Kintsugi gold repair workshop - Tea and cake included!

Summary

What you’ll do Learn about the history and techniques of this ancient art and kintsugi-repair your own broken item using gold dust and lacquer. Tea + cake break included! In the practice of kintsugi, which means “golden joinery”, cracked pottery is given a second life through the binding power of gold lacquer. It’s said that this technique may have originated in the late 15th century when the shogun of Japan sent back damaged pottery to China, only to have it returned, unsatisfactorily fixed with metal staples. In response, craftsmen came up with the alternative technique of kintsugi to repair such items. This technique perfectly represents the Japanese aesthetic value of 'wabi-sabi', or the acceptance of imperfection as part of beauty, which has its origins in Buddhist philosophy. Celebrating the beauty of brokenness, Kintsugi not only produces unique pottery but is powerfully symbolic.

Tour info

Duration
2 hours 30 minutes
Group Size
Pricing (From)
Commentary
Meeting Point
Dropoff location

Why take this tour?

Learn kintsugi from a charming artist/potter couple, who have decades of experience teaching this delicate and ancient technique. Tea + cake break included!

What’s included?

  • Kintsugi tools

  • Pottery to repair (You can take the repaired pottery home.)

Things to know

Before you book

  • Duration: 2h 30m

  • Mobile tickets accepted

Covid Policy

  • Regular temperature checks for staff
  • Face masks required for travelers in public areas

Cancellation Policy

    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Operated by:

Deeper Japan - Creative Workshops in Tokyo & Kyoto

About operator:

We connect curious travelers with real Japanese traditional masters. Witness the magic of cultural classics like Sumo, Sake, Geisha, and Samurai swords, as well as deeper experiences like Indigo Dying, Textile Weaving or Forest Bathing. We guarantee you'll leave with that lingering feeling of wonder that comes from a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.

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