Traditional Craft Experience Copper Tray Making in Kyoto

Enjoy the rich history and timeless artistry of Kyoto’s copper tray making tradition. Join skilled artisan Akari for a captivating hands-on experience that will have you crafting your own unique masterpiece to take home. Discover the intricate techniques behind this Edo-era craft and uncover the stories that make it a beloved part of Japan’s cultural heritage. Get ready to embark on a journey that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

Good To Know

• A private, hands-on session to learn the traditional Japanese art of copper tray making from an experienced artisan in Kyoto.
• Participants take home a Paulownia box containing their handcrafted copper tray as a souvenir.
• The activity is not recommended for individuals with certain medical conditions or metal allergies due to the nature of the craft.
• The meeting point is conveniently located near Eizan Electric Railways stations and the Shugakuin Imperial Villa.
• This traditional craft experience offers a unique opportunity for craft lovers and travelers interested in preserving Japanese artistry.

Experience Overview

The traditional copper tray making experience is offered by OKUMURA in Kyoto, Japan. The experience costs from $114.82 per person and has a 5.0 rating based on 1 review.

Participants will learn the craft of copper tray making in a private session, where they’ll use the necessary tools and bring home a Paulownia box containing their creation.

This activity isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions or allergies to metals. Overall, it’s a rewarding and memorable experience for craft lovers and curious travelers seeking a taste of traditional Japanese artistry.

Meeting and Transportation

As participants make their way to the meeting and transportation, they’ll find the meeting point located at 1-15 Shūgakuin Yamanohanachō, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8025, Japan.

The meeting point is a 10-minute walk from Eizan Electric Railways Shugakuin Station or Takaragaike Station, and an 8-minute walk from Shugakuin Imperial Villa.

Private transportation is provided, and the activity ends back at the original meeting point.

Participants can easily access the location using public transit or by walking from nearby attractions.

Activity Details

Although the traditional craft experience includes the rental of tools and a Paulownia box, it’s a private tour/activity where only your group participates.

This means you’ll have the undivided attention of the experienced artisan, Akari, throughout the session.

Upon booking, you’ll receive a confirmation, and you can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

The activity details include:

• Rental of tools
• Paulownia box
• Private tour/activity

Health and Accessibility Information

This traditional craft experience isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Service animals are allowed, but the activity isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant women, or those with heart conditions or other serious medical issues.

Most travelers can participate, as long as they aren’t allergic to metals like copper.

The activity requires standing, bending, and using fine motor skills to craft the copper tray.

Participants should consider their physical abilities and any limitations before booking this immersive cultural experience in Kyoto, Japan.

Participant Feedback

The review for this traditional craft experience in Kyoto speaks highly of the activity.

One reviewer, Eden_K, described it as a "beautiful and rewarding experience" and highly recommended it for craft lovers and curious travelers.

The key highlights include:

• The hammered copper tray workshop with Akari was fun and memorable.
• Participants enjoyed the process and brought home beautiful souvenirs.
• This activity is highly suitable for those interested in traditional Japanese crafts.

History of Copper Tray Making in Kyoto

Copper tray making has a long and storied history in Kyoto, tracing its roots back to the Edo period when the city flourished as a center of traditional craftsmanship. The technique involves meticulously shaping and hammering copper sheets into intricate designs, often featuring floral motifs or geometric patterns. This artisanal practice has been passed down through generations, with skilled artisans refining their skills over decades of practice.

Timeline	Key Events
Edo Period	Copper tray making emerges as a prominent craft in Kyoto
Meiji Era	Artisans adapt to changing market demands and evolve designs
20th Century	Copper tray making faces challenges but remains an iconic Kyoto tradition
Present Day	Artisans continue to preserve and innovate the craft, attracting visitors

The Craftsmanship Process

Although copper tray making demands meticulous skill and patience, the craftsmanship process unfolds in a methodical manner.

The artisan begins by carefully selecting the right copper sheets, ensuring they’re of exceptional quality.

Next, they meticulously hammer the copper, shaping it into the desired form with precision and finesse.

Finally, the tray is polished to a mirror-like finish, enhancing its natural beauty and luster.

This intricate process requires a keen eye, a steady hand, and a deep understanding of the material, resulting in a truly exceptional and timeless piece of art.

• Selecting premium copper sheets
• Skillful hammering and shaping
• Polishing to a stunning finish

Preserving Traditional Techniques

Preserving the generations-old techniques used in copper tray making is paramount to OKUMURA’s mission. This traditional Japanese craft, passed down through centuries, requires meticulous skill and patience.

Each tray is meticulously handcrafted, with the artisan using specialized tools to hammer the copper into the desired shape. The process involves heating, shaping, and polishing the metal to achieve the signature hammered texture.

OKUMURA’s master craftspeople undergo extensive training to uphold the integrity of this time-honored tradition. By offering this immersive experience, they ensure these techniques continue to be celebrated and shared with the next generation of artisans.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Experience?

The activity is a private tour or activity, which means only your group participates. The maximum group size is not explicitly stated, but it’s likely a small, intimate experience.

Can I Customize the Design of the Copper Tray?

Yes, participants can customize the design of their copper tray. The experience allows for personalization, enabling travelers to create a unique handmade souvenir that reflects their personal style and interests.

What Type of Attire Is Recommended for This Activity?

Comfortable, casual attire is recommended for the activity. Wear clothes you don’t mind getting a bit dirty, as the copper tray making involves hands-on work with tools. Avoid anything too formal or restrictive.

Are There Any Opportunities to Interact With the Artisan?

Yes, you will have the chance to interact directly with the master artisan, Akari, throughout the experience. They can ask questions, observe the process, and receive guidance from the skilled craftsperson.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

There are no age restrictions specified for this experience. Participants of all ages can take part, though it’s not recommended for young children due to the use of metalworking tools.

The Sum Up

This hands-on copper tray making experience in Kyoto offers a unique opportunity to connect with Japan’s rich artisanal heritage. Guided by a skilled artisan, participants can create their own personalized copper tray and take home their masterpiece in a beautiful Paulownia box. It’s a perfect activity for craft enthusiasts, though those with metal allergies or certain medical conditions may need to opt out.