Top Aichi Prefecture Craft Classes

Do you know that Nagoya was once the center base of Samurai culture? During the Sengoku period in the 16th century when Samurai played an active role, the Owari district including Nagoya is known as the place where the most famous “Sengoku Daimyo”, powerful Japanese feudal lord, were from, such as “Oda Nobunaga”, “Toyotomi Hideyoshi” and “Tokugawa Ieyasu”. Why don’t you experience Japanese culture such as Japanese calligraphy and tea ceremony with English in a Kominka house in the city of Samurai culture “Nagoya”? We will welcome you at a special place where people actually used to live, not sightseeing facilities. Once you step inside, you will see the good old days of Japanese houses such as tatami mats, Shoji (paper walls) and traditional Japanese gardens which are rare today. With this quiet space, you can experience Japanese culture such as Japanese calligraphy and tea ceremony while understanding the history. This would be the special experience for your visit to Japan.

Craft Your Own Legacy in a Historic Textile Town Experience the magic of Arimatsu Shibori, a nationally designated craft with over 400 years of history. Kuno Dyeing Factory hosts private workshops guided by a master artisan, you will use traditional tie-dyeing techniques to transform plain fabric into a vibrant work of art. Whether you are creating a gift or a personal treasure, this hands-on workshop offers a peaceful retreat into the refined aesthetics of Edo-period Japan. Bring home your handcrafted creation as a one-of-a-kind souvenir of your journey through Nagoya.

The allure of Owari Shippo lies in its indescribable "depth of color." The thickness of the glaze, the temperature of the fire, the brilliance of the metal base... Even slight variations in conditions can cause the appearance to change like a kaleidoscope. It would be a shame to simply admire this art form, which Nagoya is proud of, and leave it at that. After observing the masterful work of skilled artisans up close, it's finally your turn. The vibrant glaze is applied, the piece is placed in the kiln, and the elation of seeing the brilliance come to life is felt. The finished piece is a "crystal of light" that is uniquely yours. Enjoy a moment of immersion in the delicate and luxurious magic of color.

Owari Butsugu are traditional Japanese crafts that have been produced since the early Edo period, with Nagoya in Aichi Prefecture at their cultural center. For over 50 years, Kobo Noyori has dedicated itself to crafting Kazarikanagu, the finely detailed decorative metal fittings that form an essential part of this heritage. Prior to the hands-on experience, guests are introduced to the history of Owari Butsugu, its traditional craftsmanship, and the meticulous process of creating Kazarikanagu. The workshop then proceeds using the traditional chokin metal engraving technique, in which patterns are carefully carved into metal plates with chisels (tagane), following methods passed down through generations of artisans. Available Items & Prices Copper Incense Holder / Incense Plate – ¥10,000 Brass Bangle – ¥10,000 Silver Ring (Sizes 1–20) – ¥18,000 Silver Ring (Sizes 21–30) – ¥20,000 Silver Pendant Top – ¥18,000 Silver Pendant Top with Chain – ¥23,000 Silver Bangle – ¥35,000

Discover the spiritual heart of Japan through its most elegant New Year tradition. While many observe Japanese culture from afar, this workshop invites you to participate in it. Why this activity is unique You will craft a Shimenawa Wreath, a sacred rope traditionally hung at shrines and homes to purify the entrance and invite good fortune. This is not just a craft; it is a meditative experience rooted in the philosophy of Ikebana—emphasizing harmony, seasonality, and the beauty of empty space (Ma). What you will experience Mindfulness: Step away from the busy travel rush and find focus in the rhythm of weaving. Symbolism: Learn the hidden language of nature as you work with materials like Rice Straw (gratitude), Pine (evergreen longevity), and Mizuhiki cords (unity). Authenticity: Create a talisman that protects your home and symbolizes a fresh start. Don't just buy a souvenir. Create a personalized symbol of luck, longevity, and joy to carry with you into the New Year.

A 140-Year Heritage of Protection and Artistry Step inside a historic doll studio with deep ties to Atsuta Jingu Shrine to craft a "Kariroku," the legendary incense charm of the samurai. 　Under the expert guidance of the proprietor, you will create a personalized amulet designed to protect your home and bring good fortune. This unique hands-on experience offers a rare glimpse into the elegant world of Japanese dolls and the timeless traditions of warding off misfortune.

Tour highlights -Create your own authentic Japanese knife with a blacksmith in service for 200 years -Pound iron with your own two hands in the historical setting of a rural Japanese living museum -Learn the rural lifestyle techniques of a seasoned craftsman -Stroll through Asuke’s historic townscape with its roots in prehistory -Finish your totally unique, handcrafted knife in one day, ready to take home. Tour details This Toyota Green Life Experience tour invites you to craft your own knife in historic Asuke under the guidance of seventh-generation blacksmith Yuto Hirose. Learn traditional forging techniques as you shape a blade from scratch over open flames. In the afternoon, explore Asuke’s Edo-period streets and enjoy local specialties such as wild boar dishes or gohei mochi. Finally, pick up your finished knife—sharpened by the master—and complete the handle to take home a unique memento of your experience.

The Art of Jet-Black: Nagoya Kuromontsuki Dyeing Discover the elegance of Nagoya Kuromontsuki Zome, a traditional craft born from the samurai era. This exclusive tour is led by the master of Yamakatsu Senko, a distinguished studio preserving the art of "jet-black" dyeing since the Edo period. You will go behind the scenes to learn from a certified craftsman before creating your own masterpiece. Using iconic motifs like the Golden Shachihoko, you will dye a fabric item to take home—a unique memento of Japanese spirit and refined formal culture.

Highlights - Explore a family-run woodworking workshop crafting sacred furnishings for Japanese traditions. - Learn how handcrafted wooden furnishings and ritual implements are created for Shinto and Buddhist traditions. - Meet a seventh-generation artisan preserving generations of traditional craftsmanship. - Create your own pair of Kiso cypress chopsticks using professional woodworking tools. - Take home a handcrafted souvenir made from Japan’s finest cypress wood. Overview Discover Nagoya’s traditional woodworking with an exclusive visit to the Iwata Sanpo workshop near Atsuta Shrine. Learn about Owari Butsugu from a certified Traditional Craftsman, then create your own pair of Kiso hinoki chopsticks using professional tools. Take home your handcrafted chopsticks as a unique souvenir. An optional traditional lacquer finish is also available.

Experience the Living History of Seto Step into a world of timeless craftsmanship at a kiln that has served the Owari Tokugawa family for centuries. Under the personal guidance of the 31st-generation head, you will discover the secrets of "Ofukai-ware" while engraving your own original patterns into the clay. This is more than a workshop; it is a rare opportunity to create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece that captures your unique travel story. Your finished work will be mailed to your home, serving as a lasting memory of your connection to the soul of Japanese heritage.

Highlights -Meet master Nagoya Buddhist altar and Owari cloisonné artisans shaping living traditions -Craft your own chopsticks from premium Kiso cypress using authentic artisan tools -Observe delicate cloisonné brushwork and the rare moment of kiln opening -Savor classic Nagoya regional dishes served on handcrafted lacquerware and cloisonné tableware -Take home handcrafted chopsticks and a cloisonné chopstick rest as lasting mementos Tour Overview Nagoya’s craftsmanship still thrives today. This experience offers hands-on workshops with master artisans. Craft Kiso cypress chopsticks with seventh-generation artisan Yasuyuki Iwata of Iwata Sanpo, then enjoy a Nagoya-style lunch in lacquered boxes. In the afternoon, watch live Owari cloisonné demonstrations by Satsuki Nonaka of Ota Shippo, revealing these crafts as living traditions near Nagoya Station.

By contemplating authentic bonsai rooted in centuries of Japanese tradition, and encountering firsthand the skill and knowledge of the master who tends them, you'll connect with the deeper essence of Japanese culture.

Have you ever made glass cups or accessories by yourself? Many foreigners do not have such experience. However, in Japan, it is common for ordinary people to create original works in professional workshops. It can also be said to be part of Japan's unique culture. It's great to come to Japan and buy unique Japanese souvenirs, but experiencing the culture of making your own with a professional is also the best memory of your trip to Japan. Many people also make them as souvenirs for family and friends back home. It will be a wonderful surprise for the person receiving the souvenir. Glass production is a very difficult process. However, if an experienced owner works with you, the results are usually satisfactory. Even if it doesn't turn out as you expected, the experience It will be an unforgettable memory and work. Please take this opportunity to try it yourself.