Kyoto Urushi Lacquer Factory Tour and Chopstick Making Experience

Kyoto is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, and the art of Urushi lacquerware stands as a shining example. Visitors can now enjoy this captivating craft by embarking on a guided tour at the Tsutsumi Asakichi Lacquer Factory. This exclusive experience offers a behind-the-scenes look at the intricate process, culminating in a hands-on opportunity to apply lacquer to their own chopsticks. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a newcomer to Japanese culture, this tour promises to unveil the allure of Urushi and leave you eager to discover more.

Good To Know

• Offers a guided tour and hands-on experience in the traditional Japanese art of lacquerware at the Tsutsumi Asakichi Urushi factory in Kyoto.
• Includes a behind-the-scenes look at the lacquerware production process and an opportunity to apply lacquer to chopsticks.
• Provides private transportation for a seamless experience, with a maximum of 5 travelers.
• Highlights the cultural significance and meticulous craftsmanship of Urushi lacquerware, a national treasure of Japan.
• Tour is not wheelchair accessible but suitable for most travelers, with clear meeting and pickup details.

Tour Overview

The Kyoto Urushi Lacquer Factory Tour offers travelers a unique opportunity to experience the traditional Japanese art of lacquerware.

The 10am tour takes guests to Tsutsumi Asakichi Urushi, where they’ll get a guided tour of the store and factory. Participants will then have a hands-on experience applying lacquer to a pair of chopsticks.

The tour includes private transportation to and from the meeting point, which is the reception desk at the lacquerware shop. With a maximum of 5 travelers, this experience isn’t wheelchair accessible but is suitable for most.

The tour is non-refundable upon cancellation and costs $100.93 per person.

Included Activities

The Kyoto Urushi Lacquer Factory Tour includes several engaging activities.

Participants will enjoy a guided tour of the store and factory, led by a knowledgeable guide. They’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the intricate process of traditional Japanese lacquerware production.

The highlight of the tour is the hands-on experience of applying lacquer to a pair of chopsticks. Travelers will learn the techniques and care required to create these beautiful and functional objects.

Private transportation to and from the meeting point is included, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.

Meeting and Pickup

Travelers meet at the reception desk of the Tsutsumi Asakichi Lacquerware Shop, which serves as the meeting point for the tour.

From there, participants are transported to the nearby lacquer factory. After the tour and hands-on experience, the group returns to the original meeting point.

The tour:

1. Begins at the reception desk.
2. Includes private transportation to and from the factory.
3. Ends back at the meeting point.

This straightforward format ensures travelers know exactly where to meet, how they’ll get to the factory, and where the tour concludes.

Accessibility and Participation

The Kyoto Urushi Lacquer Factory Tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s located near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers.

The tour involves hands-on activities, so participants should have good mobility and be able to stand for extended periods.

Children are welcome, but the tour may not be suitable for young kids due to the delicate nature of the lacquerware.

Interested travelers should review the tour details and ensure they can participate comfortably.

Lacquer Application Experience

Participants have the opportunity to apply lacquer to a pair of chopsticks during the Kyoto Urushi Lacquer Factory Tour.

This hands-on experience allows them to:

1. Observe the traditional lacquer application techniques used by skilled artisans.
2. Carefully apply layers of lacquer to their chopsticks under the guidance of a knowledgeable instructor.
3. Appreciate the meticulous process and patience required to create the final, glossy lacquered products.

The lacquer application is a unique and memorable part of the tour, giving visitors a deeper understanding and respect for the craftsmanship of Kyoto’s renowned lacquerware.

Cultural Significance of Urushi Lacquerware

Urushi lacquerware holds deep cultural significance in Japan, with roots tracing back centuries.

It’s considered a national treasure, crafted using a meticulous process that can take weeks or even months to complete. The glossy, durable finish is achieved through the careful application of the sap from the urushi tree, a painstaking technique that has been passed down through generations.

Urushi pieces are prized for their beauty, functionality, and the skilled artistry behind their creation. They’re used in traditional Japanese cuisine, tea ceremonies, and other cultural practices, embodying the country’s reverence for craftsmanship and natural materials.

Craftsmanship and Techniques

At the Kyoto Urushi Lacquer Factory, visitors don’t just observe the intricate process – they get hands-on experience applying the lacquer themselves.

The tour begins with an in-depth look at the factory’s operations. Visitors learn about:

1. The careful harvesting and preparation of the raw urushi sap.
2. The multi-layered application and meticulous drying process.
3. The delicate finishing touches that give each piece its signature shine.

Then, participants try their hand at lacquering their own chopsticks, guided by the skilled artisans.

This immersive experience allows visitors to appreciate the dedication and craftsmanship behind these revered Japanese cultural treasures.

Souvenirs and Takeaways

Although the hands-on lacquering experience is the highlight of the tour, visitors also have the opportunity to take home a unique souvenir.

At the end of the workshop, participants can choose to keep the pair of chopsticks they decorated with lacquer. These chopsticks serve as a personalized memento of the cultural experience.

Visitors can use them at home or display them as a decorative piece. The chopsticks are carefully packaged to ensure safe transport back home.

This takeaway item allows travelers to continue appreciating the artistry of traditional Japanese lacquerware long after their Kyoto visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is allowed during the tour. Visitors can take photos to capture their experience applying lacquer to chopsticks and exploring the lacquer factory. However, they should be mindful of not interfering with the tour or disturbing other participants.

Can I Modify or Customize the Chopsticks?

Travelers can customize the chopsticks during the hands-on experience. They’ll have the opportunity to apply lacquer and personalize their own pair of chopsticks as part of the tour’s activities. The factory provides the necessary materials and guidance for this customization.

What Is the Duration of the Hands-On Experience?

The hands-on experience of applying lacquer to a pair of chopsticks typically lasts around 30-45 minutes. This allows participants to learn the traditional lacquering techniques and personalize their chopsticks during the Kyoto Urushi Lacquer Factory Tour.

Is the Tour Available in Multiple Languages?

The tour is available in multiple languages, though it’s not specified which ones. Visitors should inquire about language availability when booking to ensure they can fully participate in the guided factory tour and chopstick making experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participation?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. Children and adults can participate, though the hands-on chopstick making activity may be more suitable for older participants who can handle the delicate lacquering process.

The Sum Up

Discover the captivating world of Kyoto’s Urushi lacquerware on a guided tour at the Tsutsumi Asakichi Lacquer Factory. Explore the intricate craftsmanship, apply lacquer to your own chopsticks, and learn about the cultural significance of this cherished Japanese art form. With private transportation and expert guidance, this immersive experience offers a seamless and enriching journey into the heart of Kyoto’s timeless artistry.