① Meet at Kamakura Station and take a local taxi to Tokizo

Meet your interpreter guide at Kamakura Station. From there, you’ll take a local taxi together to reach Tokizo, the traditional lacquerware workshop where your experience will take place.

② Start the hands-on lacquerware experience at Tokizo workshop

Guided by a highly acclaimed artisan, you'll explore the cultural roots and refined techniques behind the centuries-old art form of lacquering. Crafting a traditional Japanese lacquered bowl is no small feat: it typically involves around 25 meticulous steps over the course of a month. A strengthening base layer, followed by a lustrous topcoat, gives each piece both durability and elegance. In this experience, you’ll take part in the final step of this time-honored process: lacquering the inner surface of a wooden bowl, which you'll be able to take home the same day.

Your hands-on session begins with sanding. After moistening the glossy inner surface of the bowl with water, you’ll gently sand it to create the right texture for the lacquer to bond. Once fully prepped, the bowl is carefully cleaned to remove any remaining dust or debris using a soft cloth.

Next comes the lacquering itself. Before you begin, you’ll select your preferred color from a wide range of pigments. The artisan will then carefully mix your chosen pigment with clear lacquer to create the perfect custom blend.

With this personalized lacquer ready, you’ll learn how to hold the brush correctly, apply just the right amount, and use smooth, controlled strokes to coat the bowl from bottom to rim. Throughout the process, the artisan will be by your side, offering expert guidance to help you achieve a beautiful, even finish.

The lacquer, which begins as a liquid, transforms into a hard, durable surface thanks to heat and humidity that activate natural enzymes. Once your coating is complete, your bowl will be placed in a special curing box to protect and set it. After about a week, the lacquer will be fully hardened and ready for everyday use.

For an added touch, you can also choose to lacquer a matching pair of chopsticks (available at an extra charge). This optional activity uses a simpler cloth-rubbing technique (no brush required) making it a quicker yet still rewarding addition to your handcrafted tableware.

Take a local taxi back to Kamakura station

Your guide will accompany you back to Kamakura Station, where the tour will conclude.