Observation of Tatami Craftsmanship and Make Your Own Mini Tatami

Experiencing the time-honored art of tatami craftsmanship is a unique opportunity to take in a beloved element of Japanese design. Visitors can observe skilled artisans at work and create their own mini tatami mat in a hands-on workshop. Nestled in a family-owned shop in Tokyo’s Asakusabashi district, this cultural activity offers a chance to learn the intricate process, from preparing the materials to weaving the final product. With an experienced instructor as a guide, participants gain fascinating insights into this captivating tradition. What secrets might the ancient craft of tatami-making reveal?

Key Points

• Participate in a hands-on workshop to observe the traditional Japanese art of tatami craftsmanship and create your own mini tatami mat.
• Guided by an experienced instructor at a family-owned tatami shop in Tokyo’s Asakusabashi neighborhood, accessible via public transportation.
• Includes all necessary tools, materials, and roundtrip transportation from the meeting point to the workshop venue.
• Suitable for participants aged 6 and above, with a private tour experience exclusive to your group.
• Enjoy the history and craftsmanship of tatami, a beloved element of traditional Japanese design.

Experience Overview

Visitors can expect to observe the intricate process of traditional Japanese tatami craftsmanship and even create their own mini tatami mat during this engaging experience.

Held in Tokyo, the activity allows participants to explore the artistry and techniques behind these iconic floor mats. Priced from $146.13 per person, the experience earns a 5.0 rating based on a single review.

The package includes the experience fee, tools, materials, and guide services, as well as transportation to the venue, a family-owned tatami shop in the Asakusabashi neighborhood, accessible via several nearby train stations.

What’s Included

The experience package includes the fee for the activity, all necessary tools and materials for the mini tatami creation, a knowledgeable guide, and transportation expenses to the venue.

The package covers:

1. A hands-on workshop to observe the intricate process of tatami craftsmanship.
2. Supplies for participants to create their own mini tatami mat.
3. Guidance from an experienced instructor throughout the session.
4. Roundtrip transportation from the meeting point to the tatami workshop.

With everything needed for an immersive cultural experience, this activity offers a unique opportunity to learn about traditional Japanese craftsmanship firsthand.

Meeting and Pickup Information

The meeting point for this experience is the 金井畳店 (Kanai Tatami Shop), located at 2-chōme-13-9 Asakusabashi, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0053, Japan.

It’s a 3-minute walk from the Asakusabashi Station on the Toei Asakusa Line and a 5-minute walk from the east exit of the Asakusabashi Station on the JR Sobu Line.

Alternatively, it’s a 10-minute walk from the Kuramae Station on the Toei Oedo Line, Exit A3.

The experience ends back at the meeting point.

Participants should dress comfortably and bring no additional items.

Participation Details

The minimum age requirement for the hands-on experience is 6 years.

Children under 6 may observe with parental supervision.

The experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s near public transportation.

Participants can dress as they please, and no items are required to bring.

The experience is a private tour, with only your group participating.

Confirmation is within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability, and there are no refunds for cancellations.

Reservations are upon request, and alternative dates may be offered if the preferred date is unavailable.

Additional Details

Confirmation within 48 hours of booking is subject to availability.

This private tour is exclusively for your group – no other participants. Unfortunately, there are no refunds for cancellations.

However, if the tour is unavailable on your preferred date, alternative options may be offered.

The experience takes place at the Kanai Tatami Shop in Tokyo. Directions are provided to reach the meeting point via public transportation.

While the activity isn’t wheelchair accessible, there’s no specific dress code.

You won’t need to bring any items – just come ready to observe and create your own mini tatami.

History of Tatami Craftsmanship

Though its roots can be traced back centuries, the art of tatami craftsmanship has continuously evolved to meet the changing needs of Japanese homes.

Tatami mats were originally made from woven soft rush, later transitioning to a core of compressed rice straw wrapped in soft rush or soft-woven igusa.

Key steps in modern tatami production include:

1. Cutting and drying the igusa grass.
2. Weaving the igusa into tatami mats.
3. Affixing the tatami surface to a rice straw core.
4. Trimming and finishing the edges.

This painstaking process gives tatami its distinctive appearance and resilience, making it a beloved element of traditional Japanese design.

The Art of Mini Tatami Making

Although the full-sized tatami mats require meticulous craftsmanship, the art of mini tatami making offers a captivating hands-on experience for visitors.

During the workshop, participants learn about the process of tatami construction and then create their own mini versions. Using traditional tools and materials, they meticulously measure, cut, and assemble the tatami pieces.

The sense of achievement in crafting a miniature tatami mat is palpable, as participants gain newfound appreciation for the skill and patience required in traditional Japanese carpentry.

This interactive experience provides a unique glimpse into the intricate world of tatami making.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does the Workshop Typically Last?

The workshop typically lasts around 2 hours. Participants will have the opportunity to learn about the traditional craft of tatami making and create their own mini tatami mat during the experience.

Can We Take Photos or Videos During the Experience?

Guests are welcome to take photos and videos throughout the experience. The host encourages capturing the tatami craftsmanship process and the creation of the mini tatami. Just be mindful not to disrupt the workshop.

Is There an Age Limit for the Hands-On Activity?

The minimum age for the hands-on tatami-making experience is 6 years old. Children under 6 can observe with parental supervision. The activity is not suitable for those in wheelchairs, as it’s near public transportation but not wheelchair accessible.

Can We Request a Specific Time for the Workshop?

Yes, you can request a specific time for the workshop. The experience is private, so the tour provider can accommodate your preferred schedule, subject to availability.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?

Yes, there are discounts available for group bookings. The price per person decreases as the group size increases. Contact the tour operator for more details on group pricing and discounts.

The Sum Up

Enjoy the ancient art of tatami-making during this hands-on workshop. Under the guidance of skilled artisans, you’ll gain insights into the intricate process while crafting your own mini tatami mat. Embrace the rich tradition of this beloved Japanese design element and depart with a unique souvenir that captures the essence of the experience.