We delve into the traditional art scene of Tokyo and discover some of the finest artisan experiences from across this fascinating metropolis.
Tokyo is undoubtedly one of the world’s ultimate art cities. The Japanese capital’s art scene boasts a culture of craftmanship that honours techniques and skills passed down through generations. Tokyo’s Taito and Sumida wards are the perfect places to step back in time and journey through the city’s rich artisanal heritage. Workshops under the direct guidance of master artisans provide an immersive experience of this one-of-a-kind culture.
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Edo Kiriko
This refers to a category of glasswork from Tokyo since the Edo period, made by carving delicate patterns into glass, a process known as Kiriko manufacturing. Since the late Edo period this local industry has developed in the city’s older areas and is now designated “Traditional Crafts of Tokyo,” as well as one of the “Traditional Crafts of Japan” designated by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.
Be sure to check out one of the workshops, as some of them offer English guidance for carving these patterns. The Edo Kiriko Cooperative Association showroom exhibits and sells a variety of Edo Kiriko glass products.
Folding Screens
As shelter from the wind, and partitions of space, folding screens have been an essential of Japanese people’s lives for centuries. Since being introduced from China over 1,300 years ago, their evolution in Japan has been unique, becoming decorative furnishings considered as fine art. Kataoka Byoubu is the only store in Tokyo specialising in folding screens.
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The store makes and sells original products and is enthusiastically working on made-to-order screens, as well as collaborations with manga. To preserve and promote the culture of folding screens, the boutique is also home to a Byoubu Museum.
Kintsugi
A unique – and sustainable – Japanese technique to repair cracked or chipped pottery by gluing pieces together with lacquer and decorating the seams with gold. By intentionally highlighting the mended cracks in gold, the pottery takes on a different look from the original design.
Currently, there are Kintsugi classes in Tokyo that accept foreign tourists, such as Tsugu Tsugu Inc. (Ebisu, Asakusa), which offers a casual way to enjoy Kintsugi in a roughly one-hour workshop, and TNCA: Taku Nakano Ceramic Arts (Aoyama).
Tokyo Silverware
Japan has been one of the world’s leading producers of silver since the Middle Ages. As silver became more widespread, processing techniques also advanced, with unique production methods developed, such as the repeated striking of silver plates to create curves and using special hammers to carve patterns.
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This unique texture, only possible from hand-made products, is now designated as both a Traditional Craft of Tokyo and one of the Traditional Crafts of Japan. Nisshinkikinzoku Co., Ltd. is one of the Tokyo Silverware workshops where you can take tours and participate in crafting experiences.
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