Nara | Yoshinosugi Cedar Woodworking Masterclass
Nara | Yoshinosugi Cedar Woodworking Masterclass
[Private Masterclass]
$380 USD per person
Minimum 2 participants; solo guests may book at the price of 2 participants
Please make your booking at least 7 days in advance.
Seeing the Forest for the Trees: The Traditional Cedar Crafts of Yoshino Forest
Details
Private Masterclass
Location: Yoshino, Nara
2 hours
6 people max.
Offered in Japanese, with friendly Deeper Japan guide interpreting in English
(French/German interpretation may be available upon request)
Going with the Grain
South of the ancient capital city of Nara, the forests of Yoshino are home to one of Japan’s most sought-after woods: Yoshino cedar. With some trees standing at over 500 years old, Yoshino cedar is prized for its fine grain, uniformity, and antiseptic properties. Most importantly, the cedar’s delicate quality allows for intricate carving by master craftspeople, with a woodworking tradition flourishing within the local Yoshino communities. Host and master woodworker Kotaro-san began his workshop in this region of Nara specifically to access this special cedar and the deeply ingrained practices of the region. Using local hand-crafting techniques, as well as the traditional Japanese wood plane called a kanna, Kotaro-san creates elegant wood furniture and homegoods. In this experience, venture into the ancient forests of Yoshino and learn the traditional techniques needed to work with this special cedar wood.
What you’ll do
Visit a woodworking atelier in the ancient Yoshino forest and learn about traditional woodworking techniques. Then, try your hand at making your own cedar crafts.
Who can attend
Children must be atleast 7+
Availability
Everyday
Session 1 (10:00 - 12:00)
Session 2 (13:00 - 15:00)
Access
45 minutes drive from Unebi Station
Cancellation Policy
Please make your booking preferably at least 14 days in advance. See cancellation policy here.
* A detailed itinerary will be emailed to you once your booking has been confirmed.