Kyoto Gold Leaf Fan Workshop with a Master Craftsman
Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto Gold Leaf Fan Workshop with a Master Craftsman

Outty Ranking 53 5.0 · 3 traveler reviews1.5 hoursFrom $213
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Outty Ranking

53/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 3 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Kyoto Gold Leaf Fan Workshop with a Master Craftsman worth booking?

Kyoto Gold Leaf Fan Workshop with a Master Craftsman is a 1.5-hour experience in Kyoto, Japan, from $213 per person. It scores 53 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 5/5 rating across 3 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
53 / 100
Rating
5/5 (3)
Duration
1.5 hours
From
$213 per person

Experience the unique "Sōsen Aogi," a fan-making plan at the long-established Shimizu Shoten in Kyoto, which is celebrating its 78th anniversary. The "Sōsen Aogi" is a new type of origami fan that does not use fan ribs, making it extremely popular. This mini-sized fan can easily fit into a pocket. Our company is one of the few that manufacture this unique shape of fan, which is available exclusively through us and Rekiseisha in Hiroshima, meaning there are only two companies in Japan offering it. After enjoying the freedom to add your owndecorations like foil stamping , you will finish the fan with your own hands and take home your creation. Additionally, you'll start with a workshop tour. Our company is the only one where you can observe the entire fan-making process, including layering paper, cutting, folding, and finishing.

What you get

    About this experience

    Experience the unique "Sōsen Aogi," a fan-making plan at the long-established Shimizu Shoten in Kyoto, which is celebrating its 78th anniversary. The "Sōsen Aogi" is a new type of origami fan that does not use fan ribs, making it extremely popular. This mini-sized fan can easily fit into a pocket. Our company is one of the few that manufacture this unique shape of fan, which is available exclusively through us and Rekiseisha in Hiroshima, meaning there are only two companies in Japan offering it. After enjoying the freedom to add your owndecorations like foil stamping , you will finish the fan with your own hands and take home your creation. Additionally, you'll start with a workshop tour. Our company is the only one where you can observe the entire fan-making process, including layering paper, cutting, folding, and finishing.

    What's included

    Included

    • Parking (first-come, first-served only
    • Interpreter
    • Name-printed ”Sousen Aogi”
    • photo download service

    Not included

    • Local transportation costs and pick-up and drop-off

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Kyoto

    You will find a sign that says "Shimizu Shoten" in front of our workshop, which is located in a residential area. Your guide will be waiting in front of the workshop, holding a "GOAT trip" panel. Parking: Available for one vehicle only; please contact us in advance to reserve.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    You will find a sign that says "Shimizu Shoten" in front of our workshop, which is located in a residential area. Your guide will be waiting in front of the workshop, holding a "GOAT trip" panel. Parking: Available for one vehicle only; please contact us in advance to reserve.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    ja, en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri
    Group size
    Up to 10 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    GOATtrip

    Know before you go

    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • The age group is 6 years old and up; those under 5 years old are not allowed to participate.

    Photos

    Kyoto Gold Leaf Fan Workshop with a Master Craftsman, photo 2Kyoto Gold Leaf Fan Workshop with a Master Craftsman, photo 3Kyoto Gold Leaf Fan Workshop with a Master Craftsman, photo 4Kyoto Gold Leaf Fan Workshop with a Master Craftsman, photo 5Kyoto Gold Leaf Fan Workshop with a Master Craftsman, photo 6Kyoto Gold Leaf Fan Workshop with a Master Craftsman, photo 7

    Traveler reviews

    3 verified traveler reviews for Kyoto Gold Leaf Fan Workshop with a Master Craftsman. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

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    Connector29947485639 · January 2025

    I didn't need a picture. I am impressed by the depth of Japanese culture.

    This was my first experience of painting a Sensu. Sensu are really common in everyday life and are a summer necessity in the recent summer heat, but I had no idea how they were made. The craftsmen talked about how the fans were made and went to see them in action. Seeing the artisans working together to make the fans in the division of labor, this is Japanese craftsmanship! I was moved by that. Regarding painting, there are various designs and examples of production, and even I without a picture mind could do it happily. I really enjoyed the foil stamping because it gave me a result I didn't expect. If I could, I would have liked to have produced a couple of them. I really appreciate your help.

    Response from the operator: この度は、ご参加くださり、ありがとうございました! 日本の職人技を見て、知っていただき、さらに楽しんでいただけて、とても嬉しく思います。 絵心に自信がなくても、みなさん素敵なものが仕上がりますね。愛着もあり、その人らしさもあり、ご自身でつくられた1本の扇子を、これからも大事にしていただければと思います。 この度は、本当にありがとうございました!

    via Tripadvisor (translated)

    Pioneer00461268357 · January 2025

    Making one-of-a-kind fans at a long-established Kyoto fan studio

    It is hard to believe that I can make such a beautiful Kyoto-style fan at a long-established shop that has been in business for over 100 years, even though I have no artistic ability. Even though I was full of anxiety at first, the skilled craftsmen carefully taught me how to do it. I was thrilled and excited to actually put colorful foil on it! What a one and only fan made by myself in the world 🪭.  I'm very satisfied.

    Response from the operator: Thank you for your participation! The Sosen Aogi you created is a special one that can only be made by two companies in Japan. We are very happy that you were able to create a unique design that is one-of-a-kind in the world. We are waiting for see you in Kyoto again!

    via Tripadvisor

    Navigator62853208785 · January 2025

    Experience making your own original fan

    A traditional craftsman taught me how to paint folding fans. It was quite difficult with three-dimensional paper, but when you put the foil on it, does it look like contemporary art? It was a wonderful work. After that, they showed me a demonstration of the process of making fans, and I was able to experience the high skills of traditional craftsmen. It is a wonderful experience to touch real crafts.

    Response from the operator: この度はご参加いただき、ありがとうございました! 箔をのせ、みなさんの個性ある素敵な扇子ができあがったかと存じます。楽しんでいただけましたでしょうか。 これからも工芸品や文化に触れていただく機会をつくっていきたいと思っておりますので、また是非ご参加ください。 ありがとうございました!

    via Tripadvisor (translated)

    Good to know

    Duration
    1.5 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri
    Price range
    $213 to $33,000
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    1
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by GOATtrip, who run 4 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 64.3.

    See everything GOATtrip runs

    Why this scores 53

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)91
    Review evidence (18% weight)19
    Booking momentum (14% weight)11
    Value for money (12% weight)0
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)52
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Kyoto Gold Leaf Fan Workshop with a Master Craftsman: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Kyoto.

    How much does Kyoto Gold Leaf Fan Workshop with a Master Craftsman cost?

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    Prices start at $213 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Kyoto usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Kyoto Gold Leaf Fan Workshop with a Master Craftsman take?

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    Plan for about 1.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Kyoto is not rushed.

    Is Kyoto Gold Leaf Fan Workshop with a Master Craftsman worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 53 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 3 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Kyoto, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Kyoto Gold Leaf Fan Workshop with a Master Craftsman?

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    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Kyoto Gold Leaf Fan Workshop with a Master Craftsman suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 1.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Kyoto Gold Leaf Fan Workshop with a Master Craftsman?

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    Around 1 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Kyoto can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

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    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Kyoto and add a light layer if any part of the 1.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Kyoto Gold Leaf Fan Workshop with a Master Craftsman start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Kyoto within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Kyoto?

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    On Outty we rank every Kyoto experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Kyoto : Chopsticks Making Workshop with Engraving Option in Gion, Fushimi Inari Hidden Hiking Tour (Private Option Available), Kyoto: Gion Hidden Gems & Geisha Culture Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Kyoto?

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    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Kyoto?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Kyoto Gold Leaf Fan Workshop with a Master Craftsman?

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    Included: Parking (first-come, first-served only; Interpreter; Name-printed ”Sousen Aogi”; and photo download service. Not included: Local transportation costs and pick-up and drop-off. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for Kyoto Gold Leaf Fan Workshop with a Master Craftsman?

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    You will find a sign that says "Shimizu Shoten" in front of our workshop, which is located in a residential area. Your guide will be waiting in front of the workshop, holding a "GOAT trip" panel. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is Kyoto Gold Leaf Fan Workshop with a Master Craftsman offered in?

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    It is offered in Japanese and English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Kyoto Gold Leaf Fan Workshop with a Master Craftsman?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Kyoto Gold Leaf Fan Workshop with a Master Craftsman wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Kyoto Gold Leaf Fan Workshop with a Master Craftsman if the weather is bad?

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    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Kyoto. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

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