See tradition carved straight from a single piece of wood and learn from a 2nd-generation artisan

Details

• Private experience

• Location: Yamagata District, Hiroshima

• 2 hours

• 4 people max. Minimum of 2 participants required. Solo guests may book at the price of 2 participants.

• Offered in Japanese, with a friendly Deeper Japan guide interpreting in English
  (French/German/Spanish interpretation may be available upon request)

Around the Block

Since as far back as the Kamakura Period, when carpenters and woodworking artisans were invited to sacred Miyajima Island to build shrines and temples, Miyajima-zaiku wood-crafting has been recognized as a craft of remarkable heritage. While the focus of craftmanship has shifted as time passed, eventually miyajima-zaiku became most known for simple household materials, particularly rice paddles, crafted entirely out of a single block of wood. In order to intricately shape and maneuver the varying characteristics in one wooden block, a diverse range of tools are required - chisels, knives, planes, and hand-made blades built custom for each artisan. At this Hiroshima woodworking studio, tucked into the lush mountains outside of central Hiroshima instead of the shores of Miyajima, a family of artisans helps sustain this crafting heritage. Hunched over the workbench with concentration that is both precise and yet effortless from years of honed practice, they carve pieces designed to be used in households and everyday lives, an embodiment of Mingei art philosophy. Humble, hand-made, and crafted for the common people, these wooden items contain the lively warmth of an artisan's touch and represent a legacy of Hiroshima woodworking that extends countless centuries.

What you’ll do

Visit the workshop of a family of kurimono craftspeople. Learn about the connections between their carving and Miyajima-zaiku, a national craft. Observe the woodworking masters in action, then craft your own kurimono item to take home.

Who can attend

Children must be 10+

Availability

Everyday
Session 1 (9:00 - 11:00)
Session 2 (11:00 - 13:00)
Session 2 (13:00 - 15:00)

Unavailable during New Year holidays.

Access

1 hour by car from Hiroshima Station.

Cancellation Policy

Please make your booking at least 7 days in advance. See cancellation policy, here.
* A detailed itinerary will be emailed to you once your booking has been confirmed.