Hands-On Craft Workshop (Kyoto)

We absolutely loved this handmade workshop! We went in to make a hairpin for my mother-in-law, and the couple hosting it were incredibly sweet. With the help of a translator, they explained everything in detail and were so warm and welcoming—even to my husband, who hadn’t signed up but sat through the session. They still shared with him all the fascinating details about their craft. The bamboo they use is around 350 years old, a type that’s no longer available, and they were so open in sharing its history. The workshop took place in a beautiful machiya (traditional townhouse) that’s over 100 years old, which made the whole experience even more special. The session was short—about 30–45 minutes—but wonderfully memorable, and very reasonably priced. Instead of just buying a hairpin, I’d highly recommend making one yourself here. You’ll not only leave with something beautiful but also gain an appreciation for the tradition, history, and the genuinely kind people behind it.

I went with my wife and I instantly got hooked. The host and his wife are very friendly and speak English. They will guide you through every step and make sure your origami is done well. we’ll deserved authentic experience. don’t miss out

It was very fun! The patterns they gave were super pretty! Calming experience when we were making the earrings. Instructions are very easy to understand and the couple is very sweet! My friend and I stayed there for an hour afterward browsing through the items sold, and talked to the old man there. Turns out he’s the last man in japan who crafts with 300 year old smoked bamboo, and he was very enthusiastic about showing us his crafts. Very cute! Would go again to make our own hairpins :)

It’s a tiny little family owned workshop and the couple didn’t speak english that well, but they did their best and used google translate during the time you are crafting in order to communicate more about the history of the materials used and the workshop. Even if you don’t have japanese skills the steps are shown and explained in a way, where it’s still essy to follow.

Very fun workshop to do some origami and make something to commemorate your visit. Very kind and patient instruction. The space was also very nice and unique - their other crafts are also very beautiful and available for purchase!

had such an amazing experience. the workshop owner who’s also the guide is an amazing conversationalist and I had the pleasure to speak with him. I’ve learned more about Japanese arts and crafts thanks to him. and he shows so much gratitude and appreciation, truly had a wonderful time for both learning new things and making the hairpin.

The best experience and souvenir from Japan. The host was so nice to us and explained every detail of the hair pin making process - from the bamboo to how it should be polished! Really recommend this experience to everyone that's looking for an authentic Japanese experience !

Yoshi is a brilliant host 😁 It was really cool doing this workshop in his traditional Kyoto house that’s over 150 years old. I really recommend this workshop, you get your moneys worth ten fold and get to spend time with a very kind and caring host

I had an amazing time making my own hairpin. The craftsman was very kind and explained the significance behind the material and the steps! Despite a language barrier we had a very nice conversation and I would definitely recommend trying it out or simply supporting their little shop!

I arrived early to the activity with my luggage because I was leaving Kyoto that day, and they received me very kindly without any problems. It was a lot of fun to be able to make my own accessories by hand. Although I don't have much knowledge of Japanese, we were able to communicate through an English-Japanese translator, so it was easy to understand. They also gave me a piece of paper with a 300-year-old design on it!!