Kyoto Last Kyogawara Kiln Private Tile Crafting by Kyoto Shoji

Kyoto, Japan
Duration2h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Private tourOnly your group will participate

Overview

The Kyoto Shoji Advantage
As direct owners of this kiln, Kyoto Shoji grants exclusive access that agencies cannot offer. Enjoy a fully reserved workshop with just you, the artisan, and your private interpreter.

Kyoto's Last Kyogawara Kiln
Step into Kyoto's last functioning Kyogawara workshop. Witness centuries-old techniques used for Japan's sacred temples in a hidden gem usually closed to the public.

Craft Your Own Legacy
Under the master's guidance, carve your original motif into premium clay. Because we own the kiln, your masterpiece will be carefully fired and shipped to your home as a lifelong heirloom.

Deep Cultural Dialogue
Conclude your masterclass over premium Japanese tea and sweets. Ask profound questions and forge a genuine connection with an artisan preserving a disappearing art form.

What's included

  • Direct instruction and masterclass by a master artisan
  • Admission fee
  • Kiln firing process for your completed masterpiece
  • Premium Japanese tea and traditional sweets
  • Professional English-speaking interpreter guide
  • All materials and tools needed for clay tile crafting
  • Private transportation
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • International shipping fee for the completed tile

What to expect

Step away from the crowds and into the authentic world of Japanese craftsmanship with this fully private Kyogawara (Kyoto roof tile) experience. For centuries, these specialized tiles have adorned Kyoto’s sacred temples.

Your journey begins with a private tour of a historic workshop. With your English-speaking guide interpreting, explore traditional kilns and learn the fascinating history and techniques behind these silver-shining masterpieces.

The core of this experience is a hands-on masterclass. Under the direct guidance of the artisan, touch the premium clay and carve your own original design—such as a family crest or traditional motif—into a custom tile or art piece.

After your creative work, sit down for a personal conversation with the master artisan over premium Japanese tea and traditional sweets. Ask questions about his dedication to this rare craft and the realities of being an artisan today.

Your completed masterpiece will be carefully fired in the kiln and shipped directly to your home (shipping fee applies), serving as a lifelong memory of your profound connection to Kyoto’s living history.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Please meet your guide in front of the Asada Roof Tile Factory. Look for the traditional building with silver-shining Kyoto roof tiles stacked near the entrance. Your English-speaking guide will be wearing a red hat to welcome you.

End point

Please meet your guide in front of the Asada Roof Tile Factory. Look for the traditional building with silver-shining Kyoto roof tiles stacked near the entrance. Your English-speaking guide will be wearing a red hat to welcome you.

Additional information

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
From
40,000.00 JPY per person
Check availability & book
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Instant confirmation
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
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From
40,000.00 JPY per person
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