Viator Rating : 5 (51 reviews)
Kyoto
Kyoto Onigawara: Craft Your Own Japanese Demon Tile!
120
Overview
Let's Make Only One Original Onigawara in the World, located in Kyoto, offers a unique cultural experience where participants create their own Onigawara, a traditional Japanese roof tile. These tiles, often featuring the faces of ogres or gargoyles, have protected Japanese buildings from evil spirits and rainwater for centuries. This hands-on workshop provides a simplified method, making it easy for anyone, even children and those with less dexterity, to craft their own original demon tile from scratch.
Participants will learn about the history of Kawara, the traditional roof tiles of Japan, and the significance of the Onigawara. Under expert guidance, they will work with clay to sculpt their own unique demon face, resulting in a personalized talisman and souvenir. After the workshop, the crafted Onigawara tile will be fired in a kiln, transforming it into a lasting memento of their Kyoto experience.
This small-group class ensures a personalized and homey atmosphere, allowing for individual attention and a memorable cultural exchange. Participants can later display their Onigawara as wall decorations or ornaments, serving as a constant reminder of their time in Kyoto and a unique protective charm. This experience offers an authentic glimpse into traditional Japanese craftsmanship, blending history, art, and hands-on creativity. 
Highlights
Create a Unique Souvenir: Make your own original Onigawara tile, a traditional Japanese roof ornament.
Learn Ancient Techniques: Discover the history and craftsmanship behind Japanese roof tiles.
Easy for Everyone: Simplified method allows anyone, including children, to create their own demon tile.
Personalized Experience: Small group setting ensures individual attention and guidance.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers enjoyed learning about the history and cultural significance of Onigawara tiles.
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Visitors appreciated the hands-on experience of crafting their own unique demon tile.
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Reviewers loved the small-group setting and personalized attention from the instructor.
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Customers found the simplified method easy to follow, making it accessible for all skill levels.
Some customers mentioned that shipping costs for the finished tile are not included in the experience fee.
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A few reviewers noted that participants should wear clothes that can get dirty due to the use of soil.
The Journey
Kyoto Workshop
A cozy, home-based workshop in Kyoto where you'll receive hands-on instruction in crafting Onigawara tiles. The workshop provides a comfortable and intimate setting for learning the art of traditional Japanese tile making.
Kiln at the Factory
The factory houses a kiln where your handcrafted Onigawara tile will be fired, transforming the raw clay into a durable and lasting piece of art. Witnessing the firing process adds an element of authenticity to the experience.
Know Before You Go
The experience includes bottled water for refreshment. It does not include an apron, so it's recommended to wear clothes that can get dirty. Please note that shipping costs for the finished Onigawara tile are not included in the experience fee. The meeting point for the experience will be provided upon booking.
Hot Tip
Wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty, as you'll be working with soil! Also, factor in the additional cost of shipping if you want your finished Onigawara tile sent to your home.
Review Summary
People usually say that the onigawara workshop in Kyoto is a unique and enjoyable cultural experience, highly praised for the instructor's patience and the small group setting which allows for personalized guidance. Many reviewers appreciate the chance to create a meaningful souvenir and the friendly atmosphere of the workshop. Some mention the convenient location and the joy of having the finished piece shipped home. There are no significant negative points commonly reported, though accessibility details are less clear and the resulting onigawara takes time to arrive after firing.
Frequently Asked Questions
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