Learn Kintsugi from an Artisan at a Lacquer Studio in Kyoto – Repair Your Favorite Vintage Japanese Tableware

The Kintsugi experience was incredible! With such an intimate setting I felt like we learned so much about the craft as well as the artisans while we repaired our dishes. Our interpreter did an incredible job of both translating the the technical information and created a friendly social atmosphere. The artisans were incredible hosts and teachers. This was the highlight of our trip to Kyoto.

B.H. United States

The very clear description of what the experience would entail. The interpreter service was fantastic. It was so nice to sit and learn something I would never have been able to do back home. The step by step instruction with a tutor was fantastic and finished product is something I will use for years to come.

D.V. Australia

The experience was amazing , we learned new things about the Japanese cultures and crafts !! Felt more connected to the country 🥹 Teru sensi , Megumi San , Yoshika sensi were more than amazing ! Arigatou ❤️

E.A. United Arab Emirates

The kintsugi experience was great. We enjoyed making a tea cup and saucer. The instruction was thorough and patient. The interpreter helped translate the instructions well. The matcha tea and sweets were delicious. We had a good time.

M.M. United States

The whole team was amazing! Thank you to you all for providing an incredible experience and the opportunity to learn more about your beautiful country!

F.W. United Kingdom

This was such a treat - the experience was run by a charming couple who taught us the art of kintsugi and talked us through every step of repairing our own piece. We had great conversation (with the help of our interpreter) and finished up with a cup of tea.

J.B. United States

We loved the experience! It was enjoyable and we learned a lot. The translator did a fantastic job translating.

J.M. Philippines

Very kind women leading the experience and learning the art. Amazing hospitality, informative and interesting to learn a new art!

R.W. United States

Everything was exceptional, and we had no issues or complaints. We did get to learn more about our interpreter and teachers’ experiences living in Kyoto and their perspective of Japanese culture, specifically how friendships differ in Japanese culture compared to American culture. I would highlight the professional teachings, and the kindness of the people who taught us and interpreted for us.

J.M. United States

Everything perfect! Everything was magical. Meeting and learning from artists, being welcomed so warmly into their home and lovely studio space, and having our lovely interpreter made this experiencing perfection. We felt immersed in Japanese culture and privileged to learn a traditional art form from 2 local artists. The warmth of our reception and hours of conversation just solidified what we had already experienced in Japan - how kind, generous, and humble the people are.

N.N. Canada

We loved our interpreter! She was so friendly and helpful with our planning.

J.C. United States

Overall this was an amazing experience with an amazing instructor and interpreter. Seeing our repaired pottery pieces -- it was satisfying to see the final product of our work and to know that it was done using a traditional Japanese art form. The experience made us develop an even deeper appreciation for just how rooted in tradition and detailed Japanese art is. It also made us understand even more the culture of service and hospitality in Japan, as our teacher and Japanese language interpreter were very patient and did everything to make us feel welcome and comfortable. This experience was an incredibly personal and hands-on way to gather a deeper understanding of the Japanese art of Kintsugi. From the private craft session, to the personal Japanese language interpreter, to the detailed instructor, the class felt like a warm and welcoming way to dive deeper into Japanese art and culture.

J.W. United States

It was an intimate, informative, and relaxing way to get special access to a cultural art form. We really enjoyed our experience. Our translator and artisan were very kind, welcoming and patient. A unique opportunity to learn about Japanese culture and get to experience first hand a craft that has been enjoyed through the ages.

C.H. United States

Truly unique and phenomenal experience. It opened our eyes to the deep and rich history that exists in many facets of Japan that many don't get to see. We plan to book more through Wabunka on our next trip to Japan.

B.S. United States

The intimate class booked just for two! We had so much support and encouragement to learn all about Kintsugi and also so much more about Japan and Kyoto! This was a highlight of our two week Japan trip which is a huge compliment! We are so so grateful for the time and care that the interpreter gave to us and that the teachers gave to us during the class! That it is a must do! This is something that you won't experience anywhere else! And we loved that we got to take a piece home with us, it is our favorite souvenir!

J.W. United States

It was terrific all around! An intimate experience with a local artist, full of Japanese history and craft-making -- it was amazing! I have a deeper appreciation for the rich history and culture of Japan. A rare chance to be up-close with a true Japanese artist, learning the fine and ancient art of Kintsugi. Our translator was patient, interesting, and helpful.

B.H. United States

Everything was perfect. We knew Japan's culture was rich but we felt very privileged to deep dive into such craftsmanship with such expert senseis.

M.C. France

The entire experience was excellent. We are very glad we booked this workshop. The couple hosting our Kintsugi workshop were so welcoming and wonderful instructors. Preserving the skills and history of artisans in Japan is very important. The workshop is a unique experience to do something hands-on and leave with a special piece to take home as a memory of your trip.

D.B. United States

We had a great time! It was very educational, lots of fun, and we connected well with both our translator and our kintsugi master which made the cultural experience super fun for us. While it is on the pricier side of our different Japan experiences, me and my partner know it’s because of the time spent with our Kintsugi master, the materials, and the time spent with our interpreter. All these put together made the experience special. Everything was amazing and the instructions and booking were straight forward as well and we found the place with ease. We learned about kintsugi, the art form, the time it takes to make the pieces, and other aspects of Japan through conversations such as more information about the world fair expo, the food in Kyoto, and just the areas of living in Kyoto as well. It was one of the best experiences I’ve had! I’d strongly recommend looking into all the different experiences and selecting ones for your trips to Japan because it’s a good break from the hustle and bustle. It’s a great opportunity to truly go somewhere to learn more about the culture.

K.Y. United States

Everything about this experience was fantastic! I have been wanting to do Kintsugi for years since learning about it, and doing a more authentic process with such a thoughtful pair of artists and wonderful translator was a once in a lifetime experience for my spouse, friends and me! The interpreter and the teachers were so kind and engaging, and it was fun to talk and joke with them while learning more and working on our projects. The three of them work very well together and we were so grateful for the experience! It was very cool to learn about urushi and how it is made and used, as well as how this process can change with modern methods, and time constraints. Seeing the human hair brush they use at temples was very cool, too! I’ve been telling so many friends about it! I hope to do some of this process at home!

L.C. United States

So fun, informative, and rich in culture. Was a fantastic experience overall. Both our teacher and translator were so warm and hospitable during our experience. They really took the time to ensure that we enjoyed our experience, understood the history and culture of kintsugi, and truly had fun. They both absolutely made the experience so special! Also having it as a private class for just our group made it even more special A one of a kind unique experience to experience a specialized part of Japanese culture.

K.A. United States

It was wonderful and authentic. A perfect slice of Japanese culture. Everything was so organized with excellent communication. It made it very easy for us to know where to go and what to do. We loved the experience, particularly the authenticity of being in someone's home. The interpreters were lovely. The entire experience felt warm and inviting. I did feel the price was high compared to other experiences we considered but we did feel the value was abundant.

K.M. United States

The content/expertise was fantastic. The workshop was held in a small room at the front of their home. It was well organized and structured so that materials were used to approximate the traditional process, but so we could complete our projects in the alotted time. We selected a sake cup and a small plate to work with. Our interpreter helped us ask questions and learn from the experts. We had Wagashi and matcha tea during a “drying” phase. It was fun and made us want to try it at home! It was clear that they loved what they do and honor the techniques. This experience reinforced our understanding of the beauty of imperfection and how important it is to embrace this in life.

J.N. United States

Amazing and highly recommend. We had the most wonderful time. It was one of the best experiences during our Japan trip. It made us more involved and learn the culture and history vs just visiting.

S.T. United States

We had a wonderful experience! Adding the final gold dusting on our repaired pottery was very satisfying for all of us! It was special to see the final piece come to life after going through all the steps. We learned more about how many artists dedicate themselves to specializing in one area, and how this helps preserve traditions. The experience felt special and personal.

N.G. United States