Kintsugi Workshop: Beauty in Brokenness

Overview

Available languages

English

3 hours

Mobile ticket

Kintsugi, meaning “joined by gold,” began in the 15th century when Japanese artisans developed a method of repairing broken ceramics with lacquer and powdered gold, honoring flaws rather than hiding them. Rooted in wabi-sabi, kintsugi evolved into a philosophy that embraces impermanence and the beauty of imperfection.

In this hands-on workshop, held in a real artisan’s studio, you’ll learn traditional kintsugi techniques using modern materials. Guided by an expert, you’ll bond pottery with synthetic lacquer, fill missing pieces with resin, and dust your piece with silver-based gold powder. All tools and materials are provided in a relaxed, focused environment.

You’ll leave with your own restored piece and a deeper understanding of Japan’s view of resilience and renewal — carrying both new skills and a tangible link to a timeless tradition.

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‘s Included

Your completed kintsugi piece to take home

Access to a selection of broken pottery pieces to repair

Hands-on kintsugi instruction by a professional artisan

All necessary tools and equipment (brushes, resin, lacquer, powders, etc.)

Overview of the history, philosophy, and cultural significance of kintsugi

Transportation to the Venue: Participants are responsible for their own travel arrangements

What To Expect

Step into the world of kintsugi, the ancient Japanese art of golden repair. For centuries, artisans have honored the life of broken ceramics by mending them with shimmering veins of lacquer and gold — turning loss into beauty, and imperfection into strength. In this immersive workshop, held inside an authentic artisan’s studio, you’ll learn the philosophy, techniques, and heart behind kintsugi. Guided by a master craftsman, you will bond broken pottery pieces using synthetic lacquer, fill in missing fragments with resin, and gently dust them with a silver-based golden powder to restore their soul. No experience is needed — all materials and tools are ready for you. Come empty-handed, and leave carrying a piece that is uniquely yours: a vessel with its own story of resilience.

Options

Kintsugi Workshop: Beauty in Brokenness

Reviews

5.00

5 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Unique Experience, Friendly Staff, Beautiful Creations, The Best Time!
Stewart M,
Oct 4, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
What an absolutely wonderful experience! It was incredibly fascinating to learn about the process behind kintsugi and so much fun to try out for myself. Despite not being very good with crafts I was able to to create something beautiful with help from everyone! The staff created a very nice friendly atmosphere and I enjoyed chatting with them all while I was trying my best not to break the dish even more! I'm so happy with what I'm able to take home, it will take pride of place in my display case!
We thoroughly enjoyed the...
ANDREW P,
Sep 16, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
We thoroughly enjoyed the workshop. It was educational, fun, and in an amazing workshop space. We'd highly recommend it for a hands-on experience well beyond usual tourist activities. Thanks to the wonderful ladies who guided us through it all.
Truly Lovely! You should try it!
gENTRY h,
Aug 3, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Tomoko-san was very accommodating and patient. We had a very nice time learning about and using the Kintsugi technique. It is a nice workshop and great activity. I do wish there had been more broken pieces to choose from, so maybe bring your own broken dish if you are particular about color or shape.
Lovely time!
Helen D,
Jul 10, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Tomoko’s studio is an easy ride on the Osaka Loop train and was very lovely. They had a whole station set up and one other participant and I each chose our pottery and Tomoko-san showed us step by step how to repair it and then make it beautiful again. Everyone was so kind and we shared a nice couple of hours. My kintsugi piece will be treasured forever. Arigato!
Great workshop during my stay in Osaka
Orsi M,
Jun 13, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
I really enjoyed this workshop and would book it again. The instructor was friendly, helpful and prepared. The location is near a train station. At the end, I was able to take my safely wrapped teacup home. The next day, I also received photos of the event. I am very happy with the workshop and would recommend it.