Kintsugi Experience in Kanazawa-Craft, Mindfulness & Wellness

Overview

Available languages

English

1 hour 15 minutes

Mobile ticket

Immerse yourself in the art of Kintsugi, where broken ceramics are transformed into beautiful masterpieces. Under the guidance of Rin Kiyose, a young artisan born into a family that has practiced Kaga Maki-e in Kanazawa for three generations,, you’ll engage in the delicate process of lacquer application and gold powder coating. This hands-on experience allows you to contribute to a piece crafted by a skilled artist, giving it your personal touch while learning about the philosophy of embracing imperfections. Create a unique souvenir that reflects your journey and the beauty of Japanese craftsmanship.

Additional Info

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation Policy

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

What To Expect

Guided by a young artisan born into a family that has practiced Kaga Maki-e in Kanazawa for three generations, now the fourth-generation successor, you’ll step into the world of traditional Japanese craftsmanship. In this special workshop, you’ll work on a handcrafted piece prepared by the artisan, completing it through the “lacquer application” and “gold powder coating” of the final joint. Using authentic tools, you’ll learn the precision and beauty of this centuries-old technique, and take home a unique souvenir you’ve helped create. Choose from small plates or accessories. The setting is just as special—a restored kura with the scent of wood and lacquer, where time seems to slow. In the gentle, dim light, the mindful process of brushing lacquer, focusing on the shimmer of gold, and working in silence encourages relaxation and presence. Kintsugi is more than repair; it is a philosophy that turns imperfections into beauty, offering a calming, therapeutic experience. Many guests describe it as inspiring and grounding. This workshop is not only a hands-on encounter with Japanese artistry but also a rare travel moment where history, culture, and wellness come together.

What‘s Included

your work

Tea

materials and tools for kintsugi

Options

Kintsugi Experience in Kanazawa-Craft, Mindfulness & Wellness

Reviews

5.00

5 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

The Beauty of Kintsugi
meredithmF2663AS,,Nov 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
The women presenting this workshop were dedicated and charming in sharing the art of kintsugi. In just one hour, we learned the history and the process ... and completed a piece using lacquer and gold leaf (and mastering our teeny tiny brushes). I will treasure this wonderful keepsake as a reminder of such a fun experience.. The setting and the vibe were really lovely.
Highly recommend this kintsugi experience!
jamescK7997MB,,Oct 30, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Highly recommend this kintsugi experience! The Kiyose family was super friendly and welcoming. Learning about the kintsugi process and decorating your own ceramic piece was unforgettable! It was one of the highlights of our Kanazawa visit!
Do not miss this Kintsugi Gold Experience in Kanazawa!!
Helaina Z,,Oct 16, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
We had the most amazing time! Unfortunately, we were so wrapped up in this workshop that we didn't take any pictures (in my opinion that's how you can tell it's really worth it)! Not only was our teacher extremely knowledgeable but there was an amazing translator which helped us understand everything we were doing. We chose a group class, but it ended up being just us and the private session was unforgettable. We got to take home our work that day. Please be aware that because the lacquer takes a long time to dry, the teacher has prepared options for you. We got to do the last part which is putting the final lacquer on before brushing the gold on. My only suggestion would be for us to be able to do the lacquer first step (actually mending pottery pieces) that will be used in future sessions and then we would get to choose pieces mended by other group members from previous sessions. This will allow us to experience the entire process of Kintsugi. This is a family friendly activity as well as a rainy-day activity.
Kintsugi and calm
Birgit S,,Oct 9, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
This experience is offered in an arts hub by a very friendly group. My master craftsperson Lin Kiyose was informative and patient with me and answered all my questions. The owner of the hub generously showed me other artists’ work and gave me the address for a fabulous paper shop which i hadn’t found myself.
Experience it in a nice space
shigehikoyamada,,Oct 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Kiyose-sensei, the fourth-generation head of the school, taught me carefully about Kaga Maki-e and the Kintsugi method. You could choose from about 10 different kinds of Kintsugi dishes, mugs, etc., and after the experience, you could take home the Kintsugi dishes. Recommended