Kintsugi Workshop

Kintsugi (also known as Kintsukuroi) is a traditional Japanese technique used to repair cracks, chips, and fissures in pottery. Rather than hiding the damage, this unique method beautifully highlights the restored areas using metal powders such as gold, silver, and tin.

In this workshop, you will learn ancient Japanese repair methods using genuine urushi (lacquer) and 100% natural materials. While the multi-step process requires time and patience, the finished pieces are completely food-safe and ready for everyday use as tableware.

Participants will thoroughly learn the basics through a 6-session course (spanning 3 months). For the final session, those who have mastered the fundamental techniques are welcome to bring their own broken tableware to be repaired.

Please Note: Due to the nature of natural lacquer, some individuals may experience a mild allergic reaction. We will provide thorough guidance on safe handling, but please inform us in advance if you have any concerns.

Technical Advisor: Kaoru Kudo

  • 1985: Completed graduate studies in Lacquer Art at Tokyo University of the Arts
  • 2000–2012: Lecturer in the Department of Crafts at Joshibi University of Art and Design
  • 2000–2017: Held 6 solo exhibitions featuring wood panel and foil paintings
  • 2000: Kintsugi Instructor at Sankei Gakuen
  • 2014: Organized Kintsugi classes at Studio On (Visit Studio On’s website: http://www.studio-on.net/)

Instructor: Takako Inoguchi

  • 1993: Completed graduate studies in Lacquer Art at Tokyo University of the Arts

Received the Asahi Shimbun Award for Traditional Lacquer Art

  • 2008: Received the Asahi Shimbun Award at the 25th Japan Traditional Lacquer Art Exhibition, and participated in various group exhibitions across Tokyo and Kanagawa
  • 2018: Exhibited dry lacquer works at the Izu Kogen May Festival (Participated again in 2019 and 2023)

Course Fees

  • Complete Tool Kit & Course Manual: ¥25,000 (As of 2025)
  • Tuition (3 months / 6 sessions): ¥36,000

*Note: If you already have your own tools, we can deduct the tool kit cost. Please let us know in advance.

Schedule

A 1st & 3rd Saturdays: Morning Session: 10:00 – 12:00

B 1st & 3rd Saturdays: Afternoon Session: 13:00 – 15:00

C 2nd & 4th Wednesdays: Afternoon Session: 13:00 – 15:00

*Please note that dates may occasionally vary depending on the month.

Contact

For inquiries and registration: info@gakusha-izukougen.com

To apply, please email us with your full name, age, gender, contact information, and preferred session (Option A, B, or C). If you are interested in a 3-month workation to immerse yourself in the course, please let us know—we would be happy to recommend suitable accommodation.