Kyoto Traditional Crafts Guide and Craft Experience Facilities

Kyoto has prospered as the center of Japanese politics and culture for over 1000 years. With emperors and imperial family members gathering there, and the flourishing of imperial court culture centered around the emperor, numerous luxurious and elegant traditional crafts befitting the imperial court were born. The skills of the artisans who created these crafts have been carefully passed down to the present day, and the numerous artworks of artistic beauty are highly valued worldwide.

This time, we will introduce representative Kyoto Traditional Crafts and Arts backed by solid techniques. We have also carefully selected museums and galleries where you can deepen your knowledge about each craft.

By learning about the background of how a traditional craft was born, or by observing the actual production process of artisans, you can gain a deeper understanding of its charm.

Let us guide you into the world of Kyoto Traditional Crafts and Arts, which becomes more captivating the more you learn about it.

If your are looking for Comprehensive Kyoto Guide, check the article below! I summarized how and where you can enjoy different areas of Kyoto as much as possible.

3 Traditional Crafts You Should See When You Come to Kyoto

Pottery (Kyo-yaki and Kiyomizu-yaki)

source：Kyototoujikikaikan

One of Kyoto's renowned traditional crafts is the pottery called "Kyo-yaki." In Japan, there is a culture called "cha-no-yu" (also known as "Sado," where the host of a house prepares matcha tea to entertain guests). Along with the custom of enjoying pottery vessels with the tea ceremony, Kyo-yaki also developed. It is said to have flourished from the early 1600s, mainly in the Higashiyama foothills area in the eastern part of Kyoto city.

Among them, "Kiyomizu-yaki," made near one of Kyoto's famous landmarks, "Kiyomizu-dera Temple," is popular as a representative of Kyo-yaki. It is pottery that embodies a "Japanese-style beauty" that is both beautiful and delicate, with colorful paintings expressing the four seasons of Japan and traditional Japanese patterns.

On Gojozaka, the approach to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, there are many pottery shops, perfect for souvenir hunting. A recommended store is "Asahido," which has been a specialized shop for Kyo-yaki and Kiyomizu-yaki for over 150 years. With a wide variety of items from everyday mugs to sake vessels for Japanese sake and vases, you're sure to find something suitable for personal use or as a gift.

<Asahido's Information>
- Address: 1-280 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Access: 10-minute walk from Gojozaka bus stop on Kyoto City Bus routes 206 & 100 from JR Kyoto Station
10-minute walk from Gojozaka bus stop on Kyoto City Bus route 207 from Hankyu Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station
20-minute walk towards Kiyomizu-dera Temple on Gojo-dori from Exit 4 of Kiyomizu-Gojo Station on the Keihan Main Line
- Closed: Open daily
- Phone: 075-531-2181
- Hours: 9:30-18:00 *Extended hours during special night viewing at Kiyomizu-dera Temple
- Official website

Kimono (Nishijin-ori and Kyo-yuzen)

When thinking of symbols of Japanese culture, many people might imagine "Kimono." The history of the Kimono dates back to the 700s. Especially in Kyoto, which was long the political and cultural center of Japan as its capital, Kimono has also been an important traditional culture and highly valued.

Various fabrics are used for Kimono, but "Nishijin-ori" and "Kyo-yuzen" are particularly must-see. These are the finest products that showcase Kyoto's traditional techniques and are truly works of art.

Nishijin-ori is a silk fabric where complex patterns are created by weaving pre-dyed threads. Everything from design creation to thread dyeing, hand-weaving and other weaving processes, and finishing is done by artisans, making it very time-consuming and labor-intensive. You can feel the artisans' pride in the completed products full of creativity and expressiveness.

On the other hand, Kyo-yuzen uses dyeing techniques that have been passed down since the 8th century. Its charm lies in its gorgeous embroidery using gold and silver threads and gold leaf, making it look like a painting.

Both can be rented from specialized rental shops, so why not try the special experience of walking around Kyoto in a high-end Kimono?

If you are interested in Kimono & Sightseeing Spots for Kimono in Kyoto, check the article below! I summarized them I recommend and how I felt each Spots.

Kyo-ningyo (Kyoto Dolls)

source：Kougei-Kyoto

Japan has a unique doll culture. There is a custom of displaying special dolls like Hina-ningyo and Gogatsu-ningyo at seasonal changes to pray for and celebrate family health.

This doll culture also developed centered in Kyoto, and dolls traditionally made in Kyoto have been established as "Kyo-ningyo."

The roots of Kyo-ningyo's development are said to be the popularity of doll play among noble children in the 700s. Later, they were also chosen as gifts in the imperial court centered around the emperor and imperial family.

When you see Kyo-ningyo up close, expressing beauty in meticulous detail, it's understandable why they became items for imperial use. Specialized artisans are involved in the production of each part - the head, tied hair, hands and feet, accessories, and costumes - and their techniques are concentrated in a single doll.

The dolls created over a vast amount of time are profound and full of charm that makes you want to gaze at them forever. Please feel the different atmosphere of each doll, from their delicate expressions to their luxurious Nishijin-ori Kimono.

Kyo-sensu (Kyoto Folding Fans)

source：Kyosendo

Folding fans, like uchiwa (rigid fans), are familiar items in Japanese daily life used to create a breeze for cooling off. Kyoto is also famous as a production center for folding fans. Those made in Kyoto are called "Kyo-sensu" and are loved as one of the precious Kyoto Traditional Crafts and Arts. From the 1600s, the makers of crowns, eboshi (a type of headwear), and folding fans worn by nobles were called "Kyo no Sanshoku" (Three Crafts of Kyoto) and have been passed down for over 1000 years. That's how traditional the role of folding fan makers is.

The production process of Kyo-sensu involves over 80 steps, and the excellent techniques of many artisans are concentrated in this process. Kyo-sensu come in a wide variety of types, from practical ones to those used in ceremonies like weddings.

You can enjoy a rich world view even in a single fan, such as those with gold and silver foil and paintings, or those made by layering pieces of fragrant wood like sandalwood (which becomes the basis for incense).

My favorite is the folding fan called "Itaogi." You can indulge in an elegant mood, soothed by the faint scent of fragrant wood that wafts with each fan. If you're looking for Kyo-sensu, I recommend "Kyosendo," which has a rich selection.

<Kyosendo's Information>
- Address: 46 Tsukinegane-cho, Higashi Honganji-mae Higashi-iru, Higashinotoin-dori Shoumen-agaru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Access: 9-minute walk north from the central exit of JR Kyoto Station
- Closed: New Year's holidays
- Phone: 075-371-4151
- Hours: Monday-Saturday 9:00-17:00, Sundays & Holidays 10:00-18:00
- Official website

5 Facilities Where You Can Deeply Understand Kyoto Traditional Crafts and Arts

If you are interested in Kyoto Museums, check the article below! I summarized Kyoto Museums I recommend and how I felt each Kyoto Museums.

Gallery of Kyoto Traditional Arts & Crafts

source：Official website

The "Gallery of Kyoto Traditional Arts & Crafts" is a gallery operated by Kyoto University of Arts and Crafts. With the aim of "widely disseminating the excellence of Kyoto Traditional Crafts and Arts to the world," current students and graduates of the university present works and demonstrate production techniques for various crafts.

The charm unique to this place is that you can experience the world of all kinds of traditional crafts, including lacquerware using urushi (Japanese lacquer) derived from the sap of the lacquer tree, ceramics, bamboo crafts, washi (Japanese paper), and Buddhist statue carving.

The gallery space spans 6 floors, allowing you to enjoy comprehensive exhibitions. For example, special exhibitions sometimes feature works by Living National Treasures of Japan (individuals who have mastered traditional techniques or arts that are historically and artistically valuable to Japan to a high degree), allowing you to appreciate the outstanding skills of master craftsmen.

There are also exhibitions of works by young artists who will lead the next generation, offering the joy of encountering new talent.

The most popular feature is the demonstrations where you can see the actual production process right before your eyes. The astonishingly intricate and delicate craftsmanship in the production work of any craft will leave you in awe of the artisans' extraordinary skills.

<Facility Information>
- Address: Karasuma-dori Sanjo-agaru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Access: Directly from Exit 6 of Karasuma Oike Station on Kyoto Subway Karasuma Line
- Closed: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Holidays, New Year's holidays *Open during events
- Phone: 075-229-1010
- Hours: 10:00-17:30 (Last entry at 17:00)
- Admission: Adults (including university students 19 and over) 500 yen, Seniors (60 and over) & those wearing kimono 400 yen, High school students and under (18 and under) Free
- Official website

Kyoto Handicraft Center

source：Official website

The "Kyoto Handicraft Center," which opened in 1967, is a shopping center featuring traditional crafts from Kyoto and various parts of Japan. Located in the Okazaki area, home to tourist attractions such as museums, zoos, and temples including Heian Shrine, it's a must-visit spot to get Kyoto-specific souvenirs.

A notable point is the demonstration sales of various traditional crafts. You can see artisans up close as they create Kyo-zogan (Kyoto-style metal inlay), woodblock prints, and Japanese dolls. You'll be captivated by their meticulous handwork.

The most attention-grabbing is Kyo-zogan, characterized by delicate work expressing patterns with pure gold and silver inlaid into iron materials. The subtle beauty of gold and silver contrasting with jet-black urushi lacquer is enchanting. The inlay technique itself originated in Syria and spread worldwide, used for weapons and religious decorations. Among these, the quality of Japanese inlay products is high and attracts attention overseas.

At the Kyoto Handicraft Center, accessories like necklaces and earrings are popular and sell well.

<Facility Information>
- Address: 17 Enten-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City
- Access: 10-minute walk from Jingu-Marutamachi Station on Keihan Main Line
15-minute walk from Higashiyama Station on Subway Tozai Line
3-minute walk from Kumano Jinja-mae bus stop on Kyoto City Bus route 206 from JR Kyoto Station
3-minute walk from Kumano Jinja-mae bus stop on Kyoto City Bus routes 31, 201, & 203 from Hankyu Kyoto Line Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station
- Closed: New Year's holidays
- Hours: 10:00-19:00
- Official website

Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts and Design

source：Official website

The "Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts and Design" is a museum that brings together Kyoto Traditional Crafts and Arts. It's an unmissable place to learn about Kyoto's, and by extension, Japan's traditional crafts.

The permanent exhibition displays 74 types of Kyoto traditional crafts. It covers the charm of traditional crafts deeply rooted in Japanese life, including daily necessities and decorative items for Buddhist and Shinto rituals.

Here too, you can watch demonstrations of various artisans' skills. Almost daily, there are demonstrations by various craftsmen, including the previously introduced Kyo-yaki and Kiyomizu-yaki pottery, Kyo-yuzen dyeing, Kyo-butsuguI (Kyoto Buddhist implements) essential for Buddhist ceremonies, and Japanese candles made from plant materials.

While promoting activities to preserve these traditions, they also actively hold limited-time special exhibitions introducing new practitioners and initiatives. The content is always unique, such as design exhibitions gathering art and craft universities in Kyoto.

If a special exhibition happens to be held during your visit, be sure to check it out. You can discover the new charms of Kyoto's current crafts and art.

<Facility Information>
- Address: B1F Kyoto-shi Kangyo-kan Miyako Messe, 9-1 Okazaki Seishoji-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Access:
From JR Kyoto Station:
About 5-minute walk from Okazaki Koen/Bijutsukan/Heian Jingu-mae bus stop on Kyoto City Bus routes 5, 105, & EX100
*Routes 105 and EX100 operate only on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays
From Keihan Main Line Gion-Shijo Station:
Right in front of Okazaki Koen ROHM Theatre Kyoto/Miyako Messe-mae bus stop on Kyoto City Bus route 46
From Hankyu Kyoto Line Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station:
Right in front of Okazaki Koen ROHM Theatre Kyoto/Miyako Messe-mae bus stop on routes 32 & 46
About 10-minute walk north from Exit 1 of Higashiyama Station on Kyoto Subway Tozai Line
- Closed: Irregular
- Phone: 075-762-2670
- Hours: 10:00-18:00 (Last entry at 17:30)
- Admission: Adults (including university students 18 and over) 500 yen, Elementary/Junior High/High School/Technical College students (6-18 years old) 400 yen, Children (5 and under) Free
*Free admission for those wearing kimono
- Official website

Nishijin Textile Center

source：Official website

If you want to learn more deeply about Kimono culture and the history and background of Nishijin-ori, one of Kyoto's finest fabrics, head to the "Nishijin Textile Center." You can learn about the process from the ecology of silkworms that produce the silk that forms the base of Nishijin-ori, to the creation of raw silk, and further to the completion of Nishijin-ori using that silk thread, through diorama displays and video presentations.

There's also a silkworm rearing display to show their growth, and you can observe how threads are drawn from cocoons. Of course, you can also watch demonstrations of weaving by skilled artisans.

A must-see is the demonstration of "tate-nishiki." The process of creating colorful patterns using many colored threads with traditional hand looms is a rare opportunity that you won't often see elsewhere. The complex and delicate manufacturing process is also explained in detail through panel displays, making you realize the high value of Nishijin-ori.

After deepening your understanding of Nishijin-ori manufacturing, head to the historical materials room to trace its history. Here, you'll find the first wooden looms and precious exhibits from the 1800s onwards.

What's unique here is the abundance of hands-on programs (paid), including weaving experiences, Kimono rental, and photo opportunities dressed in juni-hitoe (formal court dress of women serving the emperor in the 700s) or as a maiko. Try one of these programs to create an unforgettable travel memory.

<Facility Information>
- Address: West side, South of Imadegawa, Horikawa-dori, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Access: 2-minute walk from Horikawa Imadegawa bus stop on Kyoto City Bus route 9 from JR Kyoto Station
2-minute walk from Horikawa Imadegawa bus stop on Kyoto City Bus route 12 from Hankyu Kyoto Line Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station
2-minute walk from Horikawa Imadegawa bus stop on Kyoto City Bus routes 12 & 59 from Keihan Main Line Sanjo Keihan Station
- Closed: Mondays and Dec 29-Jan 3 *If Monday is a holiday, closed the following Tuesday
- Phone: 075-451-9231
- Hours: 10:00-16:00
- Official website

Orinasu-kan

source：Official website

In Japan, there's a phrase "Kyo no Kidaore," and from ancient times, a culture of wearing elegant, beautiful, and extravagant clothing has permeated. The "Teori Museum Orinasu-Kan" is where you can unravel this culture of sartorial indulgence. Orinasukan is located in the Nishijin area in the northwest part of Kyoto City, and the building facing a beautiful cobblestone street is also a tasteful facility.

It is also known for continuing the restoration work of Noh costumes (costumes used on stage for "Noh," a traditional performing art based on myths and historical stories) from 250-300 years ago. In addition to rare restored Noh costumes, you can appreciate period costumes from the late 1800s to early 1900s, as well as traditional hand-woven textiles collected from all over Japan.

The colors and patterns of vibrant Kimono change with the times, and you can see the changes in trends vividly, which is incredibly fun! There are many exhibitions that are irresistible to fashion enthusiasts like me, and everyone is sure to be captivated by their gorgeous world view.

<Facility Information>
- Address: 693 Daikoku-cho, Agaru Kamidachiuri, Jofukuji-dori, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Access:
5-minute walk east from Senbon Kamidachiuri bus stop on Kyoto City Bus route 206 from JR Kyoto Station
5-minute walk north from Imadegawa Jofukuji bus stop on Kyoto City Bus routes 201, 203, & 59 from Exit 3 of Imadegawa Station on Subway Karasuma Line
5-minute walk east from Senbon Kamidachiuri bus stop on Kyoto City Bus routes 6, 46, & 206 from Omiya Station on Hankyu Kyoto Line
- Closed: Mondays, New Year's holidays
- Phone: 075-431-0020
- Hours: 10:00-16:00
- Admission: Adults (19 and over) 1000 yen, High school students (16-18 years old) 700 ye
- Official website

If you are interested in Kyoto Museums, check the article below! I summarized Kyoto Best Museums I recommend and how I felt each Museums.

Woodland Kyoto Area Where Traditional Crafts and Mystical Nature Coexist

When talking about Kyoto Traditional Crafts and Arts, we can't ignore the charm of Kyoto's nature-rich land. Kyoto is an area surrounded by mountains with fertile soil, and especially the northwestern part of Kyoto City is called "Forest Kyoto," which has given birth to and nurtured many traditional industries.

Just like rice cultivation and sake brewing, clean water is necessary for crafts, and the indigo dyeing that has developed here also uses abundant water sources. Indigo dyeing, known as Japan Blue and loved worldwide, includes the rare and precious "Kyo-Zome" (Kyoto Traditional dyeing) practiced at "Kyoto Hozu Ai Kobo" in Kameoka City. They grow indigo from scratch and bring out delicate colors that can only be expressed through Kyo-Zome.

Here, you should definitely participate in the indigo dyeing experience (paid). You'll go through the entire process with your own hands, from deciding on the design, trying to create patterns, to dyeing. When your one-of-a-kind original dyed handkerchief is complete, the sense of accomplishment is extraordinary.

In addition to indigo dyeing, there are glass workshops and various other crafts actively practiced in this area. Moreover, some districts have landscapes designated as national heritage sites.

A famous example is the "Miyama Kayabuki no Sato" in the Miyama district of Nantan City. Nearly 40 thatched-roof houses, considered the most primitive architecture in Japan, still exist, and villagers continue to live their daily lives here. The nostalgic scenery, straight out of a Japanese folk tale (a famous collection of Japanese fables), spreads out before you, allowing you to spend a relaxed time.

To learn more about the internal structure of traditional thatched-roof houses and the life lived there, you should visit the "Miyama Folk Museum." The building, constructed about 200 years ago, is set up to allow you to pseudo-experience the life of farmers from that time. Enjoy a meaningful trip while feeling the depth of Kyoto's culture that coexists with rich nature.

<Facility Information>

■ Kyoto Hozu Ai Kobo
- Address: 50 Mitsubo, Hozu-cho, Kameoka City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Access: 20-minute walk from JR Kameoka Station on the San'in Main Line
- Closed: Irregular
- Phone: 0771-23-2303
- Hours: 10:00-17:00
- Official website

■ Miyama Folk Museum
- Address: Kita, Miyama-cho, Nantan City, Kyoto Prefecture (Inside Miyama Kayabuki no Sato)
- Access: Right at the Kita (Kayabuki no Sato) bus stop on the Nantan City Bus from JR Hiyoshi Station on the San'in Main Line
- Closed: Mondays, New Year's holidays
- Phone: 0771-77-0587
- Hours: 10:00-16:00
- Admission: Adults (including high school students 16 and over) 300 yen, Elementary and Junior High School students (15 and under) Free
- Official website