Mini Origami Lamp and Mizuhiki Knot Belt Workshop in Ueno

Ueno’s Mini Origami Lamp and Mizuhiki Knot Belt Workshop offers an immersive cultural experience. Over 2.5 hours, you will craft a stunning origami lamp from washi paper, exploring the ancient art of Japanese paper folding. They’ll also learn the symbolic significance of mizuhiki knots, weaving a decorative belt to take home. Interwoven with Japanese sweets and matcha tea, this workshop promises a delightful blend of tradition, creativity, and culinary indulgence. What insights might this unique experience uncover about Japan’s rich cultural heritage?

Key Points

• The workshop offers a unique opportunity to create a mini origami lamp and a traditional mizuhiki knot belt in either Japanese or English.
• During the 2.5-hour session, you will learn folding techniques for washi paper to construct the lamp, which emits a warm, gentle glow.
• The workshop also explores the cultural significance of mizuhiki knots, which symbolize enduring bonds and connections, and participants create personalized keepsakes.
• Participants can enjoy Japanese sweets and matcha tea during the session, providing a cultural experience and refreshment.
• The workshop is priced starting from $108.20 per person, with private group options available, and offers free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Workshop Overview

The workshop offers a unique opportunity to create a mini origami lamp and a traditional mizuhiki knot belt in Ueno.

Over 2.5 hours, you will learn the art of folding washi paper into an origami lamp that emits a warm, gentle light, as well as craft a decorative mizuhiki knot belt.

Priced from $108.20 per person, the workshop is available in both Japanese and English.

Private group options are offered, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.

All materials are provided, and you will enjoy Japanese sweets and tea during the session.

Creating the Mini Origami Lamp

To create the mini origami lamp, you will first learn the proper folding techniques for washi paper. They’ll carefully crease and glue the paper to form the lamp’s structure, ensuring a secure and durable result. This hands-on process allows them to appreciate the delicate nature of washi and the artistry of origami.

Step	Instruction	Material
1	Fold washi paper into a square	Washi paper
2	Crease the paper diagonally	–
3	Fold the four corners to the center	–
4	Glue the folded edges together	Glue

The finished lamp emits a warm, gentle glow, a captivating blend of traditional Japanese craftsmanship and modern design.

Techniques for Folding Washi Paper

Folding washi paper requires a delicate touch and keen attention to detail. The origami lamp workshop teaches participants the essential techniques for shaping this lightweight, yet durable paper.

Learners will:

1. Master the precise creases and folds needed to construct the lamp’s base.
2. Carefully glue and assemble the washi paper into a sturdy, three-dimensional form.
3. Illuminate the lamp’s interior by inserting a small LED light, highlighting the paper’s natural beauty.

With patience and practice, participants transform a flat sheet into a warm, ambient light source – a true testament to the artistry of Japanese origami.

Assembling the Origami Lamp

Assembling the origami lamp requires carefully following a series of steps.

First, participants neatly fold and crease the washi paper as instructed. They then apply glue to the correct areas and carefully assemble the various components. The delicate paper must be handled with care to avoid tearing.

Once the frame is in place, the lamp takes shape. Finally, participants insert the LED light source, adjusting the placement for optimal illumination.

The result is a charming, handcrafted origami lamp that emits a warm, gentle glow. With patience and attention to detail, participants create a unique, functional piece of Japanese art.

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Exploring the Meanings of Mizuhiki Knots

The mizuhiki knot is a vibrant and intricate Japanese craft, carrying deep symbolic meanings. Mizuhiki is a decorative cord traditionally used for gift-giving and tying ceremonial objects.

Crafting these knots carries special significance:

1. Longevity – The intricate knots symbolize enduring bonds and connections between people.
2. Gratitude – Mizuhiki is often used to wrap gifts, expressing heartfelt appreciation.
3. Celebration – The bright, colorful cords are used to decorate ceremonial items for joyous occasions like weddings and New Year’s.

Mastering the art of mizuhiki knot-making allows participants to create meaningful, personalized keepsakes.

Crafting the Mizuhiki Knot Belt

During the workshop, participants learn the intricate art of creating a unique mizuhiki knot belt. The guide demonstrates the step-by-step process, emphasizing the cultural significance of the decorative cord.

Attendees carefully manipulate the flexible washi paper, forming elegant knots with precise movements. The guide explains the symbolic meanings associated with each knot pattern, encouraging participants to personalize their creations.

Participants take pride in their handmade mizuhiki knot belts, which can be worn as fashionable accessories or gifted to loved ones. The workshop provides an immersive experience in traditional Japanese craftsmanship.

Enjoying Japanese Sweets and Tea

Washi paper cups brimming with matcha tea and delicate Japanese confections welcome participants as they take a break from their hands-on crafting.

The refreshment spread offers a chance to:

1. Indulge in soft, melt-in-your-mouth wagashi, traditional sweets made with rice flour, adzuki beans, and other natural ingredients.
2. Sip on earthy, frothy matcha tea, expertly prepared by the workshop guide.
3. Learn about the history and cultural significance of these washi paper-based treats, complementing the artisanal skills developed during the workshop.

This thoughtful intermission energizes participants to continue their origami and mizuhiki explorations.

Takeaways and Souvenirs

Participants leave the workshop with two cherished souvenirs. The handmade origami lamp and mizuhiki knot belt exemplify the workshop’s focus on traditional Japanese artistry. The origami lamp emits a warm, gentle glow, while the mizuhiki knot belt serves as a versatile accessory with cultural significance.

Origami Lamp	Mizuhiki Knot
• Handcrafted from washi paper	• Decorative cord with symbolic meanings
• Emits a soft, ambient light	• Ideal for gifts and accessories
• Compact and portable design	• Durable and long-lasting

These keepsakes not only capture the essence of the workshop but also provide participants with a lasting connection to the Japanese art forms they explored.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Workshop Be Customized for Larger Groups?

Yes, the workshop can be customized for larger groups. The workshop offers a private group option, allowing for more personalized experiences and accommodations to suit the needs of larger parties.

Are There Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

Yes, the workshop offers discounts for students and seniors. Contact the organizers to inquire about available discounts when booking your spot. Private group options are also available if you have a larger group.

Can Participants Take the Lamp and Knot Home Immediately?

Yes, participants can take home the mini origami lamp and mizuhiki knot they create immediately after completing the workshop. All materials and instructions are provided, allowing participants to leave with their handmade Japanese craft souvenirs.

Is the Workshop Suitable for People With Limited Mobility?

The workshop is not explicitly described as suitable for people with limited mobility. However, the hands-on nature of creating the origami lamp and mizuhiki knot suggests participants should have reasonable dexterity. Private workshops may accommodate individual needs.

Can the Workshop Be Booked as a Corporate Team-Building Activity?

The workshop can be booked as a corporate team-building activity. It offers a private group option, and the experience of creating traditional Japanese arts together can foster collaboration and bonding among colleagues.

The Sum Up

The Mini Origami Lamp and Mizuhiki Knot Belt Workshop in Ueno offers a unique opportunity to explore traditional Japanese arts. Participants will craft a stunning origami lamp and learn the cultural significance of mizuhiki knots, all while enjoying Japanese sweets and matcha tea. This hands-on experience promises a memorable day of creative expression and culture.

You can check availability for your dates here: