Widely appreciated at art galleries and museums across Japan, woodblock prints boast a popular culture that has gained popularity since the Edo period (1603 – 1867). The Kyoto Handicraft Center allows you a hands-on experience of creating your own woodblock prints. With 6 woodblocks to complete for each print, one can easily complete the artwork with the guidance of an instructor. Making your own woodblock prints is a fun activity and the end products can be special souvenirs for family or friends. Besides woodblock printing, Kyoto Handicraft Center also offers 8 other types of traditional Japanese handicrafts. Reservation is generally not required unless you are travelling in a large group.
- 1 min read
Hands-On Woodblock Printing
Making Japanese handicraft at Kyoto Handicraft Center

By Karen Zheng
Community writer

My completed woodblock print of a 'Maiko' (apprentice Geisha).

'Equipments' of woodblock printing

Basic introduction to woodblock printing prior to starting.

Interior of Kyoto Handicraft Center - workshop area

Water-based paint to be spread over the woodblock.

Carved woodblock of Maiko (apprentice Geisha)

An woodblock print of Heian Shrine

Make your own incense bag!

Dorei (clay doll) that one can paint with watercolour.

9 different traditional Japanese handicraft workshops available at Kyoto Handicraft Center.
Explore nearby
Join the discussion
Kim Bergström
3 years ago
I've been to the handicraft center but I didn't see this! It's such a great place to visit.
1 comment in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1
Japan Is One of Emirates' Top Summer Searches
Planning -
2
Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 Japan Car Tour: Cars, Culture & The Open Road
Chiba -
3
Enjoy Toba: More Than Just a Seaside Retreat
Mie - Sponsored -
4
70 Nations, One Amazing Meal
Osaka - Sponsored -
5
Volcano-hopping in Kyushu
Activities -
6
Unique Eco-Tourism Experience at Tottori Sand Dunes
Tottori -
7
I’m Donut?: Japan’s Viral Donut Sensation
Culture -
8
Osaka Noh Festa
Osaka - Sponsored -
9
25 Authentic Activities in Minobu
Yamanashi - Sponsored -
10
Aichi Awaits: Seven Authentic Experiences Beyond Nagoya
Aichi - Sponsored
-
1
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2
Gion Matsuri
Kyoto -
3
July Grand Sumo Tournament (Nagoya)
Aichi -
4
The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
5
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
6
Shitamachi Tanabata Matsuri
Tokyo -
7
Kamakura Fireworks
Kanagawa -
8
Japanese Urban Legends
Culture -
9
Ghibli 3D Sculpture Exhibition
Tokyo -
10
Iwatayama Monkey Park
Kyoto