Kyoto:Explore & Create Your Own traditional KYOMARU UCHIWA

If you’ve ever wandered Kyoto’s quiet streets and wondered about the stories behind its iconic fans, this experience offers a rare opportunity to step behind the scenes. For around $100 per person, you’ll spend about two hours with local artisans at KOMARUYA Sumii, learning how KYOMARU UCHIWA fans are crafted and making your own personalized keepsake.

What makes this tour memorable? First, the chance to see expert craftsmanship firsthand — from watching a detailed video explaining the production process to participating in creating your very own fan. Second, the experience includes a visit to the Museum of Traditional Crafts, offering a broader view of Kyoto’s devotion to preserving its artisanal traditions.

A possible consideration? The workshop tour component isn’t available every day, and the fan creation process requires booking at least two weeks in advance to ensure your personalized fan arrives on time. This is a hands-on, culturally rich experience best suited for those who love authentic craft, want a tangible souvenir, or enjoy understanding traditional arts through direct participation.

If you’re a history or craft enthusiast eager to connect with Kyoto’s artistic roots and appreciate detailed, personalized experiences, this tour will resonate well. It’s especially appealing for those who value guided insight and want a unique memory to take home.

Key Points

• Authentic Craftsmanship: Learn directly from artisans maintaining Kyoto’s fan-making traditions.
• Personalized Souvenir: Create your own KYOMARU UCHIWA fan with your name imprinted, making it a one-of-a-kind keepsake.
• Cultural Context: Watch a detailed video explaining the production process, enhancing your appreciation for the craft.
• Museum Visit: Explore Kyoto’s broader traditional crafts, deepening your understanding of local heritage.
• Limited Availability: Book at least two weeks in advance; same-day delivery may not always be possible.
• Language Support: Guides speak English and Chinese, making it accessible to international visitors.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

What to Expect at KOMARUYA Sumii

Your journey begins at KOMARUYA Sumii, a renowned shop dedicated to preserving the art of KYOMARU UCHIWA fans. The shop is a bastion of tradition, filled with beautifully crafted fans and historical artifacts. The staff is friendly and eager to share their knowledge, which sets a welcoming tone for the entire experience.

Watching the Production Process

The tour includes a 30-minute video presentation that walks you through the intricate process involved in making these fans. We loved the way this explained not just the “how” but also the “why” behind each step, revealing the patience and skill that has been passed down through generations. This segment is essential for appreciating the craftsmanship and understanding why these fans are more than just decorative items—they are cultural symbols.

The Fan-Making Workshop

Depending on the day, you’ll participate in a hands-on workshop that lasts about 30 minutes, although this part isn’t available every day. Here’s where the experience becomes truly personal: you get to create your own KYOMARU UCHIWA, choosing colors, designs, or even participating in making the iconic stripes. Your name is pre-imprinted on your fan, making it a unique souvenir.

One reviewer, NEUS, mentioned, “Great experience!! A great opportunity to meet artisans and a local business. We learned a lot about Japanese fans!” This highlights how engaging and educational the process is, especially when guided by knowledgeable artisans.

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The Walk and the Museum Visit

After crafting your fan, you’ll take a short 10-minute walk to the Museum of Traditional Crafts (about 40 minutes). This museum showcases a variety of traditional Kyoto crafts, from textiles to ceramics, illustrating the city’s enduring commitment to artisanal work. It’s a valuable addition because it broadens your perspective beyond fans, contextualizing the craft within Kyoto’s cultural fabric.

Practical Considerations

Booking ahead is crucial—preferably at least two weeks in advance—especially to ensure your fan is ready for pickup or delivery. There’s an extra delivery fee if you opt to have your fan shipped later, which makes sense given the personalized nature of the item. The experience is designed to be accessible with wheelchair-friendly facilities and guides who speak both English and Chinese.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for craft lovers, history buffs, or anyone looking for a hands-on cultural activity that results in a meaningful keepsake. If you enjoy learning about traditional arts through direct participation, you’ll find this especially rewarding. It’s also an excellent choice for travelers who want a tangible connection to Kyoto’s living culture, beyond typical sightseeing.

Why This Experience Offers Great Value

While $100 might seem a bit steep for a two-hour activity, consider what you’re walking away with: a personalized, handcrafted fan that embodies Kyoto’s craftsmanship and your own creative input. Compared to typical souvenir prices, this fan is a unique, authentic piece that you helped create—meaning it’s not just a memento, but a story you participated in.

The inclusion of the Museum of Traditional Crafts adds educational value, turning a simple activity into a deeper culture. Plus, the opportunity to learn from skilled artisans in a friendly environment offers insights you won’t easily find elsewhere.

Authenticity and Personal Touch

The fact that your fan is personally made and personalized makes this experience stand out. It’s not just a generic souvenir but a handcrafted item with your name, a memory of Kyoto’s craftsmanship preserved in your hands. We loved the way this creates a personal connection to the city, turning a fleeting visit into a lasting keepsake.

Accessibility and Convenience

The tour’s language support and wheelchair accessibility mean it’s inclusive, welcoming diverse travelers. The guided explanations and well-organized itinerary help ensure you make the most of your two hours without feeling hurried or lost.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the need for advance booking—if you’re a spontaneous traveler, this might require some planning. Also, if you’re expecting a comprehensive workshop, be aware that the actual hands-on part might be limited depending on availability. However, even just watching the process provides valuable insight into Kyoto’s traditional crafts.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re in Kyoto and want a meaningful, culturally immersive activity, this is a standout choice. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate authentic craftsmanship and want to take home a unique souvenir with a personal touch. History enthusiasts will enjoy the detailed explanations, and those interested in Japanese traditions will find this a rare opportunity to see artisans at work.

Travelers seeking a relaxing, educational activity that breaks away from crowded sightseeing spots will also appreciate the intimate setting and focus on traditional arts. For families or small groups, it can be a fun and memorable shared experience, especially with the opportunity to create something tangible together.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The experience typically takes about 2 hours, but check availability for specific starting times, as they can vary.

What is included in the price?
You’ll receive one personalized KYOMARU UCHIWA fan, admission to the Museum of Traditional Crafts, and support from guides speaking English or Chinese.

Can I get my fan delivered later?
Yes, if you book at least two weeks in advance, your fan can be shipped to your address for an additional delivery fee.

Is the workshop available every day?
Not necessarily; the workshop part isn’t available on some days, so it’s best to confirm when booking.

Do I need to speak Japanese?
No, guides speak English and Chinese, making the experience accessible to international visitors.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour and facilities are wheelchair accessible.

Can I participate if I don’t know much about traditional crafts?
Absolutely. The guides are friendly and willing to explain, making it suitable for all levels of familiarity.

What if I don’t want to make a fan myself?
You can still enjoy watching the process and exploring the museum—valuable insights into Kyoto’s craft traditions.

How do I book this experience?
It’s best to book at least two weeks ahead through the provider’s platform to ensure availability and timely delivery of your fan.

Is this experience suitable for children?
It generally caters to adults and older children who can participate in the craft, but check specific age restrictions when booking.

This Kyoto fan-making tour offers a rare glimpse into traditional Japanese craftsmanship, combined with a personal creation that will remind you of your Kyoto visit long after you’ve left. It’s ideal for those seeking a meaningful, hands-on cultural experience with a tangible souvenir to cherish. Whether you’re a craft enthusiast, history buff, or someone eager to understand Kyoto’s artisanal spirit, this tour provides a rewarding blend of education, participation, and authentic artistry.

You can check availability for your dates here: