Every journey tells a story, but some experiences leave a lasting imprint on the heart. The Daigo Urushi Forestry and Kintsugi Travel Workshop was one such journey—an extraordinary fusion of cultural immersion, hands-on craftsmanship, and deep connection with Japan’s rural artisans.
Over seven unforgettable days in December 2024, participants ventured into the world of urushi lacquer, engaged in intensive kintsugi workshops, and explored the quiet beauty of a small town far removed from the crowds of Kyoto and Tokyo. But what made this tour truly remarkable wasn’t just the skills learned—it was the rare access to authentic artisans, the exclusive visit to the urushi forest, and the firsthand stories shared by those dedicated to preserving this endangered craft.
Supported by the Daigo town government’s Forestry Division, this annual program is more than a cultural experience; it’s a movement to preserve Japan’s craft heritage, support rural communities, and offer participants a once-in-a-lifetime journey into authentic craftsmanship. You can also step into the starting point of kintsugi and lacquer craft with us this year!
Where Kintsugi Begins: Stepping Into the Urushi Forest
Daigo is a a remote town 3 hours from Tokyo. During the 16th century, Feudal Lord Tokunaga Mitsukuni pushed for urushi tree plantation in Daigo and there were once over 150 forestry artisans during its prime. Today, with post-war rapid decline in urushi lacquer demand and aging population, there are less than 10 artisans in Daigo, sustaining the urushi forestry, yielding about 270kg of Japan's most premium ki urushi annually. (2021 data)
Our group had exclusive access to a urushi forest in Daigo, managed by the Forestry Department and the urushi preservation co-op. This particular grove was planted by Tobita Taizo, a highly respected Master Forester who passed away while working in the forest just a year ago. Our visit was not just about seeing the trees and social media photo-bombing, but understanding the immense dedication required to sustain this ancient craft.
With very few young people willing to take on the grueling work of urushi forestry, we had the rare opportunity to meet two apprentices, Shiro Yanagi and Yuma Watanabe. They shared their personal journeys—what inspired them to take on such a demanding path, their challenges, and their hopes for the future of the craft.
Perhaps the most eye-opening lesson was the reality of true Japanese apprenticeship. Unlike the tourist-friendly apprenticeship programs widely marketed online, these young artisans have committed years—if not decades—to perfecting their skills. This level of dedication was inspiring for many participants, reshaping their understanding of what it truly means to apprentice and become a craftsperson in Japan.
Experiencing the forest transformed our understanding of urushi, realizing it is not just another art supply but a material with deep cultural and ecological significance. This realization reshaped how we approach kintsugi—not just as a craft with romanticized wabi-sabi philosophy, but as a responsibility.
Beyond the Basics: A Deeper Approach to Kintsugi Workshop
2024 program participants are craft beginners, seasoned practitioners and culture travelers, united by curiosity and a desire to go beyond surface-level kintsugi lessons. While kintsugi workshops are widely available, the depth and accuracy of information vary greatly. Rather than following the generic curriculum and passing out kintsugi "recipes", we took time to understand the traditional materials, tools, and techniques.
Beyond the hands-on learning, we also explored Japan's small-town charm—dining at family-run eateries, visiting local businesses and lacquer studio, and spend a day in nearby historic pottery town. We have experienced warm hospitality from people who rarely encounter foreign visitors. For many, this was just as impactful as the craft itself, revealing a side of Japan that lies far from the well-trodden paths of Kyoto and Tokyo.
Next: Your 2025 Urushi & Kintsugi Journey
What unfolded over these seven days was more than just a workshop—it was a deep cultural exchange that left a lasting impression. Many participants arrived expecting Japanese artisans to be reserved and distant, but they left with a newfound appreciation for their openness. Through heartfelt conversations and shared experiences, the artisans welcomed us into their world, offering glimpses into their struggles, joys, and unwavering dedication to their craft. Thanks to social media, participants continue to stay in touch with the artisans they met, keeping the connections alive.
Everyone wished they could have stayed longer, lingering in the quiet rhythm of rural Japan. That’s why we are committed to continuing this program annually—to share the story of authentic kintsugi at the origin of Japanese urushi lacquer. This experience is not just about learning kintsugi—it’s about truly understanding it at its source, where urushi trees are nurtured, and where dedicated forestry artisans spend their lives mastering and sustaining this craft.
We’re now fine-tuning the program and finalizing the dates with our local partners. In 2025, we plan to host the travel workshop in late October to early November. So, mark your calendar and start planning your Japan travels—this is a rare opportunity for cultural immersion unlike any other. We plan to announce the 2025 program date in Spring and open for enrollment. You can sign up here to receive notification.
Not only will you gain firsthand experience with Japan’s most revered lacquer and kintsugi traditions, but you’ll also journey beyond tourist-packed destinations and engage in a meaningful cultural exchange that few visitors ever get to experience.
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