Top Japan Pottery Classes

Turn something old into something new during this lesson in the Japanese art of "Kintsugi," the practice of repairing broken pottery, and have the chance to meet Master Taku in the 11:00am class. Stemming from a Japanese belief that breakage and repair are part of the history of an object, rather than a reason to throw them away, your class involves repairing damaged items (plates are provided; personal items are not allowed) with lacquer mixed with gold. Don a "samue" as you refinish one traditional pottery item, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for Japanese aesthetics and a unique souvenir.

Experience the traditional Japanese art of Kintsugi in a quiet workshop near Gion and Kawaramachi in Kyoto. In this hands-on experience, you will repair cracked or chipped ceramic pieces using lacquer and gold powder, transforming broken pottery into something beautiful and unique. With guidance from an experienced instructor, you will carefully work on bowls or plates while learning the basic techniques of Kintsugi. Rather than hiding imperfections, this traditional method celebrates them as part of an object’s history and character. During the workshop, you will also learn about the history of Kintsugi and the Japanese philosophy that values imperfection and mindfulness. Your finished piece will become a one-of-a-kind souvenir and a meaningful reminder of your time in Kyoto, offering a calm and authentic introduction to Japanese culture.

This activity is unique because it blends hands on artistry with deep cultural meaning. You won’t just repair pottery you’ll learn the Kintsugi philosophy of finding beauty in imperfections, using real urushi lacquer and gold powder to highlight the cracks rather than hide them. Guided by a skilled Tokyo artisan in a peaceful Asakusa studio, you’ll create a one of a kind piece that reflects mindfulness, renewal, and Japanese aesthetics an experience you won’t find in ordinary craft classes.

The Japanese art of *kintsugi* has attracted worldwide attention, but it’s hard to find a place to practice the ancient restoration technique when you’re visiting Tokyo for the first time. This hands-on workshop lets you unleash your creative side and repair a plate using lacquer derived from pure gold, under the guidance of a master artist who can explain the origin of the craft.

The only Kutani ceramic kiln in Kanazawa, opened in 1870 (Meiji 3). We make ceranics by manual from clay blending, shaping on the wheel to final coloring. We sell Kutani ware pottery made by our kiln, and also offer studio tours, pottery making and painting workshops. You can try your hand at the potter's wheel using Kutani ware clay. Kutani ware clay is made from a ceramic stone called "porcelain clay," which is very fine and has a unique texture. The clay is very fine and has a unique feel to it. Unlike ordinary pottery clay, it can be difficult to work with, but the potter will guide you through the process until the finished product is ready. The finished product will be sent to you in about five months.

Discover the art of Japanese pottery in a quiet studio surrounded by nature. Learn hand-building techniques from a local artisan and create your own tea bowl using traditional methods. This small-group experience offers personal guidance and a deeper cultural connection beyond typical sightseeing.

Learn about traditional Japanese art and culture through a pottery workshop in Osaka. Leave with a handmade souvenir from your trip; choose between making a sake set, a sushi set or a tea bowl. You’ll also get to explore outside Osaka’s tourist areas, as the class is held in a historic century-old two-storey house in the south of the city.

Take a deep dive into Japanese culture at an *onigawara* workshop in Kyoto and leave with a one-of-a-kind souvenir that is more personal than anything you could buy. Learn how to make these traditional "demon-faced tiles," a type of ornamentation found on the roofs of Japanese buildings, particularly temples.

Engage in the art of pottery with skilled Kiyomizu-yaki artisans, boasting over 20 years of professional experience, in a serene Kyoto setting. This immersive experience begins with the essential clay preparation process, known as “Tsuchikoroshi,” allowing you to understand pottery from its very foundation. Under the guidance of masters, each step of wheel throwing is tailored to your individual pace, ensuring a supportive and genuine interaction letting you focus on the creative process. More than just crafting a piece, this experience dives into the discipline and mindset behind Japanese craftsmanship, leaving you with a unique ceramic work and a profound appreciation for this timeless tradition. -Learn from Kiyomizu-yaki masters with over 20 years of experience -Experience clay preparation through the traditional “Tsuchikoroshi” method -Enjoy personalized instruction tailored to your skill level -Gain insight into the philosophy and discipline of Japanese craftsmanship

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.

Discover the Beauty of Imperfection – Kintsugi Experience in Okinawa Step into the tranquil world of Kintsugi, the ancient art of golden joinery, and create a one-of-a-kind accessory that tells a story of resilience and beauty. In this hands-on experience, you’ll repair broken pottery using gold or silver-colored lacquer and transform it into wearable art like necklaces or bracelet. Perfect for travelers looking for a deeper cultural connection, this experience is not only creative but also meditative and meaningful. With guidance from skilled instructors, no prior experience is necessary. Take home more than a souvenir—carry a lasting memory of renewal and artistry. Spaces are limited. Book now and make your journey truly unforgettable！

This activity offers a rare chance to enter a real Edo Kiriko glass workshop and learn directly from a skilled craftsman. Unlike tourist-oriented demonstrations, participants experience the authentic process of traditional glass cutting using genuine tools and techniques. You will create your own Edo Kiriko glass piece step by step and take it home as a meaningful, handmade souvenir. This hands-on experience allows travelers to connect deeply with Japanese craftsmanship and enjoy a truly local cultural activity.

This is the only samurai sword experience in Tokyo where you would feel like a real samurai and have a real hands on sword experience different from some simple costume play. Many people come to Japan to learn about the history of samurai and fulfill their childhood dream of being a samurai and this is it. ！Children under 10 can not enter the samurai venue.！ ！You can reserve maximum 4 people from Viator however we accept any other booking site and there will be more participants in your experience！

Far more than just a pottery class, this is an immersive cultural experience in Karatsu, Saga Prefecture - an area renowned for its centuries-old traditional ceramics, known as 'Karatsu-yaki' (Karatsu ware). You'll work side by side with a local pottery artisan in an authentic, still-working kiln - an experience rarely open to tourists. A local English-speaking guide will ensure meaningful interaction with the artisan, allowing you to learn about the history, techniques, and spirit of Karatsu pottery. Unlike mass workshops, this experience offers personal attention and the opportunity to create a unique piece of kitchenware with your own hands, which can then be professionally fired and shipped to your home. A memorable way to connect with Japanese culture and take home a truly one-of-a-kind souvenir.

Step into the serene world of Kintsugi, the ancient Japanese art of "golden repair." In this hands-on workshop, you will explore the poetic philosophy that an object’s history—including its breaks and repairs—makes it more precious, rather than something to be discarded. Under the guidance of a skilled instructor, you’ll learn the meticulous techniques of bonding ceramic fragments and finishing them with shimmering gold powders, transforming shattered pieces into resilient works of art. Throughout the session, you will shift your focus from traditional pottery to the creation of delicate, wearable art and home accents. You will have the opportunity to design and assemble custom accessories, such as pendants or earrings, as well as unique decorative ornaments. We provide all the necessary materials, including high-quality ceramics and specialised resins, ensuring that even complete beginners can achieve a professional finish.

Wear a traditional Japanese outfit called a jinbei and enjoy an immersive pottery experience inspired by Japanese culture. This is a special opportunity to learn directly from an experienced, award-winning instructor in a relaxed and welcoming environment. In this course, you will experience the full pottery process—from kneading the clay, shaping your piece on an electric pottery wheel, and trimming it, to applying glaze to a bisque-fired piece. (The pieces used for trimming and glazing will be prepared in advance.) Even complete beginners are welcome. With careful guidance, you can relax, enjoy the creative process, and experience the satisfaction of crafting pottery like a true artisan. Step away from everyday life and enjoy a memorable hands-on cultural experience.

・You will have the chance to try "tehineri"(clay forming by hand), a traditional technique handed down from the Jomon period(about 3,000 years ago), at a kiln that was established in 1796. ・Make your choice of bowls, plates, cups etc. After learning from and seeing an example from your instructor, you will get to make a piece with your own hands. ・After you're done making your piece, we will glaze and fire it for you, which will take about two months to complete. We will then send you your finished Kasama-yaki piece by SAL(Surface Air Lifted) mail.

- Create Your Own Masterpiece: Shape a plate, tea bowl, or cup using an electric potter’s wheel. - Hands-On Process: Start by kneading the clay, then learn wheel-throwing techniques under expert guidance. - Beginner-Friendly: No prior experience needed—perfect for first-timers.

Raise your sword like a true samurai warrior during a private training session in Tokyo. Don a samurai outfit and train with the katana, then enjoy a photo shoot to commemorate your experience. This private lesson offers personalized attention and includes outfit rental and photo and video footage.

Step back in time to the old days and experience Japan like a ninja. This small-group class (maximum six people) introduces you to such ninja techniques as ninja meditation (Kuji-In) as well as the use of samurai weapons, including the sword. Get insights into Japanese fuedal times as you practise.

Prepare for battle and learn the skills of the samurai during an interactive class studying the ancient Japanese martial art of kenbu. Learn everything from basic choreography movements to more complex actions that incorporate a sword and folding fan. After your class, participate in a photo session with your samurai costume and receive a certificate of completion and a souvenir towel.

In Imbe, the birthplace of Bizen pottery, this pottery is a typical pottery of Japan that has been used and cherished in daily life throughout the town. With a guide who is knowledgeable about Bizen pottery, this special guided tour is designed to convey the wonder of the town and the depth of Bizen pottery, not only by shopping, but also by actually meeting the potters and experiencing local life. This is a unique chance to visit the studios of Bizen potters with a tour guide and listen to their stories about the origins of Bizen pottery, how it is made, the differences among ceramics in Japan and other countries, trivia about the past, and other topics. After hearing directly from a Bizen potter about the culture and roots of Bizen pottery and the process of making it, the artist will give a demonstration on making plates, teacups, and other items. This is a unique chance to learn about the artist's techniques and the atmosphere in their studio.

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.