Experience where form and function meet with a hands-on Shigaraki-yaki pottery workshop and Urasenke tea ceremony led by a master craftsman

Details

• Private experience

• Location: Koka, Shiga

• 4 hours

• 5 people max. Minimum 2 people required. Solo guest may book at the price of 2 participants

• Offered in Japanese with English or Chinese interpretation

Graceful Glazes

The rustic, earthen elegance of Shigaraki-yaki, a pottery style that's said to have originated in the 8th century in an area now considered one of Japan's "Great Six Kiln" areas, pairs seamlessly with the subdued harmony of tea ceremony, which places a heightened emphasis on the materials used to prepare and serve guests in a display of precisely curated hospitality. In this pottery workshop, join a master Shigaraki potter, whose family lineage of craftsmanship stretches all the way back to the Edo Period, in his own personal studio. Using the same tools and techniques employed by the master, create your own chawan tea cup under his professional guidance, using clay sourced from the surronding nature. Then, after you've finished crafting, head to the Japanese-style tea room, where the master will instruct you in the art of Urasenke-style sado. An instructor and local advisor for the Urasenke Tea Ceremony Shiga branch, he'll showcase the harmony, purity, and tranquility embodied within the art. Sip on matcha and enjoy artfully paired wagashi sweets served on ceramic pieces crafted by the artisan in this immersive Shiga experience.

What you’ll do

Visit the studio of a master Shigaraki-yaki artisan. After learning about the history and characteristics of this historic Japanese pottery style, try making your own chawan tea cups under the guidance of the master. Then, enjoy an Urasenke-style tea ceremony led by the master.

Who can attend

Children must be 10+

Availability

Monday-Saturday        
Session 1  (10:00 - 14:00)
Session 2 (12:00 - 16:00)

Access

1 hour by car from Kyoto Station.

Cancellation Policy

Please make your booking at lease 7 days in advance in advance. See cancellation policy here.

* A detailed itinerary will be emailed to you once your booking has been confirmed.