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 workshop, you will learn the traditional techniques of kintsugi directly from a master craftsman who has been engaged in creating and restoring Buddhist ritual objects for over 50 years. He is a highly skilled craftsman, officially recognized by the Japanese government as a “Traditional Craftsman” for preserving advanced techniques, and a recipient of the Order of the Sacred Treasure, Silver Rays for his distinguished contributions.

Under the guidance of this master craftsman, using genuine lacquer, you will experience key steps of kintsugi, from joining broken pieces and repairing chips to applying gold powder to complete the restoration.
Engaging with a craftsman who has preserved and perpetuated Japan’s traditional crafts offers a unique opportunity to broaden your perspective and connect with Japan’s living traditions

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 authentic techniques of restoring it using genuine lacquer and gold powder, immersing yourself in the traditional world of kintsugi. Under the guidance of a master craftsman, you will learn hands-on the three main steps: joining broken pottery, repairing chips, and finishing with lacquer and gold powder.

During the drying process, you will enjoy tea and sweets served in vessels created and repaired by your instructor. While sharing tea, you will also have the chance to see and hear about his diverse works, including Buddhist altars, and learn about the rich history of traditional crafts and the Japanese aesthetic cultivated through kintsugi. Interacting with a master craftsman will make this experience truly unforgettable.

The restored vessels will be placed in a wooden box for you to take home.
*Since the authentic, traditional technique of hon-kintsugi takes more than a month to complete, this workshop highlights the essential steps.

・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.

〇 Lillie (★★★★★)
Had a wonderful experience with Sharing Kyoto. They were extremely helpful, accommodating, kind and patient. The kintsugi experience with Mr. Matsuda was one of the highlights of the trip and am so grateful to be able to learn from the master. I would definitely join more of their adventures in the future. Genuinely magnificent experience.

〇 Julie (★★★★★)
What a wonderful experience doing the Kintsugi Class with Mr Matsuda in Kyoto. He and his wife were so welcoming and shared stories and laughs with us. This experience was definitely the highlight of our Japan trip.

〇 Beth (★★★★★)
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!

〇 Vel（★★★★★）
Learning about Kintsugi and being guided through the process of repairing our own vessel by such a master craftsman as Mr Matsuda was truly an honor. When asked about our trip to Japan, our day spent in the home of Mr.and Mrs. Matsuda is the experience we share. Not only is Mr. Matsuda an extremely talented, humble, and honored craftsman, he is also a very patient and encouraging teacher. He made the extra effort to shop for an antique vessel for us. Mine is over 100 years old and my son’s piece is over 200 years old. Our English translator was wonderful. We absolutely adored Mrs. Matsuda, she was so sweet and welcoming. Being in their home made our experience so special. Learning about Kintsugi and getting to know Mr.and Mrs. Matsuda was the highlight of our Japan trip. It was an experience we will always cherish.