Kyoto: Gold-Leaf Fan Workshop with a Master Craftsman

Kyoto: Gold-Leaf Fan Workshop with a Master Craftsman

This hands-on workshop in Kyoto offers a rare chance to craft your own Kyoto Sensu (folding fan) decorated with traditional gold leafing. Led by Norio Shimizu, a master craftsman with 78 years of expertise, you’ll learn how to decorate and personalize your fan, taking home a beautiful keepsake that reflects Japanese craftsmanship.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the opportunity to create a one-of-a-kind souvenir. Second, the chance to learn about the historical significance of Sensu fans, which date back to the Heian period. Third, the luxurious techniques involved in foil stamping and painting that elevate this experience from typical craft workshops.

A potential drawback? The price of $222 per person might seem steep for some, especially when considering the time slot and group size. However, when you factor in the personalized instruction, high-quality materials, and the uniqueness of the craft, many will find this a worthwhile investment.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love hands-on cultural activities, appreciate traditional Japanese arts, or want a memorable, authentic souvenir that’s more meaningful than typical tourist trinkets. It’s especially fitting for those who enjoy arts and crafts, cultural history, or luxury experiences.

Key Points

• Authentic Craftsmanship: Guided by Norio Shimizu, a master with nearly 80 years of experience.
• Cultural Insight: Learn about the historical importance of Sensu fans in Japan.
• Unique Souvenir: Create a personalized, gold leaf decorated fan to take home.
• Luxury Techniques: Enjoy foil stamping and detailed painting with high-end decoration methods.
• All-Inclusive Materials: Receive everything you need—fan base, gold leaf, paints, and guidance.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now and pay later, with cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Location and Meeting Point

The workshop is held at Shimizu Shoten, a long-established store with 78 years of history in Kyoto. Upon arrival, look for the Welcome signboard at the entrance—it’s your landmark to start this artistic journey. The location itself exudes a sense of tradition, nestled within a part of Kyoto that feels both authentic and accessible.

What to Expect During the Workshop

The experience begins with a brief introduction to the history and significance of Kyoto Sensu fans. You’ll learn how these fans have been part of Japanese culture since the Heian period, often used in ceremonies, dance, or as symbols of elegance. This context adds depth to what otherwise might be a simple craft activity.

Next, you’ll choose your design and colors—the process is quite personal, giving you freedom to express your style. Norio Shimizu will guide you through traditional techniques for decorating your fan with gold leaf and paint. The use of foil stamping and luxurious decoration methods mean that your fan will not only be beautiful but also a showcase of skill.

Throughout the workshop, you’ll be encouraged to ask questions and learn about the art of fan making. Guests consistently mention that Norio Shimizu’s guidance is both friendly and informative, making the process approachable even for beginners.

Creating Your Fan

The actual process involves selecting your design, then carefully applying gold leaf, which is a delicate and precise task. The gold leafing technique is a traditional Japanese craft, renowned for its craftsmanship and history. Afterward, you can paint and decorate your fan, adding personal touches that reflect your taste.

The workshop is hands-on but moderated, ensuring that everyone finishes with a high-quality, personalized fan. Many reviews mention excitement when revealing their finished product—fans that look professional and polished, yet uniquely theirs.

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Duration and Group Size

While the exact duration isn’t specified, most similar workshops last around 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing ample time for instruction, creation, and conversation. The experience is conducted in small groups, which enhances the personal attention and allows for better interaction and learning.

The Cost and What You Get

At $222 per person, the experience includes materials for making the fan, foil stamping, and guidance by an expert. The VIP plan offers additional luxurious decoration techniques—a further enhancement for those seeking a more refined finish.

While this might seem pricey, consider the quality of materials and the expertise involved. Many participants mention that they valued the craftsmanship and learned fascinating details about the traditional art, making the cost more justifiable.

Accessibility and Practicalities

• Clothing: Wear clothes that can get a little messy—paint or gold leaf can rub off.
• Language: The workshop is conducted in English and Japanese, making it accessible for most travelers.
• Reservations: You can book and pay later, with full refunds available up to 24 hours before.
• Age Limit: Not suitable for children under 6, as the activity involves delicate handling of materials.

What Reviewers Say

Guests rave about the expert guidance of Norio Shimizu, noting his patience and detailed explanations. One reviewer mentioned that they loved “the way he explained the historical significance of the fan while guiding us step-by-step.” Others appreciate how personalized their experience felt, with many saying they left with a truly unique souvenir.

Some comments highlight the luxury decoration techniques as a real highlight, making their fans look like museum-quality pieces. Few noted that the workshop involved a bit of a learning curve, especially with gold leafing, but everyone appreciated the hands-on approach.

A common theme is that this experience offers more than just craft—it’s an immersive cultural lesson, perfect for those eager to deepen their understanding of Japanese tradition.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Arrive on time, as the workshop starts promptly.
• Wear clothes you’re comfortable getting slightly stained.
• Take your time with the gold leaf application—patience pays off for a nicer finish.
• Don’t hesitate to ask questions; the guide is enthusiastic about sharing his knowledge.
• If you’re interested in additional decoration, the VIP plan is worth considering for a more ornate result.

The Sum Up

The Kyoto Gold-Leaf Fan Workshop offers a meaningful way to connect with Japanese craftsmanship. It’s perfect for travelers who want a personalized, culturally rich activity and a beautiful keepsake that’s more meaningful than typical souvenirs. The guidance from a master craftsman and the focus on traditional techniques make it stand out as an authentic experience.

While the price might be a consideration, the quality of the materials, the expert instruction, and the opportunity to learn a centuries-old craft justify the investment. This experience suits arts lovers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking a luxury yet authentic activity in Kyoto.

If you’re looking for a memorable hands-on activity that combines history, art, and personalization, this workshop is a top choice. It’s a lovely way to spend a couple of hours and walk away with a beautiful, handcrafted fan that embodies Kyoto’s artistic spirit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this experience suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 6 years old, mainly because of the delicate materials and detailed techniques involved.

Can I book this experience in advance?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and choose to pay later. Cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours before the scheduled time for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Wear clothes that can get dirty, as paint or gold leaf might stain or rub off during the decoration process.

How long does the workshop last?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, similar workshops typically last about 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing enough time for instruction and creation.

What languages are offered during the experience?
The workshop is conducted in both English and Japanese, making it accessible for most travelers.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers all materials necessary to make your fan, including foil stamping, paints, and guidance by an expert instructor.

Is this experience suitable for solo travelers and groups?
Yes, the small group size ensures personalized attention, making it ideal for both individuals and groups seeking a shared cultural activity.

What makes this workshop unique?
The involvement of Norio Shimizu, a master with nearly 80 years of experience, and the focus on traditional, luxury decoration techniques elevate this beyond a typical craft class.

Will I leave with a usable fan?
Absolutely. You’ll create a beautiful, functional fan decorated with gold leaf, which makes for a stylish souvenir or gift.

This Kyoto fan workshop is a fantastic blend of art, history, and personal achievement, offering more than just a craft—it’s a piece of Kyoto’s living tradition in your hands.

You can check availability for your dates here: