Daimaru Kyoto Fully Launches "SUIKATSU", a Traditional Kyoto Craft Experience Workshop for Adults

Daimaru Kyoto has fully launched "SUIKATSU," an experiential workshop for adults to enjoy traditional Kyoto crafts, starting regularly in April 2026. This program is a hands-on workshop based on the concept of "chic adult craft learning," where participants can learn directly from traditional craft artisans.

Themed around traditional Kyoto crafts such as Kyoto cloisonne, Nishijin weaving, bamboo basket making, and Maki-e (gold/silver lacquer), the workshops are held primarily on weekdays and weekends.

■ What is "SUIKATSU"?

Having held paid traditional craft workshops irregularly since September 2025, Daimaru Kyoto transitioned to hosting them regularly under the name "SUIKATSU" starting in April 2026.

"SUIKATSU" is a program that allows participants to experience authentic traditional crafts under the guidance of professional artisans, embracing the concept of "chic adult craft learning."

Offering a diverse range of courses including Kyoto cloisonne brooch making, Nishijin weaving experiences, bamboo basket making, and Maki-e crafted items, the program runs approximately four times a month. It provides an accessible opportunity to closely experience the masterful techniques of Kyoto.

■ Event Overview

Location: Daimaru Kyoto, 6th Floor "Atelier Japan Daimaru Kyoto"
Dates: Primarily held on weekdays and weekends
Application Method: Apply via the dedicated form (first-come, first-served)
* Some courses may involve a lottery system depending on the content.

URL: https://daimarukyoto-suikatsu.resv.jp/

Operator: Daimaru Kyoto

Background of Introduction

Under the theme of "Learn happily, play happily," Daimaru Kyoto has been hosting "Daimaru Kyoto-kko Gakuen," a hands-on workshop for elementary school children and younger, since 2019.

During these events, many parents expressed a desire for "workshops that adults can also experience," prompting the launch of adult-oriented workshops taught directly by traditional artisans in September 2025.

Feedback from participants included comments such as "I want to experience various crafts" and "It's easy to participate at a department store." To allow more people to continuously enjoy these experiences, the store decided to hold them regularly as "SUIKATSU." These are single-participation workshops where attendees can casually enjoy a different craft each time.

■ June 2026 Workshops

"Lacquer Painting" Finished with Stencils on a Lacquer Tray [Yakuno Wood and Lacquer Museum]

Participants will use stencils to apply lacquer patterns onto a small, roughly 20cm lacquered tray (business card tray), which is typically used when handing over cash envelopes for celebrations, condolences, or offerings, or when serving tea sweets.

Domestic Tamba lacquer will be used.

The design can be selected on the day from several prepared sketches.

Once the design is decided, participants will create a stencil of the chosen picture.
It is also possible to bring your own design; please bring a reference image if you have a specific pattern in mind.
* Please consult with the artisan on the day to ensure it can be completed within the allotted time.

After the stencil is ready, colored lacquer is applied.
Even beginners can rest assured, as skilled artisans will be by your side to carefully assist you.
The created pieces can be taken home on the same day.

Dates & Times: June 11 (Thu) and 14 (Sun), 2026
14:00 - 16:00 each day
Participation Fee: 7,150 yen (tax included) * Daimaru Matsuzakaya card points are not awarded.
Capacity: 8 people per session (first-come, first-served)

Mini-Wallet Making: Dyeing Kyoto Yuzen Colors Stroke by Stroke [Kimura Sensho Co., Ltd.]

This is an authentic coloring workshop led by Kyoto Yuzen traditional craft artisans.

Participants will experience coloring (Sashi Yuzen), which holds the most glamorous and crucial position in the hand-painted Yuzen process.
Even with the same design, the finished image completely changes depending on the color combination and trimming position.

The fabric colored by the participant will be kept for about two months for finishing processes, after which it will be tailored into a mini-wallet.

Gorgeous patterns typical of Kyoto Yuzen, often seen on Furisode (long-sleeved kimono) and Homongi (visiting wear), will be provided.

Chemical dyes will be used for the coloring. They produce vibrant colors while maintaining the beautiful natural texture of pure silk.
The interior uses genuine leather and rayon.

* Dyes will be used. Paper aprons will be provided, but please come in clothes that are easy to work in.
* It takes about two months to deliver the finished product.

Dates & Times: June 18 (Thu) and 21 (Sun), 2026
10:30 - 12:30 / 14:00 - 16:00 each day
Participation Fee: 20,625 yen (tax included) * Daimaru Matsuzakaya card points are not awarded.
Capacity: 5 people per session (first-come, first-served)

Round Ajiro Weaving Drawstring Basket Making Experience [Bamboo Craft Kissetsu]

A Kyoto bamboo craft experience where participants weave a round basket, secure the edges, and attach a drawstring bag to the top to complete a "Round Ajiro Weaving Drawstring Basket."