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.
Japan Travel Practical Guide
Japan's National Tourism Organization (JNTO) maintains comprehensive travel guides at jnto.go.jp/eng/. The Japan Rail Pass (available in 7, 14, and 21-day options) offers unlimited travel on most JR Shinkansen and local services, making it cost-effective for multi-city itineraries. IC transport cards (Suica, Pasmo, Icoca) work seamlessly across local trains, buses, and even convenience stores nationwide. Japan's 24-hour convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson) serve as essential travel hubs—offering ATM services, luggage storage referrals, and food. Emergency services: dial 110 (police) or 119 (fire/ambulance). Tourist assistance is available at major stations and airports. Visit jnto.go.jp for real-time travel advisories.
