be cancelled or postponed at short notice, or the content may be changed due to traffic conditions, etc.
・The experience may be filmed and posted on social networking sites or used in articles.
・We may share your responses to surveys and reviews on our social networking sites and in the media.

・Free of charge if cancelled up to 2 days before the workshop date, 30% up to the day before, 100% on the day of the workshop
・Special Cases (Natural disaster, virus, etc.): Full refund
・Transaction fees for refunds in the event of cancellation will be borne by the customer.

Lydia (Spain)　★★★★★
You treated us super good, making everything possible for us to enjoy this experience, and we are very grateful for it. We are really glad we could experience this authentic Kintsugi workshop guided by such a experienced Sensei. We learned a lot about the traditional process, and was amazing to be able to conduct the different steps of this marvelous process. We also had fun, and we enjoyed a lot the tea with the muffins. In addition, the ceramics were really nice, we are excited to bring them home and use them!

Chris (Ireland)
We had a great time during the workshop and learned a lot about the meaning behind kintsugi, and all the work that goes on behind the scenes to make it possible! Mr Matsuda was very friendly and patient with us and both him and his wife were great hosts with the supply of tea, cakes, and conversation. We loved getting to see the incredible things that he has made and being able to experience the process ourselves. We will take great care of our newly repaired cups! Thank you for a wonderful time :)

Beth (America)
We had such a great time learning from Mr. Tsutomu Matsuda and the interpreter. We really felt like we learned the process and we were not rushed when some of the steps took longer. On top of that Mr. Matsuda's wife was such a gracious host providing us with tea and sando. This experience was a highlight of our trip and we plan to continue to use what we learned at home!

Bevely (Australia)
My friend Allan and I totally enjoyed the workshop with Mr Matsuda san. It will be a day we remember. Mr Matsuda san is a master and was so kind and helpful to us. Keiko san was a pleasure to meet. They were both just wonderful. Shin who interpreted for us was delightful. We learnt so much and now appreciate the detail, patience and ability required to perform this wonderful work of Kintsugi. We will treasure the piece we will take to our homes. Please pass on our gratitude and we wish them all well. Thank you all for providing this amazing experience.