Makie (Gold Lacquer) Experience in Tokyo (English Guide)

Exploring the ancient art of Maki-e, or gold lacquer, is a unique opportunity for visitors to Tokyo. At the renowned Nihonbashi Mutoh Main Store, a 90-minute hands-on workshop allows participants to create their own lacquerware piece under the guidance of an English-speaking instructor. This engaging experience not only showcases Japan’s rich artistic heritage but also invites personal expression in a supportive environment. For those seeking an immersive cultural encounter, the Maki-e workshop promises a captivating journey into the heart of Tokyo’s vibrant artistry.

Key Points

• 90-minute hands-on workshop to create lacquerware artwork using the traditional Maki-e technique, led by an English-speaking instructor.
• Priced at $130.27 per person with a limit of 10 participants, taking place at the Nihonbashi Mutoh Main Store, a nearly 100-year-old lacquerware and glassware specialist.
• Participants select dishware, watch a demonstration, and personalize their piece using safe, skin-friendly cashew-based paint and metallic powder.
• The workshop is wheelchair accessible, and participants can receive a full refund for cancellations made up to 3 days prior.
• The activity is not suitable for children under 13 and requires participants to wear clothes that may get dirty.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Experience Overview

The Maki-e experience in Tokyo offers participants a 90-minute hands-on workshop where they can create their own unique lacquerware artwork.

Priced from $130.27 per person, the experience is limited to 10 participants and led by an English-speaking instructor.

Participants can expect to select dishware for decoration, watch a demonstration, and then personalize their piece using the traditional Maki-e technique of painting with lacquer and applying gold or silver powder.

The workshop is wheelchair accessible, and participants have up to 3 days in advance to cancel for a full refund.

Location and History

The Maki-e experience takes place at the Nihonbashi Mutoh Main Store, a lacquerware and glassware wholesale dealer that has been in operation since 1923, boasting a history of nearly 100 years.

Location	Established
Nihonbashi Mutoh Main Store	1923

This longstanding hotel specializes in high-quality lacquerware and glassware, offering a unique opportunity to learn the traditional Japanese Maki-e lacquer art technique.

Maki-e Technique

Maki-e is a traditional Japanese lacquer art technique involving painting designs with lacquer and decorating them with gold or silver powder.

The materials used in this workshop include a cashew-based paint, ensuring safety and skin-friendliness. For those lacking confidence in their drawing skills, the workshop provides original stencils, or masking tape, to help guide the process.

Participants can select the dishware they wish to decorate and then watch a demonstration by the instructor before deciding on their own design.

After painting and letting the lacquer dry, they’ll peel off the stencil and sprinkle the metallic powder to reveal the final artwork.

Workshop Schedule

Participants first select the dishware they wish to decorate.

They then watch as the instructor demonstrates the Maki-e technique.

Next, participants decide on their design and attach the provided stencils, if needed.

The painting process begins, using the safe, cashew-based paint, which is allowed to dry.

Participants then peel off the stencils and sprinkle the metallic powder over the painted areas.

Finally, the instructor polishes the dishware, and the unique artwork is packaged for participants to take home.

• Select dishware
• Observe instructor demo
• Apply stencil and paint
• Reveal design, polish finish

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Included and Excluded

The Maki-e experience includes admission, all necessary materials for the workshop, the dishware you will decorate, and guidance from the English-speaking instructor throughout the process. However, the cost does not cover personal expenses, food, or beverages. Plus, the activity is not suitable for children under 13 years old. Participants are recommended to wear clothes that may get dirty during the workshop.

Included	Excluded
Admission	Personal expenses
Materials	Food
Dishware	Beverages
Instructor guidance	–

Age Restriction

Although the Maki-e experience is an enriching and hands-on activity, it isn’t suitable for children under the age of 13.

The workshop involves:

• Use of lacquer-based paints
• Potential for staining and messiness
• Precise application of metallic powders
• Handling of delicate dishware

Due to the specialized techniques and potential hazards, the Maki-e experience is recommended for ages 13 and above.

Participants should wear clothes that can get dirty, as the artistic process may lead to some inevitable spills and splatters.

The age restriction ensures a safe and fulfilling experience for all participants.

Clothing Recommendation

When attending the Maki-e experience, it’s recommended to wear clothes that can withstand potential stains and messes.

The workshop involves working with lacquer-based paints and metallic powders, which could accidentally transfer onto clothing. Opt for comfortable, casual attire that you don’t mind getting a bit dirty. Avoid delicate or formal wear that could be damaged.

The instructor provides aprons to help protect your clothes, but it’s still best to dress appropriately for the hands-on nature of the activity. This will allow you to fully enjoy the Maki-e experience without worrying about your outfit.

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation is available up to 3 days prior to the scheduled experience for a full refund. This policy provides flexibility and peace of mind for participants.

Some key points about the cancellation policy:

• Full refund if cancellation is made at least 3 days in advance
• No refund for cancellations within 3 days of the scheduled experience
• Refunds processed through the original payment method
• Participants can reschedule for a different date, subject to availability

This straightforward cancellation policy allows visitors to book with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement?

The experience is limited to 10 participants, so there’s no minimum group size requirement. Individuals can book the 90-minute Maki-e workshop on their own or with a small group.

Can Participants Customize Their Designs?

Yes, participants can customize their designs. The workshop provides original stencils, but attendees are also free to create their own unique patterns using the cashew-based paint and metallic powders provided by the instructor.

Are Food and Drinks Provided During the Workshop?

No, food and drinks are not provided during the workshop. The experience includes admission, all necessary materials, dishware, and instructor guidance, but excludes personal expenses like food and beverages.

Is There an Opportunity to Learn More About the History of Maki-E?

The workshop provides an overview of the maki-e technique, but doesn’t delve deeply into its history. Participants can learn about the 100-year history of the host store and its specialty in lacquerware during the experience.

Can Participants Take Home Their Finished Product Immediately?

Yes, participants can take home their finished Maki-e artwork immediately after the 90-minute workshop. The instructor will package the unique decorated dishware for the participants to bring home as a keepsake.

The Sum Up

This Maki-e workshop in Tokyo offers a unique opportunity to take in Japan’s rich lacquerware tradition. Led by an English-speaking instructor, you will create their own personalized lacquerware piece using traditional techniques and materials. The 90-minute session allows for hands-on exploration and self-expression in a supportive environment, making it an engaging cultural experience for visitors to the city.

You can check availability for your dates here: