Gold-Leaf Fan Workshop with a Master Craftsman
Highlights of the tour
Kyoto fans are a popular souvenir, but do you know their appeal?
How much do you know about the beauty, history and making of Kyo-sensu?
Mr. Norio Shimizu, who has been teaching folding fans at the Ritsumeikan University Faculty of Letters Kyoto Studies since 2012, will introduce the traditional charm of Kyoto folding fans and the process of their production in a fun and easy-to-understand way.
You will definitely be captivated by the charm of Kyoto fans as you experience the profound world of fan making!
Only one in the world
Making your own original folding fan
Kyo-sensu fans were created during the Heian period and are characterized by their vibrant colors and intricate designs. Their beauty is still loved by tourists today.
The folding fan, which originated in Japan in the early Heian period, has evolved into a new form in the 21st century called the "Aogi"!
Through the foil stamping experience, you too can create your own one-of-a-kind original Kyoto fan and take home a memory.
We also offer a VIP plan where we will apply foil to both sides of the fan and sprinkle gold on the ribs using the "sunafuri" technique to create a luxurious and elegant decorative fan.
Through this special experience, you will be able to create your very own Kyoto fan.
Tour details
*It varies depending on the number of participants and tour plan. Please refer to the reservation details page for more information.Reservation details page .
Tour Includes
- Factory tour
- Production experience
- Original name "Aogi"
- Photo download service
- Travel insurance designated by our company
Tour Conditions
- Operating times: 9:30, 13:30, 18:00
- Private tours are available for groups of 3 or more.
- Target age: 6 years or older
Tour value
Origami fan without fan ribs
"Aogi"
"Aogi" is a new type of origami fan developed by Rekiseisha in Hiroshima that does not use fan ribs.
This compact mini-sized fan can fit in a shirt pocket and has become extremely popular.
Furthermore, these are extremely rare fans that are only sold by two companies in Japan, and in Kyoto, the only place where you can experience making them is Shimizu Shoten, a long-established shop founded 78 years ago.
What is Kyo-sensu?
Fans originate in Japan and date back to the early Heian period, when they were used as elegant personal items by the ladies of the imperial court.
Towards the end of the Heian period, fans became popular among monks and Shinto priests in addition to the aristocracy, but their general use was prohibited.
During the Muromachi period, it became an essential part of Noh, Kyogen, and the tea ceremony, and during the Edo period, it began to be used in the daily lives of ordinary people.
