Overview
Washi is a traditional Japanese material known for the soft, diffused light it lets through. This experience takes place inside the Kumo no Ue Gallery, a wood building designed by architect Kengo Kuma, where guests create an original washi artwork built around light while taking in the surrounding architecture. Finished pieces can be taken home, and the instructor also shows how to use them afterward — as a lamp, wall piece, or other interior decor.
Yusuhara, the town where the experience takes place, has a number of other buildings designed by Kengo Kuma. On request, a guided tour of his architecture in the area can be combined before or after the washi art session. A locally sourced lunch can also be arranged at the adjacent Kumo no Ue Onsen for an additional fee.
Highlights
- Create an artwork inside a Kengo Kuma-designed space, in Yusuhara — a town surrounded by forest.
- Experience the distinctive Japanese beauty of soft, diffused light through washi, a traditional craft material.
Schedule
- Gather at Kumo no Ue Gallery
- Instructor introduction and briefing on the experience
- Washi art-making begins
- Session ends
Once each guest finishes their piece, it needs several days to dry, so finished artworks are shipped afterward to the guest's accommodation or home address. Shipping is arranged in advance of the tour (see Practical Information).
Optional add-ons
Available on request
- Kengo Kuma architecture guided tour — ¥12,000 for up to 5 guests, +¥3,000 per additional guest (maximum group size negotiable)
- Local gourmet lunch at Kumo no Ue Onsen — ¥3,300 per person (tax included)
Practical information
- Access: About 55 minutes by car from Susaki-Chuo IC on the Kochi Expressway. Bus access and on-site parking are both available.
- Language: English-language support available.
- Allergies: Accommodations can be made for allergies — please advise in advance.
- Booking deadline: Requests must be received at least 2 weeks before the tour date.
- Shipping of finished pieces: Delivered by mail to the guest's accommodation or home after drying. A shipping fee applies (approx. ¥1,000 per piece), confirmed at the time of booking.
- Cancellation policy: Free up to 11 days before the start date · 20% at 10–8 days before · 30% at 7–2 days before · 40% the day before · 50% on the day · 100% after the tour has started or in case of no-show.