Tokyo: Private Chopstick-Making Workshop in Kagurazaka

Turn one of Japan’s most familiar everyday objects into a personal piece of craftsmanship.

This private workshop takes place at Hyozaemon in Kagurazaka, a specialist Japanese chopstick maker with roots in Obama, Fukui, an area famous for Wakasa lacquerware.

Learn how chopsticks are selected, held, and used in Japanese dining, then create a pair designed around your own hand size and personal style.

No previous craft experience is required.

Visit a Japanese chopstick specialist

Meet your instructor at Hyozaemon Kagurazaka.

Rather than visiting a general souvenir store, step inside a shop dedicated to Japanese chopsticks and the culture surrounding them.

Hyozaemon has produced chopsticks since 1921 and developed its craft from the lacquerware traditions of Obama in Fukui Prefecture.

Your instructor will introduce the role of chopsticks in Japanese daily life before the hands-on workshop begins.

Learn why chopsticks are more than utensils

Chopsticks are used every day in Japan, but their length, shape, material, surface, and tip can change how they feel in the hand.

Learn basic Japanese chopstick etiquette and how chopsticks are traditionally picked up, held, and moved.

Your instructor may also introduce a few behaviors considered poor table manners in Japan.

The lesson is designed for international visitors and does not require previous knowledge of Japanese dining etiquette.

Find the right length for your hand

Rather than beginning with a completely arbitrary size, measure a suitable chopstick length based on your hand.

Mark where your chopsticks should be shortened before moving to the crafting process.

This adds a functional element to the workshop: the finished pair is designed not only to look personal, but also to feel comfortable when used.

Shape the length

Under the instructor’s guidance, adjust the chopsticks to the measured length.

Depending on the confirmed workshop format, this may involve marking the wood, carefully cutting the end, and smoothing the newly cut surface.

All tools are used according to the instructor’s safety guidance.

Young participants may require additional assistance from an accompanying adult.

Create your own design

Next, personalize the handles.

Use the colors and decorative materials included in the confirmed workshop plan to create a design that is uniquely yours.

You may choose something minimal and understated or make a more colorful souvenir inspired by your trip to Japan.

The exact colors, stickers, motifs, and decorative materials available vary according to the workshop plan and stock.

Learn about Wakasa lacquer and raden

Your instructor can introduce decorative techniques associated with Wakasa lacquerware.

One of the best-known is raden, in which pieces of iridescent shell are incorporated into a lacquered surface.

Raden is part of Hyozaemon’s wider chopstick craftsmanship.

However, actual raden application during this workshop is included only when specifically stated in the confirmed package.

Finish your pair

Once your design work is complete, the chopsticks require a final protective finishing process before normal use.

For Hyozaemon’s standard my-chopstick workshop, the finished design is normally kept by the shop and sent to the factory for coating.

The completed chopsticks are then returned at a later date.

If your Alva Japan Tours package includes a special same-day-finish process, this will be clearly stated in the booking confirmation.

Receive a souvenir made for you

Your finished chopsticks are designed to be used rather than simply displayed.

Once the final coating process is complete, follow the care instructions provided by the shop so the wood and finish can be enjoyed for a long time.

Optional gift packaging, engraving, or premium boxes may be available depending on the confirmed plan.