Tokyo: Traditional Japanese Art Makie Experience

Discover the captivating world of Makie, a centuries-old Japanese art form, through a hands-on workshop in Tokyo. Unleash your creativity as you design unique patterns on trays, teacups, or bowls using vibrant powders and stencils, under the guidance of skilled instructors. This immersive cultural experience offers a chance to create a one-of-a-kind souvenir, sure to spark joy long after your visit. Intrigued? Explore the details to uncover the magic of this traditional art form.

Key Points

• Participants create unique Makie designs on trays, teacups, or bowls using stencils and colorful powders in a small group setting.
• The hands-on Makie workshop lasts 1 to 1.5 hours and provides a personalized cultural experience and a Japanese souvenir.
• The workshop is located 8 minutes by subway from the Asakusa district, making it convenient for travelers.
• The experience caters to a wide range of ages and skill levels, from children to adults, in a small group of up to 10 participants.
• The workshop includes all necessary materials and guidance from professional instructors, allowing for hands-on learning of the traditional Japanese art of Makie.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

The traditional Japanese art of Makie has been practiced for over 1200 years, and this experience allows participants to create their own Makie designs on a tray, teacup, or bowl.

Using stencils and colorful powders, guests will have the opportunity to craft a unique piece under the guidance of an English-speaking instructor.

The small group setting, limited to 10 participants, ensures personalized attention.

The hands-on workshop lasts 1 to 1.5 hours, providing ample time to explore this centuries-old lacquerware decoration technique and take home a one-of-a-kind Japanese souvenir.

Pricing and Cancellation

From $117.38 per person, the Makie experience offers visitors a chance to create their own unique Japanese lacquerware piece. Participants enjoy free cancellation up to 3 days in advance for a full refund.

Pricing	Duration
From $117.38 per person	1 to 1.5 hours

Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation available up to 3 days in advance
Full refund provided
No refunds for cancellations within 3 days

The small group setting, limited to 10 participants, provides an immersive cultural experience guided by English-speaking instructors.

Workshop Details

All necessary materials are provided for the Makie experience. Participants can choose from a variety of patterns and stencils to decorate their own piece:

• Colorful powders in hues of gold, silver, and vibrant colors
• Delicate brushes for precise application of the Makie powder
• Lacquered trays, teacups, or bowls serving as the canvas
• Guidance from professional instructors for hands-on learning

Through this process, visitors create a unique Japanese souvenir to take home, showcasing the centuries-old art of Makie.

Location and Accessibility

The Makie workshop is located 8 minutes by subway from the popular Asakusa district, at the Nihonbashi Mutoh Main Store (日本橋滄浪閣 Bldg.), situated a 6-minute walk from the Ningyocho Station Exit A5 (approximately 450M distance).

This convenient location makes the experience readily accessible for travelers seeking a meaningful cultural activity in Tokyo.

The workshop’s proximity to Asakusa, a renowned sightseeing spot, allows participants to easily incorporate the Makie experience into their broader Tokyo itinerary.

The accessible location ensures the workshop is an ideal choice for those looking to enjoy traditional Japanese art during their visit.

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Suitability for Participants

The Makie experience is suitable for participants aged 5 and above, catering to a wide range of ages and skill levels.

Children can explore their creativity, while adults can enjoy a centuries-old tradition.

The hands-on workshop provides:

• Stencils and colorful powders to design unique patterns
• Guidance from professional instructors fluent in English
• A small group setting, limited to 10 participants
• The opportunity to create a personalized Japanese souvenir

Regardless of age or experience, the Makie workshop offers a meaningful cultural experience in the heart of Tokyo.

Arrival and Late Policy

Participants are expected to arrive 5 minutes before the scheduled start time. Late arrivals will not be accommodated, as the workshop has a limited duration and requires full participation. The instructors strive to maintain a focused and immersive experience for all attendees.

Arrive Early	Be On Time	Late Arrivals
Ensure a smooth start	Participate fully	Not Permitted
Maximize your experience	Seamless transition	Disruption to group

The Makie workshop is designed to provide a meaningful cultural encounter, and punctuality is essential to maintaining the integrity of the session.

Finished Pieces

The finished Makie pieces created during the workshop serve primarily as ornamental items, though they can accommodate non-moist food items.

The beautifully crafted trays, teacups, and bowls showcase the intricate designs and vibrant colors of the Makie technique. Participants can take home their unique creations as a lasting memento of their Japanese cultural experience:

• Delicate patterns etched in gold, silver, or colored powders adorn the lacquered surfaces.
• Intricate stencils allow for the precise application of the Makie decorations.
• Subtle textures and sheen of the lacquer add depth and elegance to the finished pieces.
• The items are primarily for display, though they can hold dry snacks or small objects.

Experiencing the Makie Art

During the Makie art experience, participants engage in a hands-on exploration of this time-honored Japanese lacquerware decoration technique.

Under the guidance of skilled instructors, they select from an array of stencils and vibrant powdered pigments to create unique designs on trays, teacups, or bowls.

The meditative process of applying the powders and sealing them with lacquer allows participants to enjoy the centuries-old tradition.

Witnessing the transformation of a plain surface into a stunning work of art instills a newfound appreciation for the artistry and patience required in Makie craftsmanship.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Possible to Customize the Design Beyond the Provided Stencils?

According to the details, participants can choose from a variety of patterns and stencils to decorate their piece. However, it doesn’t specify if they can create their own custom designs beyond the provided options.

Are There Any Discounts or Group Rates Available for This Experience?

The Makie experience does offer group rates, with discounts available for parties of 4 or more. However, participants are limited to the provided stencils and cannot customize their own designs beyond those options.

How Do I Reach the Workshop Location From Major Tourist Hubs in Tokyo?

From major tourist hubs, guests can reach the Makie workshop by taking the subway to Asakusa, then walking 8 minutes to the Nihonbashi Mutoh Main Store. Alternatively, they can walk 6 minutes from Ningyocho Station Exit A5.

Can I Bring My Own Materials or Incorporate Them Into the Makie Piece?

The workshop provides all necessary materials, so participants can’t bring their own. However, they can choose from a variety of patterns and stencils to personalize their makie piece during the hands-on experience with professional instructors.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Special Considerations for Younger Participants?

The workshop is suitable for participants aged 5 and above. For younger participants, the instructor provides guidance and assistance to ensure they can fully engage in the Makie experience.

The Sum Up

Discover the captivating art of Makie in Tokyo’s Asakusa district. This hands-on workshop lets you create your own unique design on a tray, teacup, or bowl using vibrant powders and stencils. Led by expert instructors, the small-group experience fosters creativity and yields a one-of-a-kind cultural souvenir to cherish long after your visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: