ZEN Craft

Yes. We strongly recommend booking in advance, as workshop sizes are intentionally kept small to ensure a personal and hands-on experience.

Walk-ins may be accepted depending on availability, but advance reservations are recommended.

Yes. Please contact us 24 hours before the starting time if you need to modify your booking.

Cancellations made more than 24 hours before the workshop are free of charge. Cancellations within 24 hours and no-shows are charged the full workshop fee.

ZEN Craft is a collection of authentic Japanese craft workshops where visitors can experience traditional craftsmanship through hands-on activities, including chopsticks making, kintsugi, and knife sharpening.

Each workshop offers a unique perspective on Japanese craftsmanship: Wood Chopsticks Making – create your own handcrafted chopsticks; Kintsugi: Golden Joinery – learn the traditional art of repairing pottery with gold; Knife Sharpening & Craft – discover the techniques behind Japan's world-famous blades.

Yes. Each workshop is inspired by traditional Japanese craftsmanship and guided by experienced instructors.

Absolutely. Many guests consider craft workshops one of the most meaningful ways to experience Japanese culture beyond sightseeing.

No. All workshops are designed for beginners and first-time visitors.

Not at all. Our instructors guide you step by step throughout the experience.

Yes. Solo travelers are welcome and regularly participate in our workshops.

Yes. Most workshops are family-friendly and suitable for older children.

Age recommendations vary by workshop. Please check the details of each experience before booking.

You will shape, sand, and finish your own pair of wooden chopsticks while learning about Japanese craftsmanship.

Yes. You can shape your chopsticks to your preferred style and finish.

Yes. Personalized engraving is available as an optional add-on.

Yes. Various wood options may be available depending on the workshop and availability.

Yes. Your chopsticks will be completed during the workshop and ready to take home immediately.

Kintsugi is the traditional Japanese art of repairing broken pottery using lacquer and gold-colored finishes, celebrating imperfections rather than hiding them.

Yes, you may bring your own pottery. We will first inspect the material and condition of the piece to determine whether it is suitable for kintsugi repair. Please note that, depending on the type of material and the extent of the damage, we may not be able to accept it for repair. We appreciate your understanding.

Yes, you can take your repaired piece home on the same day.

Yes. You are welcome to bring your own knife. Our instructors will inspect it before the workshop to ensure it is suitable for sharpening.

You will learn traditional sharpening techniques using authentic Japanese whetstones and gain insight into Japanese knife craftsmanship.

No prior experience is required. The workshop is designed for beginners as well as cooking enthusiasts.

Yes. The workshop is carefully supervised and suitable for first-time participants.

Yes. All workshops are fully guided in English. We also have bilingual staff who can assist in both English and Japanese.

Yes. Our instructors provide guidance and support from start to finish.

Yes. ZEN Craft is specifically designed for travelers visiting Japan.

Yes. All experiences take place in comfortable indoor workshop spaces.

Yes. Our venues are climate-controlled and comfortable year-round.

Yes. ZEN Craft workshops are available in Kyoto and are popular with travelers looking for authentic cultural experiences.

We accept major credit cards, debit cards, and cash.

Payment may be made online in advance or at the venue, depending on your booking method.

Yes. Photography is welcome throughout the experience.

Yes. Personal video recording is generally permitted unless otherwise advised by staff.

Yes. One of the highlights of ZEN Craft is creating a handmade item that becomes a meaningful souvenir from your time in Japan.

Yes. Private workshops can be arranged for families, groups, and special occasions.

Yes. ZEN Craft regularly hosts corporate groups, incentive trips, and team-building events.

Group sizes vary by workshop. Please contact us for custom arrangements.

Yes. Our workshops are beginner-friendly and designed to introduce visitors to Japanese culture through hands-on experiences.

Traditional craft workshops such as chopsticks making, kintsugi, and knife sharpening are among the most memorable ways to connect with Japanese culture.

Craft workshops allow you to actively participate, learn traditional techniques, and create something meaningful to take home, making the experience far more personal and memorable.