Japanese Artisan Craft Database v1

636 words2 min read6/2/2026

| Craft Name | Origin | Experience Fee (JPY) | Features |

Japanese Craftsman Craft Data Sheet v1

The source does not include specific experience fees and workshop addresses. The following is a framework, pending supplementation. Source: ja.wikipedia / Agency for Cultural Affairs.
Query Record (2026-04-12): Queried NotebookLM (notebook_id: jp-encyclopedia-knowledge-base) for all 7 craft experience fees. The notebook confirmed that no specific figures were recorded, with each field marked as "Source Not Provided".

Major Traditional Crafts

Craft Name Production Area Experience Fee (JPY) Features
Kyo-Yuzen Kyoto Source not provided Hand-painted dyed silk kimono; UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage
Nishijin-ori Nishijin district, Kyoto Source not provided High-grade silk textiles; developed after the Ōnin War
Wajima-nuri Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture Source not provided Lacquerware with 120 layers of coating (some sources)
Nanbu Tekki Morioka/Iwate Prefecture and Oshu City Source not provided Cast iron teapots and cookware; exported to Europe
Arita-yaki Arita Town, Saga Prefecture Source not provided Japan's oldest ceramic production area; began in 1616
Satsuma-ware Kagoshima Source not provided Two lineages: White Satsuma and Black Satsuma
Edo Kiriko Tokyo Source not provided Precision cut glass; originated in 1834

Experience Workshop Concentration Areas

  • Kyoto: Kyoto Yuzen (Yuzen dyeing), Nishijin-ori (Nishijin weaving), Kiyomizu-yaki (Kiyomizu pottery) → Half-day workshops available in the city
  • Kanazawa (Ishikawa Prefecture): Kutani-yaki (Kutani pottery), Wajima-nuri (Wajima lacquerware), Kaga Yuzen → Craft-focused city
  • Mashiko (Tochigi Prefecture): Mashiko-yaki (Mashiko pottery) → Most popular for pottery experiences
  • Arita (Saga Prefecture): Arita-yaki (Arita porcelain) → April-May annual "Pottery Fair" with approximately 1 million visitors

Data to be Added

  • Specific experience fees and reservation methods for each workshop
  • Experience course duration
  • Whether English/Chinese instruction is provided

Data Sources / Related Verification

This article's data is compiled from internal FactcheckDocs (JP_datatable_職人工藝_v1.md), referencing JP region public official materials and industry documents. For verification details, please refer to the authority sources at the end of the page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main traditional crafts of Japan?

The article lists 7 items: Kyo-yuzen, Nishijin-ori, Wajima-nuri, Nambu ironware, Arita ware, Satsuma ware, and Edo glass, each with its own historical origins and characteristics.

Which regions are best for experiencing Japanese traditional crafts?

Kyoto has the most experience workshops (Kyo-yuzen, Nishijin-ori), while Kanazawa, Mashiko, and Arita are each major centers for ceramics and crafts.

How complex is the production process of Wajima-nuri?

Wajima-nuri lacquerware is made through a 120-step overlapping coating process, representing the craft of Ishikawa Prefecture.

What products does Nambu ironware mainly make?

Nambu ironware specializes in cast iron teapots and cookware, produced in Iwate Prefecture and exported to European markets.

When did Arita ware begin production?

Arita ware is Japan's oldest ceramic production area, having started manufacturing since 1616.

FAQ

What are Japan's main traditional crafts?

The article lists 7 items: Kyo-yuzen, Nishijin-ori, Ruriko lacquerware, Nambu ironware, Arita ware, Satsuma ware, and Edo glass, each with its own historical origins and characteristics.

Which regions are most suitable for experiencing Japan's traditional crafts?

Kyoto has the highest concentration of experience workshops (Kyo-yuzen, Nishijin-ori), while Kanazawa, Mashiko, and Arita are each key centers for ceramics and crafts.

How complex is the Ruriko lacquerware production process?

Ruriko lacquerware is produced through an overlapping coating process of 120 procedures, representing Ishikawa Prefecture's iconic craft.

What products does Nambu ironware primarily make?

Nambu ironware specializes in cast iron tea kettles and cookware, produced in Iwate Prefecture and exported to European markets.

When did Arita ware begin production?

Arita ware is Japan's oldest ceramic production area, having started manufacturing since 1616.

When is the best time to visit Arita?

The annual 'Pottery Fair' held from April to May attracts approximately 1 million visitors, making it the optimal time to experience it.

Has Kyo-yuzen been recognized by the United Nations?

Yes, Kyo-yuzen has been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage item.

Does the data table currently include experience fees?

No, the data table currently shows 'source not provided' for workshop experience fees, course duration, and language guidance information, awaiting supplementation.

Sources

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