Japanese Craftsmanship – Exploring Traditional Techniques

Experience the Essence of Japan Through Traditional Craftsmanship

MOTENAS JAPAN offers numerous workshops to experience traditional Japanese craftsmanship handed down through generations. Enjoy a unique experience only available in Japan.

SERVICE STRENGTH


#1 Learn Japanese craftsmanship and art directly from authentic artisans

#2 Experience traditional beauty reflecting Japan’s history

#3 Open doors to new skills and knowledge through Japan’s unique aesthetic

SERVICE STRENGTH


We offer a variety of traditional Japanese craft classes. Choose and customize as many classes as you like in this unique service. Learn traditional skills directly from professional artisans.

PLAN


Our Craftsmanship Experience includes many original Japanese craft plans. Learn traditional techniques from experienced artisans and discover the history behind these skills.

Professional artisans who have mastered their craft will explain the history of each art form and discuss differences between past and modern techniques and tools.

After demonstrating the tools and processes used in class, guests will join artisans in creating their own works. It will be a valuable opportunity to learn intricate techniques.

Use your sense of aesthetics to create original pieces. Enjoy combining traditional Japanese designs and merging Japanese and Western styles to produce new works of art.

Take your completed works home. They will become special memories from Japan, lasting your whole life. The skills and knowledge you gain can become enjoyable hobbies in the future.

PLAN#1-Indigo Dyeing (藍染め, aizome) Class

Indigo dyeing uses a plant-based dye called indigo. This blue color, known as “Japan Blue,” is popular worldwide. This class focuses on Shibori (絞り染め, shibori), a traditional and intuitive dyeing technique involving various tools and folding methods. Enjoy the excitement of creating a unique, unpredictable design. Take home your one-of-a-kind creation.

PLAN#2-Incense-Making (お香, okō) Class

Japanese incense has a long history and a calming effect deeply connected to Japanese culture. In this class using only natural ingredients, learn the history of incense and aromas from an artisan, then create your own incense with your favorite scents.

PLAN#3-Kintsugi (金継ぎ, kintsugi) Class

This class teaches the traditional Japanese technique of Kintsugi, repairing broken ceramics with gold or silver powder to create beautiful designs. Learn basic techniques and how to use materials, then practice repairing items yourself. Kintsugi reflects the Japanese spirit, emphasizing harmony, peace, empathy, and humility.

PLAN#4-Amezaiku (飴細工, amezaiku) Candy Art Class

Experience traditional Japanese candy art called Amezaiku. This delicate skill involves shaping candy while it’s soft to create beautiful designs, often of cute animals. Commonly seen at festivals and celebrations, guests first watch a demonstration, then try making their own candy art.

PLAN#5-Wind Chime (風鈴, fūrin) Painting Class

The wind chime is a traditional Japanese summer icon. This class lets guests paint glass wind chimes dating back to the Edo period (江戸時代, Edo jidai). Glassblowing experiences are also available upon request. After learning basic methods from an artisan, guests paint their own designs, creating unique wind chimes.

PLAN#6-Pottery (陶芸, tōgei) Class

Japanese pottery features delicate, beautiful designs reflecting Japanese aesthetics and spirituality. Designs often include traditional patterns and natural scenes. Create your own pottery pieces and feel the beauty and skill of Japanese craftsmanship. Your finished pottery becomes a lifelong memory.

PLAN#7-Chopstick (お箸, ohashi) Making Class

Chopsticks are an integral part of Japanese culture. Make your unique personal chopsticks. The completed chopsticks can be enjoyed as beautiful crafts representing Japanese culinary culture.

PLAN#8-Miniature Japanese Umbrella (和傘, wagasa) Making Class

Create a mini-sized traditional Japanese umbrella known as Janome umbrella (蛇の目傘, janome gasa). Its beautiful design creates a uniquely Japanese atmosphere. Portable and perfect for interior decoration.

PLAN#9-Mini Folding Screen (屏風, byōbu) Making Class

Screens made from wood and Japanese paper have been traditional Japanese furniture and decorations. The paintings depict Japanese culture and history. Choose your favorite design to create a miniature screen easily carried home.

PLAN#10-Calligraphy (書道, shodō) Class

Calligraphy is an art form of self-expression through brush and paper, conveying emotions and thoughts in each stroke. Write your favorite characters on a fan (扇子, sensu), making a souvenir or gift. The instructor also teaches how to write your name in Japanese.

PLAN#11-Kokeshi Doll (こけし, kokeshi) Painting Class

Paint traditional Japanese wooden dolls known as Kokeshi. Learn about their history, then enjoy painting unique designs. Take home your hand-painted doll as a memorable souvenir.

PLAN#12-Origami (折り紙, origami) Class

Origami, the art of paper folding, is famous worldwide. Learn to create beautiful figures from paper, guided by experts. Finished origami pieces can be wonderful souvenirs or gifts.

PLAN#13-Edo Kiriko (江戸切子, edo kiriko) Glass Cutting Class

Edo Kiriko is traditional Japanese glass cutting known for its intricate designs. Learn techniques from professional artisans and create beautiful glass items. These make perfect personal mementos or gifts.