Top Toyama Prefecture Craft Classes

A long-established Buddhist altar shop that has been in business for over 100 years since 1913 (Taisho 2). The 4th-generation brothers, lacquer artist Satoru Tsuji and sculptor Ryo Tsuji, carry on the family tradition. Both the second and third generations, as well as these brothers, possess master-level skills, continuing the traditional family-run handicraft business. With the spirit of “unchanging principles in a changing world,” they blend traditional techniques with new ideas in their work. For the lacquerware experience, they use a "substitute lacquer" instead of real lacquer, so even small children can participate safely without risk of allergic reactions. However, the materials used in the process are authentic, including real maki-e brushes and pure gold and silver powder. This time, the experience plan involves creating a teaspoon.

Would you like to experience making kumiko, a traditional Japanese woodworking technique? After learning about the history of Japanese architecture and the meaning behind the kumiko patterns from a master craftsman, you will enjoy a hands-on kumiko making experience. You can choose one from the two or three kumiko designs we have prepared. After the workshop, you will have the opportunity to tour a traditional Japanese shoin-zukuri room, where you can admire traditional Japanese woodwork and kumiko craftsmanship in the building's fixtures.