Step into the world of Urushi, Japan’s traditional lacquer, through a guided visit to a lacquer refining factory with over 100 years of history. This immersive cultural experience begins with an introduction to Urushi itself and the Urushi tree, providing essential background on this remarkable natural material. Guests are then guided through the refining process, observing firsthand how raw sap is carefully transformed into refined black or red Urushi, while learning about the techniques, craftsmanship, and challenges involved.

For those seeking a deeper engagement, optional lectures and hands-on workshops are available at the Urushi hub “Und.” located on the third floor of the factory. Through visual presentations, participants will learn about the company’s tree-planting initiatives, efforts to preserve and promote Urushi culture, and its vision for expanding the use of Urushi in the modern world. Following the lecture, guests may take part in experiential workshops such as applying Urushi to a surface or practicing the traditional “Fuki-Urushi” (wipe-on lacquer) technique. In addition, special workshops led by external artisans are periodically offered, covering disciplines such as Kintsugi, Urushi painting, woodworking, and natural or Urushi dyeing—making this a richly layered cultural experience that connects tradition, sustainability, and contemporary craftsmanship.

KYOTO CULTURAL EXPERIENCE
Inside the World of Urushi (Japanese Lacquer)
Step inside a lacquer refining factory with over 100 years of history and discover the art, craft, and future of Urushi.

TOUR PROGRAMS
FACTORY TOUR
30 min
• 1st-floor shop visit
• Guided factory tour

FUKI-URUSHI WORKSHOP
45 min
• Apply Urushi to chopsticks
• Learn the Fuki-Urushi (wipe-on) technique
• One-layer application experience

FACTORY TOUR + URUSHI TALK
60 min
• Factory & shop tour
• Lecture with video presentation
• Deeper insight into Urushi culture

FACTORY TOUR + URUSHI TALK
+ FUKI-URUSHI WORKSHOP
90 min
• Factory & shop tour
• Lecture with video presentation
• Chopstick Fuki-Urushi workshop
• Take-home item included

FACTORY TOUR + URUSHI TALK
+ FUKI-URUSHI KIT WORKSHOP
90 min
(Kit included)

• Factory & shop tour
• Lecture with video presentation
• Fuki-Urushi (wipe-off) workshop
• Take home a kit to continue at home

STUDENT & GROUP PROGRAM
45–60 min
• Factory tour
• Urushi lecture
For elementary & junior high school groups only

CUSTOM-MADE TOUR
• Tailored programs upon request

ENGLISH GUIDANCE
• Available with in-house English-speaking staff

RESERVATION NOTICE
• Minimum 2 participants required (from June 15, 2025)
• Solo participants: 1.5× fee
• Groups may be combined

CANCELLATION POLICY
• Up to 14 days before: Free
• 14–2 days before: 50%
• 1 day before: 70%
• Same day / no-show: 100%

1. Organisation/School Name (Note: We do not accept individual bookings)
2. Representative Name
3. Preferred Date and Time (1st choice, 2nd choice)
4. Number of Participants
5. Nationality
6. Please select your preferred language. Currently, we can only accommodate Japanese or English.
7. Tour Type (Choose from options 1–6 above)
8. Contact Email Address
9. Phone Number
10. Additional Requests (Please let us know if there’s anything else you would like to communicate)
11. If you are requesting a customised tour, please provide specific details about your preferences.

Payment

Please make a payment by credit card. You will receive an E-mail with an URL where payment can be done online. The page is protected by Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) technology to ensure the safety of your credit card information. We accept Visa, Master Card, American Express, Diners, and JCB.