The Essence of Kintsugi: 2-Hour Traditional Workshop with a Master

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 specially curated 2-hour express workshop, you will gain a profound understanding of these traditional techniques through a unique blend of master-led demonstration and hands-on practice. You will be guided by a nationally recognized “Traditional Craftsman,” who has spent over 50 years perfecting his skills on Buddhist ritual objects.

While the full kintsugi process is lengthy, this concise session is designed to offer you the full essence of the craft. You will witness the master’s expert handling of the essential stages—joining and shaping—up close, gaining rare insights into his techniques. You will then personally perform the final, crowning stage: applying the lacquer and gold powder. Engaging with a master who has dedicated his life to Japan’s living traditions offers a unique opportunity to connect with the deep history and aesthetic philosophy of kintsugi, all within a focused and meaningful timeframe.

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

Discover the beauty of kintsugi in a concise, high-impact session. This express course allows you to experience the essence of authentic restoration using genuine lacquer and gold powder within a focused 2-hour timeframe.

Our master craftsman will expertly demonstrate the first two critical phases—joining the broken pieces and shaping the repairs—offering you an exclusive, up-close look at the refined techniques of a true professional. You will then actively participate in the final, dramatic stage: applying the final layer of lacquer and dusting the gold powder yourself. This balance of expert observation and hands-on creation ensures you deeply understand the process and complete your own masterpiece efficiently.

The restored vessel 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.)
・Your reservation will be confirmed once the payment has been received.
・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.