Authentic Kintsugi Experience with an Internationally Acclaimed Lacquer Artist
The traditional Japanese technique "Kintsugi" connects broken vessels with lacquer and colors the scars with metal powder, creating new beauty.
In this experience, we welcome lacquer artist Mio Hioki from "Atelier hifumi," who works on a global stage, to teach the Kintsugi technique using traditional lacquer. This is a completely private craft experience where you can touch the unique texture of real lacquer and the craftsmanship, rather than using a simple adhesive.
Instead of hiding the scars, we accept them as part of the time the vessel has gone through, transforming it into a new "landscape." Spend time facing the vessel in a quiet residence in Higashiyama, and touch the aesthetic sense that has been passed down in Japan.
(*This activity is by request reservation. We will inform you of the availability after confirming your desired date and time.)
Overview of Activities
Learn traditional urushi techniques
from world-renowned urushi artists
The instructor is Miho Hioki, a lacquer artist from "Atelier hifumi" based in Kyoto. In addition to creating lacquer works, she is also involved in cultural property restoration, conveying the charm of lacquer both domestically and internationally.
In the experience, we will use traditional lacquer, which has been used in Japan for a long time, rather than a simplified kintsugi using epoxy resin and other materials. After learning about the properties of lacquer and the history of kintsugi, participants will carefully proceed through each step under the guidance of the instructor.
This is a rare opportunity to touch the materials and tools that artisans have cherished and to learn their craftsmanship up close.
Transforming scars into beautiful scenery
The Japanese aesthetic consciousness embodied in kintsugi
In Kintsugi, rather than erasing the scars and cracks of a vessel to restore it to its original state, the repaired traces are decorated with materials like brass powder, presenting a new expression.
Instead of viewing breakage as a flaw, it is accepted as part of the time and memories the vessel has experienced. This way of thinking reflects a uniquely Japanese aesthetic that finds beauty in imperfection.
The culture of Kintsugi, which involves repairing and continuing to use items instead of discarding them, is deeply connected to modern sustainable values. The vessels that you breathe new life into with your own hands can be taken home along with the memories of your journey.
※ Typically, brass powder is used. If you wish to change to gold powder, please consult us in advance as a paid option.
Immerse yourself in handwork in a
completely private lesson
The experience is conducted in a completely private format at your accommodation villa. You can engage in the craft at your own pace without worrying about other guests.
Since the instructor carefully guides each step for a small number of participants, even those new to kintsugi can participate with peace of mind.
Take some time away from the busyness of daily life and digital devices, focusing solely on the vessel in front of you and the work at hand. As you apply lacquer, sprinkle powder, and enjoy the process of the vessel's transformation, you will quietly sharpen your senses.
Flow of experience
0:00〜0:15｜Greetings and a talk about Kintsugi
You will receive an explanation from the instructor about the history of Kintsugi and the restoration techniques using natural lacquer.
0:15〜1:00｜Lacquering and restoration work
Under the guidance of the instructor, you will apply lacquer to the repaired areas of the vessel.
1:00〜1:15｜Break
You will take a leisurely break between tasks.
1:15〜1:45｜Powder sprinkling and finishing
You will sprinkle brass powder on the repaired areas and finish the vessel's damage into a new landscape.
1:45〜2:00｜Presentation of the completed vessel and cleanup
You will appreciate the completed vessel and receive explanations on how to handle it.
※The content may change slightly depending on the progress of the day and the condition of the vessel.
Overview
- Operating period and timeYear-round / Between 11:00 and 17:00
※ Please contact us at least three days before the desired experience date as a general rule.
※ Since instructor arrangements are necessary, please apply with as much advance notice as possible.
※ This activity is available by request. After applying, we will confirm the feasibility and contact you to finalize the reservation. - required timeApproximately 120 minutes
- capacityFrom 2 people
※If you wish to experience with 1 person, we will accept it at the price for 2 people. - fee1 person 35,000 yen (tax included)
※Minimum required fee: 70,000 yen (tax included)
※Children under 6 years old can participate for free.
※If you wish to change to gold leaf, an additional 7,000 yen (tax included) will be charged.
※After the reservation is confirmed, cancellations made after 10 days prior to the experience date will incur a 100% charge of the experience fee. - What is included in the fee・Kintsugi experience fee
・Instruction by an instructor
・Materials for the experience such as natural lacquer and brass powder
・The finished vessel from the experience - implementation locationThe Villa Nene-no-Michi Kazeno Heritage Lounge
- Language supportJapanese and English
- Clothing and Important Notes・There are no specific requirements for special belongings or clothing.
・This experience uses natural lacquer. If you have allergies to lacquer or concerns about skin contact, please inform us at the time of reservation.
・The completed items can be taken home on the same day, but care must be taken until the lacquer stabilizes. Please follow the storage instructions provided by the instructor.
・If you are bringing small children, please ensure they do not touch the lacquer or tools directly, and have a guardian supervise them.
・Please arrive with enough time to avoid being late for the start time.
・If you are more than 15 minutes late from the start time, it will be treated as a same-day cancellation. Changes to the date and time or refunds are not possible.