Timeless Traditions—Japanese Crafts Experience

Timeless Traditions—Japanese Crafts Experience

9 days
From
$8,500
/person
Best Time to Go
Year-round

In a quiet workshop, hands move with care, tracing centuries of tradition. In Japan, craft is not about perfection, but presence. As tools glide over wood, clay, or silk, a deeper rhythm emerges—one of patience, reverence, and stillness. Here, beauty is not rushed. It is felt, slowly, in every touch.

Tour Highlights

  • Enjoy the quiet beauty of kintsugi, the art of repairing broken pottery with gold. This poetic tradition invites reflection, embracing imperfection as part of the object’s story.
  • Experience the gentle art of crafting Mino washi, Japan’s renowned handmade paper. Using pure mountain water and traditional techniques, this peaceful craft connects you with centuries of heritage.
  • Discover the legacy of Seki knives in the historic sword-making town of Seki. Watch master artisans forge blades with soul, precision, and the spirit of Japanese craftsmanship.
  • Stay at carefully selected luxury accommodations, including the Five-Star HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO, TIAD, AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION, Kai Kaga—a refined ryokan blending Japanese modern design with unparalleled hospitality
  • Travel in exceptional comfort with Gran Class—the Shinkansen’s first-class experience—complemented by seamless transfers with a private chauffeur
day1-2

Kyoto

You will arrive at Kansai International Airport, where a private chauffeur will greet you and ensure a seamless transfer to Kyoto.

Kyoto, Japan’s former imperial capital for over a thousand years, is a city where timeless elegance and cultural heritage are beautifully preserved. With more than 2,000 temples and shrines—including 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites—Kyoto invites travelers to explore its tranquil Zen gardens, sacred Shinto sites, and atmospheric geisha districts. From the ritual beauty of the tea ceremony to seasonal kaiseki cuisine crafted with precision, every experience offers a glimpse into Japan’s most refined traditions.

Sample experiences
・Kyo-Yuzen Dyeing– Hand-dye elegant patterns on silk
・Kyo-Kinsai Decoration– Add gold accents to fine Kyoto textiles
・Nishijin Weaving– Weave shimmering silk with Kyoto’s classic technique

day3-4

Nagoya

Nagoya, Japan’s third-largest metropolitan area, lies at the heart of the country, making it a key hub for travel and commerce. Rich in samurai heritage, it is home to the iconic Nagoya Castle, linked to powerful warlords like Tokugawa Ieyasu. The city also boasts a unique food culture, from miso katsu to hitsumabushi. Blending tradition and innovation, Nagoya offers a vibrant yet authentic experience in the center of Japan.

Sample experiences
・Arimatsu-Narumi Shibori Dyeing– Try traditional tie-dyeing techniques passed down for centuries in Arimatsu and Narumi.

day5-6

Gifu

Just an hour from Nagoya, Gifu is a nature-rich region surrounded by mountains and clear rivers. It preserves the beauty of traditional Japan, with landscapes and crafts passed down through generations. Visitors can explore Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and relax in Gero Onsen, one of Japan’s top three hot springs. With its timeless charm and deep-rooted culture, Gifu welcomes travelers seeking an authentic and peaceful escape.

Sample experiences
・Mino Washi Paper– Make traditional handmade paper in Japan’s historic washi town.
・Mino Pottery– Shape and glaze ceramics rooted in centuries-old tradition.
・Seki Knife Making– Watch or try forging knives in Japan’s famed sword-making town.

day7-8

Kanazawa

Kanazawa, located in Japan’s Hokuriku region, blends history, culture, and cuisine. Stroll through preserved samurai districts and traditional teahouse streets, and admire the seasonal beauty of Kenrokuen, one of Japan’s top three gardens. The city also embraces modernity with attractions like the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art. Known for its refined sweets and fresh seafood, Kanazawa offers a perfect harmony of tradition and innovation, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking a rich and authentic experience.

Sample experiences
・Kutani Ware Painting– Hand-paint colorful patterns on traditional Kutani porcelain.
・Wajima Lacquerware– Experience Wajima-nuri, Japan’s elegant and durable lacquer art.
・Kintsugi Repair– Discover Kintsugi, the golden art of repairing broken pottery.

day9

Tokyo

"Tokyo is far more than just a city. It is a singular stage for extraordinary experiences, where serenity and energy, tradition and innovation, elegance and playfulness resonate in perfect harmony. One moment, you’ll find yourself immersed in tranquil spaces steeped in refined ritual; the next, you’re surrounded by cutting-edge design and global trends that awaken the senses. This is a city where Japan’s subtle aesthetics coexist with an ever-evolving pulse of creativity.

Sample experiences
・Enjoy shopping for traditional Japanese crafts at Aoyama Square, a hub of authentic artisanship."

You will be safely transferred to Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) or Narita International Airport by a private chauffeur, concluding your wonderful journey.