Tokyo: Discover the Art of Kintsugi in Ginza
Tours · Japan

Tokyo: Discover the Art of Kintsugi in Ginza

5.0 · 39 reviews1h 30m📍 Japan

About this tour

Learn kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken ceramics with lacquer, in a private studio near Ginza Station. Over 90 minutes, you'll mend your own ceramic piece using traditional methods adapted for the workshop format. Work with lacquer and metallic powder under expert instruction, then walk away with your finished restoration—a tangible object infused with the philosophy of finding beauty in damage.

Highlights

  • Repair your own ceramic bowl or plate with lacquer
  • Three minutes' walk from Ginza Station
  • Expert guidance in intimate, distraction-free setting
  • Take home your completed piece the same day
  • All materials and tools supplied
  • Understand Japanese philosophy of imperfection

What to expect

You'll enter a quiet workspace where you and your instructor examine a ceramic piece with visible cracks or breaks. You'll learn how kintsugi differs from standard repair—not hiding damage, but highlighting it with metallic-infused lacquer. The instructor demonstrates technique, then guides your hands as you apply layers, fill gaps, and add decorative powder. The synthetic lacquer used here dries faster than traditional methods, so you'll complete the full process within the session. Expect your hands to get messy; wear clothes you're comfortable soiling.

Good to know

The piece is decorative only and not microwave-safe due to ignition risk. Authentic kintsugi takes a month; this workshop uses fast-set synthetic lacquer instead. The studio location may shift depending on bookings—you'll receive confirmation by email a day ahead. Public transport nearby; no car needed.

Tour sold and operated by its supplier via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries, not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.