Create your own collection of delicate glass beads at a 90-year old glass factory

Details

Private experience
Location: Izumi, Osaka
1 hr
10 people max. Minimum 2 participants; solo guests may book at the price of 2 participants
Offered in Japanese, with friendly Deeper Japan guide interpreting in English
(French/German interpretation may be available upon request)

Dazzling charm

Glass bead art, a craft born 3,500 year ago in Mesopotamia, arrived in Japan via the Silk Road. In Japan, these delicate glass beads, called tonbodama, are made by melting glass rods called satake. The artist can then choose to add designs through varying techniques, such as by decorating the bead with melted glass or shards of glass in other colors. These expressive glass beads are influenced by Japanese aesthetics, with designs often depicting Japanese seasons or scenes. Part of the beauty of tonbodama is the material used to make the beads. Tonbodama beads are made strictly from Japanese glass, giving them a unique sheen. Tonbodama continues to be widely popular today, in the form of art, jewelry, and accessories.

What you’ll do

Go on a tour of the factory and observe artisans hard at work in making colored glass rods and beads. Then, try your hand at making your own collection of glossy beads. While your beads cool down, browse the gallery/shop to admire all the breathtaking pieces of glass art. Then assemble the final product to make either a leather necklace or decorative charm.