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 Kotarto-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, Kotarto-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.