Master the Art of Traditional Japanese Crafts in Just 60 Minutes!

Step into a world rich with Japanese tradition as you explore the wonders of "Ise Katagami", the art form behind the timeless beauty of kimono dyeing. The "katagami-shi" craftspeople, true guardians of this heritage, carve tiny motifs, sometimes more than 900 on a piece of durable washi paper no larger than one square inch. Can you imagine the dedication and precision? During our session, we provide a unique opportunity: working with a stencil handcrafted by the renowned Chiaki Imasaka. You'll imprint your postcards with designs steeped in tradition, making each one a tiny canvas of cultural richness.

Our journey delves deeper as we introduce you to "Mizuhiki", the traditional decorative cord that graces celebratory envelopes and precious gifts. This craft, which once started as a simple cord, has woven its way into modern designs, adding flair to contemporary accessories while maintaining its vintage charm. As part of our tour, you'll master the Awaji and Ume knot techniques, unlocking a treasure trove of design possibilities. You'll craft pouches that combine both washi paper and Mizuhiki designs and bookmarks that are both functional and beautifully adorned. For a finale, you'll create a mini clasp purse, uniting the beauty of Japanese textiles with your own personal touch. The best bit? Even if you've never held a needle before, these purses require no sewing!

Excited? We thought you might be. This isn’t just a tour; it’s an invitation to immerse yourself in a culture, a craft, a tradition. So, why wait? Secure your spot now and come away with not just memories but beautiful, tangible reminders of a world you've stepped into, even if for just a short while. Book your tour today and embark on a journey of Japanese artistry!

Tour Itinerary

1. Artistry on a Postcard: Ise Katagami Magic

Dive into the delicate craft of "Ise Katagami", integral to the world of kimono dyeing. This ancient art finds its heart in the hands of the "katagami-shi" – artisans who manifest the impossible, etching over 900 designs onto washi paper, all within a tiny space no larger than a square inch. In our journey together, we'll take a stencil, a masterpiece by the renowned Chiaki Imasaka, and employ its intricate designs to breathe life into postcards. Your hands, guided by centuries of tradition, will bring to life a piece of Japanese history.

2. Gifts that Bind: Crafting Mizuhiki Envelopes

Meet "Mizuhiki", the ornamental cord that has adorned celebratory envelopes and gifts for generations. This Japanese craft has a heart of silk, meticulously wound around a core, and has found its way from envelopes to modern-day decor, merging tradition with today. Our hands-on session introduces you to foundational techniques like the Awaji and Ume knots, allowing you to infuse washi paper envelopes with your personal touch, making each one uniquely yours.

3. A Bookmark of Tradition: Your Mizuhiki Creation

The same Mizuhiki cord that binds gifts now becomes a tool of creativity in your hands. Starting with basics like the Awaji and Ume knots, we'll journey together to design a special bookmark, culminating in a delightful rabbit-themed arrangement. As you work, you'll feel the age-old traditions guiding your fingers, creating a bookmark that's not just functional but also a piece of art.

4. Seamless Beauty: Craft a No-Sew Clasp Purse

Marrying the grandeur of Japanese textiles, reminiscent of kimonos, with the craftsmanship of washi paper, we embark on a mission: to craft mini clasp purses. These treasures, ideal as accessory cases, merge simplicity with elegance, and the most remarkable part? They come to life without a single stitch! Join us in this immersive experience and fashion a purse that echoes both history and your personal style.

What's Covered:

• Lesson for Ise Katagami Crafting

• Crafting Kit: Ise Katagami, 2 postcards, brush, ink

• Lesson for Additional Workshops

• Material fees for subsequent sessions

What's Not:

• Meals & drinks

• Transfers to/from hotel and station

Related Read: Explore the Artistic Wonders of Japanese Stationery: Comprehensive Guide