Experience Kintsugi, the Japanese Art of Pottery Repair

Discover the Art of Kintsugi

Kintsugi: Features and Historical Background
1. Kintsugi in Minami Aoyama (Tokyo)
2. Kintsugi in Nihonbashi (Tokyo)
3. Kintsugi at Shikata Urushi (Kyoto)
4. Kintsugi in a Liquor Studio in Kyoto
5. Kintsugi at a Historic Higashiyama Villa in Kyoto
6. Kintsugi in Osaka
7. Kintsugi in Namba (Osaka)

Kintsugi: Features and Historical Background

Photo courtesy of Wabunka
Kintsugi is the traditional Japanese art of pottery repair using lacquer mixed with powdered gold, silver, or platinum.

The art of kintsugi is believed to have originated in the late 15th century when the Japanese shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa was dissatisfied with a Chinese tea bowl he had sent back to China for repair. Upon discovering that the repairs did not meet his standards, he instructed his craftsman to restore it in a more visually appealing manner, thus giving rise to kintsugi.

Kintsugi gained popularity partly because it resonates with the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi, which appreciates imperfections and the natural cycles of growth and decay. This philosophy is especially valued in the Japanese tea ceremony. Precious items like chawan (*1) are often repaired using the kintsugi technique, with many chawan intentionally broken to enhance their character.

Photo courtesy of Wabunka

Many individuals who take up kintsugi as a hobby find it therapeutic, providing an opportunity to clear their minds, concentrate, and focus. Kintsugi not only offers a beautiful way to repair items but also serves as a metaphor for life, symbolizing healing from emotional or physical challenges.

Today, modern methods of kintsugi exist, but traditional workshops are also available for those interested in learning the classic techniques. This art form is embraced as a hobby by both Japanese people and enthusiasts from overseas. For those considering trying kintsugi, we recommend experiencing it as a leisure activity while in Japan. It's a wonderful way to begin your journey and learn in the country where it originated.

Read on to discover where you can experience kintsugi in Japan’s major cities, with classes available in English.
*1 Chawan: A bowl used for drinking matcha tea during a Japanese tea ceremony

1. Kintsugi Experience in Minami-Aoyama (Tokyo)

Photos courtesy of Wabunka
Book a kintsugi experience at Utsuwa Omusubi HANARE in Minami Aoyama, Tokyo, where you can learn the traditional technique of kintsugi. This class is suitable for both groups and individuals, accommodating up to 8 participants.

Enjoy an intimate setting where you can explore the history of kintsugi and wabi-sabi, gaining a deeper appreciation for ancient Japanese traditions.

Classes are offered in English, allowing guests to participate without concerns about language barriers. Create a unique art piece and savor Japanese sweets along with a cup of tea during breaks. Visit Wabunka’s website to book your experience.

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2. Try Modern Kintsugi Techniques in Nihonbashi, Tokyo

Photos courtesy of Wabunka
Experience kintsugi at Mutoh in Nihonbashi, where you can learn the art of kintsugi using modern techniques. This is a unique opportunity to be taught at one of Nihonbashi’s long-standing ceramics and traditional crafts establishments.

With over a century of experience, there’s no better place to learn about kintsugi than from the experts. If you're interested in a simplified, modern version of kintsugi, this course is perfect for you.

While the traditional kintsugi technique usually takes several weeks to months, Mutoh’s modern approach allows you to complete your art piece by the end of the day. Be sure to book your experience!

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3. Kintsugi Experience at Shikata Urushi, a Centuries-Old Lacquerware Shop in Kyoto

Photos courtesy of Wabunka
Kyoto is renowned for its rich history and is a popular destination for visitors from around the world. Try your hand at kintsugi in Kyoto using urushi lacquer, a natural lacquer derived from the sap of the urushi (Japanese sumac) tree. Choose from metallic powders such as brass, silver, tin, or gold as you learn two techniques from an expert in the art.

During the experience, you'll gain insights into the history of kintsugi while being taught by master artisans using all-natural materials. If you reserve your spot through Wabunka, you will also have the unique opportunity to sign your name on your creation.

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4. Learn Kintsugi From an Artisan at a Lacquer Studio in Kyoto

Photos courtesy of Wabunka
Located in the Ukyo ward of Kyoto, you will find a small crafts shop called Hyobodo. Their expertise ranges from repairing temples and art objects to creating lacquer art for public spaces.

This bustling shop also offers kintsugi workshops, where you can choose from a selection of vintage pottery items specifically curated for the Wabunka experience.

During the workshop, learn about the history of kintsugi and its connection to the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi. Enjoy a cup of matcha paired with traditional Kyoto sweets during your break. The shop showcases their work, which is free to view (please refrain from touching any items). Book your special Wabunka experience through the link below.

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5. Traditional Kintsugi at a Historic Higashiyama Villa in Kyoto

Photos courtesy of Wabunka
Akagane Resort Kyoto Higashiyama 1925 is located in one of Kyoto’s most popular areas, home to the Atelier Hifumi workshop.

Here, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in Japanese culture and learn from an expert artisan who has restored national treasures and registered cultural properties. At the Atelier Hifumi workshop, you’ll work with natural materials like urushi lacquer while following traditional methods.

The workshop includes a historical lecture on kintsugi and offers a selection of broken vessels for you to choose from, primarily featuring Kyoto’s renowned kiyomizu-ware. As an exclusive add-on available through Wabunka, you can enjoy lunch, dinner, or a tea and dessert set.

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6. Kintsugi Workshop in Osaka

Photos courtesy of Viator
For visitors looking to try a hands-on experience while learning about Japanese culture, consider this kintsugi workshop.

Located in the Miyakojima ward, the workshop offers a relaxed environment where you will be taught the methods of kintsugi step by step. This course is ideal for beginners who want to be introduced to this beautiful art form.

During your break, you can enjoy delicious Japanese sweets accompanied by green tea. Once you’ve completed your item (after it has fully dried), you will have the opportunity to take it home with you. Prepare for a day filled with learning and enlightenment as you explore another aspect of Japan.

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7. Traditional Kintsugi Work Shop in Namba Osaka

Photos courtesy of Viator
Join an intimate class of five held in a traditional Japanese building in Osaka. Step into history and learn all about kintsugi from an expert in the field. In this workshop, you will work with 23k gold powder and have the opportunity to take your finished item home (international shipping is available for a fee).

After completing your piece, enjoy a cup of green tea, water, or coffee, and take some time to explore the historic building. This class is ideal for those on a schedule, as it lasts about one to one and a half hours.

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Experience Kintsugi in Japan

Make the most of your trip to Japan by trying your hand at kintsugi, a traditional Japanese art form. Discover how the art of kintsugi intertwines with the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi.