Private Tour

Artist Pottery and Cooking Class in the Old Streets of Mt. Hiei

Overview

Available languages

Japanese

3 hours

Mobile ticket

Would you like to immortalize your trip to Japan with a one-of-a-kind pottery creation? In the serene surroundings of Hieizan Yamanakacho, our studio offers an immersive pottery experience steeped in Japan's rich ceramic heritage. Guided by seasoned artisans, you'll learn traditional techniques for molding your pottery piece. Experience the pliability of soft clay as you shape it with your creativity. Gain insights into Japanese pottery's history and culture, enriching your stay in Japan.

Nestled amidst Hieizan Yamamakacho's scenic beauty, a 15-minute walk unveils shrines, temples, and stone buddhas, inviting exploration of Japan's history and allure. Following your stroll, partake in our Japanese home cooking class led by local homemakers. Utilizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients, master the art of crafting traditional seasonal Japanese dishes. Immerse yourself in Japanese hospitality, relishing the flavors of nature and the region's culinary legacy.

Additional Info

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Material cost

Private transportation

Ceramic art works Shipping charges Prices vary depending on region and mailing method.

What To Expect

The workshop in Yamanaka-cho, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, is located on Mount Hiei, a 10-minute drive from Kyoto City, which leads to Mount Daimonji. Yamanaka-cho is an ancient road connecting Kyoto and Shiga that has been in existence since the Heian period (794–1185). The historical townscape and lifestyle culture remain, and visitors can enjoy seasonal events and food culture. Vegetables are grown in the fields, and plums are harvested in the tea fields. Seasonal Japanese cuisine using local ingredients can be enjoyed. A walk around the area will take you to a shrine with a 400-year-old cypress tree and Seikyoji Temple. The seated statue of Amida Nyorai is 2.7 meters high and 1.7 meters wide, carved from high granite. It is somewhat old, dating from the late Edo period (1603–1868). The building of a tea ceremony house from the Edo period also remains. Visitors can feel as if they are stepping back in time at the workshop, where they can feel the murmuring of the river and make their original works of art under the guidance of the artist. You can also cook rice in earthenware pots and make rice balls and sushi rolls.