Create your own Ukiyo-e artwork using a traditional technique of kataezome stencil dyeing
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Tokyo, the bustling capital of Japan, is a top destination for tourists worldwide. Known for its towering skyscrapers, neon-lit streets, and cutting-edge technology, Tokyo offers a unique mix of modern and traditional Japanese culture. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks, indulge in one of the world’s best cuisine, or immerse themself in the culture and tradition.
There has been a growing trend towards valuing original experiences over visiting crowded places in recent years. From wearing a traditional kimono to driving the streets in a kart, there are plenty of funny and unique experiences to do in Tokyo. With so much variety, it can be difficult to choose, especially for first-timers.
Recently I had the opportunity to participate in an activity that I had been wanting to try for a long time, and a Ukiyo-e motif dyeing workshop in Tokyo. It was really interesting and I had a great time, so I would like to share my experience with you!
*Please note that this article contains affiliate links.
What is Ukiyo-e?
Ukiyo-e is a type of Japanese art that was popular from the 17th to the 19th centuries. It includes colorful woodblock prints and paintings showing scenes of daily life, entertainment, landscapes, and famous actors. These artworks are known for their bright colors and detailed designs, and they had a big impact on Western artists like Vincent van Gogh and Claude Monet.
Even if you’re not familiar with the term Ukiyo-e, I’m sure most of you have seen this type of artwork at some point. The most famous example is the image of the Great Wave of Kanagawa.
Ukiyo-e Motif Kataezome Stencil Dyeing Workshop in Tokyo
The Ukiyo-e motif dyeing workshop in Tokyo is run by Kimiko, the manager and English interpreter, and Masayuki, the artist and instructor.
The process of creating a Ukiyo-e artwork is long and intricate, as you can imagine, it’s impossible to complete it in just two hours. In this workshop, we will be using the Kataezome technique to dye stencils with Ukiyo-e motifs.
Kataezome is a traditional Japanese stencil dyeing technique where intricate stencils, made from durable Japanese paper called “washi,” are meticulously crafted by hand or machine. These stencils are then placed on fabric, and ink or pigment is applied through the open spaces of the stencil using a brush or similar tool.
The instructor, Masayuki Isa, is a distinguished artist in Kataezome and a painter in the Japanese style, recognized with awards at major art exhibitions in Japan. His family’s company, Musubi, specializes in creating furoshiki using fabrics from kimonos and has a nearly 90-year-old legacy. Musubi products are renowned across Japan and are found in numerous hotels, even outside Japan in places like Paris.
Masayuki’s father is also a celebrated artist who has traveled the world, capturing diverse cities in his artworks.
My Experience at the Ukiyo-e Motif Kataezome Stencil Dyeing Workshop
The location is easily accessible from Nihonbashi metro station, and there’s a sign on the door that makes it easy to recognize.
Upon arrival, Masayuki-san and Kimiko-san welcomed us warmly and invited us inside. We spent some time admiring the artworks displayed in the venue and learning about the art of Kataezome and the family business, Musubi. You can also see some of their products showcased in the venue.
For this workshop, Master Masayuki has specially prepared stencils that allow us to create our own Ukiyo-e-style drawings much more quickly. To put it simply, we just have to color following the stencils.
The first step is to choose which artwork Masayuki-san has prepared you want to color from among two models. These are the two most popular and recognized works worldwide: the previously mentioned Great Wave off Kanagawa and Mount Fuji.
We chose one of each so we could see the process of both. The next step is to choose which colors you want to use to color your work. This is one of the more interesting parts of this workshop for me, as you can innovate, be creative, and create your own original work.
Once we’ve chosen our colors, Masayuki-san prepares them manually on the spot. Then, it’s time to add color to your artwork. The coloring process unfolds in different stages, with Masayuki and Kimiko guiding and assisting you each step of the way.
One of the most thrilling moments is when you remove the stencil after applying the color to see the result. It’s exciting to watch your creation gradually take shape!
In the final minutes after completing our ukiyo-e-style artwork, Masayuki and Kimiko kindly explain how washi paper, which we used, is made and how they achieve the color known as “Japanese blue,” which is all naturally sourced from plants.
Overall
Personally, I enjoyed and cherished the experience. Both Masayuki and Kimiko are very kind and friendly, and their explanations clearly show their pride and love for the art of coloring. It’s a unique and original way to create your own souvenir instead of buying one. You can hang it on your home’s wall or gift it to someone special.
Although we didn’t have children with us, it’s also a fun and suitable activity for kids. Before us, there was a family with three children, and when we arrived, the eldest of them told us, “It’s challenging, but it’s worth it,” with a big smile of happiness. Masayuki and Kimiko have also prepared various traditional Japanese toys in case the little ones need an extra stimulus halfway through.
About Wabunka
Founded in 2019, Wabunka is a Japanese company that offers unique experience plans for overseas clients and VIP customers in collaboration with local businesses and skilled craftsmen.
If you are looking for a high-value and original experience on your trip to Japan instead of the usual tourist activities, check out their website! I really recommend the ukiyo-e motif dyeing workshop, but maybe you prefer a different one.
Wabunka Website: https://wabunka-lux.jp/
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Written by
From Barcelona to Tokyo. Coffee & Adventure lover🌏☕️
I started to like Japan because of the anime, music and doramas, but after my first trip to the country I found what I love the most: traveling around, the culture and history. I have travelled a lot in Japan, but I still have many places to discover that I want to share with you🙋🏼♀️ Let’s discover Japan together!
Also, as a foreigner living in Japan for over 6 years I understand what kind of things are difficult when you move here and I want to help other people in the same situation that I have in the past.
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