Kyoto Walking Series: Discover Centuries-Old Traditions in Kyoto

Kyoto was the capital for over a thousand years and is home to many artisans who crafted goods for imperial palaces, temples and shrines. These crafts have been passed down through generations of family businesses, preserving traditional techniques for many years.

On this tour, guests will explore the history and cultural significance of Kyoto’s traditional crafts while visiting long established stores and workshops. The experience includes a 1-hour hands-on session in traditional paper printing called Karakami.

The journey begins at a paper shop where participants learn about the history and techniques of Karakami. Guests will create their own printed postcard with a special woodblock printing technique, which can later be used for many generations.

After the workshop, the tour continues through long established shops featuring traditional lacquerware, calligraphy products, lanterns and a pigment and paint shop focused on natural pigments used in Japanese-style paintings.