Kyoto

Famous Traditional Crafts in Kyoto

1. Kyo-Yuzen (京友禅) – Hand-Painted or Dyed Textiles

   • Category: Textile Art
   • Description: Kyo-Yuzen is a traditional dyeing technique used to create intricate patterns on kimono fabrics. The designs often feature nature-inspired motifs like flowers, birds, and seasonal landscapes.
   • Approximate Costs:
     • Kimono: ¥100,000–¥1,000,000+ (depending on the complexity and material)
     • Smaller items like scarves or handkerchiefs: ¥5,000–¥20,000
   • Where to Buy:
     • Nishijin Textile Center: Offers demonstrations and a variety of textile products.
     • Specialty kimono shops in the Gion or Nishijin districts.
   • Cultural Tip: When handling textiles, avoid touching them with dirty or oily hands. It’s polite to ask for assistance before examining items closely.

2. Kyo-Sensu (京扇子) – Folding Fans

   • Category: Functional Art
   • Description: Kyoto’s folding fans are both practical and decorative, often adorned with hand-painted designs. They are used in traditional dance, tea ceremonies, and as gifts.
   • Approximate Costs:
     • Everyday fans: ¥2,000–¥5,000
     • High-end, hand-painted fans: ¥10,000–¥50,000+
   • Where to Buy:
     • Miyawaki Baisen-an: A historic shop specializing in handcrafted fans.
     • Shops in the Teramachi or Shinkyogoku shopping arcades.
   • Cultural Tip: Fans are often considered personal items, so avoid opening or using them without permission.

3. Kyo-Yaki/Kiyomizu-Yaki (京焼・清水焼) – Kyoto Pottery

   • Category: Ceramics
   • Description: This style of pottery is known for its elegant designs and vibrant colors, often used for tea ceremony utensils, plates, and bowls.
   • Approximate Costs:
     • Small tea cups: ¥2,000–¥10,000
     • Tea sets or larger pieces: ¥10,000–¥50,000+
   • Where to Buy:
     • Kiyomizu-zaka Street: Near Kiyomizu-dera Temple, lined with pottery shops.
     • Kyoto Handicraft Center: Offers a wide selection of ceramics.
   • Cultural Tip: When purchasing pottery, it’s customary to admire the craftsmanship and express appreciation for the artisan’s work.

4. Nishijin-Ori (西陣織) – Nishijin Weaving

   • Category: Textile Weaving
   • Description: Nishijin-Ori is a traditional weaving technique used to create luxurious fabrics for obi (kimono sashes) and other items. The intricate patterns often incorporate gold and silver threads.
   • Approximate Costs:
     • Obi: ¥50,000–¥500,000+
     • Accessories like wallets or pouches: ¥5,000–¥20,000
   • Where to Buy:
     • Nishijin Textile Center: Offers exhibitions, demonstrations, and products.
     • Specialty stores in the Nishijin district.
   • Cultural Tip: These items are considered high-end, so treat them with care and respect.

5. Kyo-Lacquerware (京漆器)

   • Category: Lacquer Art
   • Description: Kyoto lacquerware is known for its glossy finish and intricate designs, often used for trays, bowls, and tea ceremony utensils.
   • Approximate Costs:
     • Small items: ¥5,000–¥20,000
     • Larger or more intricate pieces: ¥50,000–¥200,000+
   • Where to Buy:
     • Kyoto Handicraft Center: A great place to find lacquerware.
     • Specialty shops in the Higashiyama area.
   • Cultural Tip: Lacquerware is delicate, so handle it gently and avoid exposing it to extreme heat or moisture.

6. Kyo-Zogan (京象嵌) – Kyoto Inlay Work

   • Category: Metalwork
   • Description: This craft involves inlaying gold, silver, or other metals into iron or bronze to create intricate patterns. Common items include jewelry, accessories, and decorative objects.
   • Approximate Costs:
     • Small accessories: ¥5,000–¥20,000
     • Larger decorative pieces: ¥50,000–¥100,000+
   • Where to Buy:
     • Specialty metalwork shops in Kyoto.
     • Kyoto Handicraft Center.
   • Cultural Tip: These items make excellent gifts, but be sure to inquire about the meaning of specific designs, as they often carry symbolic significance.

7. Kyo-Butsudan (京仏壇) – Buddhist Altars

   • Category: Religious Craft
   • Description: These ornate altars are used in homes for Buddhist worship. They are crafted with intricate woodwork, lacquer, and gold leaf.
   • Approximate Costs:
     • Small altars: ¥100,000–¥500,000
     • Large, elaborate altars: ¥1,000,000+
   • Where to Buy:
     • Specialty shops in Kyoto’s Higashiyama or Nishijin districts.
   • Cultural Tip: If purchasing for personal use, ensure you understand the proper way to set up and maintain a butsudan.

---

Where to Experience Traditional Crafts

1. Kyoto Handicraft Center

   • A one-stop shop for a wide variety of traditional crafts, including pottery, lacquerware, and textiles. They also offer workshops where you can try your hand at making your own craft.

2. Nishijin Textile Center

   • Learn about the history of Nishijin weaving, watch live demonstrations, and shop for high-quality textiles.

3. Kiyomizu-zaka Street

   • Located near Kiyomizu-dera Temple, this street is lined with shops selling pottery, fans, and other crafts.

4. Gion District

   • Known for its traditional atmosphere, Gion is home to many specialty shops selling Kyo-Yuzen textiles, folding fans, and other crafts.

5. Teramachi and Shinkyogoku Shopping Arcades

   • These shopping streets offer a mix of traditional and modern goods, including affordable versions of Kyoto crafts.

---

Tips on Shopping for Traditional Crafts in Kyoto

1. Etiquette:

   • Always greet shopkeepers with a polite “Konnichiwa” (こんにちは) or “Sumimasen” (すみません) before browsing.
   • Handle items gently and ask for permission before touching fragile or expensive pieces.
   • Express appreciation for the craftsmanship, even if you don’t make a purchase.

2. Bargaining:

   • Bargaining is not common in Japan, especially for traditional crafts. Prices are usually fixed, and haggling may be considered disrespectful.

3. Tax-Free Shopping:

   • Many shops offer tax-free shopping for tourists. Bring your passport to take advantage of this benefit.

4. Shipping Services:

   • If you’re purchasing large or fragile items, many shops offer shipping services to send your purchases directly to your home country.

5. Workshops:

   • Participating in a craft workshop is a great way to deepen your appreciation for Kyoto’s traditional arts. Many places, like the Kyoto Handicraft Center, offer hands-on experiences.

---

Conclusion

Exploring Kyoto’s traditional crafts is a culturally enriching experience that allows you to connect with the city’s history and artistry. Whether you’re purchasing a hand-painted fan, a piece of pottery, or a luxurious kimono, each item carries the spirit of Kyoto’s artisans. By following local etiquette and taking the time to learn about the crafts, you’ll not only bring home a beautiful souvenir but also a deeper understanding of Kyoto’s cultural heritage.