Overview

Experience the profound philosophy of "Wabi-sabi" at "Kyoto Karin," a sanctuary of traditional art nestled within a beautifully restored Kyo-machiya (Traditional Kyoto-style townhouse). This exclusive encounter is led by Kaori Kimura, a distinguished Kintsugi artist celebrated for her ability to breathe new life into broken ceramics, blending traditional soul with contemporary accessory design.

The experience is more than a workshop; it is an immersion into the serene, historic atmosphere of a Kyo-machiya. Following your creative session, you are invited to explore the first-floor gallery, where Master Kimura’s original Kintsugi jewelry and art pieces are available for purchase—a rare privilege to acquire a masterpiece directly from the artist's own atelier.

Guided by a professional interpreter-guide, you will meet directly at the venue. For your security and peace of mind, your guide’s name, contact details, and photo will be shared in advance. While this is a local-meeting experience, an optional hotel meet-up service (via public transport or private vehicle) is available for an additional fee.

Workshop Process

① Meeting with the Guide at Karin
Upon arrival at the atelier "Karin," you will be greeted by your professional interpreter-guide. The guide will provide an orientation of the historic Kyo-machiya and the day's itinerary. In the unlikely event that you are running late, please contact your guide immediately using the contact details provided in advance to ensure a smooth transition into the workshop.

② Selection of Porcelain Fragments (10–15 mins)
Choose from a curated collection of premium Japanese porcelain fragments. Your selection forms the "canvas" for your jewelry, with each piece telling its own story through its glaze and texture.

③ Composition and "Mitate" Design (15–20 mins)
Under Master Kimura's expert eye, arrange your fragments to find the perfect artistic balance. This process follows the concept of Mitate—reimagining broken shards as new, intentional art.

④ Structural Bonding (15–20 mins)
Apply a specialized, high-quality resin to securely bond the fragments. This ensures the jewelry is durable for modern wear while preserving the delicate, organic lines of the original break.

⑤ The Art of "Maki-e" Gold Application (20–25 mins)
The definitive Kintsugi moment. Using a fine-tipped brush, you will trace the seams with gold powder, transforming "scars" into radiant golden veins that celebrate the beauty of imperfection.

⑥ Polishing and Assembly (10 mins)
Complete your work with a meticulous polish to reveal a sophisticated luster. Your creation is then professionally set into jewelry hardware—such as a pendant or earrings—ready to be worn.


Reference: Gallery Visit & Art Collection
Following the workshop, guests are invited to browse the private gallery on the first floor of the Machiya. This serene space serves as an exclusive showroom for Master Kaori Kimura’s signature works, featuring an exquisite collection of Kintsugi jewelry, delicate accessories, and traditional ceramics, each meticulously handcrafted by the artist herself. These one-of-a-kind pieces—ranging from functional tea bowls to avant-garde wearable art—are available for acquisition, offering a rare opportunity to secure an authentic masterpiece of Kyoto’s "Golden Repair" heritage directly from the artist's atelier.