Traditional Craft Experiences You Can Book Right Now
One of the best ways to experience Japan’s historical traditions is through understanding the country’s deep connection to crafts. Designed to bring you closer to the heart of Japan’s rich traditions, our ongoing partnership with Wabunka offers rare, immersive experiences that delve deep into the unique artistry and craftsmanship of Japan.
From mastering the timeless art of the samurai to discovering the delicate techniques of kintsugi, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with stories and traditions few get to experience. Here are 8 traditional craft experiences in Japan that you can book right now.
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Forge Your Very Own Knife with a Swordsmith in Kyoto
Craft your own kogatana knife at Masahiro Tantojo, Kyoto, guided by Yuya Nakanishi, one of Japan’s few active swordsmiths. Using traditional Japanese sword-making techniques, you’ll strike tamahagane steel and shape the blade pattern for your personalised 15cm knife. After engraving, you’ll take home your creation the same day.
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Experience Samurai Spirit Through Ogasawara-style Archery in Nikko
Discover the samurai spirit through an Ogasawara-style archery experience in the historic town of Nikko. Under the guidance of a master, you’ll practice kyudo or yabusame while learning samurai etiquette. The experience includes a private tour of Nikko Toshogu Shrine, a World Heritage site steeped in the legacy of Tokugawa Ieyasu.
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Learn the Artistry of Wagashi Confectionery in an Osaka Private Villa
Step into a private villa in the heart of Osaka to master the art of crafting seasonal nerikiri wagashi under the guidance of celebrated artisan Nobuharu Nakanishi. This hands-on experience includes creating two elegant confections inspired by the seasons, with time to savour one alongside tea in a refined, antique-filled setting.
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Master the Art of Traditional Kintsugi in Kanazawa, the City of Crafts
Discover traditional kintsugi in Kanazawa, at a fourth-generation lacquerware workshop. Under the guidance of master artisan Takashi Sadaike, you’ll use traditional urushi lacquer to repair ceramics and create your own take-home piece. Gain insight into Japan’s craftsmanship and the philosophy of finding beauty in imperfection.
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Explore the World of Matcha at this Authentic Tea Ceremony in Uji, Kyoto
Step into the heart of Uji’s tea culture at Nakamura Tokichi Honten, where you’ll experience a traditional tea ceremony in an exclusive, historic tea room. Grind your own matcha tea leaves and discover the rich world of Japanese tea. Enjoy the ceremony alongside chasoba (tea buckwheat noodles) and namacha jelly, in a scenic garden setting.
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Experience the Ultimate in Japanese Hospitality with a Private Geisha Dinner
Experience an evening of private geisha entertainment in Gion, Kyoto’s historic entertainment district. Watch a traditional dance performed by a maiko, accompanied by a geiko playing the shamisen, and enjoy engaging in ozashiki-asobi (traditional party games) with the performers. Savour a freshly prepared Japanese meal while immersing yourself in this cultural experience.
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Craft Your Own Chopsticks in Tokyo's Kuramae Neighbourhood
Step into the world of traditional Edo sashimono woodworking at a century-old workshop in Tokyo’s Kuramae district. Guided by a third-generation craftsman, you’ll craft your own bespoke pair of chopsticks. Complete your experience with a custom-made chopstick box crafted from premium Aizu paulownia wood—an exclusive touch available on the Wabunka plan.
Image © Wabunka
Find Tranquility at Komyo-in: A Zen Meditation Experience in Kyoto
Immerse yourself in the peaceful world of Kyoto's renowned Tofuku-ji Temple complex. Guided by the chief priest, you will experience a private zazen meditation in the exclusive Kanteiro garden viewing room. For a truly unique experience, opt for an after-hours meditation by candlelight, where you can enjoy the entire grounds in solitude, surrounded by the calm of the temple.
About Wabunka Experiences
Specialising in designing one-of-a-kind experiences, Wabunka aims to highlight Japan’s rich traditional crafts, providing support and income for local industries. Through this collaboration, we are excited to offer alternatives to traditional tours, providing bespoke, in-depth journeys for travellers seeking a more meaningful experience in Japan.
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Are you tired of seeing the same over-crowded locations in Japan? I want to offer you a more meaningful experience; one that inspires you to travel to lesser-known destinations and explore Japan’s long-standing cultural traditions. Trusted by thousands around the world, Views from Japan is a travel guidebook packed with over 260 unique activities, hotels, neighbourhoods and more, giving you all the tools you need to create a once-in-a-lifetime Japan itinerary.
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