Learn from a master - This very professional tour / workshop provides an excellent insight into the techniques of making the traditional urushi lacquer ware. It takes place in the studio of a master craftsman who explicates the various steps in making urushi. The atmosphere of the tour is very pleasant, which is also supported by the very sympathetic interpreter Michi. I would recommend this experience to anyone with an interest in traditional Japanese arts /crafts.

Wonderful insight into a traditional art form - This was a really interesting chance to meet a master craftsman and artist and learn about the history and the process of lacquer ware, as well as the butsudan family altars and Japanese customs related to them. Mr Takayama’s art is stunning and his passion for sustaining this traditional skill in the modern era shines through. A very enjoyable morning!

A tour to discover the wonders of urushi - I joined this tour because I was fascinated by lacquerware and wanted to know the process of making it. I had seen the works of lacquer craftsman Takayama through exhibitions and media before, and although his works have a very beautiful form and high artistic value, they are somehow easy to handle and seem like they can be used daily, and I wanted to have them at home someday. Before going to Takayama's studio, I had the opportunity to see his main business, Buddhist altars, and learned that lacquer craftsmen were needed for religious backgrounds. At first, I didn't understand the world of lacquer, but as I listened to him, my understanding grew and grew, and I was able to help out a little bit with the work of kneading the clay at the studio. Takayama's story was very interesting, and I could feel his good personality and warmth, which seemed to be projected directly into his work. This is the charm of his work! Because of the simultaneous interpretation style, my overseas friends who participated with me were leaning forward and asking a lot of questions. It seems that lacquer is something that only Japanese people know, but I knew nothing about it, so it was a great experience! 😊 I recommend this tour to everyone.