Kyoto Urushi Lacquer Tour with a Temple Visit and Lunch

Imagine spending a morning learning how a traditional Japanese craft is still very much alive in Kyoto today. For $135 per person, this tour offers a blend of industrial craftsmanship, spiritual insight, and culinary delight. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll explore the Tsutsumi Asakichi Urushi factory, see how urushi lacquer is refined, and even get your hands dirty applying lacquer during a private workshop. All of this is crowned with a visit to Bukkoji Temple, where lacquer’s role in temple architecture becomes clear, and a tasty lunch served in traditional Kyoto “asagi-wan” lacquerware bowls.

Two things stand out about this experience. First, the chance to see modern-day applications of urushi lacquer — from surfboards to bicycles — makes the craft feel surprisingly relevant. Second, the hands-on chopstick workshop allows you to create a truly personal souvenir, which you get to take home. A possible consideration? The tour requires some physical activity and getting a bit muddy, so clothes that can get dirty are a must. This experience suits those with a curiosity for traditional arts, a love of Japanese culture, and a willingness to get a little hands-on.

If you’re someone who enjoys craftsmanship, architecture, and delicious food, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Kyoto’s artistic side. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want a deeper, more personal connection to Japan’s lacquer traditions rather than just viewing exhibits in a museum.

Key Points

• Authentic Craftsmanship: Learn how urushi lacquer is produced from raw sap to finished product.
• Hands-On Experience: Apply lacquer to chopsticks during a private workshop, creating a memorable souvenir.
• Cultural Insight: Discover how lacquer has been utilized in temples and modern products, connecting past and present.
• Delicious Lunch: Enjoy a meal served in traditional lacquerware, enhancing the authentic experience.
• Location & Accessibility: The tour is primarily on Honshu, with an emphasis on Kyoto’s rich artisan scene.
• Group & Planning: Minimum of two participants, rain or shine, with flexible booking options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Kyoto Urushi Lacquer Tour: An In-Depth Look

The Itinerary: From Factory to Temple

The journey begins at Tsutsumi Asakichi Urushi, a factory responsible for refining more than 70% of Japan’s domestic urushi lacquer. Here, the process of turning raw sap into a glossy, durable finish is explained in detail. We loved the way the guide, possibly a knowledgeable craftsman, shared insider insights about the refinement process, from harvesting the sap to the intricate steps of application and curing.

Walking into the private section of the factory, you get a behind-the-scenes look at the refinement process. It’s fascinating to see how much care and skill go into producing a lacquer that can be applied to both everyday goods like surfboards and bicycles, as well as traditional temple artifacts. We found this especially interesting because it highlights the versatility of urushi and its relevance today.

Following this, the tour takes you to Bukkoji Temple, where lacquer plays a subtle but essential role in Japanese temple architecture. Seeing how lacquer is used in intricate temple interiors and decorative elements gives a new appreciation for this ancient craft.

The Hands-On Workshop: Creating Your Own Chopsticks

One of the tour highlights is the private lacquer application workshop. Here, you get to apply your own layer of lacquer to a pair of chopsticks. This is not just a demonstration — you actually paint, polish, and finish your chopsticks, which you can then take home as a personal memento. The process is surprisingly tactile, and many participants appreciated the chance to connect with a traditional craft in such an immediate way.

Some reviews mention that the instructor guides you through the process patiently, ensuring that even beginners can create something beautiful. Keep in mind you should wear clothes that can get dirty, as applying lacquer can be messy.

The Lunch Experience: Dining with Tradition

The tour concludes with a delicious lunch, served in Kyoto “asagi-wan” lacquerware bowls. This traditional presentation isn’t just for show — it’s a way to fully enjoy the local ingredients and culinary style. The use of lacquerware enhances the dining experience, making the meal feel authentic and special.

Participants frequently comment on the quality of the food, describing it as delicious and thoughtfully prepared with local ingredients. The presentation elevates the meal from ordinary to memorable, giving you a taste of Kyoto’s attention to detail.

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Practical Considerations: What to Know

Transportation to the factory is not included, so you’ll need to plan accordingly, preferably arriving by public transit. The tour runs rain or shine, which means you should be prepared for weather — an umbrella or raincoat might be handy.

The group size tends to be small, providing an intimate environment where questions are encouraged. The minimum of two participants means it’s best to plan ahead, especially during busy seasons. Since no age restrictions are specified, this tour could appeal to older children or teenagers interested in crafts, but unaccompanied minors are not accepted.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This experience offers a rare look into one of Japan’s most enduring crafts, combining factory insights, a temple visit, and interactive participation. It’s perfect for travelers who want a deep dive into traditional Japanese arts beyond the usual sightseeing. The combination of craftsmanship, spirituality, and food makes it well-rounded, appealing to those seeking a meaningful cultural connection.

The price, at $135, reflects the quality of the experience — especially considering the private factory tour, the hands-on workshop, and the included lunch. It offers real value for those interested in Japanese arts and architecture, and the opportunity to create a unique souvenir adds tangible worth.

Overall Impression

We found this tour to be a thoughtful, engaging, and authentic way to experience Kyoto’s craftsmanship and cultural heritage. Unlike passive museum visits, this experience invites you to touch, see, and taste what makes Kyoto unique.

For those who enjoy learning by doing, this tour provides a rare opportunity to apply lacquer yourself — a memorable experience that deepens your appreciation for Japanese artisanship. The inclusion of a temple visit and a delicious, beautifully presented meal means you leave with a rounded understanding of how art, religion, and daily life intertwine in Kyoto.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers, culture lovers, and foodies looking for a hands-on, meaningful experience that connects past and present in Kyoto.

FAQ

Do I need to know Japanese to participate?
No, the tour is conducted in English and Japanese, so guides can accommodate English speakers comfortably.

How do I get to the factory?
You should plan to arrive by public transport, as transportation to and from the factory is not included.

What should I wear?
Clothes that can get dirty are recommended, especially for the lacquer application workshop.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
Yes, a minimum of two participants is required for the tour to run. The maximum isn’t specified but is likely small for an intimate experience.

Can children participate?
There’s no age restriction, but unaccompanied minors aren’t accepted. It’s best for children who can sit patiently and are interested in crafts.

What happens if there aren’t enough participants?
If the minimum isn’t met, the tour may be canceled, and you will be notified a day before for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Since wheelchair accessibility isn’t specified and the tour involves walking around a factory and temple, it might not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.

Does the tour operate rain or shine?
Yes, it runs regardless of weather conditions.

What languages are spoken during the tour?
Guides speak both English and Japanese.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To sum it up, this Kyoto Urushi Lacquer Tour offers an authentic peek into a traditional craft with a modern twist. It combines craftsmanship, spirituality, and culinary delights into one memorable experience. Perfect for travelers eager to connect with Japanese culture on a personal level, it’s a worthwhile addition to any Kyoto itinerary. Whether you’re a craft lover, history buff, or foodie, you’ll leave with a new appreciation for Kyoto’s artistry — and a beautifully lacquered chopstick or two.

You can check availability for your dates here: