Otsu-e Folk Art Workshop & Local Culture Walk Near Kyoto
Join a unique cultural experience led by Misato Takahashi, an Otsu native and daughter of Wado Takahashi, an Otsu-e artist originally from the Otsu-e master family, Takahashi Shozan. Misato is fervently committed to preserving the important local tradition of Otsu-e painting, a form of traditional f
📍Meeting point: Your guide having the board with your name on it will meet you in front of the Kyoto Tourist Information Center on the 2nd Floor of the Kyoto Station Building, just next door to the Isetan Department Store.
Join a unique cultural experience led by Misato Takahashi, an Otsu native and daughter of Wado Takahashi, an Otsu-e artist originally from the Otsu-e master family, Takahashi Shozan. Misato is fervently committed to preserving the important local tradition of Otsu-e painting, a form of traditional folk art that originated in this area about 400 years ago. This unique cultural experience provides an excellent opportunity to delve into Japan's artistic heritage, immersing yourself in the creativity and artistic expression that has enriched Otsu's local culture for centuries. And with only a 10-minute train ride from Kyoto Station, you can relax in the cozy lakeside town of Otsu while exploring the city's rich history and treasures.
Travel Insurance for Japan
SafetyWing covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, and adventure activities. Plans from $1.5/day.
What To Expect
Stop 1
Tour starts from the North ticket gate of the station.
Stop 2
Pass byGingko trees of Kekaiji Temple, Kyomachi 3-chome: The trees used to be a remarkable landmark for boats on Lake Biwa
Stop 3
⏱ 10 minMochihyo Japanese sweets shop, Facing the Old Tokaido Road: We pick up Japanese sweets that the guests enjoy before the painting session later.
Stop 4
⏱ 10 minSenmaruya dried food store, Nakamachi Street: Local long standing dried food store selling stuff indispensable to Japanese cuisine. We'll pick up retro snack here.
Stop 5
Pass byHirai Shoten, Maruya-cho shopping arcade : Sake brewery with 365 years of history. Sells its original brand’s local sake.
Stop 6
⏱ 10 minMaruya-cho shopping arcade: One of the actual floats pulled during the Otsu Festival is on display.
Stop 7
⏱ 20 minAdmission includedMaruya-cho shopping arcade: Old typical Otsu Machiya merchant house is well preserved. Our guide will do a house tour.
Stop 8
⏱ 10 minYaoyo pickle shop, Hishiya-cho shopping arcade: Long established pickle shop with a wide variety. Learn one aspect of Japanese dietary. We pick a seasonal pickle for later treat.
Stop 9
⏱ 20 minOtsu-e no Mise, Miidera sando: Otsu-e folk Art paintings store and workshop. Succeeded by the 5th Takahashi Shozan.
Stop 10
⏱ 1h 30mAdmission includedIchie Wado Seminar House, Kozeki-cho 4-17, in front of Nagara Jinja Shrine: Painting workshop venue for the tour. Watch a presentation on Otsu-e history and features enjoying the welcome tea and sweets as well as local snacks purchased on the way.
What’s Included
- ✓English speaking professional guide with deep interest in Japanese culture
- ✓Admission fees to Otsu Hyakuchokan, Otsu Festival Float Exhibition Hall or other alternative places
- ✓Local taxes
- ✓Original Otsu-e souvenirs
- ✓Welcome tea and sweets, local snacks
- ✓The Otsu-e "Lucky Oni Bell" or "Three Wise Monkeys" painting workshop
What’s NOT Included
- ✗All train fares, i.e. Kyoto-Otsu by JR: JPY200/adult (but covered by valid JR Pass if you have)
- ✗Lunch
Additional Info
- 🚇Public transportation options are available nearby
- •Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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From
$104.41